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Chapter Text

The breakfast table is so quiet that Zenitsu could die of boredom.

Grandpa is reserved, eating in silence as the minutes pass.

Kaigaku is the opposite of friendly.

They have spent years together but he still behaves as if Zenitsu were the competition.

It's simply a strange case that Agatsuma can't understand.

This is all he can ask for, he's a boring boy full of questions and severe family problems.

Kaigaku is somewhat of a muscular klutz, he does well in school but he is terrible at simple things like socializing.

Zenitsu should call him "Big Brother" although he already discarded the idea, the times he tried it ended in unpleasant reactions.

He's an idiot who should leave soon but for reasons Zenitsu doesn't understand... Leaving would make him sad.

The apartment is small, they share a room.

It's kind of torture having to put up with Kaigaku growling and cursing every morning, lately... he's changed.

Kaigaku loves to frown, in recent weeks he has stopped doing so.

He's a handsome boy, he knows it, that must be the reason why he wears his uniform shirt with the buttons open leaving part of his chest exposed, he likes to show off his body.

He has a little obsession with chokers that changes every day.

But what really gives Zenitsu trouble are Kaigaku's eyes.

Blue eyes that bare the inside in a far from gentle way.

It's here that the worst of Agatsuma's secrets comes true.

He has a strange devotion to his idiotic "stepbrother" that he often has a hard time showing.

In any case it's a reality that does not matter.

Zenitsu is just a boy with mixed ideas.

There's a world out there waiting for him.

Playing with chopsticks, the youngest in the house shares this monotony that slowly took hold in the family.

—What's going on? Zenitsu, you've been quiet all morning.— Jigoro asks to know.

—Don't worry, it's nothing.— the young man smiles, leaving the bowl aside.

—It's strange that you're not talking, tell me, is there something that worries you?— asks the old man, finishing eating.

—No, I'm anxious about the exams, maybe that's it.— the blond minimizes, hiding his hands under the table.

—Kaigaku, you spend more time with him, what's wrong?— asks the oldest of the three.

—How could I know? Sensei, you can believe him or simply distrust him, I have no idea what is going through Zenitsu's mind.— Kaigaku rumors taking a sip of tea

—Is it because of the artist that bothers you? I've already told you to stay away from that man.— Jigoro denies, moving his big mustache.

—It's not about Uzui, he is my friend. Actually I...— the teenager stutters.

He stares at his "brother" as a vague idea passes through his mind.

Kaigaku has been disappearing after classes for weeks without a word, there were several occasions when he arrived at the apartment late at night.

Zenitsu doesn't have enough authority to criticize him but the fights with Grandpa have spread and besides... he has been making money.

It's a bit unpleasant to have to suspect someone you live with but Agatsuma knows that there is someone behind the change in attitude, he hasn't seen it up close although when he turns his head over his shoulder the same elegant car picks up Kaigaku.

Should he say it or keeping silent could save him from a huge beating?

The boy smiles, pushing the guilt aside, internally praying that he is not making a mistake.

—I'm fine, it's just tiredness, I guess.— the blond denies, pouring himself some tea.

—Well, if that's the case you shouldn't worry so much. After the final exam you will have vacations.—

Jigoro seems relieved, leaning back in the chair, closing his eyes.

—I know you don't like the idea but I already got a job as a waiter in a restaurant near here.— Zenitsu comments without haste.

—You shouldn't have rushed, you're a smart boy, I don't want to see you waste time on small jobs. You should concentrate on school.— Kuwajima points out

The oldest of the boys has always had this rivalry over grandfather's favoritism but now it's like he doesn't really care.

Something is happening with him, Zenitsu is not sure although there are certain indications.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The walk to school is silent.

Normally Tanjiro usually accompanies him back but in the morning everything is different at Kaigaku's side.

His "older brother" is annoying but now he turns away from him a little with his gaze lost on the street where he walks.

—Are you okay?— Agatsuma asks, assuming the danger of being attacked.

Kaigaku sighs, raising his eyes a little with his spirit on the floor.

—What do you want? Brat, you didn't tell on me to Sensei so I guess you're going to ask me for something in return.— resolves the black-haired boy.

—I never said I want something from you... I know you hate me but I was wondering if everything is okay with you, you've been acting strange.— the youngest murmurs, spying on him from the corner of his eyes.

—And why not? Besides, what the hell does hate have to do with all this? Not standing you is one thing, now hating you is a little extreme. It doesn't matter, I have other things on my mind to pay attention to.— Kaigaku corrects, raising the briefcase that he carries in his hand.

Did he really just say it?

Zenitsu loses his breath for a second stopping on the street, there doesn't seem to be anyone on the sidewalk this morning.

The older one doesn't seem to realize that he is leaving Zenitsu behind, at least not before crossing the street.

—Hey Agatsuma, wake up already, we'll be late.— remembers the boy with the chokers, nervously playing with the one he's wearing this morning around his neck.

—Who are you?— the blond mutters, walking carefully.

—Somehow our Sensei believes you more than anyone else in this world, as long as you tell him everything will remain the same.— Kaigaku says, watching him approach.

—At some point Grandpa will realize, until then I can continue covering for you but... I want to know what you're involved in.— It's not an order, it really sounds more like curiosity.

—Why you want to know? I'm not getting inside your relationship with the neighbor.— Kaigaku complains, crossing his arms.

—Uzui is different, you know? I'm younger than you but you can't lie to me, I promise not to say anything.— Agatsuma swears in a burst of confidence.

—I won't tell you, all you need to know is that it's none of your business. I can only offer you something in exchange for your silence.— says the black-haired boy before stopping.

His free hand pulls the half-open shirt down, lately he has been training and taking care of his physique.

Something natural, depending on the point of view.

Either way he's attractive.

Zenitsu can watch with the idea that nothing bad could happen because after all he is... well, his Aniki, adopted but...

The neckline of the shirt has the middle button tight, about to fly off.

Kaigaku's pecs look really good, molded in a way that gives him a strong figure and yet Zenitsu thinks his nipples seems soft.

Such a morbid thought passes through his mind, his cheeks flushing red as he turns his head to the other side of the street.

