Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“You’re safe now.” A calm, steady voice echoed through the night.

Shinobu felt her trembling hands being gently held as the boy embraced her—his face blurred by tears and moonlight. She wanted to ask his name, to thank him, but before she could speak, a scream echoed from behind—

“Shinobu! Shinobu!”

She gasped and jolted awake.

“...That dream again,” she muttered softly.

“Shinobu! We're going to be late!”
Her older sister’s voice rang through the room before the door swung open. Kanae Kocho, radiant as always, stood with her hands on her hips.

“The maid said she tried to wake you, but you just kept smiling in your sleep,” Kanae sighed before tugging Shinobu’s blanket away. “Up! It's kanao’s first day of university! We can’t be late!”

“Ugh… Nee-san, five more minutes…”

“Nope! Up. Now!” Kanae said cheerfully as she literally pulled Shinobu out of bed.

Thirty minutes later, the Kocho sisters were seated inside their sleek black car heading toward Kimetsu University. The morning sun glowed warmly over the hills overlooking Tokyo’s skyline.

Kanae glanced at her sister, who was quietly staring out the window.
“You dreamt about that again, didn’t you?”

Shinobu nodded, her voice calm but tinged with faint longing.
“Even after nine years… we still haven’t found him.”

Kanae smiled faintly. “You remember it so vividly. The boy who saved you…”

A short silence filled the car. Then, the memory flickered again—
The night. The warehouse.
The small boy, no older than her, moving with sharp, practiced strikes, taking down two men in an instant. He lifted her into his arms—bridal style—and ran through the moonlit streets until they were safe.

He had said only one thing to her before she lose her consciousness:

“ Don't worry you’re safe now.”

Back in the present, Kanae’s teasing voice broke her trance. “You’re grinning again.”

“W-What?!” Shinobu quickly looked away, her cheeks slightly pink. Through the car window, the view of Tokyo shimmered below them.

“He was just… really cool,” she admitted under her breath.

Kanae chuckled. “You always make that cute but weird face when you think of him. But when it comes to the guys at school, you just give them your ‘Ice Princess’ stare.”

“Well… ever since that incident, I just feel awkward around them,” Shinobu said quietly. “It’s not like I mean to act cold—it just happens.”

Kanae smiled softly. “I know. But still… you need to make at least one male friend, you know?”

“I have!” Shinobu protested.

“Your friend's boyfriend and my boyfriend don’t count.” Kanae winked. “You won’t move past your trauma unless you try.”

Shinobu sighed, crossing her arms. “Most of them are just perverts or want to date me. It’s exhausting.”

Kanae chuckled. “I went through that too, remember? It eventually stopped.”

“I wonder why…” Shinobu said with fake innocence.

Kanae ignored that jab and asked, “So… how was that blind date Father arranged?”

Shinobu groaned. “Don’t remind me. I already told him to stop. It’ll never work. My heart already belongs to someone.”

“Your mysterious savior, huh?”

Shinobu smiled faintly. “Mm.”

Kanae’s expression softened. “It’s been almost a decade, Shinobu. What if he’s in another country? Or… gone?”

“Then I’ll go to that country,” Shinobu said firmly. “And if he’s gone… I’ll still find his grave and thank him.”

Kanae’s heart melted. “Aww, that’s so sweet!” she squealed, suddenly hugging her sister tightly.

“I–I can’t breathe, Nee-san!”

“Oops, sorry!” Kanae laughed nervously as Kanao giggled quietly beside them.

Shinobu Kocho, 19 years old — a second-year student at Kimetsu University.

Known as the “Ice Princess” and the “Untouchable Butterfly,” admired by all yet approached by few. Daughter of the Kochou family, owners of the largest international medical corporation, Kochou Biotech.

Despite her elegant and composed image at school, she’s surprisingly clumsy at home — especially when half-awake and chasing after her cat.

Her hobbies include dancing, chemistry, romantic dramas, and eating sweets.

A soft sizzling sound filled a small apartment.

Giyu Tomioka flipped an omelet onto his plate and checked the time. 5:10 AM.

After eating, he showered, dressed, and looked at his phone again. 5:45 AM.
“Plenty of time,” he muttered, taking his bicycle and heading out toward Kimetsu University.

Giyu Tomioka, 19 — second year, from a humble family. He lives alone in Tokyo, studying hard and working a part-time job to support his parents and pay off their debt. His older sister, Tsutako (23), works full-time to help with the same burden.

Giyu’s hobbies: studying, cooking, reading, and taekwondo.

He earned his black belt at just nine years old — and saved someone’s life at ten years old.

After twenty minutes of cycling, he arrived on campus and spotted two familiar faces waving at him.

“Yo! Long time no see!” Sabito grinned, running up to him.

“It’s only been a week,” Giyu said blankly.

Sabito patted his back. “Still feels long! You only have us two as friends anyway.”

“Don't have to be proud of you're five total friends” Giyu said mockingly teasing.

“Hey! I have more than five friends!” Sabito exclaimed.

Makomo sighed. “It’s too early for this. Let’s just find our classroom.”

As they walked down the hallway, they noticed a crowd gathering near a classroom window.

“Isn’t that our room? Why is there alot of people?” Makomo asked.

“Probably some popular student,” Sabito guessed.

When they entered, Sabito froze. “Oh. That explains it.”

Makomo whispered, “She’s really pretty… The ‘Ice Princess’ herself.”

Giyu blinked. “Ice Princess?”

Both Sabito and Makomo turned to him. “You seriously don’t know Shinobu Kocho?”

“The name sounds familiar… Kochou Biotech?”

They both sighed in unison. “Unbelievable.”

Meanwhile, Shinobu sat near the window beside her best friend, Mitsuri Kanroji, who was practically bouncing with excitement.

“Kyahh! I still can’t believe we’re in the same class for one subject!” Mitsuri squealed.

Shinobu smiled softly. “You’re right… It’s nice.”
(At least I have Mitsuri as my seatmate… even if it’s just for one subject.)

Outside, the noise quieted as students dispersed. The door slid open, and their professor walked in.
The semester had officially begun.

The warm afternoon breeze passed gently through Kimetsu University’s track field.
Sabito, Makomo, and Giyu sat on the benches near the edge, eating together while chatting happily.

“I still can’t believe me and Makomo have three subjects together!” Sabito grinned, practically glowing with pride.

Giyu, slightly jealous, muttered, “Lucky…”

Makomo puffed her cheeks playfully. “Hey, at least you’re classmates with the Ice Princess in two subjects!”

Giyu blinked. “How’s that supposed to be helpful?”

Sabito leaned closer with a smirk. “Of course it’s helpful! You get to look at her beautiful face and bo— ow!”

He yelped as Makomo smacked him on the head with her chopsticks. “You have a girlfriend right in front of you, and you’re talking about another woman’s body?”

“Okay, okay! I’m sorry!” Sabito whined, rubbing his head.

Makomo huffed, then calmly went back to eating her bento. “Good.”

Giyu looked at both of them nervously and mumbled. “She’s really scary when she’s mad…”

Makomo froze mid-bite, slowly turned to him with an intimidatingly sweet smile. “You said something, Giichi-kun?”

“Good!” she chirped, going back to eating.

Sabito chuckled before glancing at Giyu’s empty hands. “You didn’t bring food again?”

“I’m saving my money,” Giyu said simply. “I’m sending it home to my parents.”

Sabito frowned. “Still, you should eat properly. Even a taekwondo monster like you needs food.”

Giyu didn’t respond, just quietly looked down.

Sabito sighed, rummaging through his backpack before pulling out a piece of bread. “Here. Take it.”

“I—”

Makomo interrupted him, her tone gentle but firm. “You can’t refuse. We bought it for you, knowing you’d be stubborn.”

Giyu smiled softly and took the bread. “Thanks, you two.”

The atmosphere was unusually quiet. Every eye was focused on one table where five of the most admired girls on campus sat together: Shinobu, Kanae, Kanao, Mitsuri, and Tamayo.

Whispers echoed softly among students:

“Isn’t that all the top beauties in one table?”
“I can’t believe they’re actually friends…”

A few brave students tried to approach them, but the moment Shinobu’s cold gaze met theirs, they froze mid-step and quickly retreated.

Tamayo chuckled behind her hand. “You really know how to scare people off, Shinobu-chan.”

Shinobu sighed. “It’s becoming… normal. I can’t even control it anymore.”

Mitsuri laughed. “That’s still so cool! You can switch personalities in an instant!”

Kanae smiled fondly. “She’s right. But you really should practice your calm face a bit more.”

Shinobu nodded faintly, spooning another bite of curry.

“So,” Mitsuri leaned forward eagerly, “Shinobu-chan, anything interesting in your classes so far?”

“Nothing much,” Shinobu replied quietly.

“Hmm…” Mitsuri thought for a second. “Oh! Isn’t Giyu Tomioka in one of your classes?”

Shinobu blinked. “Giyu Tomioka?”

Kanae raised an eyebrow. “Oh? Someone sounds curious.”

“It’s not like that…” Shinobu said quickly, looking away.

Mitsuri continued with a teasing grin, “He’s that guy who ranked first in the national academic exams last year!”

Kanae gasped. “Right! I saw that too!”

Tamayo added, “I heard he’s also skilled in taekwondo. My boyfriend Yushiro was in the club last year—he said Giyu was even better than their instructor.”

The three turned toward her in surprise. “Seriously?”

Mitsuri’s eyes sparkled. “That’s amazing! So he’s smart and strong!”

Kanae chuckled. “And apparently handsome too. What do you think, Shinobu?”

“Why me?” she asked defensively.

“Because,” Mitsuri grinned, “you’re the only one without a boyfriend.”

Shinobu crossed her arms. “I told you before—I just want to enjoy my youth.”

Tamayo raised a brow. “How does that have anything to do with avoiding relationships?”

Shinobu sighed. “Let’s just change the topic…”

Her tone softened as she stared at her drink. I only have one person in my heart anyway…

Kanae smiled quietly at her sister’s resolve before turning to Kanao. “So! How was your first day, Kanao? Mind telling us?”

Kanao blinked, snapping back to reality. “O-Okay…”

As the day ended, students poured out of campus, chatting and laughing. The Kocho sisters stood beside their sleek car.

“Are you sure you want to take the train?” Kanae asked, clearly worried.

Shinobu nodded. “I just want to experience normal things again.”

Kanae frowned. “Last time you took the train alone, half the men on board tried to hit on you. One of them even got too close.”

“I know… But I’ll be fine.”

Kanae sighed, then smiled softly. “Alright. Just promise you’ll call us immediately if anything happens.”

“I will.”

“Then… we’ll get going. Be safe, alright?”

Shinobu waved as Kanae and Kanao drove off. Once their car disappeared from view, she turned toward the station and began walking.

The streets were still busy with evening commuters. Shinobu walked quietly, her bag held close.

Two men passing by called out to her, grinning. “Hey, pretty lady, wanna hang out with us?”

She turned her cold gaze toward them, her tone sharp as ice. “No.”

The sheer authority in her voice made one of them stumble backward. They quickly retreated, muttering curses.

Shinobu sighed in relief—until she suddenly felt a hand grab her waist.

Before she could react, she was yanked into a narrow alley.

Her back hit the wall hard. The alley was dim, reeking of alcohol and smoke. Three men closed in on her, their shadows stretching long under the flickering streetlight.

“Where do you think you’re going, pretty girl?” one of them sneered, stepping closer.

Shinobu froze, her heartbeat pounding in her ears. When she tried to move past them, another blocked her path, his grin widening. The air around her turned cold, heavy—she could barely breathe.

“Come on, don’t be scared. We just want to talk,” one said, reaching toward her wrist.

That was when her body moved on its own—she slapped his hand away and stumbled back, but another grabbed her arm.

In an instant, her surroundings began to fade. The sound of their voices warped, overlapping with faint echoes from her past.
A dark room. A muffled cry. Her younger self trembling as strangers whispered threats in the night.

"Not again… please, not again…" Shinobu thought, the threats of the kidnappers when she was only 10 years old echoing in her mind.

Her chest tightened, her vision spinning. Fear clouded her thoughts—until a firm, familiar voice cut through it like a blade.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

The three men turned sharply.

At the alley’s entrance stood a tall figure—calm, sharp-eyed, his presence alone freezing them in place.

Giyu Tomioka stepped forward, his gaze steady, every movement sharp and deliberate.

One of the thug drew a knife, lunging toward him with a curse. Giyu sidestepped effortlessly, grabbed the attacker’s wrist, and struck his elbow— A sharp crack echoed. The knife fell.

The second thug charged from behind; Giyu spun and kicked his chest, sending him crashing into the trash bins.

The third pulled a blade, shouting, but Giyu moved first. He dashed in, twisted the man’s wrist, and swept his legs in one motion.

Within seconds, all three were on the ground groaning in pain.

Breathing evenly, Giyu found a stray rope near the trash bins, quickly tying their wrists and ankles.

When the noise finally faded, he turned toward Shinobu.

She sat trembling against the wall her violet eyes widened as he approached. There was something… familiar about his voice, his movements—something deep within her recognized.

Giyu crouched down slightly, his voice calm.
“Are you okay?”

Shinobu stared at him in silence, her heart pounding. "That voice… The same words…" Shinobu said in her mind.

Giyu offered his hand. “Dont worry you’re safe now.”

Her lips trembled as tears welled up once again—not from fear this time, but from the overwhelming sense of déjà vu.

Chapter Text

Giyu offered his hand. “Don’t worry, you’re safe now.”

Shinobu, who was sitting against the wall, suddenly started tearing up. Giyu, worried, quickly spoke, “H-Hey, everything’s fine now! I’m not a bad guy!” he said reassuringly.

Shinobu let out a small chuckle, though tears still streamed down her cheeks. “I know… I’m just glad that everything’s over.” She took Giyu’s hand and stood up, gently wiping her eyes.

She bowed slightly. “Thank you, um…”

Giyu replied calmly, “It’s Giyu. Giyu Tomioka.”

“Giyu Tomioka?” she thought. “Isn’t he the one Nee-san and my friends talk about earlier?”

“Thank you, Tomioka-san,” Shinobu said aloud.

“I just did what anyone should’ve done in that situation,” Giyu answered simply.

Shinobu giggled softly. “You’re a little bland, aren’t you, Tomioka-san?”

Giyu blinked. “What do you mean?”

“It’s nothing,” she said, smiling faintly. “Why do I feel… safe? And why does it feel like I’ve met him before?”

