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Cafe NIGHT

Summary:

A new job in a scary place, in search of his brother, Yuji does not know what to expect.

Notes:

Thank you for reading!

I do not own Jujutsu Kaisen or it's characters. They belong to Gege Akutami.

I made this story with the inspiration of Jujutsu Kaisen as it's backbone.

(See the end of the work for more notes and other works inspired by this one.)

Chapter Text

        Megumi looks up from his phone when Shiki and Gami stopped pulling him around on their walk. “Oh hello! You have really cute dogs! What are their names? Oh, and your’s as well!” Megumi almost drops his phone. The boy in front of him has a shockingly similar look to Sukuna. However, Megumi has dealt with Sukuna up close and personal so he was able to notice all the differences. The boy had short fluffy pink hair that resembles Sukuna but it isn’t sleek up with gel, as Sukuna likes it. His build was leaner but the muscles peeking from all limbs told of strength. Sukuna was more bulkier in his build and solid beyond belief, but they both had the same height. Sukuna might be a few centimeters taller but that could easily be due to his hair style. Their faces had similar features that were covered by Sukuna’s extensive tattoos. The auras of the two men are polar opposites. Megumi mused if this is what Sukuna would be like if he was normal.
        “The white one is Shiki and the black one is Gami. I’m Fushiguro Megumi,” he replies as Shiki covers the man in licks. He gets up brushing his clothes, a simple shirt, and shorts.
        “Oh, those are cute names! They suit them!” he said with a smile that could light up the neighborhood. “My name is Itadori Yuuji! Nice to meet cha Fushiguro!” Yuuji follows Fushiguro’s gaze towards his boxes and lights up.
        “Oh I just moved here,” he explains pointing to the complex they were in front of.
        “I live here too,” he smiles as Yuuji’s eyebrows practically disappear into his hairline.
        “Whoa! Seriously!? What number!? I’m 302!” The boy was practically jumping with each question. He looked like a puppy and Megumi was a softie for animals.
        “I’m 305. It looks like we’re on the same floor.” Megumi chuckles as Yuuji pumps his fist into the air.
        “Phew! I was so worried since I didn’t know anyone here, but you seem like a good person. I’m glad I met you!” Megumi could understand the worry. Yuuji decided to live in the most dangerous part of town. Luckily their neighborhood is part of Infinite territory, so now you don't have to walk around with some type of weapon to defend yourself when things go south. However, its best quality is the low rent fee. Megumi unleashes the two dogs and points toward the complex before urging them to go.
        “I’ll help you carry the boxes.” Megumi frowned at his own comment. He usually stays away from people, but something about Yuuji’s puppy-like personality and Sukuna’s looks made it hard for him to ignore the boy.
        “Thanks so much, man!” The pair start transporting the boxes to the apartment. In the midst of which Megumi learns about Yuuji, especially how he talks a lot. The boy moved here since his grandfather died and he needed a fresh start. He is turning twenty next week Wednesday. He loves animals too. He took multiple martial arts classes, which explained his build. How the two upturned crescent moons on his face right above the apple of each of his cheeks were from a bicycle accident and two ill-placed rocks he fell face-first into. He also mentions how he’s looking for a job.
        “I might have a job you can try,” Megumi squeezes the cup of tea Yuuji gave him saying it’s the least he could do after he helped him move. Megumi bit the insides of his cheek. He knew bringing an innocent outsider to Cafe Night would be complicated. However, the stressed tone in Yuuji’s voice and the knowledge that he took martial arts for most of his life helped balance his worries. The real problem would be how Yuuji looks like he could be Sukuna’s long-lost twin.
        “Dude really!? You don’t know how much that means to me!” Yuuji says coming close and hugging Megumi, who is not used to casual physical touches and freezes up. “Ah, shit! Sorry! I tend to be pretty touchy-feely.”
        “No, I know another person like that so I’m getting used to it.”
        “Hey, if it’s not too much trouble can you show me the workplace? Actually, what type of job is it?” Yuuji asks, tilting his head very much like Shiki when she is confused.
        “Hmm, well it depends on your shift. I think you’ll be getting daytime shifts only at least in the beginning. It’s a cafe called Cafe Night.” Yuuji eagerly nods.
        “So a barista! Yeah, I can totally do that!”
        “Well… it’s also a bar,” Megumi sighs, seeing utter confusion swim in Yuuji’s eyes. “Daytime it’s a cafe and night time it’s a bar. The boss, Yaga, he’ll explain it better than me.” Yuuji hums and massages his temple and then knocks a fist on his open palm.
        “That’s so cool! So I’ll be a barista and a bartender-”
        “Bartending is more complicated than tending to the cafe so it’ll be a while till you get a night shift.” Yuuji pouts, obviously curious about the night shift more than the day shift. “I’ll take you there tomorrow.” With that, Megumi went back to his apartment leaving Yuuji by himself. The boy unpacks the rest of his stuff and starts organizing and slotting things around his new place. It’s a small apartment made up of one bedroom, a living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom. The living room even had a mini ‘balcony’ mainly for plants, but at least one person can stand on it, so Yuuji decided that was reason enough. The boy yawns, too tired to even eat, and collapses onto his futon.


        “Yuuji, I love you,” a hand brushes my face like it was a cloud on the verge of disappearing.
        “I love you too, ------” I say as my vision blurs.
        “I’ll find you again,” a kiss full of sorrow mutes me. “I promise.”
        “------, no! You promised me!” pain racks through my body and my mouth fills with blood. “You have to live!” I gurgle.
        “That is the one thing I can’t do, Yuuji. If they want to take away the one thing I treasure more than myself, it’s either I die or the world does. There will be nothing that can stop me.” The resolve in their voice makes me tremble, and a little selfish part of me felt glad that I wouldn’t be alone.
        “You’ll….find..me,” I mutter, feeling my strength fade with every syllable.
        “Yes, of course, I will!” they shine a heartbreaking smile that wobbles in grief. “I’m ---- ------ the strongest remember-” With that my world goes dark but I could still hear gut-wrenching sobs and a scream that could only be described as animalistic.


        Yuji jolts awake, his head pounding and body covered in sweat. He sighs seeing how it’s only been around four hours. “Guess moving and starting anew won’t help.” He’s been getting these nightmares that cause him to wake up, sometimes even sobbing, however, he never remembers what they were about. His grandpa told him how he would mutter things like, find me, I love you and live. He wondered what it all meant if it meant anything at all. Sighing he cuddles into his futon and shuts his eyes wishing for a good night's sleep.

Chapter Text

         Megumi opens his door glaring and cursing the person that is behind the door. He’s not a morning person. “Hello!” Yuuji says with a smile brighter than the sun behind him. “Ah… Sorry if I woke you up, I just- I’m looking forward to the job you mentioned and I didn’t get a time to meet you or your number so…” Megumi blinks owlishly trying to process everything and sighs.

         “What time is it again?” he asked even though he looked at the clock before. His brain betrayed him. 

         “Oh ahh-” Yuuji fumbles his phone out of his pocket. “8! It’s 8 am!” 

         “Ok uhhh give me thirty minutes. I’ll come to your apartment.” Seeing Yuuji nod, he shuts the door. 

         Yuuji brims with energy prompting him to skip to his door. He didn’t think he’d be able to find a job option so soon. He goes home and gets an idea. He’ll need to thank Megumi for all that he has done. He opens a box of nicknacks and flushes out a notepad and pen. “Chicken, ginger paste, eggs, scallions. I should get food for this week too hmmm… milk, rice, some canned food might come in handy, flour, potatoes, onions, curry powder…” he goes on till most of the space is taken before he hears knocking from his door. He shoves the paper in his pocket and quickly opens the door. “All set?”

         “Yeah… umm you’re going out like that?” Megumi asks, scanning Yuuji’s clothing. Yuuji glances down at his yellow shirt and green shorts and red sneakers. 

         “Uhhhh… is it the sneakers?” 

         “No. do you have a light hoodie or jacket with a hood to wear?” Yuuji pauses and thinks. He’s not one to shop for clothes but he did take some of the clothes his brother left behind. 

         “Ah! I know! One minute!” Like promised Yuuji pops out in a minute in a tangerine sleeveless hoodie. “Sorry if the sleeves aren’t good. Since it's hot out today I thought it would be fine. 

         “Yeah that’s fine I mainly want you to put the hood on.” Yuuji’s eyebrows lift. 

         “Uhhh, sure I guess but why?” Megumi stares for a bit making Yuuji fidget. 

         “It’s for you to keep a low profile. However,” he derails looking at the color palette Yuuji was wearing, “these clothes will definitely catch eyes.” Yuuji frowns. He liked bright colors. 

         “Should I change? Shouldn’t you wear a hoodie as well?” 

         “No it’s fine, we’ll be late if we don’t leave now. Also, I don’t need to stay low since I lived here most of my life. The people know me but you’re fresh meat.” Yuuji nods, putting the hood on as he walks in tangent with Megumi. As they pass by multiple blocks Yuuji peeks at the graffiti and people huddling in the alleys. There were convenience stores littered at random corners, few looked out of business until he noticed the bright open sign. Just like Megumi said, he could feel eyes on him, watching his every move. It makes him stand straighter and walk firmly. His grandpa once told him that confidence was half the battle, the smell of fear makes a person stand out like a bullseye waiting to be hit. After around nine blocks and four turns, he sees a shop that looks out of place. It was built with dark bricks and black paneling that mixed well together. The paneling ran across the length of the building before changing directions, dropping all the way down giving an interesting left corner. Resting neatly on said paneling was the name: Cafe Night. Yuuji squinted at it seeing how the word Cafe was lit up in bright green LEDs yet the word Night wasn’t. Maybe it’s broken.  

         Megumi opens one of the double doors into a small corridor with two more doors to choose from. One is right across the door they entered, dark, pushable, and wooden with a generous peek-a-boo window. The other is to the left, made of frosted glass with a thick black trim that emphasizes its long golden handle. Megumi pushes past the first door and Yuuji quickly follows him in while glancing at the other door. Yuuji spins around as he walks in, a persistent caffeinated aroma hugs him. The inside was very normal but something felt special, and Yuuji couldn’t put his finger on it. Quaint round tables lined near large elegant windows that were spotless, a fair amount of plants littered the place almost randomly yet deliberately, and the chairs, Yuuji knew he’d go into debt if he broke one, looked as if someone carved each and every intricate grove onto it with care. Yuuji was definitely out of his comfort zone and income bracket here, no doubt about it. “Wait here. I’ll go see if our boss is here” Yuuji absently nods still observing his surroundings as Megumi pushes past an employee-only door. In a minute, he hears footsteps heading his way and a wall-like man walks out with Megumi. There was a split-second pause as their eyes met but it happened so fast Yuuji blamed his nerves. 

         “Nice to meet you, I’m Cafe Night’s owner. You can just call me Yaga,” Yuuji quickly shakes the hand stretched out to him. 

         “Hello! My name’s Itadori Yuuji! It’s a pleasure to meet you!” He greets, with his best smile. 

         “Fushiguro, says you’re looking for a job.”

         “Yes sir.”

         “Hmmm… Follow me to my office, Itadori.” Wordlessly, Yuuji follows the large man nervously looking at Megumi who doesn’t follow. They pass by an open area with a long table with chairs, a navy blue couch, and a microwave in the corner next to a water station. The actual office was simple with a surprising amount of stuffed animals. Maybe he has a kid. “Take a seat,” Yaga says, pointing to the chairs in front of his desk. They both take a seat but Yuuji’s eyes couldn’t stay away from the dolls. 

         “It’s my hobby,” Yuuji strains his face trying not to look shocked out of his mind. 

         “...Wow… I wouldn’t have known. They look professionally made.” He wasn’t lying either. Even from this distance, the care in each stitch is visible. 

         “Thank you. So what brings you here Itadori? This isn’t the ‘go-to’ town to start anew. The rent isn’t a valid enough reason to risk your life.” Yuuji frowns. The man threw away his answer. 

         “Well to be honest the rent is a really big reason but you’re right. It’s not the sole reason. I’m looking for someo-something and I have a feeling this town will have the answers I need to find it.” A knowing look passes Yaga’s face. 

         “Itadori, you’re in more danger than you think you’re in. You stand out too-”

         “I can fight. I’ve taken martial arts most of my life and had fights in high school too. Please, let me work here, Yaga.” The man intertwines his fingers resting his chin on them. 

         “I can see why you got into fights. You’re impulsive. I didn’t finish what I was going to say.” Yuuji winces. He couldn’t deny the older man’s statement. “I am going to hire you, Yuuji. It’s the best option for everyone. You’ll be safe working here.” Yuuji smiles bright with slight confusion sprinkled on his face. “There are two powerful gangs, Infinite and Curses that run most of Japan. Their headquarters are in this town. They are rivals that fight the moment they see the other. My Cafe is a neutral zone. No one is allowed to harm anyone here and the employees are considered as such as well.”

         “Why would gangs agree to that?” Yaga smiles at the boy’s curiosity.

         “Believe it or not they actually value contracts and deals. Plus everyone needs a place where they can relax and not worry that each corner holds danger.” He watches the gear in the boy’s head turn, drinking in the information. “Do you still want to work here knowing that you’ll be around two of the most dangerous gangs in all of Japan?”

         “... Yes. Yes, I want to work here!” The determined look in Yuuji’s eye brought hope to Yaga’s heart. 

         “Good. You can go back to the front and Fushiguro will help you know what to do,” Yaga says leaning back into his chair as the boy thanks him, bows and leaves the room. Maybe he can help those two gangs be less hostile. He dials a number and in two rings a man answers. “Ijichi, I need you to pass on the word that we have a new employee,” the man on the other end stutters a response. “Come meet the boy and you’ll understand why.”

