Work Text:
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Ding Dong! Here comes the clock, striking midnight!
In celebration of the upcoming graduation day, we encourage everyone to join the yearly ball event! Ask your special someone as a partner! Prepare for glamorous ball dancing, served with delicious drinks and snacks!
Make sure to sign your name and your partner on a list given by your Class President!
Get your dresses and your tuxedo ready and prepare to dance!
—NOTE: Those who do not have a partner or do not want a partner may sign up for the Servants Team! Proceed to the Student Council Office to learn more about the role!
Your respective class advisors shall announce the date and time of the event.
~~~
Yuuji immediately chucks down his notebook and pen in his bag, already feeling dreadful when he notices the loud, giddy chatter from his classmates. It only just hit dismissal time and now dozens of students are rushing about and heading to god knows where!
This rush felt familiar and this could only mean one thing.
“Yuuji! Hurry up, or else we’re gonna get squished again!”
“Again?” Yuuji bemoaned, strolling hurriedly to Sasaki who was standing outside, holding an irritated expression judging by the number of students running past her and almost hitting her in the process. “What’s going on this time? Why’s everyone running?”
“The announcement board— hey, watch it!” She pumped her fist in the air in frustration, glaring at a girl who did not bother to even turn around. “What is wrong with you people!?”
She sighed in resignation, eyeing the growing crowd ahead. “The student council just posted something on the announcement board. It is, apparently, a surprising news enough to get people trampled in the process!”
“Wanna go read what it says?”
Sasaki crosses her arms, a disgusted look on her face. “Hell no! The last thing I want is to smell like sweat when I’m walking home.”
Yuuji adjusted his backpack on his shoulder. “Okay then, I’ll go check it out for you.”
“Well, good luck. Just text me what it is…” Then her eyes darted back to the crowd making all sorts of excited noises as they read the news. “Although, I have an inkling feeling I know what this is all about.”
Yuuji chuckled at the grim look visible on her face. “Alright, get home safe!”
The moment Sasaki left, Yuuji quickly rushed to the rambunctious students ahead of him, curiosity in its wake. Unfortunately for him, he is way too far away from the board to read. He couldn’t even see a damn thing because of his taller yearmates and seniors.
“Excuse me.” He opted to call out a junior before him, patting his shoulder. When the boy didn’t turn, Yuuji called out louder. “Excuse me!”
The junior finally turned and his eyes widened. “O-Oh! Yeah, how can I help you?”
“I’m just curious to see what this excitement is all about. What did the poster say?”
“Oh!” Yuuji swore he saw the boy’s face light up from the eagerness. “It’s a special event for the upcoming graduation!”
Another event?
“And what event is it?”
“It’s the…” The smile on his face fell once he registered the sight of a particular someone now standing behind Yuuji. “I-I-It’s the…”
Yuuji tilted his head, confused. “It’s the what?”
“The annual ball event.” A baritone, sultry voice from behind answered. Yuuji jumped and swiftly turned to see Sukuna standing very close to him. “Another trivial event this school had to offer regardless of their lack of funds.”
Seriously, for a guy so large, he moves so silently!
“I should really put a bell on you,” Yuuji commented, crossing his arms.
Sukuna only scoffed, sneaking an arm around Yuuji’s waist. “Try me.”
Yuuji merely shakes his head in resignation and turns again to face the crowd, standing on the balls of his feet in hopes of reading the contents of the board. “Is that it? Just attend the ball and do what? Party around?”
“Hardly. It’s a requirement for seniors to attend. To enter, one must ask someone else to be their partner, however, there shall be a witness to confirm the agreement between two partners for validation before they are deemed acceptable by the council. This grants them access to this ball, which I believe is unnecessary at this time of the year.”
“A partner?” Yuuji ignored the last statement from his lover, only noticing the arm curling his waist tighter. “For what?”
“For the graduation ball dancing.” Sukuna deadpanned.
A blush quickly formed on Yuuji’s cheeks. “Oh.”
‘So, what’s going to happen? Is Sukuna going to ask me? Wait, is that even allowed?’
But before Yuuji could even ask more questions, Sukuna pulled him away from the crowd. “Come on, let’s go home.”
The noise from the bustling students grew rowdy and in the corner of his eyes, Yuuji saw a rather angry teacher marching towards them and he gulped. “Y-Yeah, let’s go.”
All the questions in his mind were completely erased as he and Sukuna rushed out of the school before they got caught in trouble.
~~~
Graduation day. It’s coming close.
Sukuna is graduating. A fact Yuuji couldn’t even believe himself considering the reputation and the questionable deeds of this Ryomen heir throughout the years he’s been at this school.
Yuuji is a little bit anxious about the upcoming event.
A ball. A dance.
As a student attending this school for the past few years, he never once attended this event, opting to just look in the other direction and often thinking of it as another insignificant thing the school wants the students to engage in. So, in a way, he’s a little bit lost on what to do when this only mattered now.
It’s an understatement when he’s saying that he’s a little apprehensive. Because now he has someone to think about.
He’s not entirely an expert in dancing but he could surely perform well whenever a need arises. And when this is a ball in which the authorities of the school allow ‘young couples’ to indulge themselves, it is without a doubt causing quite a stir in his mind whenever his thoughts drift to the one who holds his heart.
Sukuna.
It is uncommon for the same sex to be partnered with each other. Though it has indeed been done before, it still gives them the looks and brows raise. His friends often questioned him about who will take the lead and who will be the follower. Yet it is already quite obvious who will be the lead between the two.
However, the thought of this requirement of asking someone to be their partner elicits a nervous sigh from Yuuji. Since it is what gets them into the list, someone should always ask another to be their partner first before they put their names in the ‘dancing’ list. He isn’t as brave as to immediately write his and Sukuna’s name on the list. And there’s only one reason behind that.
Yuuji was not asked by Sukuna.
There was a lot of eagerness and patience and waiting on his part. The moment the announcement came about, Yuuji thought Sukuna would approach him the second he saw him and ask for his permission to be his partner.
That wasn’t the case at all.
Sukuna continues to act like nothing in particular exciting is coming, treating Yuuji like a dear friend or a sweet lover would do. Yuuji could say he is also at fault for not bringing it up, probably thinking that Sukuna knows what to do and that he shouldn’t doubt the status of their relationship, new as it is.
It’s been a week since the announcement. Left and right, his classmates already have a pair of their own or had already planned when to ask their special someone to be their dance partner for the ball. Of course, he would be envious of them because after all…
Yuuji is still waiting for his turn to be asked.
But thoughts came plaguing his mind. The uncertain future usually leaves him awake deep into the night. ‘Should I be the one to approach Sukuna? Is Sukuna waiting for me to take the initiative? Did he already write our names down? Why am I doubting this so much?’
And yet, he waits. He waits because he knows of their relationship. New as it is. It doesn’t matter if Sukuna did something or if Yuuji did, too. He knows by now that their mutual feelings towards each other are strong or that there were never any doubts to begin with because they like each other that much.
Yuuji understands Sukuna.
And yet—
He shakes himself out of the trance, unaware that he’s getting distracted when the teacher in front of him announces a quiz that will take place after the lesson.
“Not now, Yuuji.” He mumbles to himself, flipping a page of his book hurriedly when he notices he is no longer catching up with whatever discussion sprouted by the teacher in front of him.
~~~
Another week has passed. The event is getting closer than ever. Yuuji’s nervousness isn’t going away so soon.
Lately, Sukuna was becoming distracted.
One second he was sweet and attentive, then the next he’s gone to who knows where. It was the one thing Yuuji had observed nowadays and he doesn’t know how to feel about it.
Yuuji discovered Sukuna often steering close to his group of friends. Friends whom Yuuji has a difficult time appreciating companionship— their ideals aren’t exactly as favorable on his part. And even more shocking is when Yuuji caught him approaching other students he doesn’t even know and taking off with them! Yuuji didn’t even know Sukuna could be a social butterfly. Then, those particular moments of abrupt departure from Sukuna which Yuuji dislikes oftentimes when, for some reason, it lances heavily through his heart.
“I have some matters that require my attention right now, I apologize for leaving your side so soon.”
And Yuuji is always so understanding and accepting of these excuses even when he forces a smile to let the other know that everything is fine between them.
“That’s okay, Sukuna. I understand. I’ll see you at dismissal time!”
This happened on repeat. Day after day after day.
Every time, when Yuuji wants to share at least a moment alone with Sukuna, there is always something happening that forces Sukuna away. It hurts, but Yuuji could try to be an understanding lover. He knows that Sukuna has other priorities. However, for certain, it is quite unfair even though Yuuji just wanted one short moment with Sukuna. His time was always taken away for whatever reason Sukuna had in mind. This doesn’t bode well for Yuuji as he is at a loss on what to do.
Of course, they’d hang out. It’s not like Sukuna is absent every single second. He’s there but he doesn’t stick too long and it made Yuuji question even further about himself.
Their relationship has become too delicate.
It didn’t help that it supplied negative thoughts within Yuuji. He doesn’t even want to think about the worst scenario.
But it did happen.
The whispers.
“Did you see that? I saw Sukuna talking to a girl outside the campus.”
“Wait, are you sure? I thought he and Yuuji were a thing!”
“I’m serious. I just saw him walk out with a girl. They were heading to a convenience store.”
Unable to listen any longer, Yuuji closed his locker with a loud bang and hurriedly went straight to his classroom.
His heart felt like it was squeezed to death.
~~~
“Aren’t they lovers?”
“Yeah, I thought so, too…”
This again, Yuuji mused, gripping his notebook almost too harshly underneath his fingers as he desperately tried to listen to the science teacher discussing something about molecules and cells. The lab room is oddly quiet except for the occasional chatter from his classmates around him. The only thing he doesn’t like about this is how loud the girls are whispering behind his back.
It was irritating and he was growing furious with every second—
“I saw Sukuna approaching this girl again. Just this afternoon after lunch.”
“Seriously? I can’t believe this guy.”
“Right? He’s heartless! Poor Yuuji…”
“Is Sukuna cheating on him?”
A palm raised to call the teacher’s attention. “Sensei!”
“Yes, Yuuji?”
“May I go to the toilet?”
The second the teacher permitted him, Yuuji did not hesitate to dart away from the classroom. Tears slowly started to bubble in his eyes, fighting the urge to hit something when he realized just how tight his fist had curled.
Was that it?
Was it the reason why Sukuna was often away?
What went wrong?
Was he so boring that Sukuna’s attention was completely diverted from him?
Yuuji immediately wiped the tears away before they could drop. Everything was making sense. He was just slow to the uptake, as always. He recalled the times when he tried to reach out to Sukuna, an eager feeling planted in his heart that he could finally, finally have one single day with him. That he finally has his attention all to himself.
“I apologize, Yuuji. I need to go.”
“Is it so important?”
“Yes, it is.”
It took place just after lunch. And Yuuji, so foolishly, allowed Sukuna to go, not knowing where he was off to. But now…
Now, he finally had an idea where he was going and it left a bitter feeling within him. He rubbed his chest furiously as if to ease the burning sensation from his chest. Anger, sadness, and betrayal swirled his thoughts and all he could think about was nothing but fury.
~~~
That day, Yuuji approached the Student Council Office and signed his name under the “Servants Team” list.
The secretary who was his classmate gave him a card and a cord for that and asked with reluctance. “Are you sure about this? It’s a butler kind of duty. This role is given to people who don’t want a partner or can’t find a partner of their own.”
“Yeah… I know.”
“But Sukuna…” The student trailed off, clearing his throat. “Oh, well. I guess the rumors spreading about—”
“I know!” Yuuji snapped. “I know.”
He leaves just before he can hear another word coming out from the boy.
~~~
Yuuji knows he couldn’t avoid him forever.
He knew Sukuna was searching for him ever since he broke their unsaid rule of meeting each other near the guard’s house every morning. Out of anger, he didn’t even stay and wait for Sukuna yesterday in dismissal, opting to go home early rather than meet with that bastard.
The depths Yuuji had to go so that he remained unseen in Sukuna’s line of sight was quite impressive, especially with Uraume prowling around as well, but it never lasts long when he’s up against such a stubborn person. It was hard enough to hide from him during lunchtime. Even more so during breaks.
So, when the bell of dismissal rang, it was inevitable.
“Yuuji, Sukuna is here.” A classmate says, pointing at the door.
His heart fell to the pit of his stomach. Damn it. He’s fast to get here!
“Okay.”
But he didn’t move.
The classmate tilted her head in confusion. “Don’t you wanna greet him? You usually run to him whenever he’s visited.”
With gritted teeth and back on her to hide his true feelings, Yuuji could only feign a cheery reply. “I know.”
“Whatever.” Then she left, leaving Yuuji to sag his shoulders in relief.
Slowly, he packed his things with a pounding heart. The growing tension in the air heightened his sense of awareness since his mind was fed by the fact that his boyfriend was outside, waiting for him.
One by one, his classmates left, not knowing the internal turmoil of emotions and feelings from the pink-haired student. Yuuji is indeed in a very much conflicted state, whether he’d stride to the door and face Sukuna or jump out of the windows to avoid confronting the certainly furious lover. He knows he isn’t the only one angry here. However, his options instantly disappeared when Sukuna walked in as if he owned the place. The classroom is now empty except for the two.
The tension in the air is increasing and palpable to the point that Yuuji has to look down, tensing, and not wanting to look the other in the eye.
“Yuuji.”
He felt more than saw Sukuna approaching him.
“What happened? Why were you not there—” the older boy stopped. His red eyes completely focused on the item laid before him.
On Yuuji’s table, a familiar card sits unassumingly.
Rage was quick to overwhelm the older boy as he glared at the offending material. “What is this.” Sukuna’s tone was snappy and filled with disbelief. It was not a question, but rather a demand in dire need of a response due to the insolence presented in front of him.
“Yuuji, what is this—”
“You know full well what this is!” Yuuji, too, wasn’t in the mood to be kind. Frustration, hurt, and anger surged inside of him as much as Sukuna felt. “Don’t look at me like that, Sukuna. You don’t get to look mad when you know what you’ve done to deserve this.”
“What I’ve done?” Incredulity colored Sukuna’s voice as he faced Yuuji with confusion and indignation. “Pray tell me, what exactly I have done to push you to make a decision you’ve wrongfully picked!”
“You’ve heard of the whispers, I know it!” Yuuji could feel tears prickling in his eyes, still not looking at the other. “I don’t need any more of your explanation. Your actions from the past few days are already a good reason for me.”
Everything came barreling down at an unforgivable pace. He couldn’t forget those moments when Sukuna brushed him away. It was those days when Sukuna had become distant lately and was so eager to spend his time with other people that shattered Yuuji’s confidence in their relationship.
Those small and unique moments they used to share were all stolen and gone when Sukuna prioritized other things rather than their time together. Yuuji could vividly remember planning a day with Sukuna— to go to the park and have the day to themselves only to be shut down when Sukuna declined the exact day. A day in which Yuuji planned prior only to be rejected for whatever reasons Sukuna did not bother to tell.
It was a grating feeling, one that burns and is completely heavy. It amplified even more so when Yuuji became aware of the condition of their relationship, and it once again only tripled when other people started noticing it as well!
So what gives Sukuna the right to be angry with him?
Yuuji grits his teeth, scowling. “I’m leaving. Whatever excuses you’re going to sprout from your mouth again is worthless. I had enough!”
He took the card and shoved it into his bag. He took a step aside and started walking away when a firm hand on his upper arm stopped him. Yuuji stumbled from his steps as he was twirled around to come face-to-face with Sukuna, who was bearing an expression devoid of any emotion.
“So you ought to find more credibility in those worthless whispers of others than my words? Me, whom you know more intimately than half of your classmates!”
Yuuji pulled away from Sukuna’s grip harshly. He gave a stern glare in return. “Yes. Since they saw you, and that is proof enough.”
“Even when they hardly know the context behind it? How daft can you be!?”
“I don’t care anymore, Sukuna! It’s too late anyway!” Yuuji yelled, ignoring the way it made his chest tight. “I joined the Servants Team and that’s it! You can’t do anything about it anymore!”
Before Sukuna could even utter a single word, Yuuji sprinted from the room. Fleeing is all he could do against an unfamiliar trouble he doesn’t know he could win. He didn’t want Sukuna to see how this ruined him. He didn’t want him to see just how this heavily impacted him.
After all, even though Sukuna fell first, Yuuji fell harder the most.
~~~
“Did you hear? Ryomen got himself a partner.”
“Yeah… Apparently, it’s not Yuuji.”
“It’s the Student Council Treasurer of section A! She’s one of the smartest in our school!”
“Wow. So, he just threw away Yuuji, huh? Poor guy.”
~~~
That day, Yuuji sat alone at the rooftop. The very same place Sukuna made his feelings known. He left his lunch box uneaten beside him.
Is he an individual so easily to be forgotten? To be brushed away just like that?
No… Yuuji made it very clear that he could never be a part of the dance team anymore. Especially now that he holds the card specifically made for students who participated in becoming servants themselves. And besides, it’s not like Sukuna would ask him to be his partner. He, too, made that very clear when he avoided Yuuji throughout all those times after the event was announced to the public.
Yuuji supposes that he should be happy… that at least Sukuna wouldn’t be alone at the graduation ball.
A sad, small smile appeared. A smile of relief.
~~~
“Are you sure about this, Yuuji?” Iguchi asked, walking beside him. “You’ve looked forward to this kind of event.”
“It’s been settled,” Yuuji affirmed, eyeing straight ahead with determination. “There’s no turning back right now.”
“Well, actually, you still can.”
“No, Iguchi. Have you heard? The student council is only just finishing things up with the lists. It’s only a few days left and almost all of the students have already signed their names.” Yuuji lies, knowing full well that the assigning roles are still up and open. The council wanted to ensure they gave everyone enough time to muster up the courage and get a partner for themselves.
“Oh…”
“Besides, that doesn’t matter right now. We have a project due in two days and I don’t want the professor to look at me with those eyes again.”
“Uh, Yuuji…?”
He glanced at his friend, who now appears hesitant and unsure. “What?”
“You know we got ball dancing practice and service training, right?”
“Yeah? I don’t attend them though.” Yuuji mutters.
“Well, I saw Sukuna there.”
At the mention of his lover, Yuuji rolls his eyes and walks faster. “So? I don’t care?”
“And he’s alone.”
That nearly made Yuuji pause on his walk, but he brushed it away, acting as if the information didn’t affect him. “That can’t be. He’s got a partner.”
Iguchi only shrugged. “I don’t know. I’ve never seen her around.”
Yuuji thought about this revelation. No one ever stood up Sukuna. Well, except for him. But Yuuji knows that every girl and boy will never come to reject Sukuna, especially with all the fame and power he holds. So, the fact that this girl didn’t come even though she was his partner was baffling.
“Then, what did he do?”
“The teachers approached him, asking where his partner was. I couldn’t hear him since I’m a bit farther away, but I think he said something that satisfy the teachers. While everyone was busy practicing their dance moves and serving roles, he just sat there, on the benches… Like he’s waiting.”
Yuuji’s lips pressed tight, the image of Sukuna all alone and waiting was something he couldn’t even comprehend. “I… That’s odd.”
“Right? Can’t you believe it? He’s waiting for this girl who didn’t even come!”
That’s quite embarrassing in a way. Sukuna is a damn confident boy. Not one person ever rejects him, let alone disobeys him. But the thought of him, waiting and only watching while the dancers and servants teams practicing for the upcoming event… It’s quite strange and sad.
“Yuuji.”
He blinked, removing himself from a trance, and glanced at his friend only to realize Iguchi had fallen behind. “What?”
Iguchi pointed to his left, eyes wide. “Sukuna.”
“What?”
And indeed, Yuuji sharply turns to his side only to spot the aforementioned boy locking eyes with him in an instant. Tension immediately grasped him. How long has Sukuna been watching him from this distance?
“I should probably leave you two alone.” Iguchi squeaked and already marching away.
“W-Wait, Iguchi—”
Yuuji didn’t even realize that he and Sukuna were staring at each other for longer than five seconds. It was as if a feeling of longing had passed them by, unable to look away from each other. An embarrassed flush forms on his cheeks, and then suddenly there is a sound of footsteps coming closer. Yuuji inhaled sharply as he registered the sight of Sukuna approaching.
The desire to just walk away burns within him, not wanting to talk with Sukuna this soon, especially when he’s still angry. However, he stayed rooted to the spot. After all, his pride won’t let him cower away once again.
“How audacious.” Sukuna drawled once he was finally near. The sound of his deep voice bouncing from the walls in an empty hall caused Yuuji to hold his breath. “For one to exclaim the role you’ve so righteously and insistently joined, you never showed up in practice.”
Irritation started to flare up in the form of Yuuji’s palm curling. “How could I? Knowing that you’re there certainly puts me in a happy mood.”
“Brat.” Sukuna sneered. “Is my presence revolting enough for you to the point of hiding yourself away from me? If I remember, you weren’t acting like a pathetic little thing during the past few days.”
“Oh yeah? Well, for the past few days, I remember that you were so eager to leave me alone.”
“Jumping to conclusions, are we? You should be grateful…” Sukuna’s eyes darkened, a frown marring his face. “That I can be patient when I want to. But since you are quick to allow absurdities to conflict your mind, I suggest you follow me.”
“And what? Hear more of your excuses?” Yuuji huffs, facing away from him. “You know, before all this, I would happily indulge your wishes. I thought it’d be fine, to allow you to go ahead and do whatever you have to do and just ignore me. But then, surprise! Guess what other people are saying.”
“Those other people don’t know what they are saying.” Sukuna retaliated, brows furrowed in vexation. “Whatever filth they’ve sprouted is not worth for your ears to hear, let alone take control of whatever stupid thoughts you currently have.”
Stupid thoughts!?
“I don’t think it’s stupid for me, Sukuna. In my case, it’s very informative! When I asked you about your plans, you never explicitly told me! You didn’t tell me anything about what you’re doing, where you’re going, and… and whatever things your attention requires! It’s all just… Just lies!” Yuuji fought the urge to just march in front of Sukuna and pound his fists on his chest out of frustration. “I am a concerned and curious individual, too! So, whatever the others saw was proven very helpful to at least get an idea. And since they saw you, it was enough for me to believe it right away!”
“To see is to believe,” Sukuna laughs but there was no humor in that. “Yet they do not know my plans! Their eyes may allow them to see but it does not grant them to understand the reason behind my actions!”
Yuuji didn’t say anything further, simply glowering up at him. Sukuna continued, ignoring the spiteful look directed at him. “If you’re so intent to know of my plans, then allow me to show you.” Yuuji was about to open his mouth to retort only to be cut off. “I do not take a ‘no’ for an answer.”
And so, Sukuna strides ahead, not even turning around to see if the younger boy is following after. Without much of a choice, Yuuji ignored the whispers in his mind to fight, and instead, chase after him.
~
These halls are familiar. Since this school is an old building, it had undergone many revisions and thus resulted in many abandoned classrooms and offices.
Many students come here to seek solitude or to spend better time with each other without the teachers intruding on their time. However, there is no light in the area and it’s so eerily quiet that it’s enough for others to avoid this place. Only the brave ever comes but even then they do not allow themselves to linger as long as they could.
The number of horror stories around this place was amusing, passing down tales to the next generations. However, this place is like a goldmine for famed students like Sukuna and Uraume.
The only reason why he’s not as spotted so easily in the school is that he often lingers around in this area. He roams on this place like a King. Yuuji never went to this place since he had his own space where he could hang out for alone time or even with friends. The club room where Sasaki, Iguchi, and himself are occupied is a good place for them.
Now, entering a domain in which Sukuna is sure to dominate left Yuuji a little bit nervous. Even when he and Sukuna are in a relationship, they never even once went here together, opting to spend their time with each other on the rooftop or outside the campus.
“What are we even doing here?” Yuuji’s voice echoed within the abandoned halls, taking note of the way the floor creaked. He looks at Sukuna who is still ahead of him, leading the way.
The older boy didn’t turn around. “I told you it was best to show you.”
Yuuji scowled and chose to remain quiet once more. The silence was deafening except for the occasional creaks and the sound of their footsteps.
Suddenly, Sukuna stopped, and Yuuji followed. The former pauses for a moment before walking tentatively to a door in an empty classroom. Yuuji watched as Sukuna heaved a sigh and slid the door open. If Yuuji could study Sukuna’s expression properly with a better light, he might even say that his lover looked… nervous.
“Come inside.”
Curiosity flared within Yuuji and he gulped a thick lump in his throat as he approached Sukuna, who was watching him with those intense eyes. Yuuji is close enough, their arms almost touching and he switches his gaze inside of the room.
“Oh, Uraume.”
The sight before him caused him to be surprised, even though he shouldn’t be. Uraume is just sitting on a chair, facing the door and the two of them with a small smile. If Yuuji looked closer, he might’ve even seen the way their eyes gleamed with amusement and unknown intentions. Uraume did not bother to say anything, and instead, gestured their hand to the left as if they were presenting something to him.
And Yuuji’s gaze followed to where Uraume was pointing and his eyes widened.
What is going on?
Before him was a sight he never expected. His original assumptions about Sukuna taking him here to deliver those dreadful, heartbreaking words disappeared the instant his mind processed the view.
The wall was decorated with a string of what appeared to be Polaroid instant films. They hang there, lining each other horizontally and each film is clipped to the strings. Every film represents an image of them, Yuuji noticed. He slowly walked towards it, entranced, eyeing the film sheets and seeing a flash of himself and Sukuna— every photo of just them only.
He took a film that captured his eye, unclipping it from the string. It was a photo of Yuuji and Sukuna standing on a platform. He was wearing a garment much similar to what he wore during the Valentine’s Day wedding booth—
“Oh!”
It was on Valentine's Day. He could see Iguchi’s figure as a priest standing before them. In the photo, Sukuna was looking at him so fondly that Yuuji felt butterflies in his stomach the more he lingered his gaze on him.
His heart thundered, glancing up again to pick another film. He was greeted with yet another surprise as he saw himself and Sukuna tied to each other by their wrists. The handcuff booth, Yuuji mused. They were walking through the bustling hall. Yuuji’s head was lowered, appearing shy, and Sukuna meanwhile appeared to be striding with confidence.
What in the world…
He turned around, confused. Uraume remained sitting on the chair but now they were holding a Polaroid camera— Ah. So, it was Uraume who took pictures of them.
A mix of emotions surged within him as he returned his gaze to the photo and stared at it almost greedily. Yuuji released a shaky breath when his eyes moved to the one beside him. What caught his attention now was a red box sitting there unassumingly on a table and he looked at Sukuna who was just watching him from afar with an unreadable expression.
“Go ahead, open it.”
Yuuji flickered his gaze back to the box, reaching out with his arms for him to take. His fingers pinched the ribbon and untied the knot, then gently opened the flaps of the box—
It was a camera.
“Do you remember that day when we had our first conversation?” Sukuna broke the silence, ambling forth until he was right next to Yuuji.
“Y-You mean at the boy’s toilet?” Yuuji’s voice cracked.
Sukuna huffed and rolled his eyes. “Yes, that place. At that time, I had asked you what you wanted for a gift if someone were to ever plan to give you.”
Yuuji certainly remembered that specific moment Sukuna was interrogating him. Back then, the unexpected situation had led him to think that this boy was way too far out of his league let alone talk to him. It may even be considered life-changing.
‘Would you accept a gift, even if it’s not to your preference?’
‘Yeah. I mean, they thought of me, so… I would accept anything they would give me because of that.’
‘Then what do you want?’
Yuuji eyed the device that had laid innocently on the table. His heart pounding from realization. “Oh, no way. That is…”
“A gift.” Sukuna gestured the camera to Yuuji, watching the latter with a hopeful, expectant expression. “For you.”
Yuuji couldn’t believe it. It felt like he was dreaming, but the bubbling feeling of disbelief and confusion was enough to make him think that this was all real.
“A few days ago, when I tried to approach you before that… unpleasant revelation, it marks the second month of our relationship. I was simply waiting for the right day and time.”
“Waiting?” Yuuji is fighting himself not to burst into tears right now. “Why?” You shouldn’t have waited for me at all.
“For the right moment to ask you to be my partner, of course,” Sukuna answered with a smirk on his face. “Though, I find that extremely pointless since it should’ve been obvious enough that you are already mine. The rule to ask someone first before signing down one’s name is quite absurd, especially when those annoying flies from the student council are barging me questions if you had agreed to be my partner.”
Ah… That day, huh?
Yuuji recalls the moment when Sukuna saw the card he possessed. The anger Sukuna bore once he registered the sight of the Servant card was something Yuuji couldn’t forget. So, he inspected the camera before him, all the more aware that his heart was aching for causing so many misunderstandings.
“Sukuna… You shouldn’t have.” Guilt started weighing down Yuuji’s heart. So, all those times, Sukuna was away to prepare these? “God, I am… I am so angry at myself right now.”
“Shh,” Sukuna was quick to press himself to Yuuji, engulfing him in a side embrace and brushing his lips on his temple. “Don’t be. After all, you deserve an explanation, considering this isn’t at all what I’ve been doing.”
“What do you mean?”
“In the middle of preparing all of this, I was off seeking guidance from specific individuals,”
“Guidance? From what?”
Sukuna took Yuuji’s hand gently and began stroking the latter’s knuckles with his thumb. “I require expert opinions when it comes to being in a real romantic relationship. Since I lack experience on my part, I intend to do a little bit of research here and there. Especially when I fully intend to pour out all my efforts towards our current relationship… Especially when it comes to you.”
Yuuji could feel himself flushing once again.
Well then.
The admission of the fact that Sukuna, too, was inexperienced and did need guidance regarding their current predicament was unexpected for Yuuji, taking into regard Sukuna’s personality, mentioning his status as well. Because for certain, many people, including Yuuji, fully expected Sukuna to know it all. Yuuji always perceives Sukuna as someone to take things in a confident stride, but now that Sukuna exposed himself— admitting it himself that he is knowledgeable about certain aspects was surprising.
“Of course, it was not worth it when my actions had left you hurting instead. For that, I apologize.” Sukuna’s lips formed a tight line, an expression of regret entering his features. “I was foolish. It was out of a selfish desire all because I wanted to know how to make you stay with me.”
Yuuji stared at him, unprepared for the revelation presented so openly.
Sukuna Ryomen, a boy who could make girls fall to their knees and men look in envy, can be someone who could be looked up to in a different way. He is so confident and cocky in many things that it completely knocks Yuuji off guard that he is actually seeking guidance from others about wanting to know how to strengthen a relationship he desires to last. It’s not like it is wrong, but it is strange coming from the heir of the Ryomen clan. To disregard his pride and accept that he lacked knowledge of one field everyone expects him to know, well, Sukuna isn’t known to be that kind of person at all!
It’s baffling… but oddly sweet of him. Yuuji’s heart melted at the thought.
“My goal was to make you mine and it was accomplished. But to make you stay with me forever is the question. Soon, you will see just how different the way I live my life is. It won’t be long till you know that I am not as… pure as you think. You may find my actions in the future unbearable and unholy even when necessary. It is just who I am.”
“So, when the time comes that you finally know who I truly am… Will the truth make you stay? Or…” He trailed off, looking away from Yuuji.
Yuuji’s throat bobbed. What does he mean? He always knew there would be a difference between Sukuna as a student versus Sukuna as an heir of one of the most powerful families out there. The number of times he’s heard about the atrocious deeds the Ryomen clan would do for power has certainly left Yuuji in doubt before dating the heir.
But now as Yuuji witnessed and heard the efforts Sukuna makes for their relationship, even if he isn’t as blunt or straightforward in getting what he wants, he always shows a level of sweetness towards Yuuji.
Sure, Sukuna can be mean, rude, and quite intimidating, but it is part of his charm. The work he does, no matter how bloody or crude it gets, indeed may never be ignored. However, Yuuji knows Sukuna now, and he has come to recognize the lengths he’d go to just to please Yuuji and it is something not to be ignored either.
Sukuna didn’t care if his reputation was tarnished. He didn’t care if he’d be called lover boy or soft even just for one person. Because he does whatever he wants and he takes full confidence in it. And Yuuji admires that about him.
Those handkerchiefs, this camera, and this view prepared by him are enough.
“I don’t know what will happen in the future.” Yuuji provided, looking down at where their fingers were now linked together subconsciously. “And it’s not like I didn’t know beforehand you’re capable of bringing harm. All I know is that I could never forget this side of you. This sweet, caring, and fond you.”
Then, Yuuji glanced at Sukuna, reaching up to cup his strong jaw. This was enough to cause Sukuna to gaze at him once again. “I’m not afraid of you, Sukuna. You could damn well say that I love you that I wouldn’t care if you’re a—”
“You love me?”
Oh, shit.
Yuuji flinched and leaned back, lowering his hand that was caressing Sukuna’s cheek. His mouth is running again, and his face is growing hot by the second. “Oh! I mean, like any lover does! I-I meant like a big crush! W-Well, you already know that but like in a way that I love you— No! Well, not love, but a deep likeness towards you? I mean—”
“I love you, too.”
“Not that I don’t love you, it’s way too early to say that, but in a way that I like you so much.” Yuuji paused for five whole seconds, not believing his ears. “S-Say that again?”
Sukuna’s eyes shone with such mirth as he smiled, almost too wickedly in that handsome face of his. “What? That I love you, too? I thought you already knew that, considering that I gave you a red handkerchief at the wedding booth on Valentine’s Day.”
Oh… Oh!
“Huh.”
Sukuna laughs, extremely elated judging by the huge grin plastered on his features. It’s like he’s glowing. The way his face lit up at the confession revealed to him made him shine, showing the fact that he was happy. Because why wouldn’t he?
"Does this mean I am forgiven?" Sukuna glances at the other with those wicked eyes brimming with wicked intentions.
"O-Of course, Sukuna." Yuuji could tell what the other was thinking judging by those intense eyes in which he is easy to get lost.
“I ask you now… Will you be my partner for this dance, Yuuji?”
Yuuji grinned, moving closer to the other. “Of course.”
Yuuji will stay by his side.
The thought circled in Sukuna’s mind endlessly that he pulled his lover closer and kissed him.
CLICK!
The flash and the sound had them pulling away from their brief kiss, eyes moving beside them only to see Uraume with a Polaroid camera that is pointing directly at them. Then, the device was humming and suddenly, a photo film was coming out from it.
“Please, don’t mind me, Lord Sukuna, Yuuji-san. I did not intend to ruin the moment.”
“You already have, Uraume.”