Giyu picked up his bag. “Then I’ll be heading off now. Be careful next time.”

Just as he turned away, Shinobu tugged lightly on his shirt. “Um… would you mind walking me to the station?”

Giyu paused, slightly surprised. “I can, but… why?”

Shinobu looked down nervously. “Well… after what just happened, I’d feel safer if someone could accompany me—at least until the station.”

Understanding her concern, Giyu nodded. “I was heading there anyway. My friend borrowed my bike today.”

Shinobu smiled in relief. “Thank you.”

The two began walking together toward the station.

After a moment of silence, Giyu asked curiously, “Aren’t you from a wealthy family? Why are you still taking the train?”

Shinobu replied with a small smile, “I wanted to experience normal things in life. Ever since I was young, I couldn’t do much that other people could.”

“I see…” Giyu nodded. “Still, wouldn’t it be better to have a guard with you?”

Shinobu sighed. “You’re right… but I wanted to go out alone this time—which, in hindsight, was a bad idea.”

“At least you’re safe now,” Giyu said softly.

Shinobu nodded. “Right.”

After about eight minutes, they reached the station and boarded the train.

While inside, Shinobu asked, “You’re my classmate in one of my subjects, right?”

Giyu nodded silently.

The train gradually became crowded. Shinobu stiffened as more passengers pressed closer, especially when a few men accidentally brushed past her. Giyu immediately noticed her discomfort, gently took her hand, and guided her toward a less crowded area.

“Are you okay?” he asked, concerned.

Shinobu nodded hesitantly. “It’s just… whenever I’m surrounded by men or when one talks to me, I start feeling really uncomfortable… because of something that happened in the past.”

Hearing that, Giyu instinctively took a step back to give her space. “I’m sorry. I should’ve asked earlier.”

Shinobu chuckled lightly. “No, it’s fine. Actually… I feel normal—and even safe—when you’re around me.” Her cheeks flushed faintly. “Maybe because you saved me today. My body feels… relaxed, instead of scared.”

Giyu smiled slightly. “I’m relieved to hear that.”

She then mumbled under her breath, “And… it reminded me of that time…”

“Hmm? You said something?” Giyu asked.

Shinobu quickly shook her head. “I-It’s nothing!” she said with a nervous smile.

“Alright then…” Giyu said, a bit confused.

The train stopped soon after. Giyu glanced at the sign. “Oh—it’s my stop.” He turned toward her. “I’ll be going off now.”

Shinobu smiled warmly. “Then… see you tomorrow, Tomioka-san.”

He nodded before stepping off the train.

As the train departed, Giyu stood watching it go. “Why does she remind me of that girl I saved?” he wondered, before brushing off the thought and heading toward his apartment.

Inside the train, Shinobu leaned back in her seat, her cheeks slightly flushed. “He was so cool back there… the way he handled those guys…” she thought. “It reminds me of that time. And the way he moves—it’s so similar. Is it just déjà vu?”

Ten minutes later, Shinobu arrived at her stop. As she exited the station, she noticed a car parked nearby—and before she could react, Kanae Kocho came rushing out, eyes wet with tears.

“Shinobu! Are you alright?! Are you hurt anywhere?! Did those bastards do anything to you?!” Kanae fired question after question, pulling her into a tight embrace.

“I-I’ll tell you everything inside the car! Nee-san, I can’t breathe!” Shinobu said, struggling to escape her sister’s hug.

Kanae reluctantly released her, still teary-eyed. “I-I’m sorry… I was just so worried.”

Shinobu smiled gently. “I’ll explain everything, alright?”

Inside the car, Shinobu recounted everything that happened—and how Giyu Tomioka saved her.

“So Giyu Tomioka saved you, huh?” Kanae said, impressed.

Shinobu nodded, muttering softly, “He was really cool too…”

Kanae smirked playfully. “My~ is my little sister in love?”

Shinobu turned red instantly. “N-No! I just thought it was really cool, that’s all!”

“Sure~” Kanae teased, chuckling.

“S-Stop teasing me, Nee-san!”

“Alright, alright,” Kanae laughed. “I’m just glad you’re safe.”

Shinobu nodded, her smile softening. “If it weren’t for Tomioka-san… I might’ve ended up traumatized again.”

Kanae’s expression turned gentle. “Did it remind you of that time?”

Shinobu smiled faintly. “Mhm.”

Kanae grinned mischievously. “What if he’s that ‘kid’? Would you marry him?”

“N-Nee-san!” Shinobu exclaimed, her face turning bright red.

Kanae laughed heartily. “I’ll stop now, I’ll stop!”

Shinobu rolled her eyes but smiled as she looked out the window. “What if it really is him…” she thought softly, closing her eyes.

After a short drive home, Shinobu lay in her bed, staring at the ceiling. Her mind replayed the events of the day—and especially him.

She blushed slightly as she recalled his voice. “You’re safe now.” Every time those words echoed in her head, her heart calmed. Around him, she felt safe. At peace.

She didn’t know it yet, but she was slowly falling in love—and it was the same love she’d been unknowingly waiting for, for almost a decade.

Her eyes grew heavy as sleep crept in. With a faint smile, she whispered, “I hope I can talk to you again… my hero.”

And with that, she drifted off to sleep.

To Giyu.

Giyu sat at his desk, reviewing his notes from class, but his focus kept slipping. The scene from earlier—Shinobu, the alley, the fear in her eyes—kept replaying in his mind.

It wasn’t unusual for him to step in when someone was being harassed. In fact, he’d done it eight times last year alone. But this… this felt different.

“She looked so familiar,” he thought. “Those eyes… where have I seen them before?”

Even though he never clearly saw the little girl’s face from that night ten years ago, he could never forget her eyes—shimmering softly, like light in the dark. And today, he’d seen those same eyes again.

He stood and walked out to his small balcony, gazing up at the night sky. The memory returned vividly—how he had followed that car to an abandoned warehouse, how he heard the frightened cries of a little girl inside, and how he didn’t wait for the police.

He had acted on instinct. He had to save her, no matter the risk.

In the end, he managed to rescue the girl and escape safely.

Giyu exhaled quietly. “I should just go to sleep.”

He went back inside, the memory fading slowly as he lay down, drifting off to sleep—unaware that fate had just started to weave their story once more.

The next day

Giyu walked toward the station since Sabito had borrowed his bike yesterday.

After getting on the train and finding a less crowded spot, he noticed three students nearby — the Kocho sisters.

Shinobu, who saw him, froze and just stared quietly, too shy to call out to him.

Kanae, noticing her sister’s reaction, grinned. “Is he the Tomioka guy?” she whispered. Shinobu, caught off guard, only nodded in embarrassment.

Without warning, Kanae walked toward Giyu. Shinobu was about to stop her, but it was already too late.

Kanae poked Giyu’s back. Giyu turned around, surprised, and saw Kanae smiling warmly.

“Um… do you need something?” he asked awkwardly. Giyu wasn’t much of a talker — especially around girls — so he really didn’t know what to say in this kind of situation.

Kanae tilted her head slightly. “Are you, by any chance, Giyu Tomioka?”

Giyu nodded. “How do you know my name?”

Kanae giggled. “Of course I know! You ranked first in the National Exam last year — and you also saved my sister last night!” she said, full of gratitude.

Giyu blinked. “Your sister?” he asked curiously.

Then, behind Kanae, Shinobu appeared — cheeks slightly pink. “O-Ohayo, Tomioka-san.”

Giyu greeted her politely. “Ohayo, Kocho.”

Kanae smiled. “As I was saying…” She bowed her head a little. “Thank you for saving my sister last night.”

“I only did what was right. Anyone else would’ve done the same,” Giyu replied calmly.

“You’re right,” Kanae said, clapping her hands. “Then I’ll leave you two to talk!”

Shinobu’s eyes widened. “W-What?!”

Kanae grinned teasingly. “You two can talk until we arrive!” she said as she stepped away, giving them space.

The two were left in an awkward silence — neither knowing what to say.

Finally, Giyu spoke. “So… why are you three taking the train after what happened last night?” he asked curiously.

Shinobu fidgeted slightly. “We were originally going to take the car, but my sister Kanae insisted we ride the train instead…” she said softly.

Giyu nodded quietly.

The train rumbled steadily as the morning sun peeked through the windows. Shinobu kept glancing at Giyu, her fingers brushing her hair nervously. Giyu, on the other hand, tried to focus on the passing scenery — the silence between them oddly calm. Every now and then, their eyes would meet, only for both to quickly look away again.

After about eight minutes, the train finally arrived at the station. The four of them walked together toward the school gates. Some students began whispering, curious who the guy walking with the Kocho sisters was.

Giyu, not one for attention, felt uneasy under the stares.

Shinobu noticed and tilted her head innocently, unaware of the murmurs. “Are you okay, Tomioka-san?”

Giyu nodded quickly. “I see my friends — I’ll go now!” he said before briskly walking away, trying to escape the sharp glares from male students.

Shinobu watched him leave, slightly disappointed. “Okay… see you later then.”

Kanae chuckled. “My, my~ someone looks disappointed~” she teased.

Shinobu blushed. “S-Shut up…”

Just then, Kanae spotted her boyfriend, Sanemi, waiting for her. “Well then, I’ll leave you two here. See you later~!”

Shinobu and Kanao waved as Kanae left.

Shinobu turned to her younger sister. “Do you want to get something before I leave you?”

Kanao shook her head shyly. “I-I’ll go to my room now. My friend’s waiting for me.”

Shinobu blinked, surprised. “You already made a friend? That’s wonderful! And who is it~?” she asked teasingly.

Kanao looked away, face turning red. “I-It’s a boy…”

Shinobu’s eyes widened, then she smirked playfully. “A boy, huh? Do you like him~?”

Kanao’s face went bright red. “H-He’s just really nice to me!” she said quickly.

Shinobu giggled. Now I understand why Nee-san teases me so much… she thought, smiling.

“Alright then, I’ll head to class now. Be careful, okay?”

Kanao nodded, and the two went their separate ways.

To Giyu

Giyu approached Sabito and Makomo, both wearing suspicious smirks.

“Are you two okay? You’re making weird faces,” Giyu said, raising an eyebrow.

Sabito grinned and threw an arm around him. “Weren’t you just talking with the Kocho sisters? And not just that — with the Ice Princess herself!” he teased, clearly fishing for details. “You two share two subjects and now you’re suddenly close? Unbelievable! What did you do?”

Makomo nodded with interest. “If I remember correctly, she’s extremely cold toward male students. For her to talk to you so casually… something must’ve happened last night, right?”

Giyu sighed. “Not you too… I’ll tell you later during lunch.”

The two groaned in disappointment.

“Can’t you just tell us now?” Makomo pouted.

“Please?” Sabito begged.

Giyu crossed his arms. “No.”

Both sighed dramatically.

After two classes, the trio finally got time to eat together. As usual, they sat by the track field.

Sabito and Makomo had been dying of curiosity since morning. The moment they sat down, they started badgering him again.

With a deep sigh, Giyu finally gave in and explained everything that happened last night.

When he finished, the two stared at him in silence — before bursting out laughing.

Makomo smiled. “I wasn’t expecting you two to meet like that. Honestly… kinda romantic,” she said teasingly.

Sabito laughed. “Who would’ve thought? Giyu’s taekwondo training paying off like this!”

“I didn’t train for that reason,” Giyu said flatly. “I just did what was right.”

Makomo crossed her arms. “Still, those men had knives! You could’ve been hurt if you weren’t careful. But then again, you did become a black belt at nine.”

Sabito grinned and slung his arm around Giyu again. “So what now? Are you two in a relationship?” he asked, eyes sparkling with excitement.

Makomo leaned closer too. “Yeah, tell us!”

Giyu almost choked. Me? With someone like Shinobu Kocho? Beautiful, perfect, and from a rich family? That’s like looking for a needle — but not in a haystack — in the deepest ocean. Practically impossible.

Then he realized what he’d just thought. Beautiful?

He froze. Wait—what the heck am I thinking?! he muttered under his breath.

Sabito immediately caught it. “Oh?! What are you thinking, huh?!” he said, voice full of mischief.

Makomo grabbed Giyu’s collar and shook him. “Just tell us!!”

“Stop it! We’re not in a relationship!” Giyu snapped, finally prying her off.

“Yeah, sure,” Sabito teased. “No need to be shy, Giichi~.”

Giyu sighed, clearly done with them. “This is going to be a long day…”

“It’ll keep being a long day if you don’t tell the truth!” Sabito pointed dramatically.

“I already did. Believe it or not — that’s up to you,” Giyu said, standing up. “I’m leaving before you two destroy my brain.”

The two laughed as Giyu walked away, waving lazily.

Giyu was heading toward his next classroom. There were still forty minutes before his next period, but he simply couldn’t handle Sabito and Makomo’s teasing any longer.

As he walked down the quiet hall, he passed by the back of the school building to grab a drink from the vending machine. That’s when he heard two voices arguing nearby.

He was about to ignore it — until one of them suddenly yelled.

“Why?! Am I not handsome enough?!” a man’s voice shouted, full of frustration.

Another voice replied, cold and sharp. “I just don’t want to be in a relationship. I’m sure you can understand that,” she said, her tone firm enough to make the man flinch.

Giyu froze. He recognized that voice.

Curiosity got the better of him. He glanced over and saw an unfamiliar guy, and Shinobu Kocho standing before him.

Giyu sighed. He didn’t want to get involved in other people’s business, especially hers, but something in his gut told him to stay.

“Tch! You f*cking slut! You think I’ll just let you go?!” the guy suddenly yelled, grabbing Shinobu by the waist.

“L-Let go of me!” Shinobu shouted, struggling. “I said no! So just get away from me!”

The man smirked darkly, his voice turning venomous. “You’ll regret saying that.”

He grabbed a handful of Shinobu’s hair and yanked it hard, making her cry out in pain.

“L-Let go of my hair, you bastard!” she screamed, tears welling in her eyes.

The man laughed cruelly. “I’ll ruin your pretty face forever! I don’t care how influential your family is!” He raised his hand to strike her but before he could, Giyu appeared.

He caught the man’s wrist mid-swing, his grip firm as iron.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Giyu said, his voice calm but deadly serious. “Do you even realize this is assault and harassment?”

“Let go of me!” the guy spat, trying to punch Giyu with his other hand but Giyu caught that one too. Without hesitation, he snapped the man’s hand downward.”

A loud crack echoed.