—That is an immoral offer, we are brothers, don't forget it.— Zenitsu whispers, trying to control his own voice.

—Of course not. We're not even stepbrothers, we barely share the same old man who picked us up. You call him grandfather and I call him Sensei, don't think I don't know that you like both sides.— Kaigaku points out, fixing his clothes.

—You know what I mean.— Agatsuma denies, clenching his fists.

—How strange, you are known for being the depraved one at school. Isn't that why you check uniforms? Consider it like that "little brother"— Kaigaku laughs but in a low voice as if he really knows that he has control over the situation

Zenitsu knows perfectly well that this type of conversation does not belong to the Kaigaku of a few months ago.

Something strange happens, the influence on him is too obvious.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu has a slight suspicion, perhaps someone is pressuring Kaigaku for some unknown reason, but at lunch time everything seems to be fine.

He always sits alone because he bullies the other students, he doesn't have friends or anyone to get close to him.

Agatsuma sighs from the table he has chosen, wishing he could know what is really happening inside his Aniki's mind.

—What happens? Monitsu, you look at your brother as if something bad is happening to him.— Inosuke asks, devouring the lunch in front of him.

Hashibira can be unbearable many times but he is not an idiot, he calls "Monitsu" as a nickname in addition to trying to make him angry.

—I'm a little worried, he's been quiet for a long time.— the blond mutters, stirring the food.

—Sometimes silence is a sign of insecurity, you must give it time, Zenitsu.
If you really want to hear something, try to get closer to him.— Tanjiro advises with a confident smile.

—I'm trying, Tanjiro, I've been trying my whole life but... I don't know how.— Agatsuma despairs, lost in advice that drives him away.

—Calm down, Zenitsu Kun. You shouldn't feel stressed about that. Have you ever thought that maybe your older brother wants to spend time alone?— Nezuko says from the other side of the table.

—He is always alone... I wish he would talk to me.— the yellow-eyed whispers.

They have never been close, much less friends.

Since he met him, Kaigaku has been a boy with an intractable and sullen character.

—Oh, Zenitsu Kun, I would like to give you support but I have never fought with my siblings.— Nezuko laments, kneeling on the bench to caress Agatsuma's head.

The boy smiles foolishly.

—We all have different personalities, maybe it's different characters?— replies the eldest of the Kamado.

—If you can't solve a problem with words, you should punch him.— Inosuke growls under his breath.

—And how would that help me get closer to him? Stupid.— the blond reproaches.

—I don't understand what's bothering you. If you want to know what's happening to him so much, you have to stand in front and say: "What the hell is wrong with you?"— Hashibira advised again.

—We have to thank fate that you are an only child.— Zenitsu speaks through his teeth.

—Inosuke, didn't you hear what I said earlier? We are all different, Zenitsu has a different way of solving problems than you. If we can't help, at least we should support him as friends.— Kamado clarifies, raising his index finger.

—Thinking about fighting again? Inosuke Kun, please don't do it anymore.— Nezuko sobs, finding a place next to him to sit.

—It's hard for me to accept it but you're right, I should take it easy.— The blue-haired boy speaks slowly as if it really wasn't his explosive personality.

Kaigaku perfectly remembers the table where his Otouto usually sits with his friends, the very clumsy one is staring at him like the others, the boy gives them a recriminating look, raising an eyebrow in addition to the gesture.

The four of them pretend to have their attention on other points, hiding it in the worst way.

Kaigaku sighs before leaving the dining room.

"You think I have time for your little games?" Grumbles the black haired inside his head walking down the hallway.

Kaigaku doesn't blame the brat for his worried attitude but... This is neither his nor Sensei's business.

This goes beyond morality, the boy is certain that if they knew everything will change in radical ways within the home.

The business that Muzan Sama offered him is... different.

There is a girl inside the school who also visits the boss, a pretty white-haired girl with the worst attitude possible.

Maybe what that man does is wrong, they all know it, Muzan Sama cannot be blamed solely for a matter that involves the acceptance of various parties involved.

Sometimes he is rough however there are times when in some strange way Kibutsuji is gentle with the expression of an unbreakable rock but his fingers work magic.

He may have the face of a dead man and silk hands, his caresses are charged with a burning passion.

Kaigaku feels shyness rise in his belly every time that man touches him.

He has been really polite to the choker boy to the point of picking him up from school with a private car.

It's easy money, Kaigaku knows that he won't be handsome or young forever, so... why shouldn't he take advantage of so many gifts?

At some point he has to stop, he knows it.

Now is not the time to feel guilty, it's incredible.

Has Agatsuma really managed to make him meditate in such a way?

He stops for a second in the hallway, tempted to turn back.

—To do what? He doesn't need you.— He denies in a low voice.

The sun will soon set, that is when the flower man satisfies the wild instinct in the shadow of the night.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•< 

School is over, there are good days, bad days or regular days like this.

Kaigaku waits leaning against the parking lot wall for transportation, he has a lollipop at his lips, arms crossed, eyes closed.

He carries the briefcase with him, he doesn't say goodbye to Zenitsu, he doesn't owe that annoying dwarf anything.

The sun is about to set, he can feel the warmth on his skin as the sound of the other students leaving the school can be heard from the back.

It should be a matter of minutes.

Zenitsu appears silently without being noticed.

It's somewhat strange to see Kaigaku with a relaxed face, somehow it's an image that is recorded in Agatsuma's pupils with a lost, almost inaudible gasp.

—Do you really think you're discreet? I heard you arrive.— the black-haired boy reproaches, opening his eyes.

Again...

Blue eyes, the charming color that drives Zenitsu is present in the despotic way of looking.

—Go home, don't wait for me.— advises the older of the two.

—You never tell the truth, you know? I hope that one day you want enough to talk to me.— sighs the blond, standing next to him.

—You are a gossip, you will tell Sensei.—

Kaigaku tugs at the choker once more trying to manage the anxiety.

—Is that why you don't want to talk to me? I won't tell him, I love Grandpa very much but please don't make me choose.— Jigoro's favorite begs

—Ugh, did he send you to do this? Emotional blackmail is not my favorite. You're cute, it doesn't mean you can manipulate me.— Kaigaku says without taking into account what he has just revealed.

