Archive of Our Own

For a group always finding trouble and making mistakes, these certain folk knew how to jump to the opportunity. The group moved around, snickering and bickering over the holiday present. The house warm, lit and warm by the fire eating at the chopped logs mushed together. Lying on one another, the fire burned brightly, the embers blending in with the colors of yellow red and orange, painting the family in a sunset like glow.

One of the eldest had been unimpressed, folded arms watching the scene like an outsider. Off to the side, he tried not to scoff at the ridiculous display of banter in front of him. The main group, flaunting off their costumes, one by one expressing their pride and amusement in the holidays celebration.

Halloween day, they planned to celebrate.

Off in the bathroom, muttering to himself. Genya paced trying to accept his own appearance, a black like haori clipped and hanging by his neck. A cape essentially. He brushed his hair back, running his fingers through the untamed locks. His reflection stared at himself, dumbfounded by how silly he felt. Sure, they were grown up, should they truthfully be doing something like this? Then you consider, that they missed out on plenty holidays, so they should play catch up.

The clothes were a little heavy on him, the fabric felt cheap, as if they wasted their time looking for clothes that were specifically made to scratch your brains out. His face powdery— like grease? The warmth didn’t add any pleasure to it, his body felt interestingly soft.

Regardless of that, he couldn’t handle how silly he felt, staring at himself with a disbelieving expression. His face dabbed in a pale powder, making his skin look faint. His lips slightly redder, tinted in a rosy red. His eyes were wide as typical, the under eye having a painted shadow of black. Truthfully, he looked more ghoulish  than anything. When he opened his mouth, his canines glinted upon the light, his teeth as sharp as always. Still risky enough for him to bite his own tongue off, he had the whole look.

What had they gone for? Apparently it’s called vampire. This year they chose to adopt western styles, as per suggested by Tanjiro. He was starting to really regret it, rubbing the back of his neck with an exasperated look. This was unnecessary, he felt so stupid. Under the cape he wore a simple dress shirt with black pants.

He looked of what a vampire was labeled to look like, a stupid sickly weird creature.

Begrudgingly, he snuck himself back to the main room where the others had been. His eyes averted as he attempts to refrain from bringing attention to himself. Unfortunately, Zenitsu ever so intent to tease and fluster Genya, chirped up waving over at him. Grinning from ear to ear, whistling at him.

“Well well, look who finally decided to show up. Looking sharp, Genya!”

“Tch. Don’t start, Zenitsu.” Genya tried not to groan, folding his arms he could feel the heat begin to rise to his cheeks. Zenitsu knew how to annoy him, the clothes felt heavier suddenly. The warmth of the house getting more intense.

“Hey, I’m just saying!” Zenitsu rolled his eyes, waving his hands around him as if he were gesturing to his whole being, “You’re pulling off the whole. . .vampire thing. Sharp teeth and all.”

The group all turned around, eyeing him up and down. They each shared an amused look, looking back to Genya with soft chuckles. The blond boy leading their silent teasing. He was a silly ghost, holding a lengthy white sheet with two holes, enough to see through them. His costume is last, for he is a mere ghost. It’s nothing impressive, Genya can’t say it’s got him wowed.

Inosuke bumped shoulders with Zenitsu, the harsh impact causes the other to stumble as he huffs his chest out. The boar boy had his casual boar head, deciding he did best that way. He wasn’t too keen on acting as anything else, and it has been a while since he’s worn his signature ‘uniform’. Very on brand for the idiot.

“Vampires!? I’ll take ‘em down, just point me to ‘em!” He so proudly proclaimed, pointing his thumb at himself.

“That’s. .  .not how it works.” Zenitsu murmured rubbing his shoulder that had now been aching. His eyebrows knitted down, his tone scolding. Those two loved to argue, being at odds with eachother was their routine.

The young girl, Nezuko, had snickered. Emerging from behind the blond boy, her hand is placed on his shoulder. With long meticulous gloves meeting her elbow. The girl had been wearing a lengthy dress. Black and silky, the ends of it covered her ankles with a transparent layer. It covered most of her body, being modest at most. She had these dark boots with red bottom coloring, and her typical long socks.

The girls face was painted in a darker aesthetic, with red painted lips. Though, it didn’t matter due to her wearing a pointy black hat. The rims of the hat flared out, and with the tip curling out.   

The girl spoke in a sweet tone, looking Genya up and down. “You look good, Genya. It suits you.”

Her words reassure him, knowing she wouldn’t say something just to say it. The girl was honest, just like her older brother. Genya mildly smiled, his posture relaxing, “You sure? I feel ridiculous.”

“No, really.” She continued, giving the two a sideline stare as they began to bicker beside her, “You pull it off.”

“Hmph. .  .if you say so.”

The blond boy grumbled, shoving Inosuke away as he tried to manhandle him around. His eyes narrowing before slipping around the girl, hiding away from his onslaught attacks. The three are strange at best, somehow working out their relationship despite how chaotic they are.

“Wait ‘til Tanjiro sees you.” Zenitsu snickered rubbing his nose, winking at Genya. His voice is snarky and irritating, falling from his lips like a constant threat. “He’s gonna—”

“He’s gonna what?”

A bright voice called out from behind a door, it earned everyone’s attention looking over, including Sanemi who’d still been leaning away from them. That same obstacle only slid right to the side, hitting the frame of the door as the retired demon slayer stepped out with a goofy grin, his costume having an interesting flare. Right behind him, another presence, taller than he stood the—- two ‘brothers’.

Genya blinked, absently rubbing over his wrist as he stared at the two. Tanjiro dressed in a huge green haori, slightly muddled with feigned mud stains and rips. Around his neck hung a red collar with spikes, and two faux wolf ears perked up on his head. Underneath the haori, was a thick white undergarment with paw like drawings. His pants were baggy, the sides of them slit open from top, right where his hips would be, but it didn’t show any skin. At the very end, to the ankles they were firmly cuffed.

Behind him, was Giyu in the same attire with an unimpressed expression, he appeared to be uncomfortable. His opaque blue eyes narrowed away, and he slipped past Tanjiro taking his spot next to Sanemi not uttering a word. The retired hashiras shared a quiet exchange, the shorter one snorting and the taller one dismissing it with a sigh.

Genya smiled glad Tanjiro outdid him in terms of silly, he tried not to laugh but he did raise an eyebrow already judging his partner, “Speak of the devil.  . or should I say. .  .wolf?”

Tanjiro walked over, standing tall and unashamed. Behind him was a Faux tail tied to the back of his pants, fluffy and darkly colored with soft ‘fur’. “Hey, I didn’t hear you complaining when I suggested this!”

“I should’ve.” Genya scoffed flicking one of the ears. Though his ridiculous wolf costume, Tanjiro’s bright eyes reminded him of why he ever stood a chance.

“You look good, Yacchi.” Tanjiro swatted his hand away, smiling warmly, his rosy cheeks more noticeable against his paler skin. He leaned in, lips brushing over Genya’s knuckles with a cheeky chuckle, knowing full well the effect it had. “Or should I say. .  .Count Yacchi?”

“Don’t start with me, Tani.” Freeing his hand, Genya grabbed Tanjiro’s face, his fingers digging gently into his cheeks. Tanjiro blinked up at him with wide, innocent eyes, and for a moment, Genya’s breath hitched.“You’re lucky you’re cute.”

“You think I’m cute in this?”