“AAAHHH! Y-YOU BASTARD!” the guy screamed, collapsing to the ground, clutching his broken hand as tears of pain streamed down his face.

Giyu crouched down, grabbed the man by his collar, and glared into his terrified eyes. “What do you want to do with this bastard?” he asked, looking over at Shinobu.

Shinobu, still shaken, held her hair and whispered, “I… I don’t know…”

Even though what the man did was clearly harassment, she knew what would happen if her father found out — the man would probably “disappear” without a trace.

Understanding her hesitation, Giyu made the decision himself. He lifted the man up by the collar effortlessly and spoke in a cold, steady voice.

“Listen. If you don’t want this reported to the disciplinary office — or worse — you’ll leave this university. For good.”

The man, pale and trembling, nodded rapidly, tears still in his eyes.

“Good,” Giyu said, letting go. “Now get lost before I change my mind.”

The man scrambled to his feet and ran, still sobbing and clutching his arm.

Shinobu watched quietly, then looked at Giyu. “Wasn’t that… a little too harsh? Making him quit the university…”

Giyu turned to her. “A person won’t change unless they’re forced to face consequences,” he said bluntly. “Besides, it’s probably for the best — for both his life and yours.”

Shinobu nodded slowly. Deep down, she knew he was right. The thought of ever seeing that guy again made her stomach twist in fear.

“Then I’ll go now,” Giyu said, turning away.

“T-Thank you again!” Shinobu called out, her voice soft but sincere.

“You’re welcome,” Giyu replied without looking back, raising a hand slightly as he walked off.

Shinobu stood there, touching her hair gently where it had been pulled. Despite the chaos, she found herself smiling faintly.

“He’s really kind…” she whispered to herself, cheeks tinted pink. “It reminds me of him.”

Her thoughts drifted to that day long ago — the day she was kidnapped as a child, and a boy had risked his life to save her. She never saw him again… but that feeling of safety, that calm courage, it was the same as Giyu’s.

Her lips curved into a faint smile.

“Maybe… not all men are the same after all,” she whispered to herself.

Then she looked up at the sky. “I wonder what you’re doing right now…”

End of Chapter 2

Chapter Text

It had been a few days since Giyu saved Shinobu from that student. Things had finally calmed down. Ever since his blunder of walking and talking with the Kocho sisters, the first two days had been unbearable — all the guys glaring at him like he was their sworn enemy.

But now, things had settled, and Giyu had mostly returned to his usual, bland routine.

Even though this quiet life had been his normal since high school, he couldn’t deny that those first two chaotic days had been… fun — the most fun he’d had in a very long time. Especially talking with Shinobu Kocho. He didn’t know why, but she made him feel more alive.

Still, it had already been several days since they last spoke. Even though they shared two classes, they hadn’t interacted once since that incident.

It was now Saturday. Giyu was spending his weekend at his part-time job — a necessity since the new school year meant he couldn’t help his family back home as much. The least he could do was support himself so his older sister, Tsutako, wouldn’t have more things to worry about.

Giyu worked as a barista in a popular café just a few minutes from his apartment. He’d been working there for two years now. The café was owned by the Kamado family — people he was quite close to.

The shop was busy, as usual, since it was the weekend.

A familiar voice suddenly called out, “Giyu-nii! Four macaroons and two vanilla lattes!”

The voice came from Nezuko Kamado, the Kamados’ second child.

“Coming right up!” Giyu replied, already starting the coffee.

“I’ll prepare the macaroons so you can focus on the drinks, Giyu-san,” said Tanjiro Kamado, the eldest child of the family.

After an hour and a half of non-stop serving, the café finally began to calm down as the evening approached.

“So, how was your first week of college, Tanjiro?” Giyu asked as he sipped his coffee.

Tanjiro, who was wiping down tables, replied with his usual cheerful energy. “It was really fun, Giyu-san! I thought it’d be scary at first, but I managed to get along well with my classmates!”

Giyu sipped again. “Not surprising — considering your nature.”

Tanjiro blinked in confusion. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“I mean you’re too kind,” Giyu explained, setting his cup down. “You get along with others easily, but that kindness can also be your downfall in college. So be careful.”

Tanjiro tilted his head. “Downfall…?”

He didn’t fully understand but nodded anyway. “Got it!”

“Oh! They should be arriving soon!” Tanjiro suddenly said, smiling excitedly.

“Who’s arriving?” Giyu asked curiously.

“It’s a girl Oni-chan befriended at school!” Nezuko said while nibbling on a piece of bread.

“Yep! I mentioned our family’s café to her and said she could drop by anytime!” Tanjiro said, still smiling brightly. “She’s really kind but super shy… she doesn’t talk to many people. I just wish she’d open up more.”

“That’s unfortunate,” Giyu said. “So who’s this girl?”

“Her name’s Kanao Kocho!” Tanjiro answered.

Both Giyu and Nezuko froze — especially Nezuko.

“W-Wait, Kocho? As in that Kocho? The medical company?!” Nezuko said, standing up in shock.

“Medical company…?” Tanjiro repeated, blinking.

Nezuko face-palmed. “Of course you don’t know…”

“Sorry?” Tanjiro said sheepishly, scratching his head with a grin.

“It’s alright, Tanjiro. I’ll explain,” Giyu said, finishing his coffee.

After five minutes of explanation about the Kocho family and their influence, Tanjiro just stood there, speechless. He couldn’t believe the shy girl he shared three classes with — his friend — was actually the daughter of one of Japan’s richest families.

“I didn’t even know! I just approached her like normal!” Tanjiro said, red-faced in embarrassment. “No wonder people were giving me weird looks…”

Just then, the door opened — three women entered, accompanied by a few bodyguards who waited outside.

“Kanao! You’re here!” Tanjiro said with a wide smile, rushing toward them.

“H-Hello, Tanjiro-kun…” Kanao said softly, her voice shy as ever.

“Ara~ so you’re the Tanjiro-kun my little sister keeps talking about!” said Kanae Kocho, the eldest sister, clasping Tanjiro’s hands warmly. “Thank you for being Kanao’s friend! She’s usually too shy to approach anyone, but thanks to you, she’s gained some confidence and even made other friends!” Her tone turned proud, tears brimming in her eyes.

“Nee-san, you’re being overdramatic…” Shinobu said flatly.

“You’re too cold to your sister again!” Kanae pouted.

“…” Shinobu stayed silent.

“Ah— You’re welcome, um…” Tanjiro hesitated, trying to recall her name.

“Oh right! My apologies for the lack of introduction,” Kanae said, letting go of his hands. “I’m Kanae Kocho, the eldest. And this is Shinobu Kocho, the second sister. She might look cold toward boys, but she’s actually very nice to a certain person~” Kanae teased, smiling mischievously.

“S-Shut up! He just saved me, alright…!” Shinobu said quickly, her cheeks slightly pink.

“Umm, nice to meet you, Kanae-san, Shinobu-san!” Tanjiro said and bowed politely.

“Nice to meet you too, Tanjiro-kun,” Kanae said warmly.

“Nice to meet you,” Shinobu added, more reserved.

“I’ll take you to your seats,” Tanjiro said, leading them to a table.

“H-Here’s our menu, please take your time to order!” Nezuko said nervously as she handed over the menus. Meeting the famous Kocho sisters made her heart race — especially since Kanae Kocho used to be an actress she admired. Though Kanae still took roles occasionally, she was now focused on her university studies.

“C-Can you please sign this shirt?” Nezuko blurted out, bowing deeply while holding out a shirt and pen toward Kanae.

“Ara~ I wasn’t expecting to meet a fan here!” Kanae said brightly as she signed the shirt. “It’s always lovely to meet a fan! What’s your name, dear?”

“I-I’m Nezuko Kamado!” Nezuko said nervously.

“Kamado? Are you two siblings?” Shinobu asked, glancing at Tanjiro.

Tanjiro nodded. “She’s the second oldest.”

“You have such a cute sister!” Kanae said with a soft laugh.

Nezuko turned red at the compliment. “T-Thank you for the compliment!”

“Fufu~ no need to be shy! Oh, and here’s our order,” Kanae said, returning the menu.

“Then I’ll get these ready right away!” Nezuko said, her shyness melting into excitement as she walked back toward the counter.

“She’s a sweet girl,” Kanae said happily.

Shinobu, meanwhile, was quietly scrolling through her phone.

“Hmm? You seem a little down, Kanao?” Kanae asked, noticing her expression.

“I-I’m fine!” Kanao quickly said, straightening up.

Kanae smirked. “Ara~ is it because Tanjiro-kun walked away?” she teased.

“N-No!” Kanao’s face turned bright red, while Kanae and Shinobu chuckled softly at her reaction.

“Did someone call my name?!” Tanjiro shouted from across the café as he helped another customer.

“No, no, it’s nothing!” Kanae shouted back.

“Alright then!” Tanjiro replied and returned to work.

“Giyu-nii! New order!” Nezuko called from the counter.

“Got it! Leave it there, I’ll take care of it,” Giyu replied from the kitchen, currently preparing another drink.

He stepped out from the back, grabbed the new order slip, and returned to the espresso machine — quietly starting to make the Kocho sisters’ order.

Kanae, who was admiring the café’s warm ambiance, noticed Giyu step out from the kitchen. She was about to call Shinobu’s attention, but when she looked beside her—Shinobu was already staring in the same direction, a faint blush dusting her cheeks.

“Ara~ someone’s turning a little red after seeing a certain person, fufu~,” Kanae teased, chuckling softly behind her hand.

“W-What are you talking about?! I didn’t see Tomioka-san!” Shinobu quickly defended herself.

“Oh~? I didn’t even say his name, and yet you knew who I meant~,” Kanae laughed while Kanao also began to giggle quietly.

“Hey! Why are you laughing, Kanao?! You get embarrassed every time Tanjiro talks to you!” Shinobu said, pointing accusingly at her younger sister.

“I-I don’t...!” Kanao said, flustered as her cheeks reddened even more.

“Fufu~ trying to change the topic, I see~,” Kanae said with a mischievous grin. She then waved toward the counter. “Tanjiro!”

Tanjiro, who was assisting another customer, turned around. “Ah—Nezuko! Can you help this customer for me?” he called. Nezuko nodded and stepped in as Tanjiro walked over to the Kocho sisters.

“What is it, Kanae-san?” Tanjiro asked.

“You’re not doing what I think you’re doing, right...?” Shinobu asked nervously, sensing something troublesome coming from her sister.

Kanae smiled sweetly. “Well, once our food is ready, can the gentleman from the kitchen serve it to us?”

Shinobu immediately reacted, “N-Nee-san!” startling Giyu from afar.

“She said nothing!” Kanae quickly said, covering Shinobu’s mouth with a playful grin.

“Eh? You mean Giyu-san? You guys know him?” Tanjiro asked curiously.

“She’s someone speci—” Kanae began, but Shinobu swiftly clamped a hand over her mouth, smiling dangerously.

“Don’t you dare finish that sentence,” she whispered, her tone calm but terrifying enough to make Kanae flinch.

“Alright, alright!” Kanae said, muffled through Shinobu’s hand. When her sister finally let go, Kanae huffed. “But still—take him here!”

“Wha—” Shinobu was about to argue again when Kanae leaned forward, eyes wide and pleading.

“Are you really sure you don’t want to see him?” Kanae said with exaggerated puppy eyes.

“...” Shinobu sighed deeply. There was no way she could resist that face. “Fine…”

“Then I’ll inform Giyu-san!” Tanjiro said, but before leaving, he noticed Kanao’s face—bright red. “Kanao? You look flushed… You’re not coming down with a fever, are you?” he asked, gently placing his hand on her forehead.

Kanao’s entire face turned scarlet, and steam might as well have been coming out of her ears. “I-I’m fine!”

“Are you sure? You’re getting even redder!” Tanjiro said, concerned as he pulled his hand away.

Kanae giggled softly. “Fufu~ don’t worry, Tanjiro. She’s fine—just a little embarrassed.”

“Embarrassed?” Tanjiro asked, tilting his head.

Shinobu smirked. “You really are slow, aren’t you?”

“Pft—says the one who doesn’t know her own feelings~,” Kanae teased.

“...I’ll stop talking,” Shinobu muttered, defeated.

Tanjiro laughed nervously. “I-I’ll go inform Giyu-san now!” and quickly walked back toward the kitchen.

Five minutes later, Giyu emerged, balancing a tray filled with their food and drinks. He approached their table quietly.

“Here’s your order,” Giyu said, carefully setting down the plates and cups. “If there’s anything else you’d like, just call for me—or Tanjiro and Nezuko.”

“We do~,” Kanae said, raising her hand with a cheerful grin.

“What is it, Kocho-san?” Giyu asked politely.

“Do you mind eating with us?” Kanae asked.

“N-Nee-san!” Shinobu nearly shouted, catching everyone’s attention and startling Giyu slightly.

“…I don’t think that would be proper for someone on duty. And Kocho-san doesn’t seem comfortable with it either,” Giyu replied calmly.

Shinobu froze for a moment. She hadn’t meant to sound rude—just startled. Her expression softened as she spoke quietly, “I didn’t mean it in a bad way…”

Kanae smiled softly. Shinobu wasn’t the type to open up to men easily. Ever since her trauma years ago, she had avoided close contact with them. But ever since Giyu entered her life, that fear had begun to fade—bit by bit. Around him, she could finally relax, even forget the walls she’d built.

“Can’t you really join us?” Kanae asked again, kindly.

“…I can,” Giyu replied after a pause, “but I just wasn’t sure if she’d be comfortable.”

“N-No, I’m fine!” Shinobu said quickly, her face pink. “It just surprised me, that’s all… But I don’t mind you joining us.”

“Then I’ll take my lunch break,” Giyu said, nodding. “I’ll call Tanjiro and Nezuko too, if you don’t mind—they haven’t eaten yet either.”

“Of course we don’t mind! The more, the merrier!” Kanae said happily.

Giyu gave a small nod. “Give me a minute.”

He walked over to the Kamado siblings, explained what the sisters had asked, and the two eagerly agreed. Giyu then retrieved his bento box from his bag before heading back to their table.

The Kamado siblings soon joined the Kocho sisters at their table. Tanjiro munched happily on his rice balls, Nezuko nibbled a buttery croissant, and Giyu quietly ate his chicken bento.

Kanao, however, kept stealing quick glances at Tanjiro—only to look away the instant he noticed.

“Do you want one, Kanao?” Tanjiro asked, holding out a rice ball toward her.