—Of course not! Although you don't want to accept it, for me you are my brother, families should not have secrets. If I worry about you, it's because I love you. You don't love me?— asks the golden-eyed boy with an altered voice.

Damn it... That's the wrong question.

Kaigaku softens the gesture by observing him next to, silly mouthy dwarf.

Zenitsu has always had this strange magic of being noticed wherever he goes, it's no different with his Aniki but he doesn't allow himself to admit it.

—You're not my brother.— the eldest whispers.

It's not really the thought that attacks him at the moment, it's better to put it that way, he can't...

—Don't you have anything else to say? I'm tired of being good to you, stay alone.— the blond complains, walking away a little.

—What a relief, I don't have to listen to a crying baby complaining all the time.— Kaigaku disdains, watching him leave the parking lot.

"You don't understand, neither of you." The eldest finally thinks, waiting patiently.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu sighs against the door of the building.

He's alone and that is perhaps the worst part.

Inside everything seems so empty.

Grandpa won't be here until the afternoon and Kaigaku is god knows where.

His adoptive brother is a lost case, under the guise of a rebellious boy he has been leading a double life.

Agatsuma isn't exactly the best at talking about situations that may make him uncomfortable, but at least he tries not to worry anyone.

It's a lonely sunset from his bedroom window.

Kaigaku is not a sentimental or discreet thinking person, he is honest when he speaks, perhaps too much.

He doesn't have a personal diary, Zenitsu won't risk prying into the closet.

The blond cooks in silence waiting for the hours to pass.

Taking a shower is normal, ordering the uniform is routine, completing homework is obligatory.

He should go see Uzui but that matter is closed, Tengen can only be his friend.

There's little to do at home until Jigoro opens the door.

At his age he still works, an effort that keeps this modest department.

Zenitsu believes that Kaigaku is rash for jumping into any path but shares the idea of bringing an extra income at home.

There are ways, being a waiter may not pay too much, although knowing that he will be able to facilitate some things makes the boy smile when he sees Kuwajima.

—Welcome.— He greets, hearing the older man sigh.

—Are you alone again? Zenitsu— asks the old man, leaving the cane near the door

—Kaigaku left again, he doesn't want to tell me where.— Agatsuma says with his head down.
 
—Don't blame yourself for everything, that little boy has always done what he wanted, long before you arrived.— remembers the old man, going to the bathroom.

The youngest in the house denies in silence, setting the table for grandfather.

—Even so, I'm worried about what could happen, I'll continue to insist.— informs the golden-eyed boy, pouring a glass of tea.

—No, leave it like that. Kaigaku is solitaire by nature, if you force him he will become even worse. If you keep pushing him, maybe he'll even leave the department.— murmurs the person in charge of the teenager, sitting at the head of the table.

—He's my Aniki, is there really nothing I can do?— The boy questions with sadness in his voice 

—Maybe it's like that for you but not for him, sometimes I think we're not a family for Kaigaku. It makes me very sad to see how that child makes bad decisions but neither you nor I can stop him, Zenitsu. Don't insist on him anymore.— asks Jigoro in the face of the imminent truth.

There are no more words between the two, the afternoon falls slowly.

The air is thick, a chair is spare, a plate is empty.

Zenitsu shakes his head silently as a bad feeling invades his insides.

>•<•>•<•>•<

Kaigaku arrives at the club parking lot unsure of his options.

Getting out of the car makes him shudder on a different level.

His skin tightens every time he has to walk through that door.

Muzan Kibutsuji is a dangerous man, he has many contacts, several eyes and ears in the city.

Kaigaku is not fully informed of Muzan Sama's business but he is not complete curious as long as the interest is mutual.

The place that Kibutsuji calls "Club" is a kind of castle from the last century, it's like living in a time where humanity was indistinguishable from mythology.

Maybe that's what the owner feels about the club, but for the boy it's a huge wooden house where the ghosts of the city gather with their dubious businesses in elegant suits and individual tables.

The abundant smell of Sake makes the boy feel nauseous even if it is a short walk to the office.

There is a kind of favoritism within this... harem that the strange man has built.

Muzan is a person who enjoys beauty, the more beautiful the more loved by the pale-faced gentleman.

Kaigaku takes a shower in the private bathrooms before leaving the school uniform in his personal locker.

Muzan Sama once told him that he was strong with a touch of beauty.

He gave him an open-chested kimono that the boy adorns with a different choker every day.

A boy opens the locker next to him with a sickly meaningless smile.

He has never seen it, however the strange character smiles at him, taking the clothes out of the small space.

Kaigaku decides not to speak, he heads to the door of Kibutsuji's office where he waits to be called.

They are minutes that he spends with his own person observing a false wall of paper with old characters drawn on the material.

The long corridor seems to have no end, the neat silence wins in each adjoining room.

Finally the owner of the club gives him permission to enter.

The man is mysterious but above all he has a strange aura that causes a certain panic among people.

The boy enters without looking up.

Kibutsuji still sits on the floor as if he were some kind of prince from feudal times reading documents that have his full attention.

The young man sits behind him waiting for instructions.

The man spies on him from the corner of his shoulder, noticing the guest's seriousness.

—Is there something bothering you? You're quiet today, Kaigaku.— Muzan says stiffly.

—You told me a long time ago that silence is better than meaningless words.— the teenager barely murmurs without taking his eyes off the ground.

—I said so? I don't really remember, but... it's a shame that a boy like you keeps silence.— Muzan gasps, abandoning the papers on the small table in front.

The youngest of the Kuwajima shudders again as he feels how the body of his "boss" turns on his own knees, he is staring at him with those strange devilish red eyes.

Muzan Sama is attractive, no one denies it, but there are characteristics that make him an impossible specimen to understand.

He's pale as snow, his hands are cold but his caresses are hot.

Muzan smiles mischievously, playing with the figure of the choker before lifting the young man's chin.

—I understand that you agree with me, you have an obligation... I know that worried expression and I don't like it.— the curly-haired man whispers, holding the new boy's face tightly.

Kaigaku doesn't care what kind of human being he is, Kibutsuji could be a threat, yet he would come back again.