Chapter Text

        “Ijichi,” the bespectacled man freezes at his name, “where are you going? You wouldn’t leave your boss without telling me now would you?” Ijichi keeps his head down. Meeting those cryptic eyes will only fuel whatever ploy the boss was playing. 

        “Ah sorry, I- I must be getting rusty, sir. I was heading to Cafe Night. Yaga requested a visit.” Ijichi could feel the sharp grin without looking. 

        “Let’s go then~” he watches his boss’s long legs descend from their position on top of his dark wooden desk. Ijichi’s mind scrambles to make an excuse. Knocks resonate through the room. He quickly opens the door with a sigh. 

        “Good morning Namani,” he greets the lawyer with a deep bow. 

        “Good morning Ijichi,” the blond nods to the man before his eyes perch on the other, “Gojo.” 

        “Nanamin~ What brings you here?” Nanami’s eyebrow twitches at the nickname. 

        “Gojo, we scheduled a meeting concerning the recent activities in our domain.”

        “But Nanamin~ I was about to go to Cafe Night with Ijichi!” Ijichi flinches at his name being dropped.

        “He can get whatever you want by himself,” the lawyer says, signalling the poor man to leave, which he does without hesitation. Quickly entering the car, Ijichi deflates before heading to the cafe. As much as he respects Gojo, fear overtakes it without any effort. The man was ruthless. At least Sukuna’s rage matches his actions. Gojo, on the other hand, attacks with a smile on his face, and no one will know why nor would they ask for an explanation nor would he give one. The God of death is what Ijichi would describe Gojo Satoru as. His very existence shakes their world’s power balance. 


        Yuuji shows Megumi and Yaga his best pastries, according to his past friends, a strawberry and his more creative edamame crepe cakes. “I’ve heard of strawberry crepe cakes but edamame is definitely a new one,” Yaga says looking at the layered sweet along with Megumi’s curious glances. 

        “Yeah, I’ve gotten that a lot. I’m from Sendai and our specialty is zunda so one day in my home ec. class, I decided to try and see if I could make a zunda crepe cake. Everyone loved it!” Yuuji smiles, cutting two pieces for Yaga and Megumi. Both take a bite and freeze. Yuuji’s brain quickly files through all the things he might have done wrong. It is a tricky recipe. 

        “Yuuji… this is amazing,” Yaga mutters while Megumi nods. Yuuji’s eyes brighten up at the comment. 

        “Really!? I'm glad! I was worried there for a second,” Yuuji sighs. 

        “Can I put this as one of our specials? We’ll call it the Yuuji Special!” Yaga boasts as Yuuji blushes at the name and praise. 

        “Sure it’s the least I can do. You guys have helped me a lot.” They put the remains of both cakes in the glass casing with the other sweets. 

        “Ichiji quit standing there like a scarecrow and come in,” Yuuji watches a tired man get shoved in by a girl with short brown hair. They both see Yuuji and freeze. Yuuji has seen that look on the faces of bullies back home. The look of fear and hate. 

        “Ijichi, Kugisaki, meet our newcomer, Itadori Yuuji,” Yaga introduces, making both faces twist in confusion. “In my office both of you.” Yuuji watches the two follow Yaga, still highly guarded.

        “Fushiguro, are newcomers always treated like this?” Megumi sighs and looks down.

        “You just look… don’t mind them, Itadori. Like I mentioned before, you stand out more than you think, especially here.” 


        “Wanna explain why we have a Sukuna lookalike in our Cafe?” Kugisaki asks, crossing her arms. No one could blame her for her response seeing Sukuna’s nasty reputation. Ijichi hesitates to speak. So that’s why he called. 

        “Ijichi, I’m sure you can understand why I asked for you.” The man nods. Being Infinite’s lapdog means he knows many people inside and outside their domain. 

        “Wouldn’t your word be more effective?” Yaga being the pillar that keeps Gojo and Sukana in line makes his opinions and words far more important. He’s one of the rare people that can make those two change their minds. 

        “It would but I don’t need all that ruckus. It would be better if they were warned before jumping the gun.” They both know that it won't help as much as Yaga hopes. 

        “That still doesn’t answer my question!” Kugisaki snorts. “Why the hell does he look like Sukuna?” 

        “...I’m not sure myself. Sukuna keeps his past hidden even from me.”

        “So this Itadori guy is his long-lost twin or something?” 

        “I don’t know about twins, but I’ll be shocked if they weren’t related in some way,” Yaga voices, making the room fill with unspoken questions. Ijichi could already tell this will end badly, especially with Gojo’s mischievous nature. He hopes the boy doesn’t have Sukuna’s temper as well. “Kugisaki, you can start your shift now and try to be nice. Itadori is a good boy. Ijichi stay. I have some information for you.”

        “Ha! I’ll be the judge of that.” Kugisaki walks out of the room and heads straight for the counter to poke at the newbie. She blinks as she finds only Megumi standing there as blank as ever. “Hey! Where's the newbie?” Megumi looks at her pointedly. 

        “Kitchen. He’s making another round of his cake to sell.”

        “Oh, he can cook now too! He really makes Sukuna look like shit in comparison huh?” Megumi glares at her. She flips her hair with a huff. “Not my fault you two have a thing ,” she mutters, leaving before she gets an earful from him. She peeks at the pink-haired boy. As Fushiguro said, he was making some type of crepe-looking cake. Yuuji’s eyes look up at her and yelps and almost drops the bowl of frosting. 

        “Holy- you scared me,” Yuuji put a hand to his heart making sure it didn’t fall out like he thought it might have. 

        “You’re an idiot aren’t you?” 

        “And you’re rude huh?” They both stare at each other before breaking into smiles. “I don’t think we formally met. I’m Itadori Yuuji.”

        “Kugisaki Nobara,” she eyes his cake which Yuuji notices.

        “They are strawberry and edumane crepe cake,” he explains going back to work. “I’m from Sendai so it’s kinda our thing to use zunda in everything,” he rattles off, not sure what to say to the spunky girl. 

        “Hmmm, you get a pass,” she declares and leaves Yuuji blinking and confused. 

        “That’s a good thing… right?” he mutters to himself. 


        Ijichi almost signs himself up for torture seeing as he almost forgot to get Gojo’s sweets. He comes face to face with Sukuna’s double. “Hello! What can I get you, sir?” Yuuji asks, smiling away with no care in the world, the complete opposite of Sukuna. “Sir?” Ijichi shakes his head.

        “Sorry, umm just pack everything that is really sweet,” he knew that Gojo gets extra cranky after meetings, so the more sweets he brings the better. The boy’s big eyes widened further at the order. 

        “Right away, sir!” Yuuji quickly puts a multitude of pastries and cakes into a large take-out box with Fushiguro’s help. Just as Fushiguro was closing the box’s lid, Itadori exclaims and asks for a paper and pen, quickly jotting down something, taping it onto the bottom of the box’s lid. Ichiji sees Fushiguro’s hesitant look and decides he will pretend he didn’t know anything about a note. He pays the alarming price and places the box in the special compartment that Gojo installed into the car. The boy seems harmless and polite from what little interaction Ijichi had with him. However, with a ruthless boss that has the face of an angel, Ijichi has learned that there’s always more than meets the eyes. 


        “Where is he?” whines Gojo as he swivels in his chair. Yuuta glances at his boss and distant cousin in amusement. No one would believe him if he showed them Gojo as he is now and said he was the Gojo Satoru of Infinite. With a few knocks, Yuuta opens the door for Ijichi who is carefully holding onto a box with Cafe Night written on it in pretty cursive. “Ijichi! You’re spoiling me with sweets! Are you trying to kill me by slowly destroying my body?” Gojo muses with a grin as the poor man shivers in fear. 

        “Sir, you’ll give Ijichi a heart attack,” Yuuta chides the childish man. Gojo pouts and stands up, towering at his full height. He swiftly takes the box from Ijichi and skips back to his desk. He opens the box, the lid covering his entire face, but what gets the two men’s attention is how their boss hasn’t moved to eat the first sweet he sees. He finally fishes out his fork in his drawer and takes a bit of a green cake from what Yuuta can tell. Gojo practically melts. 

        “Ijichi,” the said man flinches at his name, “who made this?”

        “I’m not sure, sir…”

        “Wrong answer! Who is I. Y.?” Gojo asks, peeling a paper from the inside of the lid. Ijichi is sweating bullets and Yuuta can’t help him since he has no idea what is going on. “Hello, dear customer! Thank you for this large order you placed. It is my first ever order, so I gave two of my Junda Crepe cakes as a thank you, free of charge! Please come again! Happy eating, I. Y.” Gojo reads and Ijichi now understands Fushiguro’s unease. The boy just gave himself an express ticket into Gojo’s hands. 

        “A new hire at Cafe Night, sir!” Gojo hums at the reply. 

        “Is that why Yaga asked you to come? To see the new hire?” Gojo was purring at the sight of Ijichi trembling. 

        “I’m sorry, sir! He asked me to spread the word that they had a new hire and therefore that person is also part of the neutral domain.” 

        “But why did you have to go there?” Gojo asks but then shakes his head. “Ok, I’m going to their bar tonight!” Ijichi wants to vomit at the thought of what Gojo will do there.

Chapter Text

        Kugisaki rolls her eyes and takes a shot when Gojo bursts into the bar. “Oh great, the lunatic came,” she mutters.

        “Oh c’mon Nobara~ I bring the bar to life!” In the far corner Miguel, a large man dressed in tight white and flamboyant jewelry that oddly suited the look, snorts. Gojo swipes a shot glass nearby and chucks it at the man at shocking speed. Meguel catches it and smirks. “You owe me a shot, Meguel!”

        “Get your own shot, you lazy old man!” Gojo pouts at Kugisaki’s comment. 

        “Why do you have to be so mean to me?” he whines, making the girl block her ears. “I’m not even that old!” As his gaze travels around each person his eyes land on, feels their hairs stand on edge. He eases his way to the bar and slumps onto the counter. “Nobaraaaa~” The girl counts backward from a hundred to keep herself from bashing the man’s head in. “Where’s the newbie?” Kugisaki pauses slightly but resumes her bartending like nothing, but it didn’t get past Gojo’s sharp eyes.

        “Do you really have nothing to do other than bother people who are trying to make a living?” 

        “You didn’t answer my question~”

        “Screw you!” she yells, making a few people turn their way passing sympathetic looks.

        “No thank you. You’re not my type. I’m flattered though.” Yaga comes right on time to hold the girl back from jumping Gojo with an icepick. 

        “Gojo, stop provoking my employees or I’ll ban you.” He ignores the sulking man and gives Kugisaki an appreciative pat on her shoulder. 

        “I just wanted to see the newbie! Give them the Gojo welcome!” Yaga looks past the angelical innocent look on the man’s face revealing the mischievous devil underneath. 

        “Today was their first day. I knew annoyances like you would show up so I sent them home.” He watches the Infinite leader’s innocent facade fall. 

        “Tsk, what a waste of time.”

        “Word passed quick to you-”

        “Ijichi didn’t tell me shit if that’s what you’re wondering.” Yaga shuts his mouth. Gojo searches his pockets and places a small piece of paper on the table. Yaga takes the paper and sighs. “Was wondering who was thanking me so valiantly. It’s not every day I receive sincere gratitude.” Yaga makes a mental note to tell Itadori not to put thank you notes in big orders. “So who is Y. I.?” 

        “Anyone who belongs in the neutral zone does not need to amuse your curiosity Gojo.”

        “Why do you guys hate me so much?”

        “Oh please, your arrogant ass needs this type of interaction to pull you down a peg,” Kugisaki snorts, handing him a shot.

        “Yaga, she’s trying to get me drunk!”

        “It’s the shot you pushed onto me,” Meguel sighs, leaning on the counter next to Gojo. Gojo eye’s the drink with a wrinkled nose. Everyone knows that Gojo simply asks people for shots just to be a prick. He hated the taste of alcohol. He would only drink if it was a cocktail made of eighty percent syrup. However, to everyone’s surprise, he drowns the shot and immediately faints. Yaga rubs his temple at the oncoming headache. Dealing with Sukuna is easier than this unpredictable idiot. Just as they are about to call Ijichi to come pick up the dumbass, he sits up with a dazed look. 

        “Oh god, he’s drunk.” Kugisaki hides behind Yaga and Meguel quickly goes back to his original seat. They know Gojo has gotten drunk a handful of times before, but they’ve never seen it with their own eyes. They didn’t know what to expect. Gojo’s eyes scan the room before standing up and leaving. “Should we be letting that maniac out in public? What if he goes on a murdering spree?” Everyone but Yaga shivers at the possibility. 

        “It’s okay. He’s Infinite’s problem to deal with now. Besides, do you think any or all of us together could stop him?” Silent acceptance and prayer went out for the people outside. 


        Yuuji exits the store with a few cans of cat food before jogging over to an ally. He hopes the cat didn’t leave and to his joy, it peeks its head from behind a flimsy box. “Hey, I’m back with food, little one,” he says, opening the can as the cat inches toward him. He places it down glancing at the cat that already had its blue eyes on him. With a sniff, the cat starts to eat the food leaving a smile on Yuuji’s face. He’s thankful for the cat’s white fur that shines even in the darkness of the night making it easy to spot. He slowly brings his hand close to the cat who glances at it while eating. Taking that as permission, Yuuji places his hands on the cat's head and pauses to let it know that he won’t do anything to hurt it. He starts petting the cat and revels at how soft its hair is. No collar but it doesn't look like a stray. Yuuji’s smile widens at the loud purr resonating from the animal. It licks the can clean before looking at Yuuji with glittering eyes. The cat starts to brush against him, leaving a trail of white fur on Yuuji. As he ponders if he wants a pet or not, a slurred voice calls out a name.