“U-Um…” Kanao stammered, caught completely off guard.

Kanae chuckled over the rim of her latte. “Fufu~ I don’t think that’s why she’s staring at you, Tanjiro-kun,” she teased, making Kanao blush bright red.

“Huh? Then… what is it?” Tanjiro asked, tilting his head.

“I-It’s nothing…” Kanao mumbled, trying to hide her face.

Tanjiro smiled kindly. “Well, do you still want one? Our Oka-san made these! They might look simple, but they’re really good!”

Kanao hesitated, but she couldn’t refuse him. “T-Then… I’ll take one, if you don’t mind,” she said softly.

“Of course not!” Tanjiro said, handing it over proudly.

Kanao took a small bite—and her eyes sparkled. “It’s really delicious,” she said, taking another.

Tanjiro beamed. “Told you! Our Oka-san’s the best!”

Nezuko smirked. “You two are flirting too much.”

Both of them froze, blushing furiously.

“We’re not flirting!” Tanjiro said quickly.

“Y-Yeah…” Kanao mumbled, face even redder.

“Sure, sure,” Nezuko said teasingly.

“She’s just like you, Nee-san,” Shinobu muttered, cutting into her chocolate cake.

“Ara~ don’t think you’re safe either, Shinobu~,” Kanae said with a sly grin, making Shinobu stiffen.

“Please, not now…” Shinobu pleaded, knowing what was coming.

“I’m kidding, alright~?” Kanae laughed.

“Sure you are,” Shinobu said flatly, sipping her coffee.

“I didn’t know you worked here, Tomioka,” Kanae said, changing the subject.

“I’ve been here for about two years,” Giyu said between bites. “Used to work every day except Sunday, but since college started, I only do weekends.”

“You’re really hardworking,” Shinobu said softly, a bit impressed. “Balancing both must be hard.”

“Gotta earn to live,” Giyu replied simply.

Shinobu smiled. “Oh—you’ve got some rice on your cheek.” She leaned forward instinctively and wiped it off with her thumb.

Giyu froze, caught completely off guard. Shinobu hadn’t even realized what she’d done.

“…” He blinked, unsure what to say, faintly red.

“Fufu~,” Kanae giggled, hand covering her mouth.

“Wow, I didn’t know you two were that close, Giyu-nii and Shinobu-chan,” Nezuko teased.

“Oh, they’re very close~,” Kanae chimed in.

“Huh—?” Shinobu turned to look at her sister, then realized what she’d done. Her face turned crimson. “I-I—!” She quickly looked away.

“Why are you blushing, Shinobu-san?” Tanjiro asked innocently.

“Um… I think she’s embarrassed…” Kanao whispered shyly, also clueless.

Nezuko groaned. “No way… how dense can you two be?”

Kanae burst out laughing. “It’s fine, you lovebirds will understand one day~!”

“W-We’re not lovebirds!” Tanjiro and Kanao said at the same time.

“For now~,” Kanae teased. “Anyway, back to you, Shinobu~!”

Shinobu’s face was still red as she glared weakly at her sister. “W-What…?”

“That was a pretty bold move,” Kanae said playfully.

“S-Shut up…” Shinobu muttered, burying her face in her hands.

“She was just helping me, that’s all,” Giyu said awkwardly, trying to calm things down.

“No need to cover for yourself, Tomioka. You’re blushing too,” Kanae said, laughing again.

Giyu sighed. “…”

“You’re really good at this, Kanae-chan,” Nezuko said, amused.

“I’m just not as oblivious as these two couples~,” Kanae teased again.

“WE’RE NOT A COUPLE!” all three of them shouted at once. While Giyu just stayed silent don't know how to answer

Nezuko burst out laughing. “You even said it in sync!”

Kanae laughed so hard she had to wipe her eyes. “Oh, I love this group~.”

Before Shinobu could retaliate, a small chime rang as new customers entered. Nezuko stood up. Giyu and Tanjiro also began to rise, but she stopped them.

“No, no—I’ll take care of it. You two just enjoy your time,” Nezuko said, giving them a cheeky wink.

Both Giyu and Tanjiro was confused on Nezuko meant but sat down again.

Kanae chuckled and think in her mind. "So these are the men my sisters like… total airheads."

After a while, things settled again. Tanjiro and Kanao chatted happily about manga, geeking out like true otakus.

Meanwhile, Shinobu and Giyu talked quietly, laughing here and there. Giyu wasn’t a man of many words, but Shinobu didn’t mind—his calm presence made her feel safe. Familiar, even. As if she’d known him long ago…

As if he were the same boy who once saved her when she was ten. She tried not to dwell on the memory, but every time she heard Giyu’s voice, it echoed that day from the past.

Kanae watched the two of them softly, her heart warm. She was just glad—glad her sisters could smile like this again.

As evening approached, the café grew busier. Giyu and Tanjiro soon jumped in to help Nezuko handle the wave of customers.

Then Tanjiro had an idea. “How about you guys join us? It’ll be fun!”

“That sounds wonderful! I’ve always wanted to learn how to make coffee!” Kanae said, clapping her hands excitedly.

Shinobu nodded. “If you don’t mind, I’d love to learn how to bake. Especially cakes.”

“How about you, Kanao?” Kanae asked.

“I-I’ll help Tanjiro-kun,” Kanao said shyly.

Kanae just smiled, resisting the urge to tease her. “Alright then!”

“So, can you teach us, Tomioka?” Kanae asked.

“Sure,” Giyu said, walking toward the kitchen. “Follow me—I’ll show you the basics.”

Inside the kitchen, Giyu showed Kanae how to prepare a caramel latte—measuring the milk, frothing it, and drizzling caramel syrup in perfect swirls.

“You can drink it if you want,” Giyu said once she poured it into the cup. “Since it’s your first time making one."

Kanae’s eyes sparkled. “Really? Then… itadakimasu!” She took a sip and smiled brightly. “Mmm~ so sweet! It turned out better than I thought!”

Giyu set another caramel latte for a customer on the pickup counter. Then he turned to Shinobu. “You wanted to make a cake, right?”

Shinobu nodded. “Yes.”

“Then put this on first,” he said, handing her an apron.

She slipped it on, but fumbled with the ribbon at her back. “Ah—can’t reach…”

Without a word, Giyu stepped behind her and gently tied the strings. Shinobu’s breath hitched slightly.

“T-Thank you, Tomioka-san.”

“No problem,” he said, stepping beside her. “Let’s start.”

They worked together on a chocolate cake—mixing, whisking, and laughing. When Giyu guided her hands from behind to stir the batter properly, Shinobu’s cheeks turned bright pink.

Kanae noticed from afar but, for once, didn’t tease. She simply smiled—quietly watching her sister enjoy herself.

When the cakes were done, Giyu set them on the table to cool—one for Shinobu to taste, and one for a customer.

“Just wait a few minutes,” Giyu said. “Then you can try it.”

Shinobu nodded eagerly. A few minutes later, he called Tanjiro to pick up the customer’s cake, then turned back to Shinobu.

“You can taste it now.”

Shinobu took a small forkful, her eyes lighting up as she tasted it. “It’s so fluffy and rich! Delicious!”

Giyu smiled proudly. “Of course. I’m the one who taught you.”

Shinobu and Kanae both laughed.

“I’ll try some too!” Kanae said, grabbing a fork. “Mmm~ the chocolate is so creamy!”

“Hey! Don’t eat it all!” Shinobu said, trying to shield her slice.

“Nope! It’s too good!” Kanae said between bites.

With a sigh, Shinobu scooped another piece—and offered it to Giyu. “Here, Tomioka-san. You should try it too.”

Giyu leaned in and took the bite without hesitation. “It’s really good.”

Kanae froze, then pointed dramatically. “Indirect kiss~!”

Shinobu blinked. “H-Huh?” She looked at her fork—and her face went up in flames. “I-I’m sorry, Tomioka-san! I didn’t realize!”

“What do you mean?” Giyu asked, completely clueless as he sipped water.

“…It’s nothing,” Shinobu said quickly, a little embarrassed—and maybe, secretly, a little disappointed that he didn’t notice.

“Someone seems a little disappointed~,” Kanae teased.

“I-I’m not!” Shinobu said, face red as ever.

Just then, Nezuko called out from the counter, “Six macaroons and two cappuccinos, Giyu-nii!”

“Alright, coming right up!” Giyu replied, immediately moving into action as Shinobu and Kanae helped gather ingredients.

Two hours later, the shop finally quieted down. Everyone was exhausted but satisfied.

“There were more customers than I expected,” Nezuko said, gulping down water.

“You’re right,” Tanjiro added, stretching his arms. “That was crazy!”

Giyu checked the clock. “It’s already night. Your guards have been waiting outside for hours—you should probably head home.”

“Oh right! We lost track of time!” Kanae said, standing up. “We’ll get going then. Thank you all so much—it was a lovely day!”

“You’re always welcome here!” Tanjiro said cheerfully.

“S-See you at school, Tanjiro-kun,” Kanao said shyly.

“Yeah! See you!” Tanjiro waved as the sisters headed out.

Shinobu paused by the door and turned back. “Thank you for teaching us, Tomioka-san.”

“It’s no problem,” Giyu replied simply.

“We’ll see you again soon,” she said with a small smile before stepping outside.

Giyu, Tanjiro, and Nezuko watched the car pull away. The soft hum of the café filled the air.

“Today was exhausting,” Nezuko said, cracking her neck. “But fun.”

“Yeah,” Tanjiro said, stretching his arms. “One of the best days in a while.”

Giyu smiled faintly. “Mhm… it’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a day like this.”

“Let’s finish cleaning so we can go home!” Nezuko said.

“Right!” Tanjiro said with renewed energy.

Giyu chuckled. “You’re way too lively for someone who’s been working all day.”

“The faster we clean, the faster we rest!” Tanjiro said, stacking chairs.

“I guess you’re right,” Giyu replied, heading into the kitchen to wash the dishes.

The clinking of plates and laughter filled the quiet café—a simple, warm sound that marked the end of a long but wonderful day.

For Giyu and Shinobu, it was more than just a shift at a café.

It was the beginning of something—

A quiet connection, slowly rekindling between two hearts that once met long ago.

End Of Chapter 3

Chapter Text

It’s been a month since school started, and since the day Giyu and Shinobu technically first met. They’ve grown quite close to each other — Shinobu always smiles around Giyu, and though he rarely shows it outwardly, being with her makes him feel warm inside.

They usually talk only when heading home or during lunch breaks. But in school, Giyu tends to avoid Shinobu — not because he dislikes her, but because of the overwhelming attention and death stares he gets from other students whenever she’s nearby. It makes Shinobu a little sad, but she understands his reasons.

Right now, the two are on the train again. Shinobu had asked Giyu if he could join her — at least until they reached the street near school, close enough to walk together, but far enough that no one would notice them.

“You really like taking the train, don’t you?” Giyu asked, glancing at her. This was their second time commuting this week alone together.

“I just like the sense of freedom,” Shinobu said softly, eyes on the passing Tokyo scenery. “Going to school alone without bodyguards feels nice… even if it’s a little dangerous.” Then she smiled faintly, a pink tint coloring her cheeks. “And since we exchanged numbers two weeks ago, there’s someone who can come with me — someone who makes me feel safe.”

Flashback — Two Weeks Ago

Giyu was on his way to the parking area after class, ready to head home, when Sabito suddenly threw an arm around his shoulders.

“Yo! Can we borrow your bike again?” Sabito asked with a grin.

“No,” Giyu replied flatly.

“What?! Why not?!” Makomo protested from behind, pouting. “We were planning to go on a date…”

“The last time you borrowed it, the tires suddenly changed,” Giyu said, still skeptical about Sabito’s explanation.

“We were being chased by a pack of dogs, alright?!” Sabito said defensively, still clearly traumatized. “It was terrifying!”

“That’s exactly why I’m not lending it to you again,” Giyu replied.

“Please… 🥺” Makomo begged, doing her best puppy eyes. 

“You’re not going to convince me with that face,” Giyu said, trying to hold firm — until Sabito joined in.

“Pleaseee 🥺”

Giyu’s composure cracked. “W–What the hell is that face…?” he muttered, barely holding back laughter as Makomo burst out laughing.

“W–WHAT was that?!” Makomo laughed even harder. “It looked horrifying!”

“I was trying to help, okay?!” Sabito said, red-faced.

“That didn’t help at all. You made it worse…” Giyu said, still fighting back laughter.

After a few minutes of calming down, Giyu finally sighed. “Fine. You can borrow it — but if anything changes again, Sabito, be ready.”

“Alright, alright! Geez, no need to threaten me!” Sabito pouted. “Don’t you trust me?”

“…No. Of course not,” Giyu said flatly, crushing his best friend’s soul.

Makomo giggled. “Don’t worry, Giichi, your bike will be fine… unless we get chased again,” she teased. Sabito nodded solemnly.

Giyu sighed but handed them the key. “Just keep it intact, alright?” They waved goodbye as he walked toward the station.

Ten minutes later, Giyu arrived at the crowded train station, packed with workers and students.

“So many people today,” he thought, scanning for a less crowded spot. Then he noticed someone who looked nervous and out of place — Shinobu.

To Shinobu

“T–There’s so many people! I didn’t expect it to be this packed!” Shinobu said anxiously, trying not to get pushed around. The crowd swelled as more commuters arrived, and before long, she stumbled backward, losing her spot at the front.

She sighed as the train filled and departed without her. “Now I have to wait another thirty minutes…”

Just then, a hand patted her shoulder. Startled, she turned — and relaxed. “Oh, it’s you, Tomioka-san. You scared me…”

Giyu quickly pulled his hand back. “Sorry. I didn’t realize.”

“It’s alright,” she said, smiling lightly.

“You missed the train too?” he asked.

Shinobu nodded. “I was in front but got pushed back by the crowd…” she said, sighing. “Didn’t you say you have a bike? Why are you here?”

“Same question to you,” Giyu replied.

“I asked first,” she countered, crossing her arms.

“My friends borrowed it again,” he said.

“Didn’t you say that last time too?” she asked suspiciously.

“I’m telling the truth,” Giyu said with a straight face.

Shinobu giggled. “I was just kidding.”

“Then how about you? Taking the train again?”

“…I wanted to go home on my own,” she said quietly, fidgeting with her fingers.

“The same reason as last time, huh,” Giyu said mockingly.

“Let’s not talk about it,” Shinobu muttered.