There are rumors about the true nature of this guy, all of no value to the young man.

Muzan frees him by returning to papers.

—I want you to learn from Daki, you are an attractive boy, your personality does not match that pretty face you have. I don't want to see you frown again. Do you understand?— Kibutsuji orders.

The dim lights make the office a suffocating place, the student has no choice but to accept in silence.

These are moments of slight tension that dissolve when Muzan raises his arm in permission.

—Come.— He orders again while the boy leans against his right side.

Kibutsuji's hand runs strongly along Kaigaku's shoulder until it reaches the low-cut chest where the fingers of the older of the two find the tender nipples and, playing with them, he sketches a half grimace of satisfaction.

He finally lifts the boy's face with the same hand placed on his neck.

Kibutsuji is sadistic or at least his tastes are interpreted this way.

He bites the young man's mouth, savoring the intoxicating taste of Kaigaku's throbbing lower lip.

—Sweet... as usual.— the owner of the intriguing club whispers, licking his own mouth.

Chapter Text

Kaigaku returns to his home under the light of the early morning streetlights.

There are few people who would want to mess with him and it's not exactly the time to be looking for trouble.

After a restless night, the blue-eyed boy sighs, knowing the routine by heart.

Muzan takes him on the cold office floor, it turns into a monotonous chat about the situation.

The boy takes a moment in the club's showers before returning home.

Kibutsuji always seems willing when it comes to transportation but this time Kaigaku prefers to walk.
The streets are familiar to him, it's not the only reason why he decides to retrace his own steps.

The idea of changing makes him uncomfortable, he knows Daki because they go to the same school, she is not a refined girl but on the contrary, in fact they have quite a bit in common.

The question wanders in Kaigaku's mind over and over without an answer.

What should he learn from Daki?

Perhaps he has done something that displeases Muzan, something he doesn't remember or a detail he overlooked.

Grandpa usually waits on the other side to begin speaking an endless sermon that seems to have no end but this time when he opens the door the only thing that can be heard is the clock on the wall, the stillness of the calm and the refrigerator running.

On the one hand, Kaigaku breathes easy by not having to give explanations, but it is somewhat devastating to arrive in solitude.

The room he shares with Zenitsu is in total darkness.
The brat sleeps so calmly, of course, why would that useless still be awake?

The older of the two changes his clothes in silence, leaving his school suitcase on the floor.

Going to bed is in some way a punishment.

He has upset the boss, he is trapped in a dangerous situation that leaves him at a disadvantage.

The light from other buildings touches his face, Kaigaku has screwed up.

He sighs before closing his tired eyelids.
Maybe he can fix it up tomorrow.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The urban sound wakes him up again, his body gives him a not very pleasant welcome.

Kaigaku feels each piece break and come back together.
Muzan Sama is full of life, he can feel it in every lunge he gives.

Zenitsu is awake, the tidy bed giving him away.

The blond devotes himself to cooking breakfast in silence with a meaningless smile.

The gesture disappears when the sound of the door breaks the moment.

Agatsuma turns off the stove with doubts.

—Where is Kuwajima?— the black-haired boy asks, sitting in his place.

—He went to work, where else?— The youngest replies, taking a bowl to place it in front of his adoptive brother.

—He's angry with me, isn't he?— Kaigaku doubts, placing the chopsticks on his lips.

—No, Grandpa...he knows that he can't control you, yet he cares about you. It makes me sad to see him that way.— the blond murmurs, pouring some rice into the bowl.

—I can't promise anything, I mean this is my life, if you know what I'm trying to say.— Kaigaku answers with little interest.

—I wish the situation were different but you're not going to listen to me.— Zenitsu says, serving himself.

The brat is having a fit of sincerity, or what the hell is that tone in his voice?

—Exactly, maybe it's something that the old man should also understand.— he answers before starting to eat.

—He never will, he may not want to fight you but he will never stop loving you.— Agatsuma says, distracted by the vegetables he prepared on the table.

—You sound ridiculous, we are not a family.— says the boy with the choker.

—Yes, yes, whatever you say. Here, I made some red beans for you.— the blond comments, placing some in Kaigaku's bowl.

—I won't come home early because you cook well.— the black-haired boy threatens, pointing his chopsticks at him.

—Just eat, we have to go, remember?— Zenitsu asks between bites.

Breakfast ends when Agatsuma finishes tidying up the kitchen.

When sharing a room anyone could assume that intimacy is a matter of point of view, when Zenitsu leaves his pajamas on the bed it's as if magic flows.

He's been growing bigger every day, Kaigaku can notice it as he arranges the books inside the briefcase.

The summer uniform looks really good on him, Zenitsu is a crybaby and yet somehow he's... Beautiful.

His blond locks spread across his face, giving him a touch of innocence that marks Agatsuma's personality.

How can he even tie the knot in that stupid tie?

The white shirt is impeccable, the briefcase always tidy.
Their eyes meet and the younger sighs before turning his attention elsewhere.

—You look good, you know that? Brat.—

Kaigaku praises him, Zenitsu's cheeks blush with no way he can control it, he remains silent as he plays fetch inside the briefcase.

Aniki teases him from time to time, there is nothing he can refute.

He would like to respond but the thin diplomacy that both have would be affected.

They go out into the street while the sun caresses the face of the city.

Uzui greets the yellow boy behind the window glass.

—Are you still dating him?— Kaigaku asks, seeing Agatsuma raising his hand equally.

—Of course not, how could I go out with him?— Zenitsu laughs in a silly way.

—Oh sure, you have this love triangle with the Kamado siblings now, don't you?— the youngest of the Kuwajima mocks as he crosses the street.

—You're unpleasant when you want to be.— the blond accuses, following him behind.

—I'm just being honest, I'm not guilty of you being a fool in love.—

The golden-eyed boy sighs, accustomed to this kind of treatment.

Kaigaku nudges Agatsuma a little, unusual for him.
He's not aggressive, maybe he's trying to be nice to him?

Aniki is a clumsy in addition to treating everyone around him as if they were real obstacles, now he plays with Zenitsu's senses by pushing him a little to laugh to himself.