And Genya found himself looking Tanjiro up and down again, his eyes narrowed as he clicks his tongue. Truthfully, it was endearing, the outfit was rather. . .odd, but despite that Tanjiro was making it work rather adorably. His bright eyes and innocent behavior makes him look like a puppy to Genya. It wasn’t like Tanjiro to shy away from a challenge anyways, so him taking the costume seriously made his heart swell with affection. He was cute, even this stupid wolf costume.

“Cute enough to bite.” Genya rumbled out, glancing to his neck that’d still been collared. Unexposed for any ‘vampire attacks’. His pulse quickened despite the grin tugging at his lips. He grimaced, trying to brush off the heat creeping up his neck. “Careful, or I might have to turn you into a vampire.”

Zenitsu groaned, rubbing his temple as he walked a few steps away from the group. Grabbing a small bucket, empty and bare. He quite hated their success romance, hard to believe someone like Genya has a partner like Tanjiro.

“Ugh,” he grumbled mocking himself vomiting into the bucket, urging his head in with feigned noises. “this flirting is too much for me. . .”

The boar boy hit his chest, huffing and puffing. Full of energy, as per usual the demands answers. He tried not evade Tanjiro’s nurturing touch, the other grabbing a coat trying to properly clothe the boy from the cold. It had snowed, so they were going to have to deal with that. Sure, Inosuke could handle the cold, should he? No!

“What’s a vampire anyway!?” He huffed dodging Tanjiro’s feeble attempts, “Can I fight it?”

Tanjiro had huffed; puffing his cheeks as he yanks Inosuke back by the wrist- swiftly throwing the clothes around him. The hardest part was putting his arms through the sleeves, “Well, only if you can survive the bite first, Inosuke.”

The younger sister snickered, laughing from behind her hand as she nudged Genya with knowing look. “Let’s just hope no one bites before the party even starts.”

Amongst the group, Sanemi rolled his eyes keeping his arms folded. The man did not wear a costume, he instead wore his typical demon slayer uniform just to match some sort of theme. He stole glances to Giyu, whom looked done with the day already. His costume close to a look alike from Tanjiro’s, though, different colors here, opposite actually. In addition, he had no collar, he can’t imagine why that would be.

“This is all so stupid.” He gruffly spoke, his voice a lowered octave as he complains in the background.

“At least they’re happy. . .” Giyu said right after, his expression unreadable from those words.

Tanjiro straightened up soon after, humming out with a curious look. Despite the heaviness of his clothes, making his skin clammy within this warm house, he found himself completely comfortable. He linked arms with Genya, dragging him over to the other two. Giving a look that screamed ‘ ready to go! ’

Knowing far too well, Giyu gave a curt nod. He spun around, Sanemi right after cut him off and walking in front of him. Typical, he wants to be the leader for the group. It’s nothing new to him, truly. They walked out to the nearby village, sharing small conversations, Tanjiro teasing on Genya and the other just scoffing and rolling his eyes.

The walk was full of chatter and laughter, Zenitsu and Inosuke following from behind. Nezuko attached to Genya’s other side. Humming along as the two discussed whatever, the walk over isn’t that bad.

Sanemi kept giving sidelong glances to Giyu, scoffing at every sigh the other gave back. Not that Giyu was embarrassed, if anything more uncomfortable. He knew he was out of his element, and not all attention is good attention.

When the group arrived to the village, awe struck and enamored with the small festival they were pleased. The path down was highly decorated, the entrance colorful with warm colors painting the group in a number of different glows. Plenty villagers roaming with their own costumes, endearing in all of their glory.

The more the group ventured in, they noted the more lively the village got. In a more opened area, waited festival games, casual events like winning prizes, or a costume competition, etc etc. other villagers roaming around, the place was crowded but it wasn’t bad enough to make it hard to move. Despite the chill air, it was hard to feel cold.

Tanjiro had pointed at a quant building with ‘spooky’ decorations out, the sign hanging over the door with a few ‘bloody’ words. Large dramatic cobwebs sprawled around the walls, and a gravestone next to the doors.

“Hehe, you think we should do that?” He curiously spoke, still following over. A lady with a mask smiling a little too confidentially as they approached.

Genya raised an eyebrow, subtly looking to Sanemi gauging his reaction. “You sure about this, Tani? You don’t usually go looking for haunted houses.”

“That’s why you’re here!” Tanjiro quickly chirped back, smiling warmly with those tinted rosy cheeks. Due to the cold, not his flattery, “I’m braver when you’re around.”

“Fine,” he rolled his eyes pausing as the lady counted the group, one by one, snickering and whispering about ‘how scary’ the haunted house was, he shook it off. “but you’re on your own if you jump.”

The girl hummed out, nudging Genya’s side with a cheeky grin, “Let’s see how brave you both are.”

The first three waited, Giyu paid the amount per person. Staying silent as the lady gawked at him, looking him up and down as if he’d been something out of this world. Giyu was a handsome man, though his hair had been chopped off, he still looked mysterious and casual about it all.

The older brother, Sanemi, had sighed out loud, bumping past the couple. “Bet I’d get through that place faster than any of you.”

Giyu deadpanned, patting Tanjiro’s head as he walked past him. His hands lingered for a moment, earning a huff from Genya, “You can lead the way, then. I’ll watch your back.  . .in case you decide to make a run for it.”

“Don’t get too comfortable back there, Tomioka.”

The two older men vanished into the house of the haunted house, leaving the rest to formulate their own plan, teasing, and taunting about whether or not they’re scared or brave.  They’re demon slayers, now retired sure, but nonetheless braver than most common folk.

Tanjiro nudged Genya’s arm, “See? Even they’re getting into it. Looks like we’re all set!”

The blond boy deadpanned, unamused as he took Nezuko’s arm. He didn’t bother to present himself as the brave one tonight, he knew that they knew , he wasn’t going to protect anyone. “I’ll be the only one screaming. This is so unfair.”

Inosuke followed behind them, urging the group—pushing and shoving them inside the haunted house, “Then I’ll just out-scream all of you!”

Genya rolled his eyes, squinting his eyes as their surroundings  grew darker, “Guess it’s time to see how brave you really are, huh?”

Tanjiro’s laugh grew quiet, a wicked smile plastering on his face despite the blush on his cheeks, “ Only if you hold my hand the whole way.”

Genya merely smiled at that, holding his hand out; the two laced their hands together. They proceeded forward, suddenly aware of how surreal the place felt. The hall down was narrow at first, the walls dimly lit with a color of blue glowing on them. The walls were painted in a dark monotoned red, the walls seemed cracked, and some doors were ripped apart leading into other possible rooms, the scent in each step grew thicker with a grime like effect.

Tanjior peered around, his eyes widening as he struggled to make sense of his surroundings. He closed one eye, unable to see well with the blind one. He glanced over, feeling Genya’s hand  tightened around his own. He assumed the other was on edge, so he guesses that the house was doing its job.

They continued to walk, staying silent. Tanjiro found himself smelling the air more intently, as if he were expecting another presence to come out and scare him senseless. Genya alongside, lowered his head some, finding certain things to be corny. Such as the silly attempts of horror, ‘blood’ splattered on the walls and tossed furniture, the halls somehow getting narrower and narrower. Not that it wasn’t decorated, the walls had paintings with perhaps old couples?

Perhaps the looming shadows of certain folk, baiting them that someone else was there. Genya’s rolled his eyes, glancing to Tanjiro who was comically looking around like an aimless grandpa.

“You having fun yet?” He questioned, looking past his shoulder, noting that Zenitsu was clinging onto Nezuko with his eyes shut tightly.