Thirty minutes later, the next train arrived — thankfully, with fewer people. They boarded and found two empty seats.

After a moment of silence, Shinobu spoke. “Umm, Tomioka-san…”

Giyu turned to her. “What is it?”

Her face was slightly pink. “Do you mind exchanging contact information?”

Giyu blinked, surprised. “I don’t mind, but… why?”

“D-Don’t think anything weird!” she said quickly, flustered and already regretting bringing it up.

“I wasn’t,” he said, confused.

“I just thought… maybe I could call you whenever I’m riding the train. You could, um, join me — so I wouldn’t feel uncomfortable, i-if you don't mind it of course...!" she said

shyly, twisting her fingers.

Then, in a softer voice, she added, “And… I wouldn’t mind if it’s you…” but Giyu didn’t catch that part.

He smiled faintly. “If that’s the case, I don’t mind.”

“R–Really?!” she asked, eyes lighting up.

He nodded. They both pulled out their phones and exchanged contacts on Lime.

Looking at his name on her screen, Shinobu mumbled under her breath, “My first contact with a guy…”

Giyu tilted his head. “Did you say something?”

“A–Ah, it’s nothing!” Shinobu said quickly, though her heart fluttered with quiet happiness.

Giyu also felt an unfamiliar warmth inside, even if his face didn’t show it.

End of Flashback

Giyu smiled faintly. “I’m glad I don’t make you uncomfortable.”

“Of course not! You’ve saved me twice already — and I already know you’re a really kind person,” Shinobu said sincerely.

Giyu let out a small giggle — something rare for him. Shinobu froze, eyes widening. Cute… she thought, looking away to hide her flustered face.

“Did you say something?” Giyu asked.

“I-It’s nothing!” she said quickly, her cheeks still warm.

Giyu raised an eyebrow but let it go. “Okay then.”

A few minutes later, the train reached their stop. They walked together for a while — Giyu insisting on walking Shinobu close to school to make sure she was safe.

“We’re near the campus. I’ll take a different path from here,” Giyu said.

“Alright! See you in class, then,” Shinobu replied with a bright smile.

He nodded and headed off.

At the school gate, Sabito and Makomo were already waiting.

“Yo! You finally showed up!” Sabito shouted, waving.

“There’s still fifteen minutes before class. You’re too impatient,” Giyu said calmly.

“We’ve got a big quiz today, of course I’m rushing!” Makomo said.

“And I haven’t reviewed yet…” Sabito muttered, scratching his head.

The two just stared at him blankly.

Makomo facepalmed. “Didn’t I send you a reviewer? Why didn’t you read it?!” she scolded, smacking him on the head.

“Ow!” Sabito groaned, rubbing the spot. “I got too lazy, okay?!”

Giyu sighed. “Of course you did.”

“Don’t worry! Ten minutes is plenty for me to review,” Sabito said confidently.

Makomo narrowed her eyes. “You’d better mean that, or I’m telling Auntie.”

“Please don’t! She’ll cut my allowance again!” Sabito begged.

“Then you’d better pass this quiz.”

“I will!” Sabito said proudly.

Giyu sighed again. “Let’s just get to class so you still have time to review.”

The three headed to their classroom.

After a grueling hundred-question quiz and two and a half hours of brain-melting writing, everyone finally finished.

“Alright, since we still have 30 minutes left, we’ll be checking the quiz too,” the professor announced.

The students began exchanging papers to check each other’s answers.

After about 20 minutes, everyone finally got their quizzes back.

“…F*ck…” Sabito muttered, sweating bullets.

“…Didn’t our professor mention that one page had accidentally repeated numbers but with different questions? Why didn’t you answer it?” Makomo asked, looking at him incredulously.

(Author: Happened to me don't asked how ;-;)

“I forgot, alright?!” Sabito groaned, banging his head lightly against the wall in frustration.

“If you answered that, you could’ve passed…” Giyu said, sighing. “You were only four points away.”

“I’m cooked,” Sabito said dramatically, eyes closed, smiling with tears streaming down his face. “Goodbye, allowance.”

“You should’ve listened to the professor,” Makomo teased. “I was this close to being impressed, but then I remembered—you’re an idiot.”

“Hey! I would’ve passed if I answered that page!” Sabito said defensively.

“Yeah, yeah,” Makomo sighed, grinning. “Fine, since you suffered enough, I won’t tell Auntie.”

“R-Really?!” Sabito’s face lit up immediately.

Makomo smirked. “Yeah, but you’re treating me today.”

“Deal!” Sabito said without hesitation, shaking her hand.

“Don’t you two always go out to eat anyway?” Giyu asked.

“Yeah, but this time, he’s also taking me shopping,” Makomo said with a mischievous grin.

“…Oh god, this is going to be expensive, isn’t it?” Sabito swallowed nervously.

“Don’t worry, I’ll just buy a bag,” Makomo said sweetly.

“You better keep that promise,” Sabito muttered, squinting his eyes at her.

“Anyway, what did you get, Giichi?” Makomo asked.

“Ninety-eight,” Giyu replied casually.

“Damn, I should’ve copied your answers,” Sabito said.

“You literally did—and almost got the two of us caught,” Giyu said flatly.

“Yeah, yeah,” Sabito waved him off. “We’ll be going now.”

“See you tomorrow!” Makomo waved as she and Sabito left the classroom.

Giyu packed his things and started heading out, while walking in the hallway he spotted Shinobu with her little sister, Kanao.

“Oh! Hello, Tomioka-san!” Shinobu greeted with her usual warm smile as she approached.

“Where are you two headed?” Giyu asked.

“Oh~ is someone curious?” Shinobu teased with a giggle.

“…Never mind,” Giyu muttered, regretting asking.

Shinobu giggled again. “We’re just about to grab some coffee. Do you want to join us?”

“It’s alright. I don’t want to deal with death stares again,” Giyu replied calmly.

“Alright then… we’ll be going now,” Shinobu said, her voice dropping slightly in tone.

Giyu nodded and started walking toward the library.

Kanao looked at her sister. “Why did you suddenly sound sad, Nee-san?”

“H-Huh?! I wasn’t!” Shinobu said quickly, flustered.

“You’re red now…” Kanao pointed out.

“L-Let’s just get going!” Shinobu said, speeding up.

“W-Wait for me!” Kanao called out, chasing after her.

About an hour later, their second and final class of the day began.

Five minutes in, the professor entered the room and began explaining their new midterm project.

After fifteen minutes of detailed instructions, she finally packed her things.

“Alright, I’ve already assigned your partners for this project. There’s no lecture today, so take this time to brainstorm. The deadline will be our next meeting, next week,” she announced before leaving the classroom.

As soon as the door closed, the students began moving around to find their assigned partners.

Shinobu smiled brightly. “We’re groupmates, Tomioka-san.”

“Yeah, I can tell… and I can also feel everyone’s glares,” Giyu muttered, sweating slightly as jealous male classmates stared daggers at him.

“Ugh! It’s that guy again! Why is he so lucky?!” one student groaned.

“It should’ve been me, not him!” another complained.

Shinobu giggled softly. “It’s getting too noisy here. Want to talk outside—in the field, maybe?”

“Sure. I’d rather not keep getting stared at,” Giyu said.

“Then let’s go!” Shinobu said cheerfully. She grabbed her bag—and his hand—and led him out of the classroom.

The entire class fell silent for a moment.

“So cute!” one girl whispered, clasping her hands.

“I know, right? They’re perfect together!” another squealed.

The male students collectively sighed in defeat.

As they walked toward the field, Giyu spoke up. “Uh, you’re still holding my hand.”

Shinobu froze, then quickly let go, her face turning pink. “I-I’m sorry! I didn’t realize!”

“N-No, it’s alright. I don’t mind it either…” Giyu said awkwardly.

Shinobu felt her heart skip a beat at his words. “…Please don’t say that to other girls, Tomioka-san.”

“Why?” he asked, genuinely confused.

“B-Because they might… misunderstand!” Shinobu said quickly, her face still flushed.

“Alright then,” Giyu said simply.

A few minutes later, they reached the field, found an empty bench, and sat down to discuss their project.

Their project was quite simple. They needed to create a short film, around three to five minutes long, with one of three possible themes: Sci-Fi, Action, or Romance. And so, the two began planning.

“What genre do you want to do, Tomioka-san?” Shinobu asked.

“You can decide. I’m not really good at this kind of project anyway,” Giyu answered honestly.

Shinobu’s cheeks turned slightly pink. “Then… how about Romance? Action and Sci-Fi would take more time to film and edit, so I think Romance is the best choice.”

“That’s fine with me,” Giyu said.

Shinobu clapped her hands together. “Okay, let’s start working on our layout then!”

Giyu nodded in agreement.

After about an hour and a half of planning, the two finally finished the layout for their five-minute short film.

“Also, since the professor said we can include other people as long as they’re not classmates, maybe we should get some help? Perhaps Tanjiro and Kanao? They can record and assist us,” Shinobu suggested, looking to Giyu for his opinion.

“If that’s what you think will make the film better, then alright,” Giyu replied.

“Perfect! Since you and Tanjiro work at the same café, you can tell him directly, and I’ll talk to Kanao once I get home,” Shinobu said.

Giyu nodded. “So, we’ll do the filming on the weekend?”

“Yeah. That’s the plan. Let’s meet on Saturday, maybe around 11 a.m., at Tanjiro-kun’s café so it’s easier for everyone to gather,” Shinobu said.

“Okay then. See you on Saturday,” Giyu replied.

“Mhm! Goodbye!” Shinobu waved with a small smile.

The two then went their separate ways—Giyu heading home since this was his last class for the day, while Shinobu waited for her sister.

2 Days Later

The morning sun painted the café windows in shades of gold as Giyu adjusted his apron for the last time that day. The smell of roasted beans filled the air, blending with the faint chatter of customers enjoying their Saturday routines.

“Tanjiro, once they arrive, we’ll hand things over to the others,” Giyu said, checking his watch. “It’s almost time.”

Tanjiro nodded, his usual bright smile never fading. “Got it! This is going to be fun, right? Like seeing you act!”

“Fun, huh…” Giyu muttered, expression unreadable.

Tanjiro chuckled. “You sound thrilled.”

Before Giyu could respond, the doorbell chimed. Both turned toward it — Shinobu and Kanao stepped in, sunlight catching the soft lavender hue of Shinobu’s hair.

“Oh, they’re here!” Tanjiro said, waving enthusiastically. “Good morning, Shinobu-san! Good morning, Kanao!”

“Good morning, Tanjiro-kun, Tomioka-san,” Shinobu greeted with her usual composure, hands gently folded before her.

Kanao smiled faintly and nodded. “G-Good morning.”

“Morning,” Giyu replied simply. His voice was calm, but Tanjiro noticed the faintest flicker of warmth in his tone.

“Shall we get going, then?” Shinobu asked cheerfully.

“Yeah,” Giyu replied, slipping off his apron. “Let’s go.”

They all headed out to the parking area, where a sleek, dark van waited for them.

Tanjiro’s eyes widened as he climbed in. “Whoa—this van’s incredible! There’s even a fridge in here!”

“I guess that’s what happens when your family’s… well, this rich,” Giyu said quietly, glancing at the polished interior.

“This is nothing compared to my father’s car collection,” Shinobu said without thinking, still smiling.

“…You don’t have to brag about it,” Giyu replied flatly.

“Ah! I—I’m sorry!” Shinobu said quickly, her cheeks turning slightly pink. “It’s just… habit.”

Tanjiro snorted under his breath. “Did she just flex again?”

“Let’s stop talking about that,” Shinobu said, clearing her throat. “Instead, let’s review our plan!”

Her voice brightened, and even Giyu couldn’t help but smile faintly at how she tried to change the topic.

They discussed scene order, camera angles, and dialogue as the van hummed along the quiet road.

———

After about thirty minutes, the van slowed to a stop. Through the tinted windows, they could see the tall red torii gates and stone pathways of a peaceful shrine.

“It’s beautiful…” Tanjiro said, stepping out and taking in the view.

But the place was strangely empty — no tourists, no visitors. Just silence and the soft rustling of trees.

“Is it just me, or are we the only people here?” Giyu asked, scanning the area.

“I was about to say the same thing,” Tanjiro replied. “Last time I came here, it was packed!”

Kanao answered calmly, “Nee-san… rented the entire area for the day.”

Tanjiro blinked. “…She what?”

Shinobu laughed nervously. “It’s easier to film without people, alright?”

Both Giyu and Tanjiro stared at her silently for a second before Giyu finally sighed. “…I’ll just accept that.”

Shinobu clapped her hands. “Okay! Let’s start setting up.”

Tanjiro and Kanao helped unload the tripods and camera while Giyu checked the script notes. Shinobu’s handwriting was neat but filled with little doodles and arrows — small details that reflected her enthusiasm.

Scene 1 – The Shrine

“Alright,” Shinobu began, looking at Giyu, “this scene is our ‘first meeting.’ Remember, you’re the guy who’s not paying attention and bumps into me. I drop my drink, you panic, apologize, then offer to buy another one. Simple, right?”

“Got it,” Giyu said, though his face was slightly tense.

Tanjiro stood behind the camera, giving a thumbs-up. “Ready when you two are!”

Kanao quietly adjusted the focus.

“Okay… action!”

Shinobu walked slowly down the stone path, holding a canned drink. Giyu turned the corner at the same moment, pretending to scroll on his phone. Their shoulders collided lightly. The can slipped from Shinobu’s hand, clattering to the ground.

“Oh—!” Giyu quickly bent down. “I’m so sorry! I wasn’t looking—” He bowed deeply, voice filled with genuine panic. “Please forgive me!”

Shinobu blinked, then chuckled softly, crouching to pick up the can. “It’s alright, really. I should’ve watched where I was going too.”

Still, Giyu’s head remained lowered. “Let me make it up to you. Can I buy you another drink?”

The line came naturally — maybe too naturally.

Shinobu froze for a second. There was something different in his tone. Warm. Honest.

“…Alright,” she said softly, smiling faintly. “Only if you promise not to bump into me again.”

Giyu looked up, meeting her eyes — and smiled. Not his usual small polite smile, but something bright and unguarded.

Even Tanjiro, behind the camera, whispered, “Whoa… that looked real.”

Kanao quietly nodded.

Shinobu held her breath for a moment before looking away. “C-Cut!” she said quickly, pressing a hand against her chest. “That was… good!”

“That was perfect,” Tanjiro said. “I almost forgot it was acting.”