—You're acting strange.— Zenitsu accuses, seeing him smile.

—What? Should I push you against the wall and kiss you? Sounds better.— the blue-eyed murmurs, making Agatsuma move forward, leaving him a few steps behind.

He has made that crybaby angry and that is perhaps the best thing of the day.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The task entrusted by Muzan Sama is what Kaigaku is most mortified by.

Daki agrees to meet him at lunchtime and fulfills her promise by appearing in one of the school corridors.

—You must be the new one, Kaigaku?—asks the stranger.
Kaigaku has always observed her from afar, she is the clear example of beauty on earth.

She is a beautiful girl and she knows it.

She is conceited, self-centered, what she gained in beauty she also increased in ego.

One of Muzan's favorites, she holds an icy smile of courtesy that is overshadowed by the girl's true nature.
Kaigaku knows that she doesn't like him, this is supposed to be competition, favoritism is somehow present in every haren, even though it sounds cynical.

—It's me.— he answers with his back against the lockers.

—Muzan Sama has ordered me to teach you but I don't see what, you and I are opposites from where I look at us. I can't refuse, so ask whatever you want to know.— The white-haired girl answers, taking a place next to him, imitating the same position.

—He didn't tell me what he really wants me to learn from you. He has ordered it... I thought he would mention it to you.— whispers the new boy, noticing the wind hitting the crystal of the window.

—Of course not, if Muzan Sama told you it's because deep down he knows that you'll find out for yourself, or you want to go ask him personally?— Daki suggests, turning his head wearily

—If I did that I would be condemning myself, you seriously think I'm stupid.— the boy agrees with a half smile.

—You are if you think you can please Muzan Sama with few caresses. Learning from me does not sound like an order but rather the reminder of what exactly you are. I can't help you change. Muzan Kibutsuji is not the kind of man you can disappoint, if you do it won't do well to you at all.—

A small laugh sounded from the favorite's lips before she pointed it at the boy and moved her fingers as if it were a trigger.

—I know who I'm dealing with, I'm not a rookie so spare me the advice.— Kaigaku murmurs, closing his eyes to ignore her.

—I don't know why he would see beauty in a trash like you, I don't try to understand either— the young woman denies disapprovingly. —You're getting into deep waters, we hear that you're looking for trouble wherever you go. It's just intuition but I think Muzan Sama wants you to learn to be a little... helpless.—

—You mean submissive?—

—It could be. The only thing that is certain is that he called you after school, you have to come with me.— the girl almost ordered.

—Are you going to teach me or not?—

The question is ridiculous if what Kaigaku is trying to do is appear confident in his position.

She hisses like a capricious child who must share a toy.

—Teaching you would be harming myself, do you know Enmu?—

—The one with the freakish face?— Kaigaku assumes.

He's crossed paths with him a couple of times and that boy just gives him chills.

—He is not a favorite, however he is regularly requested by Muzan Sama, perhaps he can help you or as a last resort, isn't Agatsuma your younger brother?— The white-haired proposes, pointing a finger to him

—Zenitsu?— asks the youngest of the Kuwajima's without hiding his astonishment.

—Yes, he's not handsome but he is the typical soft and adorable boy. There you have a lifesaver, don't make me wait, see you at the exit.—

As a farewell, Daki turns around and returns the way she came, leaving Kaigaku alone with thoughts that dwell deep in his morals.

Zenitsu cannot be involved in this matter... Not him.

Kaigaku frowns again, the idea is ruthless but maybe there is a way that fool can be useful.

Chapter Text

Aniki was acting out of character, whatever the cause, Grandpa wouldn't blame him, this was in Zenitsu's hands.

He wasn't used to staying up at dawn but this time he had to know the truth, put a face to the mystery.

Kaigaku had disappeared after class again without leaving any words.

Agatsuma checked his cell phone several times but the expected message never arrived.

Now the room is silent, dark.

It's not until late at the end of the night that his brother arrives, leaving his school bag on the floor, as usual.

Zenitsu can hear him taking off his clothes to put on his pajamas.

Kaigaku can be stubborn when he wants but now a sigh escapes from his mouth before he goes to bed.

The blond has no idea how he could say it, on tiptoe he climbs onto Aniki's bed.

—Kaigaku...— he sighs pushing him a little

The owner of the name opens his eyes feeling that the small lump approaches his side without permission, however the only thing that can be seen on the tired face is impression.

Zenitsu is in the same bed.

His blue eyes illuminate with the light of the street lamp, the curtain is at hand but the youngest Kuwajima prefers to keep the window open.

Attachment to the outside perhaps?

Aniki used to allow him to sleep together but then everything changed when his character became more reserved, less friendly.

He is now prostrate on the pillow, speechless as he sees Zenitsu next to him kneeling on the mattress.

His heart accelerates at the same rate as his blood, from one second to the next his chest rises when he sees those golden eyes staring at him.

But Kuwajima can only act one way when it comes to his Ototo.

—What the hell are you doing on my side?Didn't I tell you never to come here?— growls the owner of the bed, standing up a little.

—Where do you go every night? You come back so late, you worry me and Grandpa too.— murmurs the blond using that charming voice that he usually has for his friends.

Kaigaku believes that he is trying to manipulate him or that Sensei asked him to, that stupid innocent gesture that he makes with his face often angers the older of the two but other times... he needs that face to continue.

The choker boy will never admit it because it's a clear sign of weakness, it's that weakness Daki was talking about.

Learning from him means danger because Kaigaku is lost in Zenitsu's screams, in his changing mannerisms, in his yellow hair, and in his cute faces.

So many expressions that complement it.

He could throw him out with a single push, yell at him to leave, now it's different.

No one is watching, the night is silent, Zenitsu is so bold when he wants to.

Agatsuma places his head on the other boy's shoulder with a simple smile.

—Aniki, tell me what's wrong.— He to know, playing with a slow tone of voice.

Kaigaku feels the heat of another body approaching.

Half of him wants to do it, talk about what's really going on.

The other half knows that if he does, Muzan Sama will look for him to silence him.

This is why Kaigaku doesn't talk to anyone about it and Zenitsu is no exception.