Tanjiro chuckled, “absolutely.”

Inosuke boredly yawned and shoved past them, puffing his chest out. “Move it!“

The boar boy proceeded, walking too quickly for their taste. His figure grew more and more distant, not that Genya was complaining. He didnt think Inosuke would be that all helpful, more a nuisance than a help.

Tanjiro pulled Genya a little harder, urging him on to follow quicker, all to keep up with Insouke. Genya raised an eyebrow, staring at the other as if judging him for being so concerned. It’s Inosuke, why worry so much? He can fend for himself, and the boys barely scared of anything. Zenitsu audibly panicked behind them, squeaking and stammering.

He looked to the walls again, stumbling some as the paintings spoke to him. In a way, they were staring at them. Surely that was done on purpose, he glanced back to the painting. An old man, with a straw hat, staring right at him. That’s the painting. As they continued to stumble through, he huffed in realization. An amused grin plastering on his face, he pulled Tanjiro closer pointing at the paintings.

“Hey, look the eyes are following us.” He whispered, wrapping his arm around his shoulder.

Tanjiro gasped, staring at them as they paused their walking. He leaned over, tilting his head as he stepped from one side to the other, “oh wow, you’re right!”

“But hey,” Genya grinned, pulling him closer, “no worries, I’ll protect you.”

Tanjiro snorted elbowing him, smiling warmly, “oh, you’re so romantic!”

Genya felt his face flush, the heat reaching his ego as he sheepishly laughs. Clearing his throat, he looked away. Inosuke continued to stalk forward, muttering and talking to himself as he poked his head into another rooms, calling out to possible scare actors ‘challenging them’ and so on. The boy turned the corner, and Tanjiro immediately tugged them forward.

Genya wanted to snap at him, maybe make him stop and wait. Just to see if Inosuke would notice he was alone, or far off without them. Would he then be scared, or nervous?

Regardless, the path didn’t stop and they hurried to shuffle next to insouke. Eventually catching up, they sighed out of relief (except Genya).

“Hey Ino-“ Tanjiro started to say, reaching to tap his shoulder before the boy barked. Seconds later, a skeleton prop emerged from the ceiling and floor straight down at them. Inosuke threw his hands out trying to punch the skeleton away, screening and shouting his head off.

“I’ll take you on!”

The group jumped back, but Tanjiro laughed rather startled right after. He was amused as his friend continued to try and throw hands with the skeleton, squeezing Genya’s hands with a hint of adrenaline in his eyes. Genya’s heartbeat slightly raced, relaxing in a few seconds. Somewhat dumbfounded, he shook his head at the other once the skeleton dangled and switched at the occasional impact of his fists.

“Chill.” Genya scoffed, dragging Tanjiro past the fighting boy. He could hear the others snickering and teasing Inosuke about his reactions.

Tanjiro stumbles as he drags him away the haunted house only dragging deeper and deeper into the darkness. His eyes snap over to another room, and he quickly yanked Genya inside it gasping, a room full of weird mirrors.

How does one even do this?

Genya inhaled, blinking. The room had their reflection wandering around curiously. Their hands unlaced from each other, causing alarm bells to ring in his skull. He didn’t say anything, only considered it, seeing Tanjiro smile with that blue glow on him was oddly serene. He slipped between a few mirrors, holding his hands out cautiously to not bump into mirrors.

Genya blinked, his eyes narrowing to this hands again, alarm bells went off in his head again. He took a few steps forward following as Tanjiro continued in. His eyes would snap back to Tanjiro, his heart beating with affection. His skin was fair, but he in his costumed different shades of blue. The hues were reminiscent of colors like the midnight sky, blue, purple, when it comes to the lighter colors he imagined speckles of white plastered on his figure. Like he were a canvas for the starry night.

His crimson eyes glimmered, glinting in each reflection that kept looking back to him. When they locked eyes, he would smile. He wanted to laugh, his skin tingling as the room suddenly felt warmer.

“Hey,” he started, pressing his plans against a mirror. The surface cold against his skin, once pulled away a hand print left. “Don’t get lost in there.”

“I think we’re both a little lost.”  Tanjiro had hummed out, stopping as he turned a small corner. His reflection following his steps, “ But at least I have good company, right?”

“Oh? Suddenly I’m good company now?” He grinned, raising an eyebrow.

“Of course! Who else would protect me in a haunted house?” Tanjiro chirped, turning around retracing his steps. His arms hit a few mirrors and he spun back to find the perfect step.

Genya grinned watching the other struggle, folding his arms. His eyes flickering up and down, waiting for Tanjiro to figure out the maze again.

“Pfft, as if you’d need protecting.” He rolled his eyes, shaking his head at him. “But. . .I guess I wouldn’t mind keeping you close.”

“Then keep me close.” Tanjiro tried to flirt, feeling rather empowered by his words. He had a shy smile, not that he felt unsure of his words, just trying to sound confident despite how lost he looked at the moment.

Genya chuckled, waving a hand over to him. Gesturing for him to take what he’d like, and Tanjiro, in his confidence smiled excitedly. The colors of blue-for a moment- seemed indigo, and when he turned there was a loud sound.

Thunk!

Tanjiro hit a mirror, square faced and physically recoiled after the hit. He flinched rubbing over his forehead, recovering from his action rather than the feeling. Genya couldn’t help but laugh, raising a hand over his mouth to muffle his chuckles. It was funny, he can’t lie,

Tanjiro had a dazed look, his face turning crimson at his foolishness. You’d think a retired demon slayer would be more aware of surroundings, reflections and all.

“Smooth, Tanjiro. Real smooth.” Genya whistled approaching the other in steady footsteps.

“Oh, hush.” Tanjiro blushed, averting his eyes, “That mirror came out of nowhere.”

“Sure it did.” Replied the taller one, grabbing his wrist and pulling him away. “Maybe you’re a little distracted?”

“Maybe. . .I am.”

They glanced to eachother, giving knowing smiles as they freed themselves from the maze. Rather than entering from where they came front they emerged from another side. Glancing around their surroundings, they blinked realizing they might now be lost.

Genya raised an eyebrow, looking around his surroundings. The walls were a different color now, and the halls were less narrow. The light of the previous room was fragmented, all they could see was red. It was as if this side of the house was purely for storage, things hung and shoved to the side, mannequins leaning onto each other, their necks craned in a way that made them seem more alive.

Some of them stood alone, missing a few limbs rendering them useless. A few with no heads, hands, and weirdest of all, fingers. Tanjiro blinked lowering his head, unnerved by the proximity they neared the more they walked.

“Uh. .  .this wasn’t here before, right?” Tanjiro whispered cautiously reaching to poke a mannequin, sniffing the air once again. No one else here, not to hurt them, why would anyone hurt them?

“Definitely not.” Genya scoffed turning a mannequins head away, grimacing as it stared. “Unless the haunted house is trying to turn us into storage, too.”

“Ha, as if!” Tanjiro tried, nervously smiling he continued forward tugging on Genya’s sleeve, “Though, I’m not exactly mannequin material.”

“Yeah, you’d need to stand still for that.”

“Very funny, Yacchi.”

“Hey, I’m just saying!” Genya snickered looking past his shoulder as they walked past more mannequins. “Maybe they’d let you join the lineup if you knock into one more mirror.”

“Alright, alright!” His partner grumbled, rolling his eyes still walking rather absently, “You’re never letting that go, are you?”

“Not a chance. C’mon, let’s get out of here before these things start moving.”