Shinobu tried to laugh it off. “Y-Yes, well, Tomioka-san’s expression was really natural.”

“Guess I just followed the script,” Giyu replied calmly, though his voice was softer than usual.

They cleaned up and moved to the next location — the pond.

Tanjiro and Kanao exchanged knowing glances.

Every story has a scene where the acting stops… and the feelings start.

The late afternoon sun shimmered faintly through the branches as they wrapped up at the pond. Shinobu took a deep breath, checking her watch — nearly four o’clock. The sky had started to shift into warm amber tones.

“Alright,” she said, clapping her hands together. “Only one scene left — the fountain!”

Tanjiro cheered, “The grand finale!” while Kanao silently smiled, tightening the camera straps.

Giyu nodded, gathering the folded script pages. “We can catch the best light if we go now. The golden hour will make the last shot perfect.”

Shinobu blinked, impressed. “You even know that term? You’ve been studying.”

Giyu looked away, a small smile tugging at his lips. “I read the notes you gave me. You wrote… a lot.”

Her cheeks turned slightly pink. “Ahaha, I did, didn’t I?”

They packed up the gear, Tanjiro making sure the lenses were safe, while Kanao carefully secured the tripod. As they stepped out of the shrine path, the van was waiting by the roadside, already warmed up by the driver.

The drive to the next location was short — only twenty minutes — but the world outside had already turned dusky. The park fountain gleamed under the orange sky, water glimmering like liquid gold.

“It’s so pretty…” Kanao murmured softly as they unloaded the cameras.

Shinobu looked over at Giyu, then down at her script. Her fingers lingered over the last lines — the confession scene.

“Alright,” she said, forcing her voice steady. “This one’s the final scene. The male lead… finally confesses after months of knowing her.”

Giyu adjusted his collar, quiet as always. “Understood.”

Tanjiro handed Shinobu the tiny wireless mic. “You’ll do great, Shinobu-san. The mood’s perfect for a romance scene.”

“R-Right,” she said, exhaling slowly.

As the camera rolled, Giyu and Shinobu stood near the fountain. The wind carried faint petals across the air from the trees nearby, scattering around the softly lit park.

Shinobu smiled gently, playing her role. “It’s been six months since we met at that shrine,” she said softly, voice filled with bittersweet fondness. “Time passes fast, doesn’t it?”

Giyu — the male lead — looked at her with a calm, almost tender expression. “I didn’t expect that one accident would lead to this.”

“Neither did I.” She laughed lightly, eyes lowering.

There was a pause. A silence that felt too natural — not written in the script, but carried by something real.

Then Giyu took a slow step forward, the fountain’s glow behind him casting silver light across his features.

“I know this might sound sudden,” he said quietly, his voice steady, “but every time I see you… it feels like everything else disappears.”

Shinobu’s eyes widened slightly — not because of the line itself, but because of the way he said it. Too sincere. Too real.

Her heart skipped a beat.

He continued, “I’ve never been good with words. But I don’t want to keep pretending it’s just friendship anymore.”

Tanjiro and Kanao exchanged glances — both realizing the air had changed.

The camera zoomed slightly closer.

Giyu stepped closer to Shinobu now, stopping right before her. “I like you,” he whispered, his eyes soft but unwavering.

The line was exactly as written.
But the emotion behind it wasn’t acting anymore.

Shinobu froze — her breath trembling just slightly as her chest rose and fell. For a second, she forgot they were filming.

“…I…” she stammered, then bit her lip, forcing herself to focus. Her hand pressed against her chest — she could actually feel her heartbeat. “I like you too,” she replied softly, the words barely above a whisper.

The moment lingered, suspended in silence. Then, just as the script directed, she stepped forward and wrapped her arms gently around him.

But her pulse — her flushed cheeks — the warmth that spread through her chest — none of that was part of the film.

The camera shutter clicked softly.

Tanjiro mouthed silently to Kanao, “That… looked real.”

Kanao just nodded, her eyes wide, voice barely audible. “It didn’t look… acted at all.”

The fountain’s water sparkled behind them as the shot held for a few more seconds — then Shinobu’s voice finally broke through the quiet. “A-And… cut.”

No one moved at first. Then Tanjiro finally whispered, “That was… beautiful.”

Shinobu quickly stepped back, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, trying to play it off. “Y-Yes! That’s… all of it! Great work, everyone!”

But her voice trembled slightly.

Giyu said nothing — just exhaled softly, looking down at his hands for a moment before helping Tanjiro pack up the tripods.

By the time they loaded everything back into the van, night had already fallen. The streets were quiet, lamps glowing against the dark sky.

Tanjiro was the first to break the silence. “That was amazing. I didn’t think we’d finish so smoothly.”

Kanao nodded. “You and Tomioka-san were… perfect.”

Shinobu smiled awkwardly, avoiding Giyu’s eyes. “I think we all did great. I’ll start editing tomorrow — I want to make it perfect before the deadline.”

Tanjiro chuckled. “It’s going to be the best project in class for sure!”

Shinobu laughed lightly, but her voice was soft. “Let’s hope so.”

The conversation faded into quiet hums of the engine. The gentle sound of tires against the road filled the space as everyone began to drift into tired silence.

Shinobu leaned slightly on the window, her reflection faintly visible against the glass. Her hand rested over her chest again — still feeling the echo of Giyu’s warmth from that final scene.

Across from her, Giyu sat with his eyes half-closed, the faintest smile ghosting across his lips. The memory of Shinobu’s soft voice and her trembling response lingered in his thoughts like a replay he couldn’t pause.

When they finally parted ways at the café, Giyu walked home under the quiet glow of the street lamps. He felt lighter — the kind of calm that follows a day you didn’t want to end.

At his desk later that night, he flipped through his notes for class but didn’t read a word. His pen hovered over the page before setting it down.

He thought of the way Shinobu laughed when she teased him earlier, the way her hair caught the wind near the fountain, the way her voice shook when she said, “I like you too.”

Giyu smiled faintly — a rare, unguarded one — before whispering to himself, “She’s… something else.”

Across the city, Shinobu sat on her bed, hair loose, a faint blush still painted across her cheeks.

She pressed a pillow against her face and groaned softly. “Ahhh… what is wrong with me?”

Every time she closed her eyes, she saw his smile. That real smile — not the reserved one, but the one that broke through his usual calmness.

She had promised herself, long ago, that she’d never fall for anyone until she found her hero — the person who saved her years ago.
But now, she didn’t know what to feel.

Her heart was torn between a memory and a reality.

Between the boy who once saved her…
and the man who made her heart race now.

“…Tomioka-san,” she whispered softly into the quiet night.

She turned off her light, curling under the blanket with the faintest smile she couldn’t suppress — the kind that came when a story’s ending felt too close to real.

Chapter Text

It had been a few days since Giyu and Shinobu made their short film.

During those days, Shinobu managed to finish editing, polishing, and perfecting the final version so she could submit it to their professor a day before the next class — which was today.

When Professor Ayame entered the classroom, her serious expression immediately made the students nervous.

Some started whispering, afraid that maybe all their films had disappointed her.

“Alright,” Ayame began, placing her laptop on the desk, “I’ve watched all of your films, and I must say… I was a little disappointed by how unserious and unprofessional some of them were.”

The class went silent.

“I know none of you chose acting or editing as your major,” she continued, folding her arms, “but I still expected more effort. Nonetheless, at least you all did your part.”

Some students sighed in relief, while others looked crushed as if their dignity had been shattered by her words.

“But…” Ayame said, pausing for dramatic effect, “…one group here completely surprised me. Not just me, but even the entire acting department. The whole faculty has been gossiping about this group because their film was that good.”

The class immediately broke into murmurs.

A girl raised her hand. “Umm, can I ask who this group is, sensei?” she asked politely.

Ayame smiled, eyes closed. “It’s none other than Shinobu Kocho and Giyu Tomioka. They pulled off something that, in all my years of teaching, I’ve never seen before.”

The moment she said their names, everyone turned to look at the two.

Some stared in admiration, others in jealousy — and a few weren’t even surprised.

“Ugh! That guy keeps winning, I swear!” one male student complained.

“Tch! Look at him, acting all smug! He’s just lucky to be partnered with her!” another muttered.

“…I wasn’t even moving my face,” Giyu thought silently, trying not to sigh.

Professor Ayame slammed her hand against the table. “Okay, okay! Calm down before I fail you all!” she said, half-joking but with a glare that made everyone shut up immediately.

“Good. Now then, let’s begin our lecture for this week.”

Two and a half hours later, the class finally ended.

“Alright, that’s all I’ll be teaching this week,” Ayame said, stretching a little. “You can go early today!”

The students began packing up happily, relieved.

“Oh! And Kocho, Tomioka — meet me at the acting department in ten minutes. I’d like to have a short conversation with you two.”

The two nodded in acknowledgment.

As they walked through the hallway, Shinobu glanced at Giyu.

“What do you think she called us for, Tomioka-san?”

“I have no idea,” he replied plainly. “But if I had to guess, it’s probably about the film.”

“Yeah… that’s what I thought too,” Shinobu said, nodding.

After about three minutes of walking, they reached the teacher’s facility. The two waited near Ayame’s desk until she arrived.

Six minutes later, the professor entered the room, carrying some papers, and sat down.

“Alright,” Ayame began, resting her elbows on the desk, “do you two know why I called you here?”

“Is it because of our film?” Shinobu asked.

“You’re right,” Ayame replied.

“What about it, sensei?” Giyu asked.

Ayame studied the two carefully before asking, “Are either of you actors? Especially you, Tomioka?”

Shinobu shook her head. “My sister used to be an actress, so I learned a little from her — but I’m not an actress.”

“I’m not an actor either,” Giyu said plainly.

“Then have you two ever considered becoming one?” Ayame asked curiously.

Shinobu smiled politely. “I’ve considered it before, but I want to follow in my parents’ footsteps and become a doctor.”

Ayame nodded. “That’s unfortunate to hear. What about you, Tomioka? You have a natural talent for acting — it would be a waste to just throw it away.”

“…I don’t think I have talent,” Giyu said honestly. “I just followed what the script told me to do.”

“You didn’t answer my question,” Ayame said, leaning forward slightly. “Do you want to be an actor?”

“…No. I don’t,” Giyu replied, certain in his decision.

Ayame sighed lightly but smiled. “Well, it’s not like I can force you to. But if you ever change your mind, you can always come to me.”

Both nodded.

“So, can we go now, sensei?” Shinobu asked politely.

“I still have one more thing to discuss,” Ayame said. “The first question wasn’t actually what I called you for — I just wanted to know.”

Just then, two professors entered the room.

“Is this them? The two who made that masterpiece of a short film?!” one female professor exclaimed excitedly.

“Yes, Miya, these are the two,” Ayame replied, half amused, half exasperated.

Professor Miya rushed toward Giyu and Shinobu, grabbing both their hands, startling them.

“You have no idea what kind of uproar you caused with that film!”

Ayame sighed, “Miya, calm down. You’re scaring them.”

“O-Oh! I’m sorry! I just got too excited!” Miya quickly let go of their hands and bowed apologetically. “I’m really sorry!”

“N-No, it’s alright, sensei!” Shinobu reassured her with a flustered smile.

Giyu, of course, stayed silent.

“But… what do you mean by an uproar?” Shinobu asked curiously.

Another professor, a tall man with glasses, stepped forward. “You caused an uproar throughout the entire acting department and the faculty office,” he explained. “Everyone’s talking about your film.”

Ayame nodded. “Professor Kiyoshi is right. In fact, your film has been selected to represent the school and compete at the Tokyo Student Film Festival.”

Shinobu’s eyes widened. “T-The Tokyo Festival?! But… isn’t that competition always won by students who become massive actors later on?!”

Meanwhile, Giyu just blinked. “Tokyo Festival?”

Shinobu frowned slightly. “You don’t know it?”

He shook his head. “The last time I went to a festival was back in my hometown…”

“…I guess that makes sense,” Shinobu muttered. “But still, you live in Tokyo…”

“Anyway, back to the main topic,” Ayame said, regaining control of the conversation. “We just need your approval to let the film compete.”

“But wouldn’t it be better to choose students who are actually majoring in acting?” Shinobu asked nervously. “They probably have way better films than ours…”

“You two don’t understand,” Ayame said, smiling proudly. “Your short film felt like it was made by people with decades of experience. The performance, the chemistry, the editing — everything was at a professional level.”

Professor Miya added enthusiastically, “It would be such a waste not to enter this masterpiece!”

“…Tomioka-san can decide,” Shinobu said shyly, still unsure.

“Alright then, what’s your decision, Tomioka?” Ayame asked.

“…Why am I the one deciding all of a sudden?” Giyu said, glancing at Shinobu.

“B-Because you’re the one who makes the right decisions!” Shinobu said quickly, flustered.

“…Bruh,” Giyu muttered under his breath.

Then Professor Kiyoshi spoke up. “Also, if your film wins, you’ll be compensated — not just by the school, but by the festival itself. You’ll both receive 20% of the revenue the film makes during the event.”

The word compensation was enough to make Giyu nod immediately. “Then I accept.”

“W-Wha?! Why did you accept it so suddenly, Tomioka-san?!” Shinobu exclaimed, startled.

“…If what the professors say about our film is true, we might win and make the school proud,” Giyu said calmly — even though, in truth, he was more interested in the reward.

“…You’re not wrong, but still…” Shinobu mumbled, cheeks pink. “It’s a romance film… It’s embarrassing…”

“Hm? Did you say something?” Giyu asked, tilting his head.

“A-Ah! It’s nothing! Don’t worry about it!” Shinobu said quickly.

“…Alright then.”

“So, you both agree now?” Ayame asked again.

Giyu nodded without hesitation, while Shinobu reluctantly followed. She knew once her sister and friends saw the film, she’d die of embarrassment.

Professor Miya handed them two sheets of paper. “These are the contracts — one confirming your participation, and another for your compensation. Remember, you only get it if you win~”

The two nodded and began signing.

“Kocho, you didn’t sign the second one,” Ayame pointed out.

“Oh, that’s alright. Tomioka-san can have it all,” Shinobu said softly. “It’s not like I need it anyway.”

“…Oh, right, I forgot you’re a Kocho,” Ayame said with a chuckle.

“No. Sign it,” Giyu said firmly.

“It’s fine, really, Tomioka-san—”

“No,” he interrupted. “We both worked hard on this. Even if you’re already wealthy, you deserve it too.”