—I don't know what you and Sensei are up to, but it's not going to work.— the older of the two mutters, turning in a simple movement to ignore the annoying roommate.

—Grandpa didn't order me to do anything, I just want to know.— the blond insists, still on his knees.

—And why would I tell you?— Kaigaku denies, playing at being indifferent.

—Because I love you, even if you try to push me away, I will always insist on you.—

The phrase is most moving, the boy with the chokers would succumb if it were any other time but now the chaos that Muzan Sama has left inside prevents him from feeling anything except rejection.

Even if his heartbeat doesn't deceive him.

—Is that what your boyfriend usually says?— Kuwajima tries to annoy him with an almost inaudible laugh.

—Tanjiro is not my boyfriend! Can't you take me seriously for once? I don't mean anything to you?— Zenitsu complains, capricious in making him react.

The boy turns around again finding that stupid face that somehow manages to defeat him.

—We are not brothers, we will never be.— He denies again.

The blond has done everything possible to make him feel comfortable whenever he can, this is not about family bonds.

On the contrary, Kaigaku feels more than he shows.

It's a rock soaked in life.

—So, if me and Grandpa don't mean anything to you, what are you doing here?—

Agatsuma gives up, climbing out of bed with a disappointed sigh.

The question is a void inside the older boy, he closes his eyes in an attempt to forget everything he hears.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

—Are you listening?— Daki says, going down to the face of the new guy at the club.

Kaigaku has been distracted since he came home from school.

He supports himself with one hand while keeps the gaze into the distance.

Daki has been trying to teach him, he seems to turn a deaf ear to her words.

—Uh?— he asks as if confused.

—You're useless, you didn't listen to anything I said, if you have so much to do somewhere else, leave. Come back when your mind is blank.— Daki snorts, crossing her arms.

Kaigaku is not in his center, something is distracting him but she doesn't care, the only thing that interests her is that they are wasting time in vain.

—Maybe if you weren't so annoying when you talk...— the boy murmurs.

The white-haired girl wrinkles her brow, listening to him perfectly.

—What's going on? You can't deal with the boys?— Enmu laughs, showing himself on the way to the lockers.

—You finally walk in, I thought you wouldn't come.— The young woman assumed, placing both hands on her waist.

—Yes, well, things sometimes take unexpected turns. I wasn't thinking of coming, but when Muzan Sama calls, who can refuse?— Enmu exclaims, raising one arm in the air.

It's dramatic, Kaigaku doubts he can learn anything from him.

—So you were thinking of leaving me alone?— Daki doubts, bending her lips.

—I ran into the new guy a couple of times but he doesn't seem to be the conversational type, so it wasn't in my plans to come.— the boy admits.

He wears a suit quite inappropriate for his age, even for the era.

Muzan Sama has strange tastes, did they become some kind of theater company?

—Each one has a different role in this... situation. I keep in mind that each one takes their own side.— answers the boy with the choker

—Oh? So we are the competition for you?— Enmu smiles but it's an abnormal gesture, it is not one of joy but of cynicism.

He is that kind of person.

—Aren't I the same to you two?— Kaigaku asks, still distracted in the chair.

—You are no match for me but I'm not going to teach you the tricks that Muzan Sama likes. We will teach you the basics of dealing with anyone, then it's your problem to adapt it to your style.— the girl reproaches, stroking her long white hair.

—I am willing to help you, although first you must understand that if we teach you you have no right to complain. We will go to a physical point, you can't back out.— Enmu explains, sitting on one of the chairs near the showers.

—I have permission from Muzan Sama to do it, hey, you have it too?— the white-haired girl asks, to which the strange character laughs softly.

—No, but if he punishes me, isn't that the best part?— Enmu blushes just thinking about it.

—Okay, I'm not coming home today.—

Sensei will no doubt be worried, he hasn't patched things up with Zenitsu.

Maybe that idiot doesn't miss him but today he won't see his smile, it's a shame.

—Although what we both do are things that most people like, you have to make an effort to create your own style, otherwise you will make him angry, if he realizes that you are using our style it will not go well for you.— Enmu holds the wrist of the face by raising the index finger to his own neck to pass it slowly imitating a cutting movement

It is the second time they threaten him, Kaigaku knows what kind of man Muzan Kibutsuji is, there is nothing he can say in this place.

There is no place to be comfortable.

Kuwajima silently accepts.

He is making a deal with the devil but the devil has taken him as a companion.

Chapter Text

The feeling of being in the wrong place takes over the boy when he opens his eyes.

An unknown bed welcomes him, the morning is not the same as at home.

The sheets are wet reminding him that classes have started.

Kaigaku twitches the second he wakes up.

He's been so dirty last night.

Daki is tireless and Enmu is innovative, two characteristics they share with Muzan Sama.

The only thing he can say is that... everything spins inside his head.

Kaigaku smiles as he thinks that he is like a peach, a cheap, rotten peach.

He has hit the bottom of indecency, he hates himself for giving in to the first glance of that man from hell but there is no turning back.

The only thing he has left to lose is his life, which is not in the boy's plans.

He gets up from this room that perfectly imitates a geisha's room.

His nightmates seem relaxed having breakfast in this small wing that Muzan has for his spoiled guests.

It's like playing dolls for him, everything here looks charming even when the background is creepy.

Kuwajima stops eating something because nothing could pass through his mouth.

The showers seem like the only good thing this place could have.

The hot rain that falls on him washes of all the sins he has committed...

Since when he cares about these things?

Right or wrong, everything is a product of convenience.

He smiles again as the image of a defeated family burns into his mind.

Before Sensei found him, wasn't he just an orphan rejected by his real family?

Before he was a Kuwajima he was a nobody who meant nothing not even to his mother.

So... why repeat that mistake?

It's not easy to get out of the darkness.

That's when the memories drag him deep into a pit from which he can't get out.

Once again Zenitsu is the one who mixes with his thoughts, they are parallel in so many infinite ways that it's impossible to believe that they are something relative.

"Agatsuma" is the last name someone gave him only to abandon him later.

Grandpa is his savior, the person he respects and loves.

But if that crybaby could take him as the family he will never have, why not Kaigaku?

Some part of him envies that idiot.