Tanjiro bit his lip, he wanted to say ‘don’t jinx it’, but that would have been silly. The paranoia might have started to set in, and for some reason his hands twitch from how isolated that felt. He imagined himself needing to genuinely protect himself, something he hasn’t felt in a long time. He slouched, he hated feeling so defensive again.

Regardless, he had Genya with him so it’s not like they were out here fighting demons again.

They turned a corner, and the shadows seemed to rattle. Genya heard it first, the sound of something crumbling, just the faintest of a breeze. He raised an eyebrow and narrowed his eyes against the mess of unmoving figures. Maybe he’s delusional.

Tanjiro felt a lingering heaviness place against his shoulder, a hand. At first, he shivered, and he glanced with a shy smile.

“No need to be scared Gen-“

A mannequin slumped forward, the hand of it gripping his shoulder. His blood ran could and he yelped stumbling backward, with his feet scattering. His hands clenched to his sides, the words falling from his lips he missed the weight of his sword, and the chant of defense. When he would make flames burst from his sword, protecting himself from any danger.

Genya had cackled, reaching for him before the mannequin continued to move. The arm stretching out, fingers suddenly elongated, the wooding of it splintered and sprawled. It stepped forward, As if it were reaching for him . His eyes widened, with an audible gasp.  He quickly stepped away, grabbing Tanjiro and ‘gently’ shoving him forward.

The two hurried away, looking between both sides, forward and then backward. Stumbling, they searched for the nearest exit never making a sound louder than a squeak. Genya looked back, and the mannequins in, quick succession fall over. With one pointing at them, pointing at HIM .

His skin crawled, and for a moment he imagined himself shooting the jerk with his gun. They continued to flee, the hallways getting darker and darker, they hopped from obstacles, shoving blocky bodies out of the way. unfortunately that didn’t work out, for the mannequins blocked their path. A single one falling forward to them. It groaned, such a low vibrational sound, reverberating within their bones.

The two screamed, and Tanjiro jumped in front of Genya prepared to headbutt the damn thing. He had hopped and rolled forward before the mannequin fell limp in front of him. His fall unbroken, with arms suddenly slipping around his waist and holding him.

Tanjiro huffed, his heart wildly pounding in his head. All of his energy vanished, and stared at the ground hanging like a ragdoll. He panted, trying to process what had just happened. Was the mannequin holding him? There was no way it was alive, but it moved? He cautiously looked back, Genya frozen in place with his jaw dropped.

Well, Genya was staring at the man with all of his beauty, scarred body but always presenting himself without shame, way too proud. The man in return, smiling in amusement, a sight so rare he couldn’t quite believe it. He didn’t even care for the mannequin, now lifeless fallen to the side as Sanemi held Tanjiro by the waist with one arm.

“Oi, I think he’s still in shock.”  Sanemi snorted, standing Tanjiro up on his feet, spinning him around he pushed him over to Genya. Not one caring for if it was too violent, his eyes flickered behind the two.

“Give him a second.” Said another, his voice completely unreadable, “He almost headbutted you, you know.”

“Hah! Wouldn’t be the first time.” Sanemi joked, but never frowned. The past something a little more amusing to him, his history with Tanjiro not as negative to his eyes.

Genya and Tanjiro blinked, glancing to eachother and then back to them. They were still in shock, breathing in-relaxing from the high of adrenaline. Tanjiro worst of all, his heart was still pounding in his head, he absently reached for Genya’s hand squeezing it as if it were comfort. His skin was tingling, hyperaware of the ‘supposed’ danger that his family was.

“I think he’s still frozen.” Giyu commented, his figure finally emerging under the tones of red and purple lights. His opaque eyes study the two, his ‘brother’ and his ‘brother’s’ partner.

Tanjiro blinked again, slightly flinching as Giyu pats in between his faux wolf hairs. Hands and fingers lingering upon his frazzled hair. His previous fear turned into embarrassment, and the heat ran up to his face again.

“Can’t blame him. Didn’t expect him to go full headbutt mode.”

“Hey!” Tanjiro huffed, realizing he should be upset rather than silently shocked. “Who sneaks up on people like that?”

“Oh, relax, Tanjiro,” Sanemi cackled, folding his arms.  “Little haunted house scare’s nothing for a big, tough slayer, right?”

“Yeah, ‘cause I’m so used to mannequins coming to life.” Tanjiro grumbled, the racing in his heart ever so slightly relaxing in his chest.

Genya scoffed, nudging Tanjiro. “Bet they’ve been planning this since we walked in.”

“Planning it?” Giyu smirked, trying to hold back a laugh. “You two were screaming your heads off, tripping and scrambling.”

“Hey!” He squeaked shaking Genya’s arm around rather passionately, “You try running with Genya clinging to your arm!”

“Oh, don’t pin this on me, Tani!” Genya scowled, trying to hide his own laugh. “You’re the one who went straight for a headbutt!”

“Alright, alright,” Sanemi waved, barely holding back a grin. “Consider it.  . .training for the next haunted house.”

“Training?” Genya scoffed. “For what? The mannequin demon ?”

“If that was a real mission, I’d be getting paid extra for all this.” Tanjiro muttered, still blushing.

“Well, at least you survived!” Giyu chuckled, giving Tanjiro’s shoulder a playful shake.

“Barely.”

Sanemi sighed approaching them and ushering them away, trying to get them out of the way. “Alright, get out the exit is to the left.”

Genya scowled smacking his hand away, quickly wrapping an arm around Tanjiro’s shoulder. As he walks them out, he can only imagine the two planned for more stupid shenanigans; such as scaring any other person within this horror house. He shook his head, keeping his thoughts to himself. He hasn’t felt that much adrenaline in a good few months, as if he’d been on alert.

“Assholes,” he growled leading them to freedom. His eyes flickering over to the boy, he noted Tanjiro’s pale complexion again. The way his hands were slightly trembling as they approached festival lights past the door. It couldn’t have been that startling? “right?”

Tanjiro just nodded, softly smiling once the wind brushed past their bodies, causing his hair to dance alongside. He never said anything, his silence was all Genya needed, for Tanjiro had been reeling trying to ignore how he felt from the event. He supposed he understood, he felt it as well, the urge to defend and react fast, protect—attack etc etc. the basic emotions of when you’re on a mission, beheading demons.

Even if it was for a second.

Genya looked around, and Tanjiro could tell he was worrying for him now. He cleared his throat, “I wonder if the others are still in the haunted hou-“

The house screamed—or more of screeched. They both snapped to look at the door and Zenitsu’s voice echoed out in long squeals and cries for help. Coincidentally answering Tanjiro’s question, there were more noises bouncing off the walls of the indoors. He snickered, almost forgetting his previous anxieties.

“What should we do next?” He said glancing around the area, absently leaning them astray as kids in their costumes scurried around, giggling and frantic. It eased the tension in his shoulders, each muscle somehow soothing.

Genya gave a quiet sigh, rubbing the back of his neck. He didn’t particularly care too much, he’d prefer to just be around Tanjiro no matter what they did.

Tanjiro took it as a sign to lead and search around, the village still had a handful of fun things to do. There was a long line for the kids to  get their faces painted, and then for the adults there was events like ‘costume ratings’, apple bobbing, a kissing booth, that one caught their attention.

They knowingly chuckle at the same time, immediately looking for a secluded spot, the idea blooms like a risky move when playing a dangerous game of— whatever. Seeing an out, the village lead out to a more quiet area.

“It’s not romantic,” he started clicking his tongue as he pointed to the roofs of the buildings, “but we could get some privacy for some fun up there?”