        “Nyatoru!” The cat's ear twitches as it looks in the general direction of the voice. Yuuji also looks and the first word that comes to his mind is ‘tall.’ The tall man looks their way and starts speed walking towards them. “Nyatoru!” the man cheers, falling to his knees and hugging the cat that tried but couldn’t get away in time. With how close that cat was to Yuuji’s leg, the man was hugging his leg along with the cat. 

        “Ummmm, can you let go of my leg?” Yuuji notices how the night breeze makes the white hair of the man sway. Yuuji sees his own confused face reflected on the sunglasses the man was sporting. 

        “Catnapper!”

        “What!?”

        “You were going to catnap Nyatoru!” Yuuji’s mouth falls at the accusation. 

        “Nyatoru? This is your cat?” 

        “Yes-No-Yes.” Yuuji looks at the man and sighs.

        “If you aren’t the owner, then you’re also a catnapper!” The man opens and closes his mouth like a fish and a little part of Yuuji thought of it as cute. 

        “He’s my cat!” whines the man. “Don’t you know pets and their owners look alike! Nyatoru was made for me! He’s as amazing as me too!” 

        “Sir, it’s Nyatoru’s choice on who he wants to be with.” Yuuji feels like he’s talking to a child. Good thing he likes children.  

        “I-arg-wait- you look-arg-” the man blocks his mouth in panic and Yuuji has seen enough drunk people throwing up to know what comes next. 

        “Hey c’mon, get up sir.” He yanks at the man who stands and almost hurls again. “C’mon, see that box? You’re going to vomit there ok?” The man simply follows Yuuji and does as told. Yuuji rubs his back in small circles as he empties his stomach. “How much have you had to drink sir?” The man mumbles something incoherent and the single finger gesture doesn’t help him understand what might have happened. The shades on the man’s face slide off a bit and Yuuji sees crystal blue eyes peer at him through snow-like lashes. His lungs stress him to take a breath. He does look like Nyatoru.

        “Told ya so!” the man exclaims, replying to Yuuji who didn’t realize he was thinking out loud, as he tilts his head back and promptly passes out. Yuuji manages to catch him, slinging one arm around his shoulder. 

        “Hey! Heeyyyy!” Yuuji shakes the man to no avail. “It’s no use… he’s out cold.” Nyatoru meows at Yuuji and rubs his leg some more. “Guess there’s only one thing I can do now.”

Chapter Text

       “---- , I love you,” my hand brushes a face like it could disappear at any moment. 

       “I love you too, Satoru,” says the person with unfocused eyes that were no less beautiful. 

       “I’ll find you again,” I kiss them, loving the way our lips slot so well together. “I promise.”

       “Satoru, no! You promised me!” Their body seizes in pain and thin rivers of red flow from their mouth. “You have to live!” they gurgle.

       “That is the one thing I can’t do, ---- . If they want to take away the one thing I treasure more than myself, it’s either I die or the world does. There will be nothing that can stop me.” I could sense my brain fragmenting at the thought of losing them.  

       “You’ll….find..me,” they mutter so silently I’m surprised I heard them. 

       “Yes, of course, I will!” I smile ignoring the wobble of my lips. I want them to see my smile last, not my tears. “I’m Gojo Satoru the strongest remember-” I pause as their face relaxes in a way that feels uneasy. “---- . C’mon don’t scare your sensei. ---- ?” I shake the body as tears pour down my face increasing in quantity. I couldn’t breathe. Gone! GONE! ---- ! ---- ! “ ----------- !” I grasp them, fusing our bodies together but it wasn’t enough. They were gone. Tremors run through my body like lava as I realize what I must do to this world that took away the good in favour of the bad. “Throughout the heavens and Earth, I alone am the honoured one. I shall pass my judgment on this world that took everything from me.” A blinding light explodes. “I’ll find you, ---- .”


       Gojo’s eyes snap open, his head pounding like never before. A sense of overwhelming loss washes over him leaving him breathless. What the hell?! He palms his eyes to ease the burning sensation. Looks like all his jokes about how heartless he is or that he can survive a knife through the heart since he doesn’t have one are turning on him. Right now the area where his heart would be hurts too much for there not to be one, and he didn’t have a single clue why. He remembers the bitter liquid going down his throat, Naytoru, and someone else that for the life of him he couldn’t remember. I’m never drinking again. Squinting he looks around at the bright room. Simple, with the bare minimum, and definitely not his. Where the hell… Shit, where are my glasses? He rubs his eyes some more before slowly getting up to stretch. His eyes adjust to the lighting and he is met with blue eyes. Gojo swears the cat is smirking at him. Nyatoru always has a bratty attitude with him, but then again people say that’s how he is as well. “Looks like you were left behind.” The cat sends him a look before jumping off revealing a note. He takes the note and reads it while trying to pet Naytoru, who smacks his hand. 

       Hello Sir! Please be careful of how much you drink. Your kidneys will thank you. I left you this note since you probably don’t remember much. Anyway, you kinda fainted in my arms so I left you in this hotel. I couldn’t just leave you out there even if you accused me of catnapping Nyatoru.  

       Ps. I made you an omelet and a banana milkshake. I read online that it can help with hangovers. Also, don’t forget to drink lots of water! Take care, Mr. Naytoru-look-alike.  - I. Y.

       Gojo’s lips couldn’t help but smile at the endearing note. I. Y. again, huh? Interesting. Now let’s call that lapdog.   


       Yuuji opens the cafe doors with a bright smile on his face. “Oh god! You’re one of those morning idiots!” Kugisaki groans, slumping on the counter. 

       “Good to see you too!” Her frown deepens for a second before she gasps in horror, touching the around her mouth. 

       “I swear! If I get wrinkles ‘cus of you, I’ll-” Yaga places a heavy hand on her shoulder, effectively shutting her up. 

       “Kugisaki, be nice.” She grumbles incoherently and resolves to simply express her displease through folded arms. “Good morning, Itadori. How are you?”

       “I’m good! I forgot to say this yesterday but the Night part of the cafe’s name isn’t lighting up. You might want to fix that.” Kugisaki snorts in the background and Yaga smiles.

       “That is on purpose.” Yuuji’s eyebrows furrow. “We leave it visible yet not lit up because it is ‘Night’- actually come I’ll show you.” They go to the front and Yaga flips open a seamless flap near the entrance. “The first button,” Yaga points at a black glossy button, “is for the daytime. It only lights up the Cafe part of Cafe Night.” Yuuji nods as he moves to the second one and presses it. “This one is for the nighttime bar, that I’m sure Megumi told you about. Go look outside.” Once outside Yuuji sees that the C in Cafe and the word Night were the only ones lit up. Not to mention they were in a bright red unlike the regular green.

       “Whoa! Okay, so the bar’s name is CNight while the cafe is just called Cafe?” Yaga nods.

       “Our official name is Cafe Night but due to the nature of our environment, we made the cafe just Cafe and green to portray a non-hostile ambiance for the regular people around. The bar on the other hand is CNight and red to warn people that gang members will be more present. As I said before we are a neutral zone, so we have gang members and non-gang members coming to our establishment. This acts as our warning to both sides to behave. The name Cafe Night is widely known in Japan. We have kept the peace and have the backing of the two biggest gangs, Infinite and Curses.” 

       “Whoa! Yaga, you must be really powerful!” Yaga clears his throat at Yuuji’s starry-eyed expression. 

       “No. I’m not strong enough to beat them. They just owe me.” A small smile dances on Yaga’s face. “I have a habit of picking up strays.” Yuuji scratches his head not quite understanding what stray animals had to do with gangs. Yaga chuckles and pats his back hard making Yuuji yelp and take a few steps forward. “Come on, we have work to do. I also want you to write up your recipe so that we can teach the cooks.” 

       “Cooks?”

       “We have more than just Kugisaki and Fushiguro as part-timers.” They make their way in and Norbara smirks at them, mainly Yuuji.

       “Did the baby understand? He looks like the type you need to beat knowledge into.” 

       “Now now, you didn’t understand it either, Kugisaki.” Yuuji smirks and sticks his tongue out. Childish or not, Yuuji's soul would be angry if he didn’t give some sort of rebuttal. “Anyway, I have your uniform Yuuji,” Yaga informs, jerking his head to the back door. Yuuji follows and sees the neatly folded white button-up, black vest and slacks, and a navy blue tie. Resting on the pile was a golden badge with Cafe Night and Itadori Yuuji written in an elegant font. Yaga watches as Yuuji runs his hands on the fabric and eyes his new badge. “We have a changing room down the hall to the right.” Yuuji didn’t wait a second to rush past Yaga to the dressing room. In the rush of changing, Yuuji’s hand brushes against something in his jacket’s pocket. “Huh?” He looks at the visibly expensive sunglasses. “Ah! This must be that guy’s!” During his journey to bring the man to a hotel, his glasses kept slipping with each step so Yuuji pocketed them to keep them safe. He ruffles his hair and sighs. Wait, the cafe is pretty popular so maybe we can put it as a lost and found item… With a sharp nod, Yuuji continues changing into his uniform.

       Meanwhile, Yaga has a frown and an oncoming headache, and Kugisaki bristles at the first customer of the day. “What the hell are you here for now!” Kugisaki shrieks pointing at a smirking Gojo and a judgemental cat in his arms that looks far too similar to him for comfort.

Chapter Text

        Yaga and Nobara glance at each other when Gojo enters sporting his signature blindfold. He usually wears it when doing “gang stuff” as he so eloquently puts it. Nobara knows this means goodbye to her peaceful morning shift. “Can’t you leave us alone? Why must we suffer with your presence two days in a row!”

        “Don’t worry I’m not looking for you idiots who left me for dead while I was drunk. I’m looking for the person that did care.” 

        “Are you still drunk? Who the hell in their right mind would help you-”

        “Ah! It’s you! Nyatoru too!” Yuuji exclaims with bright eyes. Great! Now I can just give the glasses back to him in person. The smirk falls off Gojo's face. He tilts his head for a second before grinning like a cat that just got its milk. Yaga curses silently. Nyatoru meows and wiggles his body out of Gojo’s hold, quickly going to Yuuji who immediately picks him up. Gojo’s not far behind, approaching the boy whose eyes were on the cat. “Hey buddy! I missed you.” Yuuji brightens even more as Nyatoru purrs up a storm and snuggles up to him. Yuuji lifts his head to see the man’s face an inch away from his own. Yuuji gapes at the closeness. Whoa! I didn’t even notice him getting this close!

        The younger boy looks similar to the hot-headed leader of Curses but Gojo’s keen eyes could see all the small details that split the two. This boy doesn’t have the rugged look Sukuna sports. Both have pink strands with a darker undercut, but his hair is a shade closer to sakura pink than Sukuna’s. Not to mention the obvious lack of tattoos and the everlasting smile on the boy’s face. However, the most striking difference is their eyes. Sukuna has sharp red eyes like the fires of hell and the blood of his enemies. Yuuji, on the other hand, has big brown doe eyes that shine golden at certain angles.

        “Haaaaaa! All that effort and this idiot goes and ruins it!” Kugisaki mutters glaring at Yuuji who snaps back to reality and finally takes a step back making Gojo frown. 

        “Hello~” he sticks his hand out which the boy takes without hesitation. “I’m Gojo Satoru.” 

        “Oh! Hello! I’m Itadori Yuuji! You feeling better now? You seriously caught me off guard yesterday. Oh right!” Yuuji starts to fish the tinted glasses out of his pocket. “I have your glasses. I forgot I had it in my pocket.” He hands it to Gojo. 

        Yaga and Kugisaki stare at Yuuji knowing full well that a good-hearted boy like him would get eaten up by Gojo easily. 

        “Hmmm, you are quite an adorable one aren’t cha?” Yuuji sputters at Gojo’s compliment. 

        “Ah- um- Thanks. And you’re handsome!” Yuuji pats himself on the back for not biting his own tongue just then. 

        “I know,” Gojo smiles. “Ya know~ you seem very familiar~” Gojo sends a smirk Yaga’s way. 

        “Gojo, a word in my office. Now,” Yaga sighs deeply. 

        “I don’t want to. I rather spend time with the new employee~ He should get to know me better if-” Yaga drags Gojo away to the back, but not before he manages to ruffle Yuuji’s hair. 

        “You’re a magnet for the crazies aren’t ya?” Yuuji looks at Kugisaki who was giving him an unimpressed look. 

        “What’s that supposed to mean?”

        “It means you’re an idiot.” Yuuji puffs out his cheeks. He isn’t the biggest fan of Kugisaki’s brash way of talking, but having lived with his late grandfather, he’s accustomed to the “tough love” sort. 

        “Thanks for worrying about me!” Kugisaki’s eyes widen before huffing away muttering all sorts of things. 


        To say Megumi is annoyed would be an understatement. Sukuna has been ghosting him for a month now. By now he’s used to Sukuna’s flippant moods, but to be called at 5am in the goddamn morning by his lackeys is pushing it. Megumi is not a morning person. He has been glaring a hole through Choso for 30 minutes now as they drove to Curses’ headquarters. “Fushiguro, you must be aware that I would not have contacted you unless it was necessary.” 

        “Your boss has been ghosting me for a month now, why the hell should I care?” 

        “Because you love him and he loves you.” Megumi chokes. He’s tired of this turbulent relationship he has with Sukuna. All it does is leave him with a bleeding heart. “Fushiguro, he attacked Uraume.” Megumi’s eyes go wide. Sukuna is ruthless but he takes care of his people. They are his family, so the thought of him attacking them, let alone Uraume who has been with him the longest, is unfathomable. “He won’t tell us what's wrong so we can’t help him no matter how much we want to. Please, you're our only hope. He hasn’t been himself for a month now.” The car stops and they both get out. Jogo stands at the entrance with a blackeye. Megumi realizes that Uraume isn’t the only victim of Sukuna's rage. His pace hastens as they make their way to the elevator and up to the top floor. Megumi’s brain spins with ideas and theories as to why Sukuna is this unhinged. They stand at the door to Sukuna’s office, which has a prominent dent the size of a fist. I’ll come-”

        “No. Stay out here,” Megumi orders before opening the door and sliding in. The room was a mess of broken glass, furniture, electronics, etc. 