Shinobu stared at him for a moment, then smiled gently. “Then… I’ll sign it.”

After signing, the two left the building together. It was already evening, and they decided to take the train home.

While sitting, Shinobu turned to him. “I wasn’t expecting you to accept that so easily.”

“…If the school believes we have a chance, it’s worth trying,” Giyu said.

“I guess you’re right…” Shinobu said softly. “But it’s just… embarrassing, you know?”

“Why so?” Giyu asked.

“B-Because the film is a romance, and I was in it! You’ll probably get harassed again!” Shinobu said, worried. The competition was less than a month away, and the Tokyo Festival would begin a week after.

“…I forgot about that part,” Giyu said, regretting his decision slightly.

Shinobu giggled softly. “You don’t always have to worry about others, you know.”

“I know,” Giyu said, his tone calm but sincere. “But it doesn’t just affect me — it affects you too.”

“I think for now, we should focus on other things,” Shinobu said. “Thinking about it too much will just stress us both.”

Giyu nodded. “You’re right.”

When the train stopped at his station, Giyu stood up. “I’ll get going now. Goodbye, Kocho.”

“Goodbye, Tomioka-san!” she waved with a small smile, and he waved back as the doors closed.

Shinobu leaned against her seat, sighing softly. “It’s been a surprising day today…”

She reached into her pocket and pulled out a small, broken pendant — one half of a matching pair. She held it in her hand, smiling warmly but sadly.

“I wonder if that kid was Tomioka-san…” she whispered. “That would’ve been… amazing.”

A faint chuckle escaped her lips. “But that’s impossible.”

About two weeks ago, Shinobu had secretly hired a detective to re-examine the kidnapping case from almost ten years ago — the day she was saved by an unknown boy.

Every year, she did this, even if there were no leads. She couldn’t give up, not when she still remembered the warmth and calmness of that boy.

This year felt different. Giyu Tomioka reminded her so much of him — not by face, but by presence.

But even after the investigation, no evidence linked Giyu to that event. No records, no resemblance, no clue.

Shinobu thought about asking him directly — if he’d ever saved a girl nine years ago — but she stopped herself.

It would sound strange. What if he said no? Wouldn’t that be awkward? Wouldn’t he think she was crazy, still chasing a childhood hero after all this time?

For now, she decided to keep it to herself.

She glanced at the pendant again — the half the boy had accidentally dropped. Maybe Giyu had something similar, but she’d never seen him wear any necklace at all.

When the train reached her station, she tucked the pendant back into her pocket and headed home.

After changing clothes, she joined her sisters for dinner.

Kanae quickly noticed her mood. “Are you alright, Shinobu? You look a bit down,” she asked gently.

“Ah… I’m fine,” Shinobu said, forcing a small smile as she took a bite.

“You can’t hide your sadness from me,” Kanae said softly. “What’s wrong?”

Shinobu hesitated, then sighed. “…It’s just… I can’t decide on something.”

“Oh? What kind of decision?” Kanae asked curiously.

“…Never mind.”

“Wha— hey, you can’t just back out!” Kanae pouted. “You know I don’t like seeing you sad.”

Shinobu glanced at her sister, then asked quietly, “Can I really trust you?”

“Of course,” Kanae said warmly. “I might tease you sometimes, but when it comes to serious things, you can always rely on me.”

“Then… Kanao, can you go to the living room for now?” Shinobu asked. “I don’t want anyone else to hear this.”

Kanao nodded and left, and Shinobu also asked the maids to give them privacy.

Once they were alone, Shinobu explained everything — her confusion, her promise, her feelings for Giyu.

Kanae listened silently, then stood up and placed a hand over her sister’s heart.

“Follow your heart, Shinobu,” Kanae said softly. “Don’t always let your brain decide. When it comes to love, you have to choose with genuine feeling, not logic. The right choice is the one that makes you happy and safe.”

Shinobu’s eyes filled with tears. “I-I made a promise to meet my hero… but when I realized how I felt for Tomioka-san… I just can’t decide anymore!” she cried, burying her face into Kanae’s stomach.

Kanae smiled sadly, patting her sister’s head. “Then don’t decide yet. Let your heart speak first. You’ll know the answer when the time comes.”

After a while, Shinobu pulled away, wiping her tears. “Thank you, Nee-san…”

Kanae smiled warmly. “Always.” 

After a few minutes. “I think I’ve decided now,” Shinobu said suddenly.

“Oh? Already?” Kanae asked, surprised.

Shinobu nodded. “I still want to meet my hero someday… but I think the one I truly want to love is Tomioka-san.” Her cheeks flushed a light pink.

Kanae giggled softly. “Saying that so casually to the sister who always teases~”

“…Please not right now, Nee-san,” Shinobu said with an embarrassed pout.

“Don’t worry,” Kanae chuckled. “I’m just happy that you finally understand your heart. But don’t think I won’t tease you next time~” She winked playfully.

“…R-Right.” Shinobu sighed, sweating a little.

“So,” Kanae asked, leaning her chin on her hand, “are you going to confess now?”

Shinobu smiled faintly. “I think for now, just being with Tomioka-san is enough. I still want to learn more about him first, so there’s no need to rush a confession.”

Kanae nodded approvingly. “It’s your decision, so whatever you think is best — I’ll support it.”

“Thank you for always understanding me, Nee-san,” Shinobu said softly.

“Of course. We’re sisters,” Kanae replied warmly.

“Oh, Kanao! You can come back now!” Shinobu called.

Kanao returned from the living room, and the three sisters resumed their dinner, chatting and laughing as the night slowly went by.

Three weeks passed. Shinobu still hadn’t confessed to Giyu, but their closeness was undeniable.

Sometimes she joined Giyu and his childhood friends, Sabito and Makomo, for short hangouts after class. The two friends already knew that Giyu and Shinobu liked each other — that was exactly why they kept inviting them together so often.

Unfortunately, even after three weeks and multiple hangouts, neither Giyu nor Shinobu had made a move.

Makomo slumped on the table, sighing in defeat. “We’ve been doing this for three weeks now — three times a week — and they still won’t confess…”

Sabito grinned, watching the pair from afar as they tried to win a teddy bear at a claw machine. The four of them were spending the afternoon at an arcade after school.

“I don’t think there’s a need to rush,” Sabito said. “Look at them — they already look happy just being together. It hasn’t even been three months since they met, and they’re already that close.”

Makomo followed his gaze. “You know, now that you mention it, it’s kinda crazy how fast they became friends. It’s like fate just… set them up.”

Sabito chuckled. “That’s true. Who would’ve thought that the one person who could break through the so-called ‘Ice Princess’ would be an introvert?”

“Hey!” Makomo smacked his arm. “Don’t say that — he’s our childhood friend!”

“Ouch! I was just joking!” Sabito rubbed his arm and laughed. “But hey, do you remember that story Giyu told us, like nine years ago?”

“Hm? What story?” Makomo asked curiously.

“The one where he said he saved a kidnapped girl from an abandoned warehouse?”

“Oh! That one,” Makomo said, remembering. “Yeah, he came to your house that day, right? He had a wound on his lower chest.”

“Exactly.” Sabito leaned back, crossing his arms. “Is it crazy to think that maybe… just maybe… Shinobu is that girl?”

Makomo blinked, unimpressed. “…You really need to stop reading so much manga.”

“Hey! It’s just a theory!” Sabito defended himself. “Think about it — when we asked them how they got close so fast, their answers were really similar. Shinobu said she feels safe and nostalgic around Giyu, and Giyu said the same thing — that she feels familiar somehow!”

Makomo frowned slightly. “…Now that you mention it, the chance isn’t zero. Should we ask them?”

“Nah,” Sabito said, smiling. “Let them figure it out themselves — if we’re right, it’ll mean more when they realize it on their own.”

Makomo sighed. “You’re too optimistic. Those two are total airheads when it comes to love.”

“You’re right,” Sabito laughed. “But still, it’ll be better if they find out naturally.”

Makomo finally stood up, stretching. “Anyway, let’s continue our game!”

Sabito followed her with a grin. “Like you’re gonna win anyway!”

A week later, Giyu and Shinobu were sitting at Professor Ayame’s desk, waiting nervously for her to announce the competition results.

“What do you think the outcome will be, Tomioka-san?” Shinobu asked.

“It could be anything, honestly,” Giyu replied calmly.

Just then, Ayame entered the room with a stack of papers and a bright smile. “Judging by my expression, you can probably already guess the results.”

“Did… did we win?” Shinobu asked, leaning forward.

“Of course!” Ayame announced proudly. “Not only that — you won with a unanimous decision! The judges didn’t even give a single vote to the other films!”

Giyu blinked. “…We actually won.”

Meanwhile, Shinobu buried her face in her hands, blushing furiously. “S-So my sister’s going to see the film…”

Ayame tilted her head. “Hm? You seem too worried for someone who just won.”

“…It’s just that my sister, Kanae, will tease me to death after watching it…” Shinobu admitted in a small voice.

Ayame giggled. “Well, that’s all for now. You two can go — but make sure to attend the Tokyo Festival next week!”

The two stood and bowed slightly.

“We will, Sensei,” Shinobu said.

“Yeah,” Giyu added.

———

As they walked home together under the city’s night lights, Shinobu suddenly spoke. “We really won.”

“Seems like it,” Giyu replied with his usual calm tone.

“Hey, Tomioka-san.”

“Hm?” he turned toward her.

“Have you ever thought about… being with someone forever?” Shinobu asked softly.

“…I guess I have,” Giyu said, looking up at the night sky.

Shinobu blushed slightly, her gaze following his. “Wouldn’t it be nice… to be with someone you love, until the day you die?”

Giyu nodded quietly.

“The night is beautiful, isn’t it?” Shinobu said with a gentle smile.

“It is,” Giyu replied.

Shinobu glanced at him and chuckled softly to herself. “He really doesn’t know the meaning behind that,” she thought, smiling at his innocence.

“What’s funny?” Giyu asked.

“It’s nothing,” she said quickly, then hesitated. “You know, I’ve been searching for someone. Someone who saved my life nine years ago.”

Giyu’s expression shifted slightly. “Nine years ago? That’s… quite a long time.”

Shinobu nodded. “I’m still trying to find that person, even now.”

“That’s some strong dedication,” Giyu said, impressed. “Almost a decade’s gone by, yet you’re still trying to find them.”

“If it weren’t for him, I probably wouldn’t be here today,” Shinobu said quietly, her voice softening. “So the least I can do is thank him — even if he’s… already gone.”

Giyu looked at her, not realizing the irony in his own words. “I hope you find him someday.”

Shinobu smiled faintly. “Yeah… me too.”

A few days later

The Tokyo Festival was set to begin the next day. The campus buzzed with excitement — students were inviting each other as partners, preparing for the festival games, food stalls, and film screenings.

As expected, many boys approached Shinobu, asking her to be their partner — and as usual, she declined them politely, though a little coldly.

Her fear and discomfort around men had lessened over the last few months thanks to Giyu, but her quiet, firm nature still made most boys back off.

After class ended, Giyu and Shinobu once again boarded the train home. It was nearly empty, giving them a peaceful corner to sit together.

Shinobu glanced at him. “…Have you found a partner for the festival tomorrow?” she asked casually.

“I haven’t,” Giyu admitted. “I was planning to just go with Sabito and Makomo if I didn’t find anyone.”

Shinobu’s cheeks turned pink. “Then… do you want to be my partner?”

Giyu blinked. “Oh? I thought you already had one.”

“What makes you think that?” she asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I kept hearing people talk about how you’ve been rejecting everyone,” Giyu said honestly. “I even saw it myself in the cafeteria.”

“Oh~ Is someone jealous~?” Shinobu teased, giggling.

Giyu frowned slightly. “I don’t think so.”

“Well, for the record,” Shinobu said, smiling softly, “I haven’t found a partner either.” Then she blushed, fidgeting slightly. “But… would you like to come with me and be my partner at the festival?”

Giyu nodded after a short pause. “Sure. Going with you sounds fun — and it’d save Sabito and Makomo from dealing with me.”

Shinobu’s eyes sparkled in joy. “Then it’s settled! Let’s meet around 3 p.m. at Kamado Café, alright?”

“Alright,” Giyu said. “I’ll be waiting for you there.”

When the train stopped at his station, Giyu stood up. “I’ll see you tomorrow. Goodnight, Kocho.”

Shinobu smiled softly. “See you tomorrow… and Goodnight too, Tomioka-san.”

As the train moved again, Shinobu leaned back in her seat, closing her eyes with a faint, content smile.

“I can’t wait for tomorrow…” she whispered.

To Be Continued...

Chapter Text

It was currently 2:30 PM at the Kamado Café. Giyu was cleaning the dishes as the café prepared to close early since the Kamado family would also be going to the festival. A few minutes passed, and Giyu finally finished the dishes.

“Are you sure this isn’t a date, Giyu-nii?” Nezuko teased while scrolling on her phone.

“…Again, she only invited me because she doesn’t have a partner,” Giyu said flatly.

“Yeah, yeah, think whatever you like~” Nezuko smirked.

Tanjiro laughed awkwardly. “Sorry about her, Giyu-san.”

“It’s alright,” Giyu said.

Tanjiro’s phone then buzzed. “They said they’re on the way here, Giyu-san,” he informed, seeing Giyu hadn’t changed yet.

Giyu stood up. “Alright, I’ll change clothes now.”

He headed into the bathroom with the kimono he’d be wearing.

Ten minutes later, Shinobu and Kanao arrived at the café. Giyu and Tanjiro went to open the door for them.

Kanao entered first, wearing a pink yukata with a floral pattern.

Tanjiro blushed slightly. “You look pretty wearing it, Kanao!”

Kanao became flustered at the sudden compliment. “T-Thank you…”

“Aren’t you coming in, Shinobu-san?” Tanjiro asked.

Shinobu was hiding at the door with a flustered face. “T-This is embarrassing…”

Giyu walked to the door and opened it. “You should get insi—”

He stopped mid-sentence.

When Giyu saw Shinobu, he was momentarily stunned.

“Kyah!” Shinobu jumped as she didn’t expect Giyu to suddenly come so close.

“H-Hello, Tomioka-san!” Shinobu said awkwardly, then took a better look at him. She noticed his perfectly shaped face — especially his jawline — and the blue kimono with wave-like patterns that suited him perfectly.

“Y-You look handso—” She quickly covered her mouth, blushing furiously. W-What the hell am I suddenly saying?! she screamed internally.