Tanjiro only huffed in response, “you’re right that is so unromantic.”

“What? did you want me to throw you in a pile of roses?”

Tanjiro hummed, tapping his chin in ‘deep thought’, “you know that could be a good idea, real shame you don’t have a pile of roses around.”

Genya scoffed.

The moon hung high, the stars shimmering in a way that felt like they were alive, speaking and such, Tanjiro liked to imagine they were his family or just enjoyed to name them of his family.  Though, Genya can’t say the same, he never minded the other’s joy with that. They approached a large box with a window, and curtain, not by willingness Tanjiro tugged them over.

The sign on top read, ‘love readings’, Knowing Tanjiro too well Genya had rolled his eyes. He looked back to the lady within, dressed in thick clothing matching the true witch idea, barely reminiscent of what Nezuko dressed up as. Barely smiling, he nudged Tanjiro trying to pull away.

The lady only grinned sensing his eagerness to do anything but this, “Oh, I see we’ve got a lively pair here.” She paused and urged them over, “Come, come, let me tell you about the deep passions between you two.”

“We’re fine, thanks.” Genya grumbled, his ees askance as he firmly grips Tanjiro’s wrist size pulling and tugging, though his partner remained stubborn and unmovable.

“Genya, come on, it’s just for fun!” Tanjiro chirped leaning over to the box, pulling Genya back to his side.

He huffed, his eyes narrowing away, “Yeah, fun . . .right.”

He eventually gave up, looking around his surroundings as the distant chatter of the folk serves a well distraction. He sighed and settled next to Tanjiro, averting his eyes from the way the lady is ogling them with genuine amusement. She was looking him up and down, and then back to Tanjiro——then again— back to Genya. It was as if her emerald gaze was eating them in slow ounces, picking them apart.

“Oh, you’re the stubborn one, aren’t you? Always guarding that big heart of yours, but for him. .  .” she had her hand pointed to him before it slowly wavered to Tanjiro, the slow movement leading Genya on, “. . .you’d walk through fire.”

Tanjiro stared at the ladies hand, his eyes glinting with a hint of appreciation, a smile slowly stretching across his face- genuine adoration showing on his expression. It had the taller one shuffling some more, muttering in embarrassment.

“Is that true, Yacchi?” He had mused glancing to his partner.

“Stop smiling like that!” Genya snapped trying to unlace hands from him, sweaty and clammy, Tanjiro only squeezed his hand not allowing for him to free himself. “She’s just saying what we wanna hear.”

And then she continued. Her laugh lowering an octave, as she retreats her hand. “Oh, but there’s more! I see. . .adventure. A night full of secrets, hidden away from prying eyes.” She smirked, “And maybe a kiss or two under the stars?”

“A kiss, huh?”  Tanjiro turned to him, batting his eyelashes and leaning over to him. “What do you think, Genya?”

“Stop it! You’re not making this any easier!”

“Ah, I see a powerful bond here—a bond that will be tested, but one that will only grow stronger.”Something tells me… neither of you has ever been afraid to stand in the dark.”

She tilted her head down, her face completely vanishing under the shade of her wavy hat. She was a decorated woman, painted nails and natural makeup. Her voice was lowered into a deeper octave, humming out in deep thought. The way she carried herself made Genya nervous, as if she could read his mind and then confess his worst insecurities.

She looked right to Genya, piercing green gaze devouring him. “ It’s easy to be scared in the dark, but. .  .your light is right beside you.”

And all Genya could think was, what in the hell-? He tensed up, his face burning bright red with sputtered words, “Huh? What—what’s that supposed to mean?”

Oh and Tanjiro, he was swooning trying to lean over to Genya with coos and ‘aws,’  “I think she means me, Yacchi.”

“Whatever.” He growled back, trying his best to stop the deep blush on his face, “Don’t get all smug about it.”

“Hey, you heard her.” He nuzzled his face into Genya’s shoulder, grinning and snickering, “I’m your light. It’s practically fate.”

“You’re only making this worse.”

“Ah, young love. . .you both have much to look forward to. But remember, don’t ignore what’s right in front of you——“ she said with her ominous voice, leaning back her head to stare them down. It was as if she were trying to appear all knowing, “You two are adorable. Now, go on and enjoy your night. But remember what I said.”

She dropped the voice, and wiggled her fingers at them, gesturing for them to go on about their way. Genya didn’t need anything else’s and immediately dragged Tanjiro away.

Tanjiro squeaked and tossed the woman a small amount of currency, waving and blurting out his gratitudes. The sky was still starry, and the night absolutely young. He could only imagine what else they could do, he had a dreamy smile falling from his lips as he stabled his walk.

“So. .  .I’m your light, huh?” He feigned indifference.

Genya immediately scowled, his grip tightening around his hand. “Keep it up, and I’m leaving you in the dark.”

“You’d never leave me, Genya.” He huffed glancing to distant haunted house again, “and Well, she wasn’t all wrong,”

He hummed, waiting for a response but only earning a quiet grunt. He swung their arms back and forth, greeting those that walked past him. The occasional compliment of his compliment arose, and it never failed to make him smile. After an awkward silence, he shrugged it off.

“Especially about the kissing.”

Genya’s skin crawled, stealing a glance he’s tempted by such an offer. “Even without the roses?”

Tanjiro chuckled, “just you and me,”

Genya cleared his throat, looking around them. Their surroundings were still open, and just a quick moment to themselves wouldn’t be so bad. He just desperately needed to be somewhere more private, he squinted his eyes before he was yanked into an alleyway.

“This isn’t exactly private,” he scoffed appreciating the sunset lighting Tanjiro was painted In, the festivities lanterns a plethora of tones the more they walked around.

Tanjiro embraced him tightly, spinning them for a movement before it was that Genya gripped his shoulders and pushed him against the wall, huffing with a sigh, trying to keep them stable. Tanjiro looked up at him with those stupid innocent eyes, smiling brightly.

“It’s just a few kisses right?”

Genya blinked, awkwardly laughing. Not exactly.  . .all he wanted to do.  . .He patted his shoulders, glancing to his blocked neck, “Not quite, lose the collar.”

Tanjiro squeaked, his lips forming a small ‘O’ as he realized his intentions. Seconds later he smiled snickering, “okay.”

                          [ • • • ]

The main three, different from the two escaper the house with Inosuke dragging them out. Tight grip, he had held them like it was the last thing he could do. The boar boy would growl and scream his head off, huffing and puffing. He tossed them to the nearest crowded area before spinning around and holding his fists out to the door.

Zenitsu sprawled over and Nezuko quickly recovered; brushing herself off with wobbly legs. The two stared at the haunted house with irritation and adrenaline, being chased around like wild animals by two older men.  . .Nezuko knew who it was, she knew they were enjoying it the best way they could.

She puffed her cheeks up, folding his arms. Zenitsu had been clinging right next to her, hiding his face into the girls arms quivering like a naked mole rat. She think they tremble at least, she would if she were a mole rat with no fur.

“Ha! Those demons didn’t stand a chance!” Inosuke claimed spinning around to them, he immediately bumped past them, his nostrils flaring from the scent of tempura nearby.

“Uh.  . .pretty sure we were the ones running. . .” Zenitsu growled at him, brushing Nezukos sleeve from the amount of tugging and clinging he’d done, the clothe there had been slightly rumpled and he felt just a little sheepish.

“You were loud enough to scare anything, Inosuke.” Nezuko chuckled folding her arms as the group continued to follow Inosuke, “Even Zenitsu here!”