        “Who let you in?” If Megumi was any lesser of a man, he would have pissed himself. Sukuna is all red-hot anger and impulsivity. The cold fury that lies waiting in his eyes now is a new type of fear that isn’t the usual King of Curses. 

        “That’s beside the point. What the hell is going on Sukuna?” Sukuna hangs his head and chuckles. 

        “Leave Megumi. I’m not in the mood to deal with you.”

        “Deal with me? If anything I’m the one dealing with you. I don’t hear from you for weeks only to find out you’re going apeshit. You even hurt your people.” Sukuna stares at Megumi hard as if trying to pin him there by sheer intimidation. Megumi can only describe him as looking like a wounded lone wolf who saw danger in every corner, ready to pounce at any moment. “You're better than whatever this is Sukuna.”

        “You don’t know what the hell you're talking about! Leave before I hurt that pretty face of yours Megumi.” 

        “Unfortunately I decided to be with you. That includes all your stupid mood swings and violent tendencies. I don’t have a habit of breaking my resolve.”

        “... You deserve better than me. You deserve better than someone who abuses you. I don’t know why you-”

        “You’ve never hurt me in any way, Sukuna! I knew what I was getting into from the start. I control my own decisions.”

        “I don’t deserve you,” Sukuna sighs into Megumi’s neck. 

        “Well, that’s obvious... But I’m not leaving anytime soon.” Sukuna looks at Megumi defeated. A look that shouldn’t be on the face of The King of Curses. 

        “Megumi, I fucked up.”

Chapter Text

          “Can’t you behave yourself even for a second?” Yaga glares at the smirking white head. 

          “Oh but I am behaving~” Yaga sighs at his little snip. 

          “I’m sure you understand why it is important to not put a spotlight on Itadori.”

          “Oh, the whole ‘basically Sukuna’s twin thing’? Yeah, I can see how that would warrant unpleasant attention.”

          “Then will you not make this one of your dumb endeavours to piss off anyone and everyone?”

          “But Yaga, isn’t that asking too much of me? How can I sit still when given a sweet treat?”

          “Leave the boy alone, Satoru. We don’t know his relation with Sukuna. Plus, whatever obsession you have with him will dwindle once we solve that mystery.”

          “Hmmm, I don’t know about that~ He is quite the breath of fresh air in our field of expertise.”

          “Making it even more important that you stay away.”

          “Isn’t it too late? He signed his fate the moment he looked like Sukuna… speaking of, he’s been on a rampage it seems.” Yaga realises that this is the real reason behind Gojo's visit, Itadori, just happened to be here. 

          “...Yes, I’ve heard. I tried to contact him but he never answered.”

          “I have a feeling our new attraction has something to do with it. The timing is too perfect,” Gojo muses, interlocking his fingers.

          “Hence why I'm keeping him under my care-”

          “Have you ever wondered why Sukuna has all those unnecessary stupid tattoos all over his face?” Yaga frowns at the blatant way Gojo ignored his comment. “I have a theory! I think he got tattoos because sweet little Yuuji and him look awfully similar. With his reputation the boy would easily be dragged into our dark world.”

          “So you think Sukuna knows Itadori and is actively protecting him?”

          “Yup,” Gojo says, popping the p at the end.

          “It’s like you are trying to convince me to keep him away from you.”

          “Well~ I always love a good fight.” Gojo’s smiles. Another reason why Gojo Satoru is feared the most is how he fights. Nobody can touch him. He makes sure of this by using any tactic, fair or dirty, in fights. When he gets serious, even a slight bit, the opponent will not come out alive. He was extremely unpredictable and dangerous, a frightening combination. 

          “Keep the damages to a minimum,” Yaga sighs, knowing not to fight a determined Gojo. 

          “Sheesh, you all act like I’m a monster. I won’t hurt anyone who doesn’t deserve it.” He sticks his bottom lip out in an obvious act. Yaga is all too familiar with Gojo’s theatrics. 

          “That is not reliving.”

          “I wasn’t trying to be. Let me pout in peace. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have plans,” Gojo says gliding out the door leaving a tired Yaga behind. 

          As he enters the main area, amber eyes meet him through his blindfold. He wonders absently how “Oh you’re back! Is everything okay?” Yuuji asks as his head extends the more Gojo stalks closer. 

          “Everything is just peachy!” Gojo’s hand ruffles the boy’s hair, again, which is surprisingly soft even though it gives a stiff appearance. Yuuji closes one eye at the touch as the other peers at him, curious and annoyed, yet never making a move to take his hand off. Nyatoru’s paw smacks at his hand, alas always missing by a few centimetres. How is such a sweet scene possible? He grins as Yuuji stares and he stares right back. Yuuji on the other hand is wondering why he was wearing a blindfold. “My my~ I know I’m pretty but at this point you’ll make me blush.” A sweet pink hue lights up Yuuji’s face. His eyes glittering gold. 

          “Ah! Sorry! It’s kinda hard not to look at you when you look so… interesting.” At this point Gojo’s cheeks are hurting from how wide his grin is stretching. 

          “Hmmm usually people would dread the sight of me, especially if I’m looking back.”

          “Why?” The blatant confusion on his face eggs Gojo on. 

          “Because I’m known to be a very bad guy who gets anything,” he says cupping Yuuji’s right cheek, “and everything,” He leans in close, “I want.” The warmth radiating from Yuuji’s cheek makes his insides giddy. Yuuji lifts an eyebrow.

          “After seeing you throw up into a cardboard box next to a cat, I can’t picture you being a big baddie.” Nobara cackles in the background making Gojo’s left eye twitch, not that anyone can see it do so. 

          “I would like to make an order,” he announces as he abruptly stands. Nobara groans muttering about murder and torture with nails. 

          “Yes!” Yuuji salutes. “What can I get you Sir!” Gojo’s ears itch at the formal tone. 

          “One large strawberry parfait, every type of wagashi in stock, two choco banana crepes, one Mont Blanc and taiyaki.” Yuuji’s eyes widen with each item while Nobara curses louder. “Since I’m not too hungry, I’ll leave it at that.”

          “Um, to go?”

          “Nope, I’ll have them here.” Yuuji looks at Nobara who starts plating the items that were already made.

          “Stop looking dumbfounded and make the damn parfait and two choco banana crepes.” Yuuji rushes to her side, huddling in close.

          “You sure this is ok? Won’t he die from sugar poisoning or something? Will that make us liable?”

          “Ha! I wish it was that easy to get rid of that moron. Just get started, the sooner he leaves the better.” Yuuji nods absently as he makes his way to the kitchen, but not before taking a peek at the eccentric white haired man once more, only to find him already looking his way, or at least he thinks. It's hard to tell with the blindfold. I wonder why he's wearing it… Yuuji disappears to the back and a few seconds after Nobara gives him the bulk of this order.

          “Why do you always visit when it’s my shift?” Gojo smiles at her brash attitude. 

          “Why do you always have to be so rude?” At this moment Nobara really wishes she had some sort of power to nail every inch of Gojo’s annoying body on the floor. “Killing me in your head won’t make me go away you know~”

          “Can’t you let me dream!” Nobara sighs and kicks his chair, which doesn’t move at all. With Gojo around, no one's going to come to the cafe. Especially since the jerk picked a window seat. “Stop messing with the idiot! It’s going to make work infuriating.”

          “Oh my~ Oh my~ What is this,” Gojo exclaims with both hands on his cheeks, a replica of the painting, The Scream, “Nobara is caring!? AND asking a request from ME! Is the world ending?” Nobara clenches both her fists before yelling.

          “Why do I even bother!? Fuck this!” she says while flipping Gojo off and stomping away. If anyone saw the interaction they would never come to the conclusion that Nobara is a member of Infinite. Sadly for her, that notion is very much the truth.

 


 

          “Wha-What?” Megumi tries to comprehend the absolute shit-show of an explanation Sukuna told him.

          “I know. I fucked up.” 

          “What were you thinking?”

          “I thought it would be for the best. I’m not the best person to be associated with.”

          “But what do you mean you lost track? You have access to so many avenues to look at yet you can’t find him?” 

          “I know it’s sad that the King of Curses can’t even find his younger brother… if he’s still alive. Whoever killed my spy might have already-”

          “Sukuna, your brother is alive.”

          “It’s hard to stay as optimistic as you-”

          “No.” Megumi sighs, racking his hand through his already unruly hair. “You brother is alive. He’s my neighbour and new coworker.” Megumi holds back his laughter at Sukuna’s puzzled face. The man is always so sure of himself and confident, to see him like this is pure comedy. 

          “What the fuck? What the fuck! He’s here! Thank fucking god!” Sukuna sweeps Megumi into a bear hug, cradling his head softly as all the tension releases. “Thank you.”

          “...I didn’t do anything-”

          “I know, but just… thank you.” Megumi pauses before nuzzling into the man’s neck letting the scent of smoky cologne wash over him. Now how will Yuuji react…

Chapter 8

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

        Yuuji pushes out of the employee area with a strawberry parfait and a plate with two choco banana crepes. With a quick scan, he sees where Gojo, who was already looking his way, decided to sit. He quickly crosses over and places the treats. “Can you bring another plate?” Yuuji nods and quickly brings the desired object, only then does he wonder what the plate was for. He watches as Gojo carefully separates the two crepes by putting one on the new plate. I know people sometimes don’t like it when their food items are touching but I’ve never seen it in person. He shakes off his thoughts when Gojo gestures towards the empty seat in front of him. Oh does he want me to take it away? Having long legs must be hard. Yuuji takes a hold of the chair and lifts it. “No no, I want you to sit with me,” Gojo explains, placing one of the crepes in front of him. “Eat with me.” 

        “Uhhhhh,” Yuuji glances at Kugisaki who rolls her eyes and motions him to go ahead.

        “Eating is always better with company, especially sweets,” Gojo says grinning while giving a thumbs up as Yuuji sits down. He won’t say no to free food.

        “You really didn’t need to give me-”

        “Hush, let me thank you for taking care of me when no one else would’ve.”

        “I’m sure somebody would’ve-”

        “Nope, they’re too scared. You just happen to not know who I am.” Yuuji frowns at being interrupted once again. 

        “And who would that be? I’m guessing a gang member?” Yuuji scoffs.

        “Curious tiger aren’t you~ Hmm,” Gojo fake ponders while taking a scoop of his parfait, before smiling as Yuuji takes a bite of the crepe making his face light up at the taste. “I’m not telling.”

        “What! That’s unfair!”

        “I never said I would tell you now did I?” Yuuji opens his mouth to disagree but shuts it a second later realising that he didn’t have a rebuttal for that. With a grumble, he continues to eat the crepe. “So what brought you here? The cheap living?”

        “Basically.”

        “Basically? What are the other reasons?” Yuuji peeks at Gojo before looking away, he swallows the remnants of crepe in his mouth. Gojo is not focusing on the bob of his Adam's apple or the shy look, nope, not at all.   

        “I’m looking for something.” A family member? Gojo muses twirling the spoon on his empty plate. 

        “Hmm, I can help you. I have many contacts that owe me favours anyway.” Yuuji purses his lips wanting to rip the blindfold off to see if he was being sincere or not. He frowns when Gojo smirks looking past him. “Actually, I don’t think I’ll have to anymore-”

        “Get away from him, asshole!” A voice yells behind Yuuji. Who? I didn’t even notice someone coming in?! He turns, pauses, looks up, and yells. 

        “WHAAAAAAAA!” He points at the newcomer who looks like his doppelganger. He gets even more confused when he sees Megumi with his arm linked to his doppelganger, trying to calm the latter down while avoiding Yuuji’s eyes. 

        “Sukuna, this is a neutral zone. Don’t get yourself banned… again.” Sukuna growls in response. 

        “But this prick!-” 

        “Ahem!” All eyes turn to Yaga, who is sporting a deep scowl. “Everyone in my office now! No excuses!” They all, excluding Nobara, who’s snickering at them, make their way to the office. 

        Now all crowded in Yaga’s office said owner sighs, flopping onto his chair, and rubbing his temple. “Let's clear up this mess before it gets even more troublesome and convoluted.” 

        “Screw that! I’m taking Yuuji and leaving!” Sukuna yells, grabbing a hold of Yuuji’s left hand.

        “Now now Sukuna~ Isn’t that up to Yuuji?” Gojo sneers, grabbing Yuuji's right hand. Yuuji starts swivelling his head between the two men. 

        “Can someone explain what the hell is going on first!?” Sukuna’s eyes fall on his brother, softening immensely. 

        “Yuuji, I didn’t plan to meet you like this but I’m-” Sukuna’s face snaps right and silence blankets the room, “my brother, right?” Yuuji spits out, shaking the impact off his hand. “Gramps left a letter explaining that I had a runaway older brother residing in Tokyo and that ‘I’ll know it’s him when I see him,” Yuuji stares down a baffled Sukuna still trying to process the sting on his face. “I can see what he meant now.” Yaga clears his throat effectively diverting the attention to him.

        “Yuuji, how did your grandfather tell you about Sukuna’s lifestyle?” 

        “Not much. He kept shut about it till the very end. I only know what was written in the letter. Seeing how he knows you guys, he must be related to gang stuff right?” Yaga and Megumi share a look while Gojo shakes from holding his laughter. “He’s… Remember the two gangs I told you about?” Yuuji nods at Yaga. “Well, he’s Infinite’s leader and Sukuna is Curse’s leader,” Yaga explains, pointing to Gojo and Sukuna respectively. 

        “Haaa~ You’re spoiling all the fun Yaga!” Gojo huffs, plunging both of his hands deep into his pocket in silent protest. 