On the other hand, the truth that he has hidden all this time is ridiculous.

Kaigaku loves when Zenitsu is... Zenitsu.

Just the whiny brat who spends the whole day hovering around him.

Hate in some way is love, the envy of being what you aspire to be.

Today the aroma of food doesn't wake him up but rather the discomfort that invades his interior.

So these little breakfasts mean something to him, Kaigaku won't eat if it's not from Zenitsu.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Agatsuma sighs at the lunch table alone with the tray in front of him.

Aniki hasn't returned all night, nor in the morning.

Grandpa says that Kaigaku has always done this, he seemed to have changed over time.

He has no news about his brother, he won't answer the cell phone.

It's hard to be in suspense when anxiety fills Zenitsu's heart with bitterness.

How blind does Kaigaku have to be to not notice that both he and his grandfather always waited for him at home?

—You still don't have any news?— Tanjiro laments, sitting next to him.

—He never answers my messages or my calls.— the blond murmurs without encouragement.

—I'm really sorry this happened, have you thought about calling the police?—Proposes Kamado trying to help.

—Grandpa says it will be worse, we don't want to make him angry.—

Kaigaku is an idiot, making them worry and suffer like this.

—Cheer up Zenitsu, you have us by your side. If you need help, you can count on us.— says Nezuko, taking a place next to the empty side.

—Thank you guys, at least I don't feel totally alone.— says the youngest member of the house, trying to regain his everyday humor.

—Is your brother an idiot or does he really hate you?— Inosuke asks, placing his elbows on the table

—I don't think it's one thing or the other. I have never asked him, although if I did I would not get answers.— laments Agatsuma

—Inosuke can be a bit abrupt when speaking, I guess he wanted to ask if there is any reason for Kaigaku to feel uncomfortable.— Nezuko recreates the question again adding some sensitivity to Hashibira's words

—Did you seriously just translate what this boar's head said?— Zenitsu questions, distracting himself for a moment.

—We all intend to help you, even Inosuke, don't we?—

Nezuko quickly gets up to stand next to the boy, giving him a little push with her elbow.

—Gonpachiro, tell your sister not to use her pretty face to convince me.— asks the blue-haired boy, looking directly at Nezuko.

—Inosuke! That's so inappropriate.— he exclaims.

A figure foreign to the daily table approaches with a slow step.

—Hey, Tanjiro.— the stranger speaks.

Isn't that Daki's brother?

—Gyoutaro, you need something?—

Tanjiro's kindness makes even stones soften, it's no exception with the boy.

—You remember how you asked me if I had seen your friend's brother? Well, he went to class this morning.— the older boy reports, checking the cell phone in his pocket.

—How are you sure it's him?— Zenitsu insists.

—Let's say that Daki and him are somewhat like friends. She came to school this morning, I guess with your brother... Kai...?— stammers the other trying to remember.

—Kaigaku.— the blond answers flatly.

—Thank you very much, Gyoutaro.— Tanjiro clings to the curly-haired boy's hands, earning a shy gesture from him.

—Yes, whatever.— Daki's brother manages to say, looking away.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

If that is true then the matter is somewhat bleak.

Zenitsu leaves the lunch table to walk around the different areas of the school in search of the ungrateful one...

Should he call him that again?

"Aniki" is a title he has not earned, in these years he has behaved like an egoist.

Maybe he should make him feel a part of what he and Grandpa feel with his attitude.

So Kaigaku is drawing a line that separates them further and further.

Does he even dare to ignore him?

It's not until he reaches the bathrooms that he meets that falsely impressed face.

Zenitsu acts the best of his disinterested faces as he enters the bathrooms upon seeing him on the other side.

There is no one here, Kaigaku is alone thinking with his mind occupied with ideas that only he knows.

—Aren't you coming home now either?—

The question sounds bitter, the boy with the choker does not answer but the gesture he has speaks for him.

—Grandpa doesn't blame you nor would he recriminated to you, but I need to know why you do this.—

Zenitsu is begging him, his golden gaze boring into Kaigaku's trying to get somewhere.

Kuwajima sighs, turning his back to his roommate.

—I've been doing things that you wouldn't understand, if I told you, you wouldn't see me the same way again.— whispers the black-haired boy.

—You think I didn't imagine it? You really think I'm a kid but that's not the case anymore. It's about this, right?—

Zenitsu says it with conviction in his throat, he dares to take the choker from Kaigaku's neck, pulling it a little towards him.

He has become an impertinent brat, full of vigor, the strength he now has is enough to attract the black-haired boy's body towards his, leaving them in a compromised position over the sinks.

What is he supposed to do so close to Zenitsu?

He has always wondered what those lips taste like, from which nonsense and reproaches never stop coming.

Kaigaku can lose his temper when it comes to Sensei's favorite as well as fall for his extreme sweetness.

He could be a daring thief and steal a caress from that mouth but Zenitsu wouldn't forgive him.

His blue eyes shine, begging for a show of affection.

Agatsuma however let go with a frozen expression.

—You believe things are resolved with the body? With useless gestures? When you decide to grow up, we will be waiting at home.— The blond answers, leaving the place with a tired grimace.

Zenitsu is angry with him.

It's better this way, having him around can only mean weakness.

Kaigaku frowns, regretting not being able to say it openly.

Chapter Text

Once again the night comes to this fantasy club Kibutsuji has built for his pleasures.

Every beautiful face passes by here ready to give itself up for some favor in return.

Kaigaku knows that in the department the tension of his disappearance must remain the same.

Zenitsu's message waits to be answered, the black-haired boy denies silently, keeping his cell phone in the locker waiting for orders.

Muzan is demanding even when whims exceed limits.

It's Daki's turn, Kuwajima can hear the girl's screams from the favorites' wing.

Somehow macabre in personal terms.

Kaigaku doesn't really know if he's enjoying it or the boss's games are getting too rough.

After trying Daki's style, the boy in the open kimono rightly thinks that her exaggerated style is what catches Muzan's attention.

Pretty, totally crazy, furious as hell.

She is a striking girl, no one can deny it.

Silence is the best companion that Kaigaku can have, it's not until after the hour that Kibutsuji sends for him.