“I am not scared—I’m.  . .just. . .hyper-aware!” Zenitsu said blushing, he gestured his hands around trying to appear confident in what he said,You know how haunted houses are. .  .nothing but cheap tricks.  . .”

Zenitsu paused his rambling, deadpanning as Inosuke stopped at a stall with a man working hard. frying and cooking up tempura, he can’t help but find it ridiculous. The boy orders a handful for an extra meal, leaving Zenitsu to pay the man.

“Wait look! Is that—Tanjiro?!” They squeaked, spinning around to see Tanjiro dragging Genya around by a hand. Their costumes just barely switched, Genya instead wearing the collar instead of Tanjiro. “And Genya? What are they doing here?”

“Oho. .  .” Zenitsu grinned rubbing his hands together with a hint of mischief, “Think we could sneak up on them? Teach them a little lesson for abandoning us in there?”

Inosuke is handed a small box with the tempera, his eyes gleaming with childlike wonder. He spun around devouring the food, looking around and pointing at the two. He says something, though, not very well as the words get muffled. The other two assume it’s referring to Genya and Tanjiro running around doing different activities.

Tanjiro leads away, dragging him into an apple bobbing event. Zenitsu grins, he wouldn’t mind seeing Genya soaking wet and embarrassed to be pressured into such an activity. Genya immediately seems repulsed, shaking his head and pulling away then tugging Tanjiro off to a different event. The shorter one huffs, his cheeks puffing up with a deadpanned expression.

Nezuko snickers at the bickering, watching from afar in fascination. Genya only leads Tanjiro off to a carving pumpkin station, trying to urge for something not as messy as water. As it seemed, Tanjiro lit up actually curious in the event, smiling wildly as always. His neck craned, exposing the skin there, one could see a slightly darker spot.

“Wait,” zenitsu murmured, squinting his eyes he looked closer to him. He went as far as to lean forward, trying to get a better look to better validate his suspicions. “look at Tanjiro’s neck!”

“Oh. My. Gosh.” Nezuko had gasped, her eyes widening, she grabs the blond boys arm, wiggling it with the smallest of hops, “ Is that.  . .a hickey? ”

“What’s a hickey?” Inosuke spoke, mouthful of food he steps aside them.

“Let’s go before they notice us!” Zenitsu scoffed, immediately ushering them away.

For Genya and Tanjiro, they’d been chatting and talking amongst one another, glancing around with unserious jokes. The shorter one swinging their hands around, rambling on and on and on—- it’s never ending. He’s in a great mood, the slight panic in his chest completely vanished. He and the two approach the pumpkin carving station, his mind buzzing with a giddiness after the quick makeout session the two had.

“After I want to do the apple bobbing.” Tanjiro claimed with a huff, one eye closed and the other opened, (the non blind one).

Genya only rolled his eyes, paying for two pumpkins. Absently reaching for the recourses available, gaze flickering back to Tanjiro’s neck. “you mean you want, me, to do the apple bobbing.”

“Of course not!” Tanjiro scoffed trying not to smile, “I just want to watch you try it!”

“You know I’m not going to do it, right?” Genya gruffly spoke, deadpanned he grabbed Tanjiro and pushed him to sit down;  a table with a few other kids, he’s barely embarrassed to be near a few children, who are staring at them with curiosity. “It’s shi—-er—gross.”

“Come on! It’ll be fun!” He continued to press, nudging him as if to appraise him for not cursing in front of the children.

“Like I need your help.”

“You do!” He taunted, grabbing a carving knife, sticking his tongue out and planning the outline. “Look at how focused I am!”

“Yeah, you look like you’re about to poke your eye out.”

.

.

.

Tanjiro squinted his eyes half offended, as if he needed to have his other eye to be partially useless. He didn’t say something for a moment, letting Genya panic in it. He traced a cat pattern on the pumpkin, outlining the way he desires to make it look.

“Just you wait—-This will be the best pumpkin ever. . .”He muttered with puffed up cheeks.

Genya tried not to laugh, it was hard not to when Tanjiro got sassy. The way he reverts into an immature boy, mocking and muttering words unsure what else to say back. It was even better when Tanjiro was sassy, but snapping back. That always fascinated him, it was more common with he and Zenitsu, he knew how to make Tanjiro burst.

Genya glanced over, maneuvering around the base of the pumpkin. He stabbed the head of it, causing the kids the audibly gasp. He paid no mind, and continued to drain the pumpkin of its insides. “Fine, but only because I don’t want you to embarrass yourself.”

“Ha!” He immediately smiled, turning to him with a wince. A speck of pumpkin juice dotting on his cheek, “So you will do the apple bobbing?”

“Not a chance.”

“C’mon!” Tanjiro groaned shaking his arm with a firm grip, “Just think of how cute you’d look all wet!”

“Cute? “ Genya scoffed, raising an eyebrow at the possible description, ”Me?” He hummed in deep through, grabbing a handful of pumpkin seeds, slimy and grainy, he tosses them to the bin right next to the table, “Never!”

“Aw, don’t be shy! I think you’d look adorable!”

“Shut up!” He snapped back, somewhat glaring at him. Though, a small smile tugged in his lips, nothing genuine, Genya just enjoyed teasing and taking advantage of Tanjiro begging for such a frivolous thing.

Tanjiro deflated, turning back to his pumpkin he recounted in Genya’s steps. His knife plunges into the pumpkin’s center, spinning it around hr beheads the stem in easy fashion. The kids gasp again. Genya’s eyes flickered, unsure whether or not to be agitated by their presence, simply staring at them like a couple of zoo animals. Why were they staring? It’s not like they were ‘obviously’ demon slayers. Was it the scars, maybe that they were an awkward pair?

Tanjiro spun the pumpkin on its underside, letting its insides slip out over the garbage waste. Leaning over the table, and mostly on Genya—he deadpanned leaning back as to allow Tanjiro more room.

“You could have just stood up.” He muttered, his cheeks growing rosy. His eyes narrowing away, or more of trying to, he would occasionally look back to his word. His back slightly curved for how much he’s reaching. A hint of second hand embarrassment by the wolf tail swaying limp on his partners rear end. For a moment, he considered yanking it off and tossing it. It’s truly unnecessary.

Tanjiro’s legs slightly quivered the pressure of keeping himself up slightly losing. He propped an elbow on the table, he dug his hand inside the partial hallow fruit-yes pumpkin is a fruit- and threw the seeds out.

Tanjiro hummed cheekily, “give me some more spac-“

“Use the other side!” He interrupts, his hands still to his sides with a growing embarrassment.

Tanjiro laughed, eventually pulling away and sitting his happy little ass down. He hands Genya a look, winking at him. . .Genya glared at him. Regardless. The two continued soon after, throwing the scraps of the pumpkins away as they formed their own shapes. Tanjiro made a shitty looking cat, and Genya made a sun, how romantic. Muttering and bickering, Tanjiro would poke at Genya and tease him.

Genya would snap and growl at him, despite the costumes it would seem the wolf costume would fit him more. Tanjiro was too puppy like, and Genya too broody for a vampire— not in a mysterious way.

The kids, their audience would whisper among eachother trying to complete their pumpkins with deliberate movements. Their eyes would glance between the two, often smiling or chuckling at them— they acted like a married couple. One of the kids glanced to the apple bobbing, slowly looking over to Tanjiro. Mischief appeared on their faces, small smiles creeping up on their faces.

“Gee, sir, I’ll go apple bobbing with you!” One of the kids had suggested, his cheeks rosy slightly embarrassed to be putting himself out there. The kid was short, tiny— his hair curly and neatly trimmed. One missing tooth, and his eyes were wide colored blue.

Tanjiro blinked, his eyes widening he glanced to the kid. The boy, staring at him with the cutest expression; with such an offer it makes his heart swell, the boy wore a demon slayer costume. “Oh, really? You’d go with me? That’s so nice of you!”

Genya blinked, his eye twitching. Was this kid trying to punk him? “ Ahem. He doesn’t need anyone else to go with him.”

“But he just said no one wanted to go with him—” the girl next to him immediately intercepted, leaning over the table, you could only see the excitement in her eyes, for she had a kakushi costume. Her face covered, but her words passionate.

Genya froze, glancing between them. These are just kids, and yes it’s adorable that they’re fans- however- he is not above snapping at them. He looked back to Tanjiro, full on hoping for him to back him up. Instead, Tanjiro had this adoring look on his face, clearly fawning over the kids. What the hell, they’re just kids—- they’re boring!

“he said he was all alone. . . isn’t that right, sir?” The third boy said, he was dressed as a sword-smith, the mask nudged to the side of his head so he could better see. He had this fiery expression stuck on his face, proud and amused.

“Well—-“ Tanjiro smiled tapping his chin.

“Yeah-“ Genya spoke fast, scowling as he stabs the pumpkin sharply, “but he’s. . .fine.”

“Are you sure?” The ‘demon slayer’ sang, standing up and leaning up against the table, “I don’t mind!”

“ I mind.” Genya huffed glaring at the kid, his chest heavier with such an urge to show off—-“Tanjiro has someone to go with.”

“Genya. . .are you feeling—”

“keep carving.”

Tanjiro frowned standing up— looking to the kid— then Genya— then the pumpkin. He pats his small creation before pushing his chair in, “I’m going with the demon slayer.”

“Eh? You’re really going with him?” Genya blinked his eyes widening, that flame immediately grew within his chest.

“See?” The kid giggled hopping up and walking over to Tanjiro— going as far as to hold his hand out. “He likes me better!”

“Oh, I don’t think it’s like that. .  .” He growled stabbing his pumpkin with more force, he turned the knife and the skin of it popped out. His eyes narrowed back over, considering whether or not to take his man back.

“Sounds like it to me.” The kid snickered, smiling all toothily—and yet still missing one tooth’.

“Are you jealous, Genya?” Tanjiro giggled slightly leaning down for the kids grasp, an amused smile plastered on his face.

“Pfft, jealous of a kid? Yeah, right.” He rolled his eyes—-internally fantasying about tossing the kid far away- of course he’s gonna get scolded, but he doesn’t even care.

“Don’t worry, mister! I’ll keep him safe!”

His eye twitched again. Safe? Safe???? Safe?????????? He looked to Tanjiro, just urging for him to fix the situation before he fights the kid, Tanjiro’s expression only uttered ‘behave’ his eyebrows knitted together, and his smile suddenly tense as if he were trying so hard not to burst out laughing. So, Genya frowned.

“Safe? Tanjiro doesn’t need you to protect him.” He simply snipped, setting the knife down and completely turning to him.

“Then why won’t you do it?” The kakushi girl spoke up—- damn these kids.

“Hey, I do protect him!” He stood up clenching his fists, “All the time!”

“You know, you could come too.” His partner offered again, looking away rather cheekily.

“Tch, yeah I’m coming! And I’ll get a damn apple!”he scoffed grabbing Tanjiro’s other hand, he doesn’t consider it- not at all- he simply drags them over the apple bobbing station. A small line of other folk waiting. There the kids followed from behind, Tanjiro stumbling along he inhales sharply.

He straightened up, squeezing his hand. He had to look manly— or something like that. Curse this damn costume, he felt the opposite of manly he felt like a complete idiot, and these kids were showing him up. Worst of all, Tanjiro was encouraging them, damn Kamado always finding ways to get him all riled up. He reached over the cape and threw it off his shoulders.

The line seemed to get shorter, but not fast enough, when he stole a glance Tanjiro was chatting with the kids about how good their costumes were, and that he’s sure they would have made great demon slayers. He can’t help but roll his eyes, muttering to himself the line grew shorter by an inch.

He slightly perked up, hearing the kids snicker about him, whispering-not really - about how ‘ your friend is grumpy ’. He would have snapped back, but of course his dearly beloved, corrected the title, ‘no no, that’s my partner.’

.

.

.

Genya grinned, straightening up some more. Hell yeah he is, that’s right, that’s MY partner, and possible future husband. These damn kids must be a hell lot of jealous now. He gave Tanjiro an approaching squeeze, still not looking over.

The demon slayer walks over, the boy who originally spoke up looking right up at him—- he’s like an ant compared to Genya. For a moment, he finds it endearing- but then he opened his mouth to yap. “Are you sure you can even get an apple, Mister Grumpy?”

“Yeah, you don’t look strong enough.” The kakushi spoke right after, “Are you scared you’ll get your face wet?”

“Please.” He growled. Not strong enough is amusing, maybe it’s the clothes, he has to assume that, for of course he’s strong enough he can carry aol if these kids on one arm if he wanted to. “I could get three apples if I wanted.”

“Three? Oh, that’s rich!” The swordsmith said right after.

“Hey, sir, is he really your partner?” One of them had chirped, innocently tugging on Tanjiro’s sleeve looking up at him. His eyes glimmering, it’s so endearing,”He’s kinda. . .well, rough-looking.”

Tanjiro snorted, his eyes widening at the kid’s wording. He shouldn’t laugh, but oh god children are so brutal it’s hard NOT to laugh. He averted his eyes from Genya, who immediately scoffed at him as he had laughed. The line gets shorter.

“ Rough-looking ?” He repeated quietly, looking back up, “I could snap an apple off that stem faster than any of you.”

Who knew he couldn’t even handle children? At first, he assumed he’d be awkward, but he never anticipated being taunted and pressed on by little kids. But no! Instead he was being bullied, and his partner wasn’t even jumping to the chance of protecting him, not that he needs protection, however. .  . It would be appreciated. The line gets shorter again.

The kids had smiled, and when they did they smiled maliciously. Damn these kids.

“Bet you can’t even get one! And you don’t look like you even smile.”

“Yeah, bet you scare the apples away!”

.

.

.

Man what the hell?

He glared at the kids, clenching his jaw he held back a few curse words, and tried his best to not to shoo the kids away- maybe grab one of them and toss them into the water. .  .or something. He’s snapped out of his thoughts, Tanjiro nudging him with a concerned look.

“Hey, Genya, it’s okay-“ Tanjiro had whispered, warmly smiling, looking like the same puppy rather than wolf. “They’re just playing around.”

“Well, sir deserves someone nicer, don’t you think?” The damn kid smirked, his toothy ass smile making him appear like a younger version of himself.

“Hah, jokes on you, ‘cause Tanjiro likes me exactly how I am.” He let go of his arm, folding his arms. His mind recalls the past, Tanjiro always complimenting him about how lovely he was, or how he loves him so much.

“But you’re still not very. . .uh. .  .handsome?” The girl giggled, handing Tanjiro a look as if to judge his choice of partners.

“ Not handsome ?! Alright, that’s it—”

“ Genya! Remember, they’re kids.” Tanjiro grabbed his arm, tugging some more. He pressed a quick kiss on his cheeks hoping for him to relax.

“Tch,” He snipped— his eyes darting away and his face wanting up, but his chest getting lighter, .  .a kiss. . .thats pretty nice, “I’ll get the most apples here. Then we’ll see who’s rough-looking.”

Tanjiro sighed, peering over the basin, the water seemingly warm and the apples floating around it. He glanced back to him, opening his mouth to encourage him to go—not expecting Genya to just bursted forward putting his hands behind his back, he knelt forward.

.  . .

Tanjiro smiled, his heart skipping as he imagined the aftermath, getting giddy he stepped to the side. “You got this, Yacchi!”

Genya grunted in response, craning his neck and causing it to make a ‘pop’ nose. He took a deep breath, and plunged his head under the water, his body kept knelt over for onto a brief moment. The kids alongside Tanjiro already imagining Genya’s loss, murmured and whispered about how he won’t get a single apple. It made Tanjiro chuckle, finding their naivety entertaining.

Genya was strong, smart and confident. From the time he’s spent with him, he knew he had the strongest of jaws and intense canines.  He waited, watching as Genya’s body slightly shifted as he dipped his head deeper within the water. Genya’s jaw immediately grabbed  an apple, his sharp teeth sinking into a green apple. The second it happened, he leaned back up.

Apple in mouth, he narrowed his eyes over. The look of his clothes sticking to his skin, the way his chest rose and fell, when he stood up he grabbed the apple and threw it to Tanjiro. His face was soaked, and his hair was dripping.

Tanjiro smiled dreamily, blushing and laughing he gawked at the sight of a drenched Genya. He found it to be both amusing, and attractive. In his vampire costume the look of a wet cat really worked out for him.

The ‘demon slayer’, jaw dropped stared, unsure whether or not to be amused or surprised, he looked to his friends gesturing to him, “Look at him, all drenched and smug. Why’s he acting like he just won a battle?”

The ‘swordsmith’ smiled, clearly enjoying the banter, “And why’s Mr,sir  looking at him like that? It’s just an apple!”

With the kids gawking, he brushed a hand through his hair glancing to Tanjiro, he had won his dignity back. No kids are gonna let him be embarrassed, why would he allow that? “What can I say? I impress him. Not something you kids would get.”

The ‘kakushi’ scoffed turning to Tanjiro, her voice somewhat annoyed, its cute, “Ew, seriously? He’s just standing there all soaked and you’re. . .blushing?”

“I’m not blushing!” Tanjiro spoked, looking over to Genya.  . .just standing there grinning, looking like a wet cat. His cheeks flushed and he looked away, “I just. . .think he did really well.”

“Uh-huh. Sure. You look like you’re under a spell or something.”

“Guess that’s what happens when your partner’s all rough and. .  .‘handsome.’ Right, Mister Grumpy?”

“Damn right. And don’t forget it.”

.

.

.

The kids deadpanned, communicating their disappointment through stares, silently mocking the older boy. The boys, muttered amongst themselves, following the two real demon slayers. They assumed they were at least, despite their young age, they’d had well knew of their names. Tanjiro Kamado, a sun user, and Genya Shinazugawa, little brother of Sanemi the wind hashira. They just assumed the two would act cooler, or something like that.

The ‘demon slayer’ had grumbled, folding his arms he mockingly glared at Genya, “Bet you think you’re so cool, huh?”

Genya gestured back to Tanjiro, smiling all cocky. “Cool enough for him, apparently.”

Tanjiro laughed, hiding his smile into the apple he bites. He glances away, sheepishly mumbling out, “Alright, alright, you’ve shown off enough. . .though I do think you looked really great out there, Genya.”

“Oh please, get a room!” The children squawked in unison.

Tanjiro snorted. His face turning into a deeper red, he grabbed Genya’s arm and tugging him away trying to escape from the kids. He continued to bite into the apple, his hands slightly wet from the previous place it was in.

“You wanna watch the fireworks together?” He had eventually asked keeping his head on Genya’s shoulder.

“Yeah, maybe I will. .  .if only to keep you lookin’ at me like that.”

Tanjiro smiled, and eventually finished eating the apple. The sound of his teeth sinking into the fruit was loud, they walked around getting more and more distant from the kids that were just begging them. They completely forgot about the pumpkins they started, he smiled sheepishly the two walking around the village.

The moon was still held high, the stars glimmering the same. People began to settle around, taking seats in convenient places. Couples, families and kids bickering of the fireworks that would eventually happen. The sight of their world relaxing, happy to be home and safe was enough. Tanjiro and Genya caught sight of their family, hard not to see them when they seemed to be the loudest.

All three, Nezuko, Zenitsu and Inosuke snacking on some food. Right next to them, Giyu and Sanemi were laughing about something, probably the antics they started. The group looks to them and their confusion was visible.

Tanjiro sheepishly scratched his cheek, gesturing to his wet partner, and then waved over to them.

Zenitsu raised an eyebrow, smirking all cocky like, “Well, look who decided to join us! Had a nice little romantic escape, did we?”

Tanjiro awkwardly laughed, tossing the core of the apple to a nearby bin. “Uh. . .hey, guys. We were just—uh. . .”

The boar boy immediately perked up, speaking to him with a mouthful of tempura. Hr pointed towards Tanjiro’s neck, specks of food falling from his mouth , “What’s that on your neck, Tanjiro? Looks like you fought a hungry demon. And lost.”

Tanjiro choked, immediately covering his neck with his hands. He should’ve been proud, maybe smiled about it or something- but with Sanemi there he can’t help but try and hide it. He cleared his throat nervously smiling, glancing away.

“Oh, please. That’s not a demon bite. That’s a Genya bite!” Zenitsu corrected, elbowing Tanjiro and wiggling his eyebrow, he was proud of him, crazy enough. Tanjiro, ever so sweet and ‘innocent’ doing something as nsfw as love bites.

The other, Genya had avoided Sanemi’s stare, glancing away and grumbling off, “Mind your business, alright?”

Tanjiro gave a faint smile, shuffling next to his sister as to avoid accountability. He nudged her, silently greeting her as the village leaders began to appear, he could only assume that the light show would soon be ready . “ It’s. . .just a scratch. Nothing big.”

Zenitsu scoffed, rolling his eyes at him, “Sure, sure, just a ‘scratch.’ Next thing you know, you’ll say you tripped on his lips!”

Yes actually.

“So when’s the wedding? Or is this the honeymoon phase?” Insouke said, causing Genya to shiver at the idea. Marriage, the idea is. . .almost terrifying.

Zenitsu leaned against nezuko, his hands hovering over his head with a longing look.  “Oh, you hear that, Nezuko? Tanjiro and Genya, out here leaving us behind!”

Inosuke scoffed “Yeah, well, next time, we’re ditching them first.”

There was a loud noise, the sound of the sky booming and then exploding in lights. The stars seemed to grow jealousy, glimmering of the pretty colors illuminating the sky. Coloring every person below in different shades and hues. The ground before was red, and then after the houses and buildings were blue—- then a darker blue.

It felt euphoric, Tanjiro’s eyes widened as he stared at the sky. There it continued to roar and boom with life, everyone often gasped or laughed in awe.

Genya glanced over, a soft smile tugged on his lips. The colors were dancing in Tanjiro’s eyes, it made him look serene as he so often did. It was nice, he felt nice. The group huddled closer, and he found his way next to Tanjiro, reaching to intertwine their hands- as it should be.

He looked over, his smile growing some more, Genya chucked.

“Happy Halloween!”

Genya scoffed poking his cheek, “happy Halloween, idiot.”