Giyu finally spoke after scanning Shinobu’s appearance. She wore a purple and black yukata with butterfly patterns, and her hair was tied neatly with her usual butterfly hairpin.

“…You look great with that yukata,” Giyu said. Even he was shocked at himself for suddenly blurting that out.

Instead of getting more flustered, Shinobu smiled warmly. She thought the dress wouldn’t suit Giyu’s taste — even though he technically didn’t have one — but she was still glad to hear the compliment.

“You also look great with that kimono, Tomioka-san,” Shinobu said sincerely, with no embarrassment this time.

The four of them waited inside the café for a bit before heading to the festival.

After some time, they finally left and hopped inside the van to go to the festival.

Fifteen minutes later, they arrived. They decided to split up — Tanjiro with Kanao, and Shinobu with Giyu.

“We’ll see you later, Giyu and Shinobu-san!” Tanjiro waved before taking Kanao’s hand.

“There’s quite a lot of people already, and it’s just 3:30 right now,” Giyu said.

Shinobu nodded. “Mhm. Last time I went with my sisters, it wasn’t this crowded.”

“Do you want to play or eat something?” Giyu asked Shinobu.

“Yeah! Let’s try that game!” Shinobu pointed at a booth labeled “Kingyo Sukui.”

The two paid, and the owner gave both of them five poi — the delicate paper scoops — to catch goldfish. Their goal was to get three fish to win a reward.

Shinobu tried first.

Her first attempt: the paper scoop tore the moment the fish touched it.

“…Eh.” Shinobu blinked.

Second attempt: she tried more carefully, but the paper still tore.

Third attempt: the fish swerved, and the paper ripped again.

Shinobu sighed in disappointment. “I’m really bad at this…”

Giyu then crouched beside her.

“Try angling your hand less steeply,” he said quietly, gently guiding her wrist.

Shinobu’s breath hitched.

“T-Tomioka-san…?”

“You’re putting too much pressure on the water surface,” he explained calmly.

With his help, Shinobu lowered her fourth scoop.

A small goldfish swam over the paper.

This time, the paper didn’t tear.

Shinobu lifted slowly…

Carefully…

And—

“I-I got one!” Shinobu’s eyes sparkled with joy.

“Good job,” Giyu said calmly.

Shinobu blushed lightly. “It was thanks to you…”

Her fifth scoop tore instantly, but she didn’t mind anymore.

“Alright, your turn now, Tomioka-san!” she said cheerfully.

Giyu crouched and dipped his first scoop with precision.

Within seconds, he caught a fish.

Shinobu gawked. “Already?”

Second scoop — another fish.

Third scoop — he waited, let two fish pass, then lifted a perfect catch.

He caught all three using only four scoops.

Shinobu clapped happily.

“Tomioka-san, you’re amazing! I didn’t think you’d be good at festival games!”

Giyu scratched his cheek slightly. “…It’s just timing.”

Shinobu stepped a bit closer, smiling softly.

“That’s still impressive.”

The moment lingered quietly between them as lanterns glowed overhead and goldfish swam in their bowls.

“Alright,” Shinobu said brightly, “let’s go get our reward. And maybe try another game after?”

Giyu nodded. “Sure. Let’s go.”.

“You can pick any of these,” the vendor said cheerfully.

Giyu looked at Shinobu. “What do you want?”

“Wha— but you’re the one who won?” Shinobu said.

“No. You’re the one who wanted to play, so you can pick it,” Giyu replied.

The vendor chuckled. “What a lovely couple you two are.”

Shinobu instantly got flustered, her cheeks burning red.

Giyu also blushed slightly, though it wasn’t as noticeable.

Shinobu coughed lightly to regain her composure. “T-Then… I pick that.”

She pointed at a matching bracelet set.

“Great choice! This will definitely suit a couple perfectly!” the vendor said enthusiastically.

“W-We’re only friends!” Shinobu stammered, blushing even harder.

“Y-Yeah…” Giyu added, embarrassed.

The vendor simply chuckled and handed them the matching bracelets.

The two continued walking. Shinobu lifted her wrist and admired it with a bright smile.

“This bracelet is really pretty.”

Giyu nodded. “It is.”

Just then, Shinobu spotted a takoyaki stand.

“Oh! Let’s eat takoyaki!”

Without warning, she grabbed Giyu’s hand and happily dragged him toward the stand.

Giyu didn’t resist — he simply let her pull him, his cheeks slightly warm.

The two ordered a plate and sat at a nearby bench as lanterns glowed overhead.

“These look delicious,” Shinobu said excitedly as she picked up a piece with a toothpick.

She blew on it a few times…

Then turned to Giyu.

“Here,” she said softly, offering it to him.

Giyu blinked. “You’re… feeding me?”

Shinobu froze.

Her hand trembled.

Her entire face turned red.

“W-Well— you don’t have to—”

Giyu leaned forward and took the takoyaki from her hand, eating it calmly.

Shinobu made a tiny squeak noise and stared at him with wide eyes.

“…It’s good,” Giyu said casually.

“W-Wha— You didn’t even hesitate!” Shinobu whispered, face still burning.

Giyu then picked up a piece of takoyaki.

“What are you doing…?” she asked quietly.

Giyu held it toward her.

“Your turn.”

Shinobu’s soul almost left her body.

“I-I can eat on my own—”

“It’ll fall apart if you grab it,” Giyu said plainly.

Shinobu gulped, leaned forward, and took the takoyaki into her mouth.

The moment she tasted it, she nearly choked.

Not on the food—

But on her own embarrassment.

“T-Tomioka-san!!” she squeaked, hiding her face behind her hands.

“You said it’s delicious,” Giyu said, slightly confused by her reaction.

Shinobu shook her head rapidly.

“You can’t just— feed me like that without warning!!”

“…Noted,” Giyu said, though his ears were red.

Shinobu sighed, covering her face while smiling helplessly.

“…That was embarrassing,” she mumbled.

“But…”

She peeked out from behind her hands.

“…it was nice.”

Giyu turned slightly away. “…Yeah.”

The two continued walking.

“That was delicious,” Shinobu said.

Giyu nodded. “The film should start exactly at 5 PM.”

“…Right…” Shinobu said, sweating nervously.

She was embarrassed knowing people would now see their film.

As they walked through the festival path, Shinobu suddenly froze.

Standing near a booth, holding a skewer of mitarashi dango…

was Kanae, smiling warmly.

Next to her—

Sanemi, wearing a stylish black jinbei, awkwardly trying to look calm.

“N-Nee-san?!” Shinobu whispered in panic.

Kanae waved elegantly. “Oh my~ What a lovely date.”

“It’s not—!” Shinobu choked on her words.

Sanemi raised an eyebrow at Giyu. “Tomioka. Didn’t expect you here.”

“Yeah… I also didn’t expect to be here,” Giyu replied.

“Oh? You two know each other?” Kanae asked.

Sanemi nodded. “We used to be in the same basketball club back in high school.”

“I didn’t know that,” Shinobu said in a surprised tone.

“Probably because I don’t play basketball anymore,” Giyu said.

“Why so?” Kanae asked.

“If I remember correctly, you tore your Achilles during your fourth year of high school, right?” Sanemi said.

Giyu nodded. “Yeah. I recovered, but I went back to Taekwondo after that, so I didn’t continue basketball.”

“When I heard the news, it was really unfortunate. But… good to see you doing what you really want now,” Sanemi said sincerely.

“Ara~ I didn’t know you could say such nice words, Sanemi~” Kanae teased with a smile.

“H-He’s just an old acquaintance, that’s all!” Sanemi said, slightly embarrassed by Kanae’s teasing.

Kanae giggled playful. “Well, enjoy yourselves! And Shinobu— don’t run away from your feelings~”

“NEE-SAN!” Shinobu shouted, mortified.

Kanae just smiled, pulling Sanemi along. “Let’s go, Sanemi~”

Sanemi nodded. "See you too around I guess."

And the two started heading another way.

Shinobu held her face. “I-I want to disappear…”

Giyu blinked. “…She’s really energetic.”

“You don’t know the half of it…” Shinobu sighed.

The two continued exploring, playing random games, sharing snacks, and occasionally brushing hands while walking.

Every small moment felt warm — natural — almost like a real date.

An hour passed.

Shinobu and Giyu entered the film area.

It was packed — every seat filled, people even standing.

Their 5-minute film played.

The crowd was silent…

Then emotional…

Then by the end—

The entire hall erupted in applause.

“This is the best festival film I’ve ever seen!!” a woman cried, blowing her nose into a tissue.

“How is this made by students?! It looks like professionals made it!!” another audience member shouted.

“Is it even fair that we only paid 500 yen for this masterpiece?!” someone else yelled.

As people exited, some were still wiping their eyes.

Shinobu and Giyu waited backstage for Professor Ayame.

She burst in and immediately pulled the two into a hug.

“It was a HUGE success! This is the fourth screening today and every single one was full!!” Ayame said proudly.

“I-I’m glad, Sensei— b-but we can’t breathe!” Shinobu said, struggling in Ayame’s tight embrace.

Ayame pulled out from the hug and coughed. "Ahem, anyways you two can enjoy your date!" She winked and started walking away from them leaving the two in an awkward situation.

Shinobu who was blushing stayed silent.

“…She’s really an odd Sensei,” Giyu said once Ayame disappeared around a corner.

Shinobu nodded, still flustered. “A-Agreed…”

For a moment, the two simply stood there, the quiet settling gently between them. Then Shinobu turned toward him with a small smile.

“Do you want to see the fireworks together? It should start in about thirty minutes.”

Giyu nodded. “Sure. I’ve got nothing else to do.”

Shinobu’s smile brightened, soft and warm. “Then let’s find a place to watch.”

As they walked through the thinning crowd, Shinobu tugged lightly at his sleeve.

“I know a place. It’s a bit far from the festival grounds, but… it’s perfect. There’s a hill with a bench that overlooks everything. I always watched fireworks there with Kanae and Kanao.”

“If it’s as perfect as you say,” Giyu replied calmly, “let’s not waste time.”

Shinobu’s eyes lit up. “Really? Then let’s go.”

They left the bright noise of the festival behind.

Japan’s small suburban streets greeted them — quiet, lamplit, peaceful.

For a while, the only sounds were their sandals on the pavement and the rustling of trees.

But then—

“A-Ah!”

Shinobu suddenly stumbled forward.

Giyu reacted instantly, grabbing her wrist before she hit the ground.

“Kocho— are you alright?”

“I-I’m fine,” Shinobu said quickly… but the moment she put weight on her right foot, she winced hard. “O-Ow…”

Giyu knelt and examined her ankle.

It was already turning pink.

“It’s sprained. We should go to the hospital.”

“No,” Shinobu said immediately, shaking her head. “If we go there, we’ll miss the fireworks. You said it yourself— it’ll be your first time watching fireworks in Tokyo. This place is worth it, I promise.”

“Your safety matters more than fireworks,” Giyu said, frowning.

Shinobu paused—

Her heart did a slow somersault.

“…That’s unfair, you know,” she whispered, turning red.

"We're going to the hospital." Giyu insisted.

"I-I'm fine! There's no need to go the hospital!" Shinobu also insisted.

Giyu sighed. “You can’t walk like this. So—”

Before she could argue again, he gently lifted her into a bridal carry.

“E-EHH!?? T-TOMIOKA—?!”

“If you insist on going to the hill,” he said plainly, “then I’m carrying you. Otherwise, your ankle will get worse.”

Shinobu panicked and flailed. “I-I can walk normally—”

“Alright,” Giyu said calmly and set her down.

The moment her foot touched the ground—

“—Ah!”

A sharp jolt of pain shot through her ankle.

Without a word, Giyu picked her up again.

“See?” he said.

Shinobu, defeated, covered her burning face with her hands.

“O-Okay… fine… I give up…”

Giyu scanned the area, spotted a bench, and carried her over.

He set her down gently and took out a neatly folded handkerchief.

“This won’t help much… but it should ease the swelling a little.”

He wrapped her ankle carefully, his fingers surprisingly gentle.

Shinobu stared at him quietly.

He always had this side—

Quiet, steady, dependable…

But seeing it up close, with him kneeling in front of her like this…

Her heart softened.

“…Thank you,” she whispered.

Giyu stood and turned his back toward her, bending slightly.

“Get on. Piggyback is easier.”

Shinobu froze.

Then, slowly— shyly— she put her arms around his neck and rested against his back.

He hooked his hands behind her thighs and lifted her effortlessly.

“H-Hold on tight,” Giyu said.

Shinobu nodded, and the two began their slow walk toward the hill.

The street was empty and quiet.

Lantern light fell across the pavement like ripples.

Shinobu rested her head gently on his shoulder.

“…You’re warm.”

Giyu paused slightly, then continued walking.

“So are you.”

Shinobu chuckled softly.

“You’re surprisingly good at carrying people.”

“You’re light,” Giyu said simply.

“Th-That’s… not the point,” Shinobu muttered, embarrassed.

They passed under a row of trees, leaves whispering overhead.

“…Are you nervous?” Shinobu asked quietly.

“About what?”

“The fireworks. It’s your first time seeing them in Tokyo, right?”

Giyu adjusted his grip on her legs.

“…A little.”

Shinobu smiled against his shoulder.

“Don’t worry. I’ll sit with you the whole time.”

“…That’s reassuring,” Giyu said softly.

Shinobu’s heart fluttered.

By the time they reached the hill, Shinobu’s ankle had stopped throbbing as much.

Giyu set her gently on the wooden bench that faced the entire sky.

And just as he sat beside her—

BOOM.

The first firework exploded in the sky.

They had made it just in time.

The sky bloomed with shimmering colors — violet, gold, blue, red — reflected in Shinobu’s eyes.

“It’s beautiful…” she whispered.

Giyu nodded slowly, watching the lights dance across the night.

“…Yeah.”

Shinobu watched his profile instead of the fireworks for a moment — his calm expression illuminated by bursts of color, the night wind brushing through his hair.

Her chest warmed.

She’d seen fireworks many times before.

But this time felt different.

Maybe because the person beside her…

Was someone she had started to love.

Boom. Crackle. Bloom.

Multiple colors reflected in his blue eyes.

Shinobu smiled softly.

“The night is beautiful, isn’t it?” she said once more.

Giyu looked at the sky and nodded.

“It is.”

He still didn’t understand the hidden meaning—

But for Shinobu, that didn’t matter anymore.

Because right now…

She was with someone she loved.

And for her that was more than enough.

End of Chapter 6