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It would be another three weeks until the next monthly Hashira meeting. This meant that the two men had a time period of three weeks to sort things out between them and get along, which they unexpectedly “sorted out” within a week. That left the two scarred men three weeks of long and uneventful days until they could report back to their job as demon slayers at the next gathering.
But why wait all this time to report that they’ve settled their differences when they could go tell the Master themselves, or send a Kasugai crow? At the current time, late evening, it would’ve been impolite to send a message when the ill man would have likely been resting. Also, no one but Gyomai Himejima knew of the master’s whereabouts. Additionally, it would come across as very suspicious if the men informed their leader that they were finally cooperating so soon after being punished.
Master Ubuyashiki would simply ask, “That's wonderful. How did you do it, my children?” and Obanai and Sanemi would be left speechless, too prideful to admit that they kissed and the fact that they both mutually agreed that their scars weren't as ugly as it may seem.
So when the night grew cold and the two men were left holding each other tight for warmth, clarity hit them. What do they do now? Where do they go from here? What has become of their relationship? The silence grew awkward, something needed to be done but they were both afraid. Afraid of letting go and moving on, forgetting everything that had happened. Afraid that the moment of intimacy and vulnerability meant nothing and that it was just a misunderstanding or accident.
Eventually, Obanai spoke up, clearing his throat. “There’s no way in hell we’re reporting this to the Master,” he declared, his head resting on Sanemi’s bare, plump chest that was exposed through his uniform. Earlier, the Serpent Pillar had fallen in and out of consciousness, surprised by how easy it was to doze off as he used Sanemi for a pillow.
He liked it. He felt the Wind Hashira’s upper body shift as he breathed, silently noting the increase of beats that Sanemi’s heart produced that was heard and felt against the smaller man's cheek. “Yeah,” the muscular man choked out, his brows tightly knitted together. “We can lie to him… ” he quickly added as an afterthought, but it didn't sit right with the white-haired man lying to their beloved Master.
“Perhaps…” Obanai mumbled, trailing off in thought as he considered an explanation or some sort. "Perhaps we could pretend that today didn't happen. We’ll tell Master Ubuyashiki that we did something on some other day… He’s very observant, he’ll know if we're being deceitful.” Sanemi sighed, it was part yawn and part a frustrated groan. “Shit,” he said in a flustered tone and sat up, causing the smaller figure on his chest to be knocked off. “That’ll mean.. We’ll have to be alone together… Again. ”
Obanai narrowed his teal and amber eyes at the latter in annoyance at the unannounced movement but he brushed it off. “Unfortunately, yes. Since Mitsuri knows we hung out today she’ll likely have something to say about today. We can make up an excuse that we spoke about plans for a bonding activity.” Sanemi nodded, seeing that the petite man made a good point. The masked man continued, standing up from the cool grass and dusting off the debris from his haori. “Come back tomorrow, we’ll get this figured out,” he confirmed. Sanemi grunted in acknowledgment, standing up too, just slightly towering over the ravenette by a few inches.
Obanai swallowed, forgetting about their height difference. He turned away to hide his likely obvious blush, bending over to grab the discarded bandage cloth he used to disguise his mangled face, not wanting to leave clutter and garbage in his precious garden. By the time he turned around to glance at Sanemi, confident and composed, he realized that the latter man was already walking away, heading for the gate to exit. Obanai felt his heart drop as he watched the man leave. This is dumb, these feelings are so fucking stupid, he silently told himself, embarrassed to feel such emotions for Sanemi, of all people. He stuffed the loose bandages into his pocket, his mouth visible as he parted it, wondering what he should say or do at that moment.
“Wait a second.”
Sanemi turned around, the ravenette catching his attention. He crossed his arms and leaned against the gate, unamused. “What is it now?”
Obanai internally panicked, questioning why he opened his mouth. “I need a favour from you.”
-----
“Here,” Obanai uttered, tossing a small box of matches at Sanemi, who caught it with ease. The weaker man dumped the logs he was carrying onto the hardwood floor with impatience and exhaustion. Upon closer inspection, Sanemi took note of the scratches and faint cracks on the wooden floor near the fire pit beside him. It was as if the dark-haired man always dropped the logs there in that spot, not caring how badly he messed up his flooring.
Sanemi turned his attention to the kindling wood and his small bundle consisting of peeled birch bark and twigs he obtained. He was surprised when earlier, Obanai Iguro had asked if he could start a fire to warm up his mansion. It was a weird request, but it wasn't something he’d be opposed to doing, so he decided to oblige the fellow Pillar and help him out. Obanai stood where he tossed the logs, his glance sweeping the layout of his home to locate where his axe was. When he finally saw it, he made his way over to grab it.