        “Leaders? As in the bosses..?” Yuuji mutters. His head slowly turns to the man who is his absent brother, wide-eyed. “Y-you left so you could go around killing innocent people?” Yuuji accuses more than questions. Sukuna looks away, hands and jaw clenching.

        “Ha! You’re too young to understand. This is all for you!” Sukuna almost cringes at how that sounded but he couldn’t stop the words from coming out. “You were so small and helpless and I- I only had you! I had to be at the top so I could protect you! I was already in too deep-”

        “I didn’t need protection!” Yuuji snaps. “I needed my brother! Someone who could understand the pain of losing their parents! Someone who would have been there with me when Gramps died right in front of my eyes! When I went to the crematorium and shifted through his remains for bones!.” Yuuji yells gripping at his uniform, wrinkling it beyond help. The brothers stare each other down, trying to convey their emotions. “Were you ever planning to tell me? To meet and actually be my brother? Don’t you dare say it was for me! You are the boss of one of the biggest gangs in Japan! Nothing could’ve stopped you yet you did nothing! You wanted power and this life not for me but for yourself!” With a shuddering breath, Yuuji runs out of the room leaving the men in heavy silence. 

        “I guess this wasn’t the happy family reunion you wanted huh Sukuna?”

        “Just shut up for once in your goddamn life!” Sukuna snaps at Gojo.

        “Well I’m not the one who made sweet little Yuuji sad, so I wonder which one of us should actually shut the hell up.” Gojo snides with a low voice. Yaga sends a quick text telling Yuuji to take the day off before putting himself between the two live wires. 

        “I don’t think both of your childish arguments will solve this situation.” He looks at Sukuna, his eyes like agitated lava. “Sukuna what exactly happened? I want to help you, but I can’t do that without knowing what’s going on.” Sukuna glares at Gojo and glances at Yaga before looking away. Yaga smacks Gojo and motions for him to leave. 

        “What?! I can’t leave now! I’m too invested in the story! What will the big, mean villain of the story do next?” 

        “Gojo leave or I’ll personally make sure you won’t get to eat any of our sweets.” Gojo gasps at the betrayal. 

        “Fine!” he yells leaving the room. Yaga and Megumi squint at each other. Gojo left far too easily. Usually, he’s much more of a brat about it. A lightbulb goes off and Megumi’s eyes widen in realisation. Good Luck Itadori.

 


        Yuuji rushes out of the cafe not minding Nobara's cry of confusion. Why didn't Gramps tell me anything!? Why was I the only one in the dark!?  Yuuji bumps into a passerby apologising absently. How could they do- Yuuji’s hand is yanked backward making him stumble a bit. He looks at the person gripping his arm incredulously. “Umm, can I help you?” The guy laughs, his spit flying here and there making Yuuji’s nose wrinkle. 

        “What kind of stunt are you putting on now, Sukuna? You’re looking mighty weak compared to your usual self.” The guy closes in, squinting at Yuuji’s face. “Were those tattoos all for show? Makes sense for a wanna-be thug. I knew you were all bark and no bite” 

        “Look, I’m not Sukuna-”

        “Do you think I’m an idiot? Anyone with two eyes can tell you’re Sukuna! Well, weaker looking… but still the King of Curses. You sick or something?” Yuuji breaths in and out trying to calm his nerves but knew that the excitement in the stranger’s eyes meant things were going to get physical. One thing after another! Can’t I get a damn break!? “Either way I’m gonna teach you a lesson for what you did last year-” With this Yuuji’s last nerve snaps. Stupid older brother! He yanks the perpetrator into a knee kick to the diaphragm. Stupid gangs! Gives a solid heavy punch to the side of the guy’s head. Stupid- Yuuji stares at the guy who was out cold and Yuuji sighs looking upwards. How am I any different… Yuuji feels a sudden rush of air before he’s face to face with a pretty collar bone peeking out of expensive blue fabric. Something crashes behind him making his head swerve. 

        “If it wasn’t clear before, you do realise that going around looking like Sukuna will get you in all kinds of danger.” Yuuji looks up at the smiley man. 

        “Thanks but I could’ve handled it, Gojo.” Gojo tilts his head looking down at the limp body still in Yuuji’s arms. 

        “Oh I know you can but even the best of us need someone to watch our backs.” He places his hand on top of Yuuji’s head ruffling his hair as suspicious yet curious golden eyes peek at him... Ah~ This is definitely going to become a habit.  

        “You knew, didn't you,” Yuuji mumbles.

        “I know a lot of things, Yuuji, which one are you talking about?” His hand is shoved off with a glare that Gojo can’t help but only see as cute. 

        “You knew that the person I was looking for was my brother! That’s why you made a whole show outta it!” Yuuji snaps, throwing respect out the window. “Must have been fun making fun of the stupid new guy, huh?”

        “Hmm, I admit I was pretty certain you were looking for Sukuna, but I didn’t know he was your brother,” Yuuji gives Gojo an unamused look. “Plus, it’s not like I’m the only one! Megumi, Nobara, and Yaga probably knew there was some sort of a connection between you two. They met you way earlier than I did. Where’s the justice in that?” Yuuji deflates at his point. 

        “I know… Look, I'm sorry. I-I guess I needed to put my anger on someone and you happened to be here.” Gojo stands there uncertain before bursting into laughter. 

        “You’re the thoughtlessly honest type huh?” Yuuji looks at him as if he grew a pineapple on his forehead. 

        “Huh? What? I guess but how is that funny?” Gojo backpedals at Yuuji’s walls going up again.

        “No no- it’s just that you speak very openly with me. It’s refreshing.” With people always walking on eggshells around him, he can’t remember the last time someone was this upfront with him. He knows who I am now too. He’s not letting such a rarity be taken away by Sukuna. He looks past Yuuji and smiles. “Why don’t we get some ice cream to turn that frown upside down!” Gojo proceeds to steer Yuuji toward a small corner ice cream stall. “What flavour?” 

        “Huh?” Gojo boops Yuujis nose making him cross-eyed.

        “Ice. Cream. What flavour?” 

        “Ummm, strawberry?”

        “One strawberry and my usual. Looking as lovely as ever Granny~” The older lady behind the counter sighs. 

        “Back again with all the flattery Gojo?” She peeks at Yuuji and lifts an eyebrow. “What’s a sweet little thing like him doing around you Gojo? You’re not bullying him are you?” Gojo gasps and holds a hand to his heart.

        “You wound me!”

        “Yeah yeah, you big crybaby.” Gojo peeks at Yuuji, who looks at their exchange curiously. Gojo swings an arm around pulling him close.

        “I’m surprised you realised right away that he isn’t Sukuna.”

        “My eyesight may be waning but my instincts are as strong as always.” She scoops up a good amount of pink ice cream onto a cone. “That boy is far too bright in comparison to Sukuna’s brooding self. Here you go, dear. Free of charge.” Yuuji stutters as his mind rushes to make a reason to pay. “Nope! First-time customer privilege,” she huffs, winking at Yuuji who scratches his cheek and hesitantly takes the cone. 

        “Thank you so much!” Yuuji beams, doing a perfect nighty-degree bow. “I’ll bring you some slices of my edamame crepe cake!” The elderly lady and Gojo both warm up from the pureness that radiates out of Yuuji. 

        “Gojo, you hurt him, I’ll make sure you can’t taste anything sweet ever again.” They watch as Yuuji takes a lick of the ice cream and melts into a goofy smile.

        “Granny, even I don’t have it in me to hurt such pure goodness.” The lady gives Gojo a side glance, observing silently as he watches Yuuji with a smile. Ahhhh, to be young…

Notes:

A special thanks to 22leyda for their comment that gave inspiration for the punch scene. Sorry for not doing the broken ribs and hug but it was a great idea! Once again, thank you 22leyda!

Chapter Text

        “Okay Sukuna, explain,” Yaga crosses his arms waiting for the convoluted story that is undoubtedly going to come out of Sukuna. 

        “Why the hell do I have to explain shit to you? I can handle it myself.”

        “Sure. Look where ‘doing it yourself’ got you.” Sukuna practically growls at this, only calming down when Megumi puts a hand on his shoulder. With a hard exhale, Sukuna looks at Yaga. 

        “Parents died, gramps took us in, I was a crappy child, got into bad shit, didn’t want to drag them into the shitstorm I created! Happy?” Sukuna spits as he looks down fists at his sides, shaking. Megumi gives a gentle squeeze, soothing his tremors immensely. Sukuna sighs. “He’s so good-hearted and innocent. Seeing him be happy and healthy became my drive in this hellhole we call life- a way to make up for all the crap I drag around. For him to live free and full of life with no hardships… He is too good. This world doesn’t deserve him.” He roughly combs through his hair itching to rip it off. “I don’t deserve him! I didn’t want to put Yuuji through crap ag- because of the shitty life I chose.” A small smile forms on his face as he thinks of the past and a smaller Yuuji asking to be picked up with big puppy eyes. “It didn’t take long to notice our uncanny resemblance.” He absently brings a hand to his face. “I made sure that no one could connect me to Yuuji…. I only wanted to protect him.” Yaga sighs at the foolishness Sukuna dug himself into. Young and foolish mixed with stubborn pride…  

        “Your grandfather must have been a strong man to be able to handle the both of you.” Sukuna chuckles. 

        “Yeah, the old man was a real hard-headed mule. Scolded me every chance he got… I still can’t believe he’s dead- that he could even die. I’m a shit older brother and grandson, but I guess that’s not a surprise.” Yaga and Megumi stare in wonder. It was rare to see Sukuna openly reflect, let alone around others. Yaga lets out a deep breath.  

        “What’s your next move Sukuna?” Sukuna drags his hand over his face at Yaga’s question. 

        “If it were up to me, I would drag him with me and never let him leave my sight.” Yaga and Megumi both tense up. “But I don’t want him to hate me even more than he already does.” Sukuna’s whole body sighs as he falls into a crouching position. “I don’t know. He wasn’t supposed to be involved with our world.”

        “You never planned to meet him did you?”

        “No…” Megumi looks at Yaga pleading for help. “I-I didn’t want it to be this way! He shouldn’t be put in danger! I especially didn’t want him anywhere near that asshole!” Sukuna pulls at his hair as every single thing that was wrong goes through his head like a tape on replay. Yaga approaches and crouches down beside Sukuna.

        “Sukuna, this seems far too illogical. You can’t keep Yuuji from living life the way he wants to. Why are you so adamant about him being away from you and your world? There’s something you’re not telling us isn’t there?” Sukuna wouldn’t meet his eyes and that alone told him all he needed to know. “You don’t have to tell me but rest assured, Yuuji will always have a place here at Cafe Night.” 

—--------------------------------------------------

        “So then aren’t you like… Megumi’s father?” Yuuji asks, eyes still wide, not looking away from Gojo. Gojo, unperturbed by the attention in fact he couldn’t get enough of it, pouts. It’s not every day that someone looks at him so openly. 

        “Yuujiiiiii~ How many times do I have to explain it? I’m not Megumi’s dad. Yes, I technically took him and his sister under my wing, but it was hardly anything but transactional. He needed support and I needed more recruits.” Gojo shrugs and kicks his feet out from where they both sit.

        “Well, that’s still a very nice thing to do. You basically saved his life.”

        “Ha! Yuuji I did it because I was the reason they became orphans.” Yuuji frowns at this and Gojo knows this is where he’ll lose this pure-hearted person, but maybe that’s for the better. “Their father was a hitman and I had, and still have, a large bounty on my head. Things escalated and became a kill-or-be-killed type of situation, so I killed him. Just like I’ve killed many people before.” Gojo smirks at Yuuji’s worried face. He brings his hands to Yuuji’s neck and grazes it lightly. “Like I can do to you, Sukuna’s oh-so-innocent weakness.” Yuuji’s jaw clenches visibly and Gojo finally sees the fear in his eyes he sees in everyone. You shouldn’t be involved in this world Yuuji. Sukuna was right in keeping you hidden. Yuuji looks down as a gush of wind passes by making stray leaves dance around. 

        “I thought it was in my head but now I’m sure of it.” He looks back up at Gojo as his hair ruffles from the wind with determined eyes. “All of you are trying to scare me away.” Gojo’s thoughts come to a full stop. Peach pink hair sways in the wind, while his head blocks the sun making a halo of light around him as his eyes shine with pure determination. Oh… Oh wow… “I don’t get why everyone is treating me like some precious cargo that got forcefully dragged into the big bad world of gangsters. Everything I did, I did it with my eyes wide open. You guys didn’t rope me into anything. I’m pretty sure I barged in if anything.” Yuuji huffs and leans back onto the bench. “I know it’s dangerous, but that won’t stop me- all of you can’t stop me!” He glances at Gojo who is still wide-eyed. “If it were you, I’m sure you wouldn’t have stopped either.” Gojo opens his mouth, closes it, and opens it again. Yuuji has to bite into his lower lip to not laugh. 

        “Are you serious?” Yuuji tilts his head at the question, unsure what to make of it, only to produce a bubble of laughter out of Gojo. It’s Yuuji’s turn to pout now.

        “You're so mean! Why are you laughing at me? I have something on my face don’t I? You could’ve just told me,” Gojo doesn’t bother to dodge the light hits to his shoulder as Yuuji tries to wipe at his face in search of nothing. 

        “Well, I am a bad gangster boss, so that would be an understatement, my dear Yuuji~” Gojo purrs, leaning into Yuuji’s personal space, blue meeting amber above dark lenses. A light blush blooms on Yuuji’s face and then confusion. “Something wrong?” He watches Yuuji look around before shaking his head. 

        “Ah, no I’m good. Just had a huge deja vu moment.”

        “...I seriously can’t tell what’s going on in that head of yours.” Yuuji blinks once and smirks. 

        “Glad I can keep an infamous gangster like you on your toes.” Gojo's eyes never leave him and it sends shivers down Yuuji’s spine. He tucks his chin in and sways his feet back and forth. “Do you make it a habit to stare at people?”

        “Actually, yes. I do,” Gojo grins, snapping back to his mischievous self. “Especially interesting people like you.” A deep blush spreads beautifully across Yuuji’s sun-kissed skin. Gojo’s eyes crinkle and he can’t remember the last time he has smiled so fully. “Blushing is a good look on you Yuuji.”

        “Enough with all the teasing Gojoooo,” Yuuji whines. 

        “Only if you start calling me Satoru.”

        “... Counter deal, only when alone. Around others it’s Gojo,” Yuuji huffs, folding his arms. Gojo relents sadly. Beggars can’t be choosers

        “Fine… sooo,” Gojo leans in cupping his ear.

        “Seriously? Haaaa- ok fine…” Yuuji bites his lower lip with shifty eyes. “Satoru.” Gojo didn’t care much for his name. A ‘name’s a name’ he’d say. He was always called Gojo everywhere he went. Only a few had the misfortune of being close enough to say his first name. Satoru. He’d heard it many times before, but something in the way Yuuji said it with care and life made Gojo's insides warm. 

        “S- ahem- see not so hard was it!” Gojo clears his throat and wills himself to not show how flustered he really is. Yuuji hums in agreement as a peaceful quiet lands on them.

        “... Thanks, for all this,” Yuuji sinks a little and takes a deep breath. “My head was so foggy but now I think I’m okay.” With a heave, Yuuji gets up and takes a few steps before turning his head back towards Gojo sporting a big smile and crinkled eyes. “By the way, I know you’re supposed to be a big bad gangster, but to me, you’ll always be Satoru the cat-loving, sweet-eating, eccentric man. See ya!” Gojo watches Yuuji silently until he’s no longer in his sight before he slumps into himself and lets out a large sigh. “The world must hate me…” He absently remembers his old friend warning him about how his karma will catch up to him. He only hopes Yuuji won’t be in the crossfire, since there’s no way he’ll be able to stay away from that sunshine incarnate. How the hell is this sweet person related to that hotheaded idiot of a person...

Chapter Text

        Yuuji absently hums as he stuffs the last onigiri with tuna, mayo, and chili seasoning into the perfect triangular shape. Onigiris are the perfect snack and everyone likes them. He even added a little more chili than usual since his brother seems like the type to eat spicy things. He hopes this visit will help their obviously strained relationship or lack thereof. Shaking his mind off of negative thoughts he recalls the pictures of Nyatoru Yaga sent him. Yaga may look intimidating but Yuuji can tell he’s really a softy at heart. He huffs as he remembers how Gojo forgot poor Nyatoru at the cafe, not that the cat cared, since Yaga was spoiling him rotten if the pictures are anything to go by.  

        A knock followed by a bang echoed throughout Yuuji’s small abode. Loud incomprehensible shouting spurs Yuuji into action, taking the nearest thing to him, a pan, as a weapon just in case. He opens his door in time to see Sukuna land on his butt with Gojo standing in a stupidly wide stance hovering over him, and Megumi looking utterly done with both of them. “W-What?”

        “Yuuji~ Surprised to see me?”

        “Don’t fucking talk to him trash!” Sukuna barks.

        “Sorry Yuuji,” Megumi’s face scrunches up. Yuuji’s heart goes out to Megumi, who has had to deal with both of these idiots thus far.

        “Haaa… Ok not the entrance I pictured… or the company,” he starts glancing at Gojo before opening the door wider and moving aside. “Come in. I made onigiri and tea’s on its way.” The three men shuffle in without too much of a ruckus, silently taking a seat around the low brown table. Of course, Sukuna starts off the conversation in the most Sukuna way, as Yuuji approaches them with the promised tea.                

        “Why the fuck is this walking piece of shit still here?!  Yuuji, kick him out!” 

        “Please~ I’m more welcome than you are, big brother~” Gojo teases, prompting Sukuna to almost pounce on him if it weren’t for Megumi's intervention. 

        “DON’T EVER CALL ME BIG BROTHER AGAIN!” Gojo grins in satisfaction at  Sukuna’s reaction. 

        “Ahem! First off, this is my home, so you’ll go by my rules. I don’t care if you’re a gangster, a king, or Buddha himself, got it?” Sukuna huffs as Megumi and Gojo nod. “Good.  No physical or verbal attacks,” he says pointedly looking at Sukuna who looks away, “and listen before you speak … or tease.” Yuuji glances at Gojo who smiles innocently. 

        “Sir Yuuji, please repeat! I was too busy staring at your-” Gojo says with an arm raised. 

        “Ignore him” Megumi rolls his eyes as Gojo pouts. 

        “Can we get to the fucking point already!?” Yuuji sighs at Sukuna’s prickly character. 

        “Ok fine. Explain yourself, big brother. Why did you abandon Gramps and me?” Sukuna shrinks slightly at the question.

        “I didn’t want you to get involved with our dangerous world-”

        “That worked out nicely for you huh?” Yuuji snaps sarcastically. Sukuna closes his eyes and takes a couple of deep breaths. 

        “Look, I know I fucked up! But I- I just wanted to protect you f-from-”

        “Your world?” Yuuji mutters, narrowing his eyes at the predictable answer. 

        “From me.” Yuuji’s eyes snap up to nervous red ones. “I’m a walking disaster, Yuuji. You shouldn’t have to deal with me and the crap I bring along.” The room is quiet, no one speaks for a good two minutes, which is amazing seeing that Gojo is among them. 

        “You know… when Gramps died I thought I would be all alone, but then I found out I had a brother,” Yuuji smiles at the memory. “Do you have any idea how happy I was? Do I wish you lived a more normal life? Yes. Will that stop me from having you in my life? No. Sukuna, the fact that you exist is enough for me. Please don’t push me away. I want you in my life.” Yuuji stares at a jaw-clenched, fist-tightening, angry-looking Sukuna with a smile. “No matter how much of a jerk you are.”

        “... You’ll be in danger because of me,” he says through closed teeth. 

        “I’ll tell you what I told Gojo when he tried to scare me away,” Sukuna glances at Gojo’s way, making the latter shrug at the questioning look. “I’m not some precious cargo that got forcefully dragged into your world. I did it knowing full well what I was getting into. You didn’t force me into anything, I barged in on my own. Also, it’s not easy to get rid of me. I’m pretty strong, which I guess is in our blood.” 

        “Yuuji… it’s too dangerous-”

        “Excuse me,” Itadori interrupts. “I’m not asking for permission. I’m staying. Period.” Gojo snickers at the guts Yuuji has to not hesitate to confront Sukuna. Brother or not, Sukuna made the majority of people feel like their insides are being squeezed out from sheer intimidation alone. Yaga and him are the few exceptions to this. Even Megumi has trouble with it but he’s getting better at it. Looks like Yuuji is a new addition to the club. 

        “Haaaa… You’re as stubborn as the old man.” 

        “You’re one to talk mister grumpy for no reason,” Yuuji jabs back making the corner of Sukuna’s mouth lift a miniscule amount. 

        “Hope you know I’m not great at sharing, Yuuji~” Gojo purrs, leaning towards the younger, who is a little annoyed at the blindfold in the way of his eyes. 

        “Um.. ok, but what does that-” Gojo cleanly dodges Sukuna’s fist. 

        “Get away from him you horn dog!” Sukuna quickly makes his way to his brother. “Yuuji I will agree to whatever you say as long as you stay away from that creep. He’s a magnet for trouble, a narcissistic asshole, and a horny player!”

        “Wow, that was nicer than I could’ve asked for from Sukuna,” Gojo mutters. Yuuji sends an apologetic look to Gojo.

        “Sukuna! That's rude!” Yuuji scolds while Megumi sighs. Sukuna hates it when Gojo gets everything he wants. This time it was personal and he knew that Sukuna was going to be a pain in the neck for at least the next two days.

        “Yuuji he’s a goddamn psychotic gangster boss! You shouldn’t be around-”

        “Sukuna, you are also a ‘psychotic gangster boss.’ Do you think I didn’t notice you blatantly ignoring the rules I placed?” Yuuji juts in, looking utterly unimpressed. Sukuna growls at his hypocrisy before snapping Gojo’s way.

        “You fucking piece of shit! You did this! Everything goes to shit around you!”

        “Sorry but as Yuuji said before, I tried to scare him away. What else do you want me to do that won’t get me on everyone’s hit list even more than I already am, hmmm?” Sukuna vaults at Gojo. Megumi tries to hold him back by the waist but misses, Yuuji on the other hand jumps up and gets in the way. Sukuna's fist stops centimeters away from his face but Yuuji focuses his glare at Sukuna, silently daring him to try and see what happens. Megumi, even when shocked, has the foresight to give Gojo a warning look to not butt in and make the situation worse. 

        “Out,” Yuuji snarls at his brother who slowly lowers his fist. “I won’t have you insulting Gojo when he’s been nothing but nice to me! Something I expected to get from you… GET! OUT!” The two brothers stare at each other, neither showing any signs of budging.

        “Sorry Itadori, I’ll get him out of your way,”. Megumi says, tugging Sukuna towards the door. Yuuji nods, not breaking eye contact with Sukuna. Gojo gets up with a big sigh to leave with the other two but stops when he feels a tug on his sleeve.

        “S-stay…” Yuuji stutters, barely holding in his emotions. “Please stay…” Gojo glances at Megumi dragging Sukuna away and relents. 

        “Ok. I’ll stay if that’s what you want me to do.” Yuuji gives him a nod as they stand there awkwardly as the door shuts. Yuuji glances up at the man through his lashes frowning at his eyewear. 

        “Do you like my eyes that much Yuuji~” Gojo chuckles, pressing a thumb on the valleys between his eyebrows. 

        “Well… Can you blame me? They look like little azure galaxies … It’s almost like they are sparkling…” Yuuji mutters softly. 

        “Yuuji, how am I not supposed to not hug you after you say something so sweet?” Yuuji blinks up at Gojo.

        “Well, where’s my hug then?” Gojo grins wide, cheeks hurting and heart pumping as he pulls the younger in, encircling him in his arms. Both couldn’t hold in the sigh of relaxation the ripples through their bodies. Yuuji can’t help but silently wonder why he feels so at ease with basically a stranger, let alone a gangster boss. He doubts he’ll ever feel this way with his own brother.  

        “I didn’t know you were such a flirt Yuuji~” Gojo teases, earning him a light smack on the back. 

        “I regret asking for a hug.” Gojo chuckles at the deadpan reply while his heart warms at how Yuuji didn’t stop the hug. Gojo rests his chin on top of Yuuji’s head, letting his mind wander. He couldn’t admit that he actually agreed with Sukuna. Yuuji is too pure and their world would only strip him raw before extinguishing him entirely. Just the idea of Yuuji getting hurt irks him even though he just met the boy a few days ago. Then again Yuuji seems to have that effect on people. He absently rubs small circles on Yuuji’s waist with his thumb wondering when was the last time he has hugged anyone. Was hugging someone always this enjoyable..? Gojo makes a note to himself to test it out later.

        “So~ did you want to talk or are you just after my body?” Yuuji sighs and looks up from Gojo’s chest. 

        “I just didn’t want to be alone, and you-” Yuuji shakes his head. “Plus, no one touched the onigiris I made…” Yuuji mutters, slowly letting go of the man much to Gojo’s dismay. 

        “My~ we’ll have to fix that right away! It is a sin to leave a ‘Yuuji special,’ uneaten!” Yuuji grins.

        “Yuuji special?” 

        “Of course! Anything you make must be special!” Yuuji smiles so wide his cheeks feel weak. Asking Gojo to stay was definitely what he needed. The man just made everything else feel small and not so overwhelming. 

        “Ack! Yuuuujjiiiiii! Dish onch ish Spwicy!” Gojo whines with his dangling tongue out his mouth. Yuuji, with a blank stare and no hesitation, takes a picture of the scene. 

        “Yuuji-”

        “Nope!”

        “Yuuujiiiii that’s not a good pic-”

        “I can’t hear you!~” The two men run around the small home, now filled with laughter and life.

 

Chapter Text

          Gojo walks away from Yuuji's complex with a soft smile that turns sharp as he spots a familiar car.

         “I wonder what Yuuji would think if he saw you still lurking around.” The front tinted window rolls down revealing a scowling tattooed face. 

         “Can it, swine! Why were you there for so long?!” 

         “Hmmmm~ Is that how you ask for information Sukuna~ How shamefully low of you~” Sukuna tightens his grip on the steering wheel and mentally counts to ten like Megumi taught him to.

         “Just tell me asshole! Or I’ll beat it outta you!” Gojo chuckles at the treat. If he were a lesser man such provocations would get to him but luckily for everyone he is Gojo Satoru.

         “Awww~ I’d like to see you try,” Gojo looms over, the usual playfulness dropping to revealing malice. They stare each other down in silence before Gojo straightens himself back to his cheerful self. “But if you must know~ Yuuji asked me to stay. Simple as that.”

         “Stay away from him! I’m serious! ” Sukuna practically growls.

         “...You know that will make him sad,” Gojo watches Sukuna look away, burning a hole into his steering wheel. “... I know that you don’t want him involved in our world, but you seem to have a particular issue with me interacting with him. Why is that?” A few emotions flutter through Sukuna’s face before resting on anger. However, one stood out to Gojo: regret. 

         “You’re as bad as me. Having been swimming in violence and blood for so long that when it’s not there, we get restless… or should I say hungry…” 

         “You really are as dramatic as they come, Sukuna!” Gojo huffs turning to walk away. “As if I’d let Yuuji get hurt.” Sukuna watches him walk away.

         “... you already have once… damn fool…” images of Yuuji dripping in blood with a sad tired smile play in his head on repeat. “What the hell do I do now Gramps…” he whispers tilting his head to the roof of his car. 

—----------------------------------------

         Megumi stops in the middle of walking Shiki and Gami as Yuuji, both hands full of groceries, makes eye contact. Disregarding their owners' hesitance, Shiki is first to bolt towards Yuuji, closely followed by Gami. Yuuji immediately drops down to receive their kisses and rubs.

         “Hey, buddies! I missed you guys too! Did you guys get even more lovable!” Shiki barks and Gami continues his onslaught of head rubs. Megumi can’t stop the corners of his mouth from lifting at the sight. He approaches Yuuji with slow calculated steps.

         “... Let me help you,” he says pointing at the bags. Yuuji looks up and then to the side.

         “Ok.” As they start walking towards their complex, the air shivers with awkward energy. “... I’m not very good at noticing these things but,” Yuuji slows making eye contact with Megumi, “you and my brother, huh?” 

         “...Yeah.” Yuuji hums, not as upset as he thought he would be given the situation.

         “So you knew from the very beginning… and said nothing…” Megumi winces. 

         “I- Your brother and I… it’s just very complicated… and I wasn’t sure if it was my place to say anything..”

         “Mmmm, I guess I can buy that answer… Sooo you guys love each other. What’s so complicated about that?” Yuuji asks, switching the topic. If anyone else said that Megumi might have thought they were ridiculing him, but he’s more flustered if anything when Yuuji states it outright. 

         “Yeah…”

         “Hmmm, I guess this is what might Gramps meant by,” Yuuji clears his throat, “‘logic and the heart aren’t ones to mix,’” he mimics lowering his voice and frowning. Megumi huffs a laugh.

         “A wise man.”

         “Nah, he’s just grumpy and jaded.”

         “Sounds familiar,” Megumi grins and Yuuji follows.

         “I’m not going to bother you more about this. Consider it water under the bridge! I’m sure it was to protect me and I can’t be mad at you for that.” Yuuji sighs with a wistful smile. “That seems to be a common occurrence with me…”

         “... I know it isn’t easy to understand, but I can tell you mean the world to Sukuna. He would go to hell and back to find you. He is a little rough- VERY rough around the edges, but he has his own unconventional way of showing care.”

         “Sheesh sounds like you’ve been through a lot then to deal with my emotionally constipated brother.” 

         “Heh, yeah…” They stay silent, standing in front of their complex as the wind blows and leaves rustle. 

         “I’m not mad at anyone anymore. I was at first, but after talking with Gojo, I feel better.” Yuuji smiles. He notices Megumi’s face twist with disgust and confusion. “What?”

         “Gojo? That idiot actually helped?!”

         “Yeah he’s more insightful than I thought-”

         “Insightful!??” Megumi holds each of Yuuji’s shoulders. “Did he make you eat something to brainwash you?” Yuuji lifts a brow.

         “Megumi, you should give your semi-dad more credit.”

         “HE. IS. NOT. MY. DAD.”

         “.... Gosh, that’s a sore spot for both of you huh?”

         “Excuse me, I need to go kill an idiot.” Yuuji laughs and half-heartedly tries to stop Megumi, who definitely didn’t smile as the two went on with their antics. 

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

         “Nanami~ C’mon it’s not THAT bad~” Gojo whines, dangling his long arms. 

         “Gojo-san, you almost started a gang war!”

         “It was out of self-defense! It’s not my fault that the moronic son of a weakling gangster tried to attack!”

         “Caving someone's chest in isn’t self-defense Gojo-san. If the man wasn’t brought to the hospital, he would’ve been dead. How many times do I have to tell you to reel it in!”

         “He’s alive! That’s me ‘reeling it in.’ How was I supposed to know he was made out of toilet paper!” Gojo huffs, folding his hands dramatically. 

         “That brings me to my next subject to talk about,” Nanami says, adjusting his glasses. “Why didn’t you kill him?” Gojo laughs and laughs and laughs.

         “Ahhh~ Nanami~ You’re hilarious! Honestly, what do you want me to do hmm? Kill or don’t kill?”

         “You find sadistic glee from watching your prey die.”

         “... You make me sound like a horrible person-”

         “You are, but that’s beside the point, is this Itadori boy someone I have to pay attention to Gojo-san?”

         “Nanami, don’t be rude.” Nanami lifts an eyebrow at Gojo’s change of tone. “He is someone that is to be protected. He is under Infinite, Curses, and Cafe Night’s protection.”

         “Curses too?”

         “Yup, he’s the little brother of a famous gangster lord with anger issues and a face only Megumi can love.” 

         “... I wasn’t aware Sukuna had relatives let alone a little brother.”

         “Yeah, that bastard kept him hidden really well. You should meet him! Ya know I’m sure he’ll fix that crappy mood you got going on.”

         “This is just how I am.”

         “You said it, not me!” Gojo grins as if he told the most clever insult ever. Nanami starts the breathing exercise that has kept him sane all these years of dealing with the perpetual child of a boss/associate. 

         “In any case, I might just see him later. I have business with Yaga.” Gojo gasps.

         “Oh no! Nanami, how could you cheat on your wife’s baking!? How on earth will I tell her you’re a player!?”

         “One, I'm going there for business not to eat like you. Two, for the hundredth time, she’s not my wife.”

         “Sure~ and I’m not the strongest.” Nanami blankly stares at Gojo who smiles his absent smile at him. Sighing, he quickly leaves, sending Ichiji a sympathetic look. 

—------------------------------------------------------------------

         “Boss~ I have wonderful news for you.”

         “If it’s another one of your bullshit jokes, I will kill you for sure this time Mahito.”

         “Yikes, touchy touchy! Maybe I won’t tell you how to get Sukuna on our side~” Eyes like voids snap to Mahito causing the other to giggle nervously. “Fine~ I’ll tell you… Sukuna has a weakness according to my sources. A weakness that we can manipulate-”

         “I already told you that we cannot target that Fushiguro boy. He’s not only Sukuna’s plaything but Gojo’s underling and honestly too troublesome.”

         “Oh but Kenjaku, I'm not talking about little Megumi. You see Sukuna has a weakness that he’s been hiding before he became the monster we know him as… a little brother~” 

 

Chapter Text

        Nanami is a simple man living in hopes of a simple life, but sadly he knows Gojo Satoru, aka. trouble on two feet. Hence you can’t blame him for sighing in an undignified manner once he sees the latest talk in town. At least it makes sense why people are so worked up about his arrival. Nanami stares at Yuuji, who is fully confused as to why this customer isn’t ordering anything when standing in front of the checkout. “Um… Can I help you sir? If you need help choosing, I’d say you look like a black coffee with a matcha crepe kinda guy!” When Nanami just continues his blatant staring, Yuuji looks to Nobara for help but the girl just ignores him. 

        “Itadori Yuuji, I presume.” Yuuji blinks at the sound of his name.

        “Ah- Yeah that’s me!” he replies, jolting his hand up.

        “Nanami Kento.” Nanami hands the boy his contact card which Yuuji takes with a little thank you. 

        “Private Lawyer… cool,” Yuuji reads before beaming a smile at Nanami. 

        “I will take your recommendation for my order, Itadori-kun, and can you tell Yaga-san that I’m here?” Nanami takes out the money needed as Yuuji writes him up and runs to Yaga.

        “Are ya all taking turns to see the new bait or what?” Nanami turns to Nobara, who finally decides to talk.

        “Kugisaki-chan, I have a list of altercations resulting in the vandalization of private property that point to you. Care to explain that now or shall I submit a formal complaint requesting clarification?”

        “Give them to me and I’ll go nail it up their ass-”

        “Kugisaki-chan, I’d rather you not be put in prison. I don’t need additional paperwork.” “I’ll see what I can do about that for you Nanami-san.” They both turn to Yaga’s arrival. 

        “Why’er you taking his sid-”

        “Let go to my office, Nanami-san” The two men proceed to the office while the girl yells incoherently. Once in the closed space, Yaga cuts to the case. “I know Sukuna did a decent job already but can you make it even harder to connect Yuuji to Sukuna?”

        “So the ‘rumours’ were true. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, Yaga-san, but the news has passed around already.” Yaga sighs into his cupped hands.

        “Even still can you try. We might be able to deter it a little bit-”

        “I recommend you tell the boy to change his hair color. It’s probably the first thing that makes people connect the dots.”

        “I don’t want to force Itado-”

        “With all due respect Yaga-san, Yuuji made his choice and he needs to be responsible for it… I can see why people are so hesitant. He is quite different from us.”

        “More like a different species. The boy has the charisma of a puppy whimpering for pets for crying out loud!” Nanami cracks a smile at that. 

        “Yaga-san, I did my research before coming here. I think everyone is giving Itadori-kun too little credit. He is gifted in martial arts and physical prowess, something most would kill for in our field. Did you know he skillfully handled getting ambushed recently? While my resident employer made a scene as usual.”

        “I see he’s won you over too huh?”

        “I wouldn’t come to that conclusion but I do have a better opinion of him than many others I’ve known for much longer.” Yaga chuckles at the man’s vagueness. “But back to the topic, I will see what I can do, even though I doubt it will be of any good.”

        “Thank you Nanami-san.”

        “...I’ve been looking into Kenjaku’s group,” Nanami starts, taking all the warmth out of the room. “They named themselves as Malefic. I find it quite fitting.” Yaga chuckles. “By the way did you tell Itadori-kun about me?” Yaga cocks a brow.

        “No.”

        “...Interesting. That boy is good at reading people…. I will talk to you soon, Yaga-san, and contribute to your profit.”

        “... did you have to say it in such a weird way?” Yaga mutters to which Nanami ignores in favor of heading to the cafe front for the breakfast he desperately needs. Working mainly for Infinite really puts a hampering on self-care.

        “Ah! You're right on time! I just put your order on that table,” Yuuji grins, pointing towards the corner table that has the perfect ratio of natural light and isolation. Nanami freezes and stares at Yuuji, who starts to fidget at the attention. “I can move it if you-”

        “That won’t be necessary, Itadori-kun. I am simply taken aback by how well you read people.” Yuuji blinks at the compliment.

        “You think so, hmmm, I’d say I’m average but thanks… umm... Nanamin!”

        “Nanami Kento,” he corrects. 

        “Are you part of Infinite?”

        “You can say that they are my primary employer but I am, for lack of a better word, a freelance lawyer.”

        “Do you like it?”

        “It gives me money to survive so I cannot complain.” While Yuuji gives an awkward smile at the response, Nanami takes a sip of his coffee and a bite of the crepe.

        “... Did you make it?”

        “Oh! I did the crepe but Nobara did the coffee… Do you dislike it?”

        “No, it’s perfect, especially the crepe. Thank you Itadori-san.” Nanami already feels more vitalized. 

        “Oh! Um! Thanks and enjoy!” Yuuji stumbles, a hand rubbing the back of his neck as he goes back to his station. A few customers come in and Nanami takes the time to observe the way Yuuji works. To say the least, he’s very people-oriented and it seems to have an effect on people. Interestingly enough, Nobara, as prickly as she is with people, kept an attentive eye on Yuuji. Any time he looks confused or concerned, she pops up to lend a hand, something most people have to grovel at her feet for. After eating the last bite of the crepe and drowning his coffee, Nanami silently goes to leave. “It was a pleasure to meet you Nanamin! Thank you and come again!” Yuuji chirps and Nanami doesn't have it in him to be angry at the now-obvious, nickname. 

—-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

        “Yuutaaaaaa~ tell me what to do~” Yuuta sighs at the tenth tantrum Gojo has done in the past hour. 

        “Gojo-san, I can’t help you.” Gojo pouts and crosses his arms before smirking.

        “Fine~ I’ll ask Inumaki-kun-”

        “Relative or not, I will attack you.” Yuuta’s pleasant smile stays put while Gojo grins back.

        “You know I can help you if you help me oh dearest cousin of mine.”

        “... You don’t listen when I tell you things, do you Gojo?”

        “I listen!-”

        “Then why did you offer to help?” Gojo lifts an eyebrow at the question, scrunching his face in thought.

        “You're stubborn?” Gojo says grinning like he won the conversation. Yuuta blankly stares at him, with no words, just dark eyes.

        “Inumaki and him are already going out, idiot,” says Maki who finally decides to grace them with her knowledge. Maki and Yuuta both cringe as Gojo gasps obnoxiously. 

        “And no one told me!? But I’m your wonderful, strong, amazing boss! I should have known before Inumaki himself!”

        “That makes no sense, you egotistical tyrant.”

        “How could you say that Maki! Sukuna will kill you for saying I took his title from him.” Maki rolls her eyes. “I swear Nobara is turning you against me! What happened to my cute little worker!?” 

        “It’s called growing up, something you obviously avoided doing.”

        “Yuuutaaaa!~ Maki is bullying me!” Yuuta quietly smiles in a ‘you think I care’ sort of way. “You guys are so mean to me!” A normal person would be concerned that their boss is throwing a tantrum but everyone has accepted that Gojo Satoru is a lost cost. 

Chapter Text

        Yuuji, hands full with bags of groceries, makes his way home while humming a song he got stuck in his head. His already happy mood brightens as he spots a familiar stock of white hair peeking above the wall he is about to pass. He starts tip-toeing his way towards his target in skillful stealth, or as stealthy as one can be while holding grocery bags. He rounds the corner jumping out with a loud boo, only to see an empty sidewalk. “What the-” Yuuji jumps and squeaks, losing one of his crocks in the process, as a rush of air brushes past his ear.

        “And here I thought you could handle yourself. I must have been mistaken,” Gojo teases as Yuuji turns, sporting puffed-up pink cheeks and a frown. Gojo can already tell they are as soft as strawberry mochis.

        “Satoru! I can too take care of myself! I was just taken off guard!” 

        “Hmmm, you should always be on guard Yuuji~ Especially when you’re aiming for me.” Gojo’s grin slowly falls as Yuuji’s pout turns into a soft smile with honey-coated eyes. 

        “Well, I can’t find myself to be on guard around you of all people.” 

        “Ha! I wish you said that in front of others! Now that would’ve been hilarious!” 

        “Now I’m curious too!.... Hey do you think others will mistake me for a gangster?”

        “I think looking like the King of Curses is enough to be mistaken as a gangster, Yuuji~” Yuuji’s lips thins as he tries to keep his mouth shut.

        “Penny for your thoughts.”

        “...Am I really a burden to Sukuna?” Yuuji asks casually but Gojo still hears the vulnerability in it.

        “I’ll be honest Yuuji, yes, you will definitely be a burden to Sukuna,” Gojo says watching ambers turn dark, “but the same goes for Megumi.” 

        “Same as Megumi?” Casually taking half the bags from Yuuji, Gojo walks forward.

        “Walk with me.” They walk to a nearby park and Gojo makes a beeline to the swings, placing the bags near. Plopping on one, he nudges his head towards the one next to him and Yuuji gets the hint and sits. 

        “In our line of work, love is like a curse,” Gojo says, staring into the sky. “No matter the type of love it is, it’s a liability and weakness, a fatal one in fact.”

        “But that’s horrible! You can’t always deprive yourself of the most basic and arguably the best human emotion!” Yuuji exclaims, looking appalled at the idea.

        “That’s where connections and alliances come in handy,” Gojo smiles, lifting a finger as if he is a professor teaching. “Megumi has Infinite’s, Curses’, the Zenin’s, and CafeNIGHT’s protection. He is under my care and a member of Infinite. He’s in a relationship with the King of Curses. His blood ties are with the Zenins. He’s been in our circle for years and knows his way around. Lastly, he works part-time at CafeNIGHT. Doing anything to him would mean making an enemy out of all of us. Megumi is strong. However, even he can get into trouble.” Gojo tilts his head and looks Yuuji’s way. “You don’t have the same type of protection. You have Curses, CafeNIGHT, and Infinite. Sukuna is your overprotective brother. You work at CafeNIGHT and Yaga asked Infinite to protect you too. You have a good amount of protection but that may not be enough. You may be strong, Yuuji, but if I was able to sneak up on you, you cannot guarantee someone else couldn’t do the same.” Gojo can see the cogs in Yuuji’s head trying to find a flaw in what he says but relents with a sigh. 

        “So what now? I just go on living as a burden?” Yuuji kicks the sand below in a sad attempt at retaliation towards the situation. 

        “Well~ I have an idea!” Yuuji glances waveringly his way. “Why don’t I teach you how to fight?” 

        “What!? But… But won’t I just get in the way of your work?”

        “Probably but it will save me the hassle of worrying all the time. If I know you can take care of yourself it will be a great relief to not just me but everyone. My opinion is highly valued. Perks of being the strongest!” Yuuji goes from sad, to interested and finally lands on determined.  That’s a very nice look on his face.  

        “You are a very nice person, Satoru. I’m glad I met you,” Yuuji smiles softly. “When can we start?” Gojo schools his expression from going soft, a regular occurrence lately he notes, and hums before putting his hand out towards Yuuji in a give me motion.

        “Cell phone!” Yuuji quickly gives him his phone and watches Gojo play with it and take a picture before throwing it back to him. Gojo watches Yuuji catch it with ease and smiles. “I put my number on speed dial so feel free to contact me whenever. We can come up with a schedule later but for the first class… How about Saturday?” Yuuji stares at the phone and then goes back to Gojo as a smile blooms on his face. 

        “Yeah, Saturday works for me!”

        “It’s a date!” Grinning, Gojo watches Yuuji blush a pretty pink before shaking his head and laughing. 

        “Sure it’s ‘date!’” Gojo jumps up and extends a hand to Yuuji. 

        “Let’s get you home hmm?” Yuuji takes his hand with a smile and gets up. 

        “I’ll make you something as thanks!”

        “Well, I’d be a fool to reject that offer.”

 

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

        “I don’t get why we are tiptoeing around this arrogant fool!” Kenjaku rolls his eyes as Jogo goes on another one of his tangents. 

        “Oh~ Then why don’t you kill him Jo~go~” Mahito sneers, making Jogo shake in rage. “I got to admit, I didn’t think Infinite would get involved so fast… Haaaa they’re no fun!”

        “You questioning my strength, you damn psychopath!?” Mahito grins and pokes his tongue out, making the man’s volcano temper bubble. “Ha! I’ll show you-”

        “Jogo, you’ll die,” Kenjaku interrupts. 

        “You assholes! You think I can’t take a self-absorbed prick!? I’ll show you!”

        “Believe it or not Jogo, Gojo Satoru has all the right to be as confident as he is.” Jogo huffs at Kenjaku and leaves. 

        “.... Can I play with his remains?”

        “... as if I’ll stop you.”

        “Yay! I’ll go sharpen my tools!” Mahito cheers, skipping out of the room. 

        “Hanami, if there’s a way to save that idiot, do it and make sure it doesn’t bring attention to us.” The person who has been quietly watering the plants in the room nods. Sighing into his hand, Kenjaku does what he’s best at. He plans.

Chapter Text

         Megumi clenches his fists as stary drops of blood fly past him. “Hmmm~ looks like punching isn’t enough huh?” Gojo tilts his head, peering at the hardly conscious body below him. “Oh I know!” He grins, fist to palm. “Maybe losing a few body parts will help you~” The victim’s eyes widen and a sad excuse for a cry jots out as Shoko makes her way next to Gojo, heels clicking with each step. She hands a machete to Gojo and continues to smoke. 

         “You remember what I told you?” she mutters relaxing as the nicotine enters her lungs.

         “Shokoooo~ Why do you have so little faith in me? I know what injuries will kill him and what won’t!” Shoko stares blankly at him, takes a puff of her cigarette, and exhales.

         “Remember people can die from shock too,” she comments walking back to her position near Megumi. 

         “Sorry for making you wait~ I’ll give you my full attention now!” Without a second to process what happened the man screams, pulling his now footless right leg to himself. Gojo rolls his eyes and grabs the man’s head by the hair and yanks him to a better position to talk. “So~ Want to talk now? Or should I hack off some more body parts?” The man stares at vibrant blue eyes infused with madness. Gojo tilts his head as the man mutters something. “Repeat.”

         “Fucking monster!” the man sneers, making Shoko sigh and Gojo laugh. 

         “Thank you! Now answer or I will slowly make you beg for death~” 

         “I don’t know shit! All I know is people want some of your area!”

         “Hmm~ sooo many areas yet they want mine~ why mine?” The man hesitates.

         “... You have plenty. Taking a few here and there won’t hurt you… Damn greedy bastard” Gojo hums absently and nods. 

         “Who was the short idiot I almost decapitated?” 

         “How the fuck would I know?! The bastard just had to bring you our way!”

         “And the one that saved him?”

         “... I said I don’t know. Are you hard of hearing or just stupid-” A casual swing of his hand and the man’s throat is sliced, spewing blood as the man fruitlessly attempts to stop the bleeding. It reminds Gojo of the guy who almost lost his head. I really shouldn’t play with my prey.   

         “Ichiji,” Gojo calls to the man bundled up in the corner, trying to ignore the scene in front of him. Gojo never understood why such a spineless man wanted to serve him. “Tell Mei Mei and Yuki to meet me. Oh! Tell Mei Mei that she’ll be paid stupidly well too.” Ichiji scatters off to do as ordered, happy to leave. Shoko folds her arms, staring holes into Gojo’s back as he nudges and taps the growing pool of blood with his feet, similar to a child after rain. “Shokoooo~ stoooop~ You’re making my back itch!” he pouts. 

         “Why are you calling two independent gangsters Gojo?” 

         “Why are you being so distant when asking me a question!? Aren’t you supposed to be my closest friend?” Shoko just stares at Gojo as blankly as a porcelain doll. “Tsk! Fine! Something fishy is going on and I have a feeling it’s bigger than I thought- Oh! Megumi! Tell this to that crazy boyfriend of yours too! He must have already heard wind of it but tell him anyway so he’s not butt hurt or something. Maaan~ Such a drama queen!” he whines kicking the puddle of blood making it splash on the corpse.

         “You’re one to talk.” Gojo gasps at Megumi. 

         “After all the love-”

         “Bullshit-” Megumi interrupts but is completely ignored.

         “-I gave you, this is how you treat me? Shoko~ Megumi is being brainwashed by a demon!”

         “Leave me out of this,” Shoko says before walking out. Megumi glances at the door as it shuts and bites his lower lip in hesitation. 

         “....Gojo is one of the areas where Yuuji and I live?” Megumi asks, not even sure if he wants to know but the words tumble out. Unreadable blue eyes look his way. 

         “You’re such a smart cookie Megumi! It’s no wonder since I raised you~  Hundred points!” Gojo cheers and Megumi is tempted to just go home and cuddle Shiki and Gami and never come out.

         “Sukuna is going to lose it...” Megumi sighs. He’s already riled up from his fight with Yuuji and now things are getting even more complicated. Sukuna likes simple and when things are complicated, he makes them simple, by force if needed.

         “Oh I bet he will… Record it for me?” He gives puppy eyes that no longer work on Megumi. 

         “Bye,” Megumi says leaving Gojo alone in the room with the corpse. He takes the time to rub his eyes, feeling his pulse as he does so.

         “I need to wear my blindfold longer… Stupid eyes…” Having sensitive and sharp eyes since birth made him easily susceptible to headaches and fatigue. He just thinks of it as an equivalent exchange for being Gojo Satoru . His mind itches to convey something, it has been for a few days now, but he can deal with it later. “He really is a magnet for trouble…” Gojo sighs, giving the corps one last kick before leaving.  

 


 

         Megumi stares at Sukuna who stares back with fuming red eyes. He watches the man struggle to take controlled breaths. “I have to lock him up in the base.”

         “Sukuna!” Megumi yells with wide eyes.

         “Gumi what else can I fucking do!?” Sukuna grips his head, trying hard to squish and put pressure on his skull. Megumi knew that Sukuna wouldn’t take the information well. He quickly rounds the table and eases Sukuna’s hands down, pulling his head forward and cradling it towards his stomach. He filters his fingers through the man’s pink hair, slightly tugging it at times, something Sukuna loves. He feels Sukuna’s limp arms, one slowly circles the small of his back and the other right below his butt. 

         “I’ll be right by him, Sukuna. Plus, even though you hate him, Gojo is sending two very effective people to look into this. You know he’s keeping an eye on Yuuji.” With a huge sigh, Sukuna lifts his head and traces the soft curves and edges of Megumi’s face with his eyes. 

         “... I don’t want you to get hurt either.” Megumi lifts an eyebrow at this. 

         “What’s with you suddenly worrying about me? I gave you first-hand experience with what I could do. Do you need me to beat you up in a sparring match again as a reminder?” Sukuna huffs a laugh.

         “I had two bullet wounds and a slight concussion whilst fighting you Gumi” Sukuna smirks up at Megumi who has a slight pout forming. 

         “You didn’t tell anyone… you didn’t postpone the fight either, so it’s your own fault,” Megumi huffs looking away from the irritatingly handsome face. “I won’t leave you alone Sukuna,” Megumi smiles. “You need me to keep you in check.” Sukuna tenses up in his arms, as a look of fear clouds his eyes.

         “Megumi, I can’t lose either of you. I will go insane.” Sukuna couldn’t stop the images from playing in his head. A dying Megumi in his arms surrounded by crimson uttering his final words. “I’m sorry. I couldn’t keep my promise. I didn’t want you to be alone. I wanted to be by your si..d.e..” Sukuna’s arms tighten around Megumi.

         “Hey, what’s wrong? You look sick,” Megumi mutters, placing the back of his palm on Sukuna’s forehead. “Hmm, your temperature is fine… But maybe you should see a doc-”

         “I love you,” Megumi freezes, wide-eyed and mouth open. “I love you, Fushiguro Megumi.” Sukuna thought saying things like this was supposed to make you feel like you’re on top of the world. He just feels like his chest is expanding and caving in at the same time. However, he feels no regret, this time he wants Megumi to know and hear the words come from his mouth. A lovely blush makes its way to Megumi’s face. 

         “I-” Megumi starts but a knock startles him into stopping.

         “It’s Choso. You called for me.” Sukuna sighs at Choso’s impeccable timing. Well, he doesn’t need to hear Megumi say it back. Sukuna knows that Megumi will always love him in one way or another. 

         “Sorry, Gumi.” The younger’s lips thin but nod in acceptance. He swiftly goes to the door to let Choso in. Choso looks at the pair.

         “Should I come later-”

         “I was just leaving Choso. You have great timing,” Megumi says, trying but failing to keep the annoyance in his voice at bay. He passes the sleep-deprived goon, sending one last look at Sukuna. 

         “I think Fushiguro hates me…” Sukuna laughs at Choso’s deduction. 

         “No, he doesn’t don’t worry. I’ve seen him hate things and that’s not it.” Choso nods.

         “So what’s the job?” Sukuna stones his face to get to business. One of the reasons why he likes Choso is his resolve for family and straightforwardness. 

         “I need you to guard an individual. An individual that is extremely important.” Choso nods understanding. “I need you to guard my little brother Yuuji.” Choso’s eyebrows frown as he processes the information. 

         “Your little brother, so that would mean…”

         “Yes, he is your ex-stepbrother. Itadori Yuuji .”

 

Notes:

Thank you for reading!

I do not own Jujutsu Kaisen or it's characters. They belong to Gege Akutami.

I made this story with the inspiration of Jujutsu Kaisen as it's backbone.

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