The boy silently bows to him without being able to get that mania out of his head.

The man continues signing papers that seem to have no end.

The mountain of documents that he has on that small floor desk is countless, he does not complain, he maintains his serenity when the ink marks each one of them.

Daki sleeps between the sheets of the futon that Kibutsuji has prepared for his multiple loves, covered only by a semi-transparent curtain.

Muzan himself barely wears the pants he usually haves, his shirt has been thrown to one side, his shoes in another corner.

He's attractive, that's maybe why the boy decided to fall into the temptation of working for him.

Muzan calls him without looking at him, raising a finger of his unoccupied hand.

Kuwajima is a slave to the senses.

Before he would have hesitated to stay close but now he clings to Kibutsuji's side with a small smile.

The older man's crimson gaze observes him without emotion.

Maybe he did wrong, if so the boss will take it out of his sight.

Muzan returns the gesture by caressing the boy's neck, playing with that choker again.

—You have been learning very well.— congratulates the owner of the place.

Kaigaku silently accepts with regret.

He didn't learn this from Daki or Enmu.

It's a gesture Zenitsu often has for him when he tries to make him feel better.

It's the purest thing the brat does, his Aniki has transformed it into a movement for his own benefit.

Kaigaku feels disgusted with himself.

Kibutsuji's body is cold, pale.

His muscles are visible, the boy can't help but run his fingers along the same arm that holds him by the neck.

Muzan puts the papers aside, his smile widening into a satisfied grimace.

He gets up from the floor and goes to the futon where he wakes up the girl by caressing her face until he lifts her chin.

—We will have company today.— Kibutsuji warns.

She barely makes out Kaigaku's image as she opens her eyes.

—Ah, Kuwajima. Are you joining the party?— asks the white-haired girl while Muzan covers her with kisses.

Does joining mean....?

The young man understands it although the idea sounds immoral inside his mind.

He is no longer capable to complain, with his eyes on the floor he approaches, sitting on the side.

—Oh, come on. Don't be shy, pretty boy.— Daki jokes, watching him remain silent.

She welcomes him inside the sheets, she is completely naked.

This is a business, a simple exchange.

While the girl's hands are great at removing the kimono from him, Muzan joins them by grabbing his choker with one hand and Kuwajima's hair with the other.

There are sinners in the world, others are simply already in the abyss being alive.

Kaigaku gasps as he feels the skilled fingers of his partner.

Muzan treats him like what he is, a pet, his toy.

Kibutsuji runs his mouth over part of his neck while wet kisses go down the boy's back.

This is the edge of the extreme, his moans are real but his thoughts wander elsewhere, his body reacts, his blood burns as if he were somehow transforming.

Temptation, his libido has succumbed again.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The money is next to him.

This is what he has earned by forfeiting decency, a generous amount that represents the end of his limits.

He is lying on one of those beds for the various favorites in a room far from the red-eyed man's office.

He couldn't sleep next to Kibutsuji, his dejected soul wouldn't allow it.

His blue pupils are now tired of shining for the wrong reasons.

No matter how many times he bathes the stain remains inside him, it's not about these games that drain his energy or having to pretend to be someone he's not.

It's a stain that won't go away, it's been there since he was a child, now it seems to eat part of his heart carrying what little he has left.

Enmu tends to wander the corners of this big castle, what is he doing here anyway?

—Don't worry, I wasn't looking for you, one of these is mine.— says the strange boy, pointing to one of the many beds.

He is daring, he takes a place next to the mattress watching how the expression of misery invades the new favorite's expression.

—Do I have to assume that you are getting to know our lord's character?— He asks, fixing the sleeves of the strange gala suit.

Kaigaku doesn't respond, clutching his fingers to the pillow tightly.

—You're lucky that he likes you, with that face I would have discarded you a long time ago. Now you can ask him to come home, you miss home? Or maybe someone?— Enmu hesitates, playing with a finger on his lips.

—What did Daki tell you?— Kuwajima asks, returning to the words.

—Nothing special, she says you have a brother you love very much.— comments the boy with the bicolor locks.

—Brother? Zenitsu... he is not... we are not brothers.— stammers the older one, lost in half-finished thoughts.

—But if you miss him it means something to you, you take a simple night seriously. Didn't we did the same thing with Daki the other time? What could have changed?—Enmu grumbles with his mouth turned to one side.

Kaigaku straightens up on the bed, making an ironic gesture.

—You don't want to lose the streak of luck you have, listen to me and take advantage of that privileged position you have. You know? You could ask him anything, just make sure you have him delighted.— Enmu advises, earning a sound of doubt.

—Do I have to give more than what I give every day? I'll die if that's the case.— Kuwajima snorts under his breath.

—You're a lucky idiot. I'm not the one who can give you classes, but if you find someone adorable, ask it to teach you how to manipulate men.—

The boy gets up ready to leave again.

—The difference is that with you I can enjoy it, if you understand.— Kaigaku exclaims when he sees Enmu open the door.

—Well, that has become an insult.— the pale character murmurs, walking slowly.

The black-haired boy goes back to the pillow thinking that it's very stupid idea.

Manipulate him?

How could he think of doing such a thing?

This is Muzan Sama, the owner of half the city and a cold-blooded bastard.

How could a few kisses or nice words soften his iron attitude?

The only cute boy who could defeat the worst of attitudes with a few gestures is Zenitsu.

Isn't that how he got the idiot of Uzui to notice him?

Actually Kaigaku has always wondered how it works sometimes even with him.

Zenitsu may not be attractive but damn, he's a magnet when he puts his mind on it.

Kuwajima actually fantasizes about what it would feel like to kiss him until he remembers the taste of that restless mouth.

Kaigaku smiles after a long time turning around in the blankets.

This is the only thing that could cheer him up all day and one of the reasons why he won't call him "little brother" ever.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu is a good-hearted boy, grandfather could tell the second he saw him. 

He may be a little clumsy but he is full of talent. 

Jigoro knows that behind that smile his adopted grandson keeps a lot. 

Kaigaku is the main cause of sadness in Zenitsu, Jigoro knows that the two are different with personalities that clash. 

Weekend at the apartment, grandpa doesn't