The blade was heavy, heavier than the wooden handle itself, making up the majority of the weight. The edge of the blade was dull, reminding Obanai of his struggling attempts to chop wood. The ravenette brought the weapon and gingerly placed it beside the latter man. “Oh, thanks,” Sanemi mumbled, focusing his efforts on starting the fire. The Snake Hashira watched him fumble with his work, contemplating if he’d be a bother to the larger man if he were to speak, breaking his concentration.
Despite the thought, the ravenette opened his mouth anyways. “We all know how weak I am. I hate starting fires to warm up this large and lonely mansion,” he started, his eyes investigating the interior of his home. It was barren, with no decorations and limited furniture, it was straight-up plain, except for the wild and eye-catching-- or eye-burning-- rug that was placed where Obanai would eat, occasionally sharing tea and snacks with Mitsuri whenever she would come over. Apparently, it was manufactured in a foreign country and the Love Hashira had the brilliant idea of purchasing it to spruce up the dark haired man's minimalistic abode.
Obanai hated it, the colours didn't complement each other and the patterns were unrecognizable and incomprehensible, the negatives and positives of the lines didn't mesh together at all. Everything clashed and it was chaotic, but still, the man kept it in his home because he couldn't bear to throw away such a special gift given to him by his beloved angel, Mitsuri Kanroji.
“So much work, chopping wood, drying it, splitting it, and splitting it even more. All that effort to keep me warm for the first three hours of the night until the flames die out and I'm left with the little body heat I have left,” Obanai murmured quietly, not sure where he was taking this. Regardless, he continued, wanting to fill in the silence. “I absolutely loathe making fires, especially in the winter. It's foolish. It's also why winters are the worst.”
Sanemi lit a match and brought it to his flammable bundle. It instantly caught fire and the scarred man gently blew, giving the young flame oxygen and life as he pushed it to the kindling wood. Soon enough, the kindling wood caught on fire too after a few hesitant moments of heat. The silence pressed on. Obanai wondered if the muscular man even heard him. The white blonde took the axe he was offered and stood up. He brought the weapon down with full force, carefully aiming for the center of the log. Then, there was a loud and splitting crack that startled Obanai, causing him to flinch.
The man continued at his pace until all the logs were decently chopped up into quarters. He crouched low to the ground and gingerly began to feed the fire with more sustenance with the logs. Sanemi watched the flames dance and engulf itself, eating away at the wood. “You have to be an idiot to think winters are the worst.” Sanemi finally said, standing up and turning away from the flames, redirecting his attention to the ravenette after the long wait. “What was that?” the smaller man questioned, his voice cracking in offence and irritation.
“I think you're mistaken. Don't tell me you actually enjoy trudging through snow and slush on your commute to town. Or the promise of hail and blizzards? Let's not forget about the danger of colds and flues they most definitely make winter better-- so much better than the rest of the seasons.” Obanai was taking this too seriously, but he refused to be wrong. Unfortunately for him, Sanemi was of the same ilk, he also refused to be wrong. This was such a perfect and ugly matchup for them.
“Let me guess you like summer better? Please, what's so amazing about a scorching hot sun and the humid weather? Oh, and don't get me started on heat strokes, as if they are less severe than a cold that can be cured. And the mosquitos! I bet you like getting bit and sucked by them, huh?” Sanemi frowned, his gentle expression transforming into a look of disgust.
“But at least with a heat stroke, you can avoid it. Not to mention you can actually do stuff because the weather is nice . Oh, and not to mention, less demons to deal with. Do you like eating lunch at noon and then having to fight demons as soon as you're done because the days are so much shorter?” Obanai spat, his eyes narrowing. Even after swapping tongues and pecks, nothing had changed. Sanemi was still an asshole.
Sanemi grabbed Obanai’s haori, his fist wrapping around the fabric tightly with distaste and bringing the man close to his pale, mangled face. “At least when it’s dark the world is enveloped by its beauty. When snow falls, it's enchanting. When it rains, it’s just miserable. Something you also seemed to overlook is the condition of my skin . Do you really think getting burnt to a crisp is worth it?” Obanai frowned even more. Skin condition? As far as he knew Sanemi had no condition except for having marechi blood. “Unhand me you ruffian. Now.” he hissed.
“Ruffian?” he laughed mockingly before continuing. “You think that hurts my feelings?" Sanemi had a wild, primal look in his eyes and all Obanai could do was scowl at him. "I dont fucking care,” The large man finally answered, his tone low and breath raspy as he pulled Obanai closer, closing the distance between them. But within that moment it was a mistake, as they both glanced at each other's lips. They were dumbfounded but couldn't help to pry their hungry eyes away.
“Shut up, shithead,” Obanai grunted before initiating the kiss, his hands moving to cup Sanemi’s scarred face. They both whined against each other's hungry and desperate mouths with satisfaction before they traveled elsewhere, getting carried away. They both pecked and smooched each other, pressing into their mouths, jaws, and cheeks. It was addictive and doubt rewarding , hearing the latter man twitch and gasp at the touch and taste of intimacy.
When they pulled away, Sanemi was bright red and burning hot, too embarrassed to continue holding Obanai so close to him. He loosened his grip on the striped haori, releasing the man. They both breathed heavily. “This is stupid,” Sanemi grunted and Obanai couldn't help but agree. “Are we seriously going to kiss the moment we start arguing?” the ravenette wondered in irritation, despite him being one to engage in this battle of mouths. His heterochromatic eyes narrowed in thought. “We better not." Sanemi mumbled, his cheeks still passionately red and his lips bruised with kisses.
The dark-haired man took off his black and white haori, folding it up and tucking it under his arm. His corp uniform hugged each and every curve of his body, it was too bad he had zero curves and was simply skin and bones. Sanemi caught himself glancing at the man’s figure, specifically on his small waist but snapped himself out of it. “If that's all I'll be going now,” the white blonde said with resolve. Too much had happened that day and he needed to go home to process it all. Obanai mumbled an “mhm” and began unbuttoning his uniform. Sanemi felt his curiosity get the best of him, briefly shifting his gaze to where the petite man fingered his buttons before he disappeared into a separate room. Sanemi exhaled frustratedly and made his way to the door and left, not understanding what had gotten into him.
-----
The next day, Sanemi returned as instructed. He couldn't sleep much that night, Obanai and his figure occupied his mind. Obanai and those kisses consumed his mind. Obanai and his sharp tongue entertained his mind. Obanai was on his mind . Sanemi was disappointed in how pathetic he was. Just a few kisses and touches and suddenly the Snake Hashira was all he could think about. His soft lips, his slender and dainty hands, his fierce multi-coloured eyes, and jet black hair of inconsistent lengths. It was all alluring and Sanemi hated it, especially with how vile and quick his mouth was and his disgusting, egotistical personality. Sanemi was a man of standard, so he was utterly shocked by the fact that the lowly thing had interested him.
Maybe it was the lack of intimacy and affection that got him hooked on the sensation of what he felt the previous day. Yesterday he experienced a high like no other and deep down inside him, maybe he wanted to experience it again.
The muscular Hashira entered the garden, pushing through the wooden gate effortlessly. From across the entrance was the metal round table where Obanai sat, just like the previous day, waiting for his arrival. Sanemi swallowed and approached, not quite sure what to expect. He also didn't know how to confront his feelings either. He couldn't grasp why of all people it had to be the ravenette to have his interest. Obanai looked up from where he sat, his snake companion Kaburamaru accompanying him. “Looks like you rested well, slept like a baby I presume?” Obanai teased with a smirk, hidden away behind bandages but was quite evident in the way his eyes turned into slits and his cheeks moved up.
Sanemi rolled his eyes and pulled a metal chair out and seated himself. “For someone with shit vision I'm surprised you can see that well,” he muttered indignantly. “Well? What's your big plan? Let's get this over and done with.” Kaburamaru slithered its way up the ravenette’s arm, reaching its way to Obanai’s shoulder, flicking its tongue in curiosity. The Serpent Pillar brought a hand to the snake, gently stroking its scaley head with his finger's tip. “After some thought, I decided a date would be convincing enough for the Master.” he announced, his turquoise and amber eyes watching Sanemi closely.
Sanemi’s eyes widened. A date? Like, an actual date a man and woman would go on together? A date that's traditionally a romantic day out with someone of interest? Sanemi shook his head. “No. We’re not doing that. What if someone sees us? What if they think-” the white-haired man was shortly cut off by Obanai Iguro’s quick and witty tongue. “Don't be ridiculous. Everyone believes we hate each other. If our fellow Hashiras happen to see us ‘getting along’, all the more better.” Sanemi sighed, bringing his scarred and rough hands to his face, dragging out a long groan. He hated to admit it but the Snake Pillar once again made another good point. “Fine… When would we go on this date?”
“Right now,” Obanai answered nonchalantly, sliding out of his chair to stretch. He arched his small back, his hands reaching for the sky with satisfaction. Sanemi caught a brief glimpse at the curve of the latter man’s hips and waist. “Seriously?” he questioned as he crossed his arms, unamused. “Yeah, do you have a problem with that? Not like you got anything else better to do.” Obanai raised a brow, daring Sanemi to speak up.
“Only on one condition, Iguro.”
“Well, aren't you a fussy one? Fine, get on with it.”
“Two hours tops, after that date is over.”
“Aww, is your masculinity so fragile that you can't stand to be on a date with another man?”
“What? No, a man isn't a problem.”
“Well, then?”
“I can't be in the sun for so long.”
The Serpent Hashira brought his hand to his chin in thought. If they considered how long it'd take them to get to the nearest town and the activities that would occur on their date, two hours might just be sufficient enough. “Since you insist, I think I could make it work,” he confirmed, agreeing to Sanemi’s condition. “Okay, let's go, then.” The Wind Hashira said with satisfaction.
-----
They spent a good half hour, trekking through the woods, making their way to the closest town within their vicinity. Obanai was quite familiar with his surroundings, stepping with grace over every rock and each mound that threatened to trip him. He even memorized all the tree roots that jutted out, obstructing their path. Sanemi walked with uneven footsteps, nearly getting tripped up on a few occasions, giving Obanai something to chuckle about. Sanemi grunted with irritation, continuing as if nothing happened. As they continued their adventure, they’d throw a discreet glance at each other a few times, unable to draw their eyes away for long.
When they finally abandoned the forest and came to a dirt path that led to the village, the ravenette’s stomach growled at the scent of exquisite and delightful food coming from the town. “We’ll stop at a food stall first,” he stated, looking over at the white-haired man as he nodded, having no qualms about getting something to eat. “Sounds good to me,” he confirmed. The town was bustling, packed with many busy people going about their day, causing the streets to be full of traffic, helping the two men blend seamlessly within the crowd. Some people yelped with surprise at seeing Obanai’s snake or Sanemi’s disturbing appearance but besides that, this was as normal as things would be for them.
After a few moments of searching and debating, the two men found a food stall they could both agree to, and they got in line. The wait wasn't very long despite it being afternoon, a busy time for those who are starving, looking for something to fill them up. The two Hashiras stood side by side, their shoulders just nearly touching each other. When finally reaching the front of the line, they placed their order together. When it was time to pay, Obanai looked over to Sanemi.
“You're gonna pay right?” he asked, elbowing the man in his toned and muscular arm.
“What!? You gotta be kidding me, it was your idea to go into town and to get something to eat, I didn't plan any of this!”
Obanai let out a long, exaggerated sigh. “Okay, crybaby, you don't have to yell, we can all hear you loud and clear.” the Serpent Pillar responded in a mocking tone, paying for their food and thanking the chef for their patience.
When they finally received their food, they found themselves at a nearby bench and sat down, getting comfortable whilr eating their meal in silence. Obanai hesitantly took off his bandages, keeping his head down as he ate, refusing to allow people who'd pass by to gaze upon his scar. He was the first to finish eating, swiftly putting his bandages back on as he sat there, looking around at the people who walked by them, silently envying them, wishing he could leave a relatively peaceful life, not having to deal wjth the burden of hunting demons and avenging lost comrades. He also thought about what he and Sanemi Shinazugawa could do next.
He recalled their conversation from earlier, that they would only have two hours to spend. He wondered why Sanemi couldn't be in the sun for long, it was unusual and unheard of. “So,” the smaller man started, looking at the paler but much bigger man beside him. The latter looked at him with a puzzled look on his face as he chewed his food. “What? What are you getting at now?” he grunted after swallowing down his bite.
“You said you had a skin condition, yes? What type of condition is it? I don't understand how you, a human, can't be in the sun for long. You're practically admitting to being a demon.” Sanemi frowned, irritation evident in the way he gave the Hashira his signature dirty look. “I'm not a demon, I'm an albino , asshole,” he growled, narrowing his eyes at the ravenette as he looked upon him with disgust. “You expect me to know what that is? Elaborate , musclehead.” Obanai was heading down a dangerous path, not taking Sanemi seriously. “Oh my god, you’re so fucking stupid,” he muttered under his breath as he rolled his eyes, losing his his patience.
“Because I lack melanin, which is the colour in my skin, hair, and eyes, i'm more likely to be burnt in the sun and get skin cancer. My vision is also ass.” The Snake Pillar nodded slowly, trying to understand. It never really occurred to him how truly pale Sanemi was, how vibrant his eyes were and unbelievably bright his hair was. There were a plethora of people with unique appearances liked Mitsuri and her unnatural green and pink hair, or Rengoku’s bizarre red and yellow hair that was inherited. "I never knew about it, I just assumed you were normal like everybody else.” The petite man commented, his tone coming off as guilty as he felt like an idiot for not realizing. Sanemi exhaled loudly, sinking into the bench. “I don't care. You were just unaware like everybody else.” he answered.
Obanai looked down at his snake companion, Kaburamaru, who rested on his lap, staring off into space with his red eyes wide and tongue flicking mindlessly. Sanemi was just like him, incredibly pale with bright and vibrant eyes. “I guess i’ll sugar daddy then.” he finally added, determined to make it up to Sanemi after being so oblivious. The Wind Pillar snapped his head to the Serpent Pillar in shock at what he heard, his mouth hanging agape. “What the fuck did you say? ” Obanai scoffed. “I'm going to be your sugar daddy for today, is that a problem?” Sanemi shook his head, confused and concerned. It was clear what was going through the pale man's mind. What the hell is a sugar daddy?
Obanai rolled his eyes as he realized Sanemi wasn't aware of the concept. “Im basically going to buy you whatever you want, meaning i'm the daddy and you're the baby, Shinazugawa.” he said with disappointment. Sanemi cringed at the explanation but his interest heightened. Obanai would buy whatever he’d want? Seriously? “That's disgusting. As long as I don't have to call you daddy i'm fine with it… or whatever.” Obanai laughed mockingly. “Nobody says you have to call me daddy but if that's what you wish to address me as feel free.” he teased, his hand playfully grabbing Sanemi’s thigh, giving it a slight squeeze.
Sanemi grabbed Obanai’s hand, peeling it away from his plump thigh. “Ugh, shut up. You never used to talk so much.” he muttered in frustration, obviously having an internal panic just from Obanai's remark and touch. “That's because I find it amusing to get on your nerves.” he confessed, his voice barely a whisper in Sanemi's ear. He scooped his snake companion into his hands and placed the albino reptile on his shoulder. “Anyways, let's make the most out of today before we have to end the date.” he added, signaling for them to get going, moving onto the next big thing.
And so they went, walking down the busy street, bantering and arguing with each other over the stupidest and most pointless things. It starting off as Obanai teasing and Sanemi taking it seriously until eventually they both didn't care, cracking jokes and being overly casual with each other, moving from one thing to the next until they found another subject to center anther unnecessary and loud argument around. To the public, it may have seemed like a heated spat between the men, but it was really just flirting and chemistry between them.
They kept this going until a young girl interrupted them on the street, tapping Sanemi on his shoulder hesitantantly. Turning around to meet the stranger, they took note that the girl was fairly young with a beautifully expensive turquoise kimono and luscious dark brown hair extending past her shoulders with a matching turquoise hair clip to go with her outfit. The girl brought her hands together nervously, sweating profusely under the intimidating stares of the two Hashiras. “What is it?” Sanemi asked, his rough voice coming off more harsher than he had intended. “O-oh, sorry to bother you!” she started, her gaze fixating elsewhere to avoid a pair of violet eyes as well as Obanai’s amber and teal gaze.
“S-sir, you are very handsome, do you by any chance have a wife?” she asked politely, her face turning red as she fidgeted with her hande anxiously. Obanai narrowed his eyes at the girl before looking at Sanemi to observe his reaction to such a question. Sanemi wore a look of surprise, thrown off gaurd by such a blunt and forward inquiry.
He looked over to Obanai, hoping to catch his reaction but realized the latter man was already staring at him, silently waiting for an answer. He wore a look of judgement, his dadk brows knitted tightly together. “No, I don't, but-” Sanemi, once again that very day, was interrupted. “Do you h-have a girlfriend by any chance?” the stranger quickly chirped, her eyes wide and hopeful, her mouth parting to nearly smile. “N-no, I dont, but-”
The girl reached out the hold Sanemi’s hand, her grasp gentle but firm, she had already heard what she needed to hear. The scent of fine quality women's perfume lingered and wafted in the air. “Would you be interested in having a girlfriend? You are so fine and I just had to ask! M-my family is very wealthy and my father has a very successful business by the way!” it was clear this mystery woman belived she had a shot but still anxious. It's not everyday you jump a man on the street, asking him to be your partner. Sanemi frowned and yanked his hand out of the young girl’s grasp.
“ Listen. Just because I don't have neither a wife or a girlfriend doesnt mean im interested. Leave us alone.” he grunted impatiently and turned away, leaving Obanai standing in front of the girl. The stranger was surprised, standing there flabbergasted. The ravenette gave one last looked over the girl before turning away, leaving her in his dust as he went to catch up with Sanemi.
She was very pretty, with big dark eyes and rosy cheeks, not to mention beautiful hair, so why was Sanemi so disinterested? It could be that she came out of nowhere and started randomly harassing them but Obanai wouldn't know. “That girl seemed quite interested in you and yet you didn't give her a single chance. Why’s that?” he questioned suspiciously, a long finger pointing accusingly at Sanemi Shinazugawa.
“ Why? Do I seriously have to spell it out to you? I literally don't know that woman!” he stated, his brow raising at Obanai in disgust. “You barely knew me and yet you still kissed me,” Obanai added without hesitation. He should've been more careful with what he said, considering they were outside in public, but it was too late to take it back. He watched as the Wind Pillar soon flush red, it was very apparent despite the Wind Hashira attempt to hide his redness and quiet gasp, bringing a hand to cover his mouth. The smaller man felt his heart stir at the sight and how it was so easy to fluster the hot headed and arrogant man.
“I-its different, you know that,” Sanemi said after a moment of silence, averting his gaze. “How? Because we’re coworkers? Doesn't change the fact that we still don't know anything about each other.” he added bluntly. Sanemi grabbed Obanai by the shoulders, staring into his face. “It is different.” he pressed, stubborn to admit the truth. “Explain, then.” Obanai hissed, frustration evident in his voice as he stared back into Sanemi’s lilac eyes, only to realize that the latter was staring at the outline of his lips despite his bandages covering his mouth.
“My eyes are up here, Shinazugawa,” Obanai muttered, feeling hot underneath the latter man’s gaze. Sanemi’s gaze shifted, his eyeliner sharp and his gaze intimidating. “Just call me Sanemi, stop wasting that pretty mouth on using my last name.” he rasped deeply.
Obanai Iguro's jaw dropped and his eyes widened. Sanemi’s voice made him go weak. It stirred deep, passionate, indescribable emotions in him. The sudden and unexpected permission to use his first name sent him into a spiral. The grip the man hand on him was hot to the touch and Obanai wanted his hands elsewhere. “Answer my question,” the Serpent Hashira whispered, his voice faint, hoping to distract himself from the feelings he was experiencing. They were most definitely causing a scene. People stopped in their tracks and began staring at the two men, questioning them. Whispers and murmurs picked up as concern and suspicions aroused from the crowd.
“Come.” Sanemi ordered, pulling Obanai away from the prying eyes, his rough scarred hands intertwining in Obanai’s small bony hands, leading him through the street and eventually taking him to an alleyway. “S-sanemi what are we doing?” the Serpent Pillar whined as Sanemi pushed him up against the wall. “What if someone sees us? I thought you were scared of being caught with me?” Obanai felt his heart beat faster at the white blonde’s change in demeanor. Sanemi brought his callous hand to his masked cheek, holding it gently. They held each other's gaze for a few heartbeats. “Sanemi?” he called out, hoping to get a proper response from the muscular man who was pinnjng him.
“S-sorry, I got carried away.” the Wind Pillar finally answers, pulling away from Obanai. The ravenette felt shocked to hear an apology from the man but especially disappointed that Sanemi had pulled away, wishing that the man could hold him close, speak low in that raspy voice and giving him all his attention. “Do you wanna go back to my mansion?” Obanai asked, secretly craving more of Sanemi. “Yeah, sure.” he added, looking away from the ravenette embarrassed. They left the town in comeplete silence. With them walking alone, just the two men on that dirt path, the tension was very strong. Obanai wondered what things were “different” about them.
Obanai always thought that Sanemi was handsome, the way his hair was messy, his sharp exaggerated eyeliner, his toned body, rough voice, it was all amazing. But what did he, Obanai Iguro, have that was worthy of Sanemi Shinazugawa? What special qualities did he possess? Obanai knew he liked men, but did Sanemi truly like men?
Sanemi, on the other hand, felt stupid. He didn't mean to put Obanai on the spot. He cringed, replaying the earlier events in his head. He remembered the dark haired man's question of why he kissed Obanai, what difference was there between him and that random girl who approuched him. The one of the simple answers he had was thaf he and Obanai was similar. They both hated Giyu, both have horrible scars, both were the most feared Hashiras amongst each other.
Another answer, he simply wanted Obanai to himself. Obanai is never hesitant to approach him, not scared to speak his mind and certainly didnt care to push Sanemi’s boundaries. He just felt so comfortable to be around despite constantly getting on the white blonde’s nerves. It was as if Sanemi wasnt alone anymore, it was as if he was an actual person and not some maniac who crazy enough to get recruited into the Demon Slayer Corps. Obanai wasnt afraid of him. And maybe Sanemi liked that he could be himself in the latter man's presence.
After some time walking, the dirt path led back into the Serpent Pillar’s forest, where the tall thick trees casting shadows onto them and the ground uneven. The Snake Hashira looked over to the Wind Pillar, hesitating to speak. "I still didn't get an answer to my question from earlier." He mumbled, reaching out for Sanemi's scarred and rough hands, stopping him from continuing down the path. Sanemi looked over at his hand as the ravenette held tight to it before his gaze darted to Obanai and his two different coloured eyes.
He felt his heart race, he didn't want to speak of why, it was embarrassing . But seeing how stubborn the petite man was, he'd likely continue to ask over and over abain. They were both so incredibly stubborn. Sanemi realized that and silently decided that he should just get this over and done with, otherwise they'd be fighting and bickering about it forever.
Sanemi sighed and dug his other hand through his pale white hair, fixating his gaze elsewhere, contemplating what he should say first. "You're…" he trailed off, still thinking. "You're the most likable Pillar out of all the Hashiras." Obanai didn't seem impressed, still staring at Sanemi intently, determined to get a real answer from him. The albino rolled his eyes and grabbed Obanai by his shoulders, releasing their hands that was was holding each other.
"Look, I can't explain it that well, alright? Yesterday at that very moment before we kissed, you looked good. The way your hair covered your face, the way your scars marked the corner of your mouth and cheek, your frustrated expression-- I don't know why, I dont know what came over me but in that moment I thought, 'he doesn't seem that bad,' ' The ravenette felt his cheeks grow hot and his heart thud faster. He averted his gaze, looking away. Without a moment of hesitation, without skipping a beat, Sanemi's hands moved to the latter man's cheeks, holding his face gently and turning his head to look back at him.
"You wanted an answer from me, here's my answer. You make me feel more human then anyone else ever could. People avoid me because im intimidating, I get it. But after so long of being lonely, forcing myself to be in solitude because anytime I get close to someone, I eventually hurt them. I hurt good people and bring bad luck." Sanemi's voice cracked, surprised by strings of words he was weaving together. He never expected to be so vulnerable with Obanai before, but here he was. There was no turning back now, he decided to keep pushing on.
"You're such an asshole I don't think its possible for me to hurt you, you leave me speechless a lot. You always have some witty remark or snarky comment to make. You're not afraid to verbally put me in my place and perhaps that is why I have a lot of respect for you but also why I feel so…" Sanemi searched for the right word to use. "Comfortable. Yeah, comfortable with your presence. I'm not scared to keep my distance. We share the same intensity that puts people off, and perhaps our combined negativity cancels each other out and brings good luck instead..." Obanai stared with disbelief. This was so much than he had expected.
They both turned red and Obanai felt the strong urge to make Sanemi his boyfriend and spoil him with whatever he wanted. Sanemi nervously let go of the dark haired man's shoulders, waiting for a response of some sort. Obanai shared a glance with his reptile companion before looking back at Sanemi. "Share the same intensity?" Obanai forced a laugh, his voice cracking.
"Thats bold, considering I don't have anger issues." The ravenette commented, looking for anything to distract himself from the latter man's heart-felt and honest words. "Oh, shut up." Sanemi grunted, a smile appearing at the corner of his lips before kissing the smaller man's jaw. It was a surprise the Serpent Pillar didn't expect, considering that he was wearing his mask, it made sense that Sanemi didn't kiss him on the mouth. But before the smaller man could do anything else, a small whine escaped his throat. He squeezed his eyes shut and grabbed the white blonde's large arm, holding tightly as he felt the sensation of sharp sucking and teeth biting.
"What the hell? Did you bite me?" He uttered to himself, confused. When Sanemi pulled away Obanai brought his hand to where the sore was, feeling that it was definitely wet. He was utterly lost. "Aren't you always the one initiating the kiss? I just thought that I'd do it first, with a special twist of course." With that said, Sanemi's hand wandered to the man's waist, pulling him close until their hips and crotch connected.
At that moment, Obanai couldn't bear to stand there and not do something, he needed Sanemi badly and with the things he's been feeling all day now was a good chance to act upon them. He quickly ripped away his bandages and directed his lips to the latter's, crashing into Sanemi with his arms reaching over the man's wide and sturdy shoulders to hold him close.
Surprised, the Wind Hashira fell back a few steps until he regained his balance, his hand holding Obanai even tighter around his waist. He groaned, moving away to nibble on the corner of the latter's mouth. "You're embarrassing," Sanemi said through the kisses. Obanai sucked hard on Sanemi's lip, holding the flesh between his teeth. "You're pathetic." He responded. It didn't matter, they were too into the kiss to care what the other was saying about them. They bickered and complained through breaths and pants, through tongues and skin, all until Obanai Iguro corned Sanemi Shinazugawa against a tree, unable to keep his hands off him.
He dipped his hand into Sanemi's uniform, massaging the scarred man's breast while the other was busy rubbing the man's outer thigh. The Wind Hashira grunted, both his hands occupying the latter's ass. "You stupid freak." The ravenette moaned. "Scrawny whore." Sanemi hissed. "Obanai?" Upon hearing a different voice interrupt them, the two men pushed each other so hard they fell backwards onto the soft ground, panting. "W-what are you two doing?" Obanai recognized that voice, it was Mitsuri's! She stood there in shock and disgust, her mouth hanging open as she was speechless and concerned from what she had just witnessed.
The ravenette man racked his brain for any possible explanation, a reasonable one that could save him and Sanemi the embarrassment and truth of what they were doing. Obanai discreetly brushed his hair with a hand, hiding the bites and hickeys the bigger man left on his neck. Sanemi on the other hand, stared wide eyed, his face obviously red.
He quickly stood up, brushing the wrinkles and folds from his clothes as if the Serpent Pillar wasn't trying to rip them off. "I was trying to kill him!" Obanai blurted out, rising to his feet to meet the taller woman. Her usual rosy red cheeks and green hopeful eyes drained off all joy and happiness she possibly held. Instead, it was replaced by the horrors beyond imagination. "S-sanemi was suffocating me!" He added, noting that the girl wasn't convinced, especially with the way her eye twitched.
"He even ripped my mask off!" He added as he began to start sweating, increasingly getting desperate to try to play this whole accident as if it didn't occur. He shot an urgent glance at Sanemi, silently pleading the man to back him up. "Y-yeah, he even ripped some of my hair out, too." The pale man stated, pointing at a patch of white hair that was laying in the dust on the ground. It seemed that their lying was futile, the girl had already come to a conclusion on what she witnessed.
Misturi looked at the hair and back at the two men, chuckling nervously. "You guys are so silly, you guys need to get along like Master Ubuyashiki says!" The curvy woman mentioned, almost as if she was trying to convince herself that they were fighting. But what she saw with her wide, sea glass green eyes was undeniable. It was absolutely irrefutable! "Whoops. We forgot." Sanemi commented, looking down at his feet praying it would suffice. But it did not. Misturi knew what she saw. "It happens to the best of us!" The Love Pillar chirped, shooting suspicious glances between the two men.
"Well, look at the time," she prompted, looking over at her right hand to where no watch rested on her wrist. "I should get going! I wouldn't want to interrupt anymore of your fighting!" She said before turning away, skipping down the path that she came from. Obanai groaned. "Great." He said, contemplating how they're going to inform the Master that they're getting along.
"I could ask her to keep quiet about this but then that would just confirm her suspicions," he mentioned, talking to himself as he considered what they're going to do now. Sanemi placed a hand on Obanai's shoulder gently. "Let's figure the rest out later." He suggested. Obanai brushed the man's hand off his shoulder. Seriously? Now? Sanemi seriously wanted to continue making out now?
Sanemi seemed to read Obanai's expression, shaking his head. "No, I mean let's get back to your mansion and figure it out there. It's getting dark and we won't be able to see well along the path." He explained in an annoyed tone, rolling his eyes. Obanai grabbed his bandages and went to wrap his face back until Sanemi stopped him, shaking his head and reaching for the bandages from his hands.
The ravenette raised a brown in confusion. "You don't tell me what to do." He stated. "No, but I want you to show your face. Its.. prettier when you dont hid it." Sanemi looked embarrassed and his voice cracked. Despite being awkward, his words were honest and polite. Obanai glanced at the bandages and contemplated. It seemed he didn't have to hide his face from Sanemi, the albino man actually liked it. "Okay, fine. But this is the only time I'll listen to you." The man replied with a bratty tone, gently yanking the bandages from Sanemis grasp and stuffing it into his pocket.
"We'll see about that," Sanemi smirked. "Now, hold my hand." He ordered, reaching for Obanai's hand. The Snake Pillar sighed dramatically and held the latter mans hand. "This will also be the only time I'll obey you." He added, but deep down Obanai Iguro felt as if he was lying to himself. This is probably just the beginning of him obeying Sanemi Shinazugawa's requests and such. And maybe Obanai was okay with that. He didn't know what was in store for them from there on, but this was likely just the start of something new. It worried and intimidated the Snake Hashira, but it was hard to complain when the Wind Hashira was holding your hand and there were plenty more kisses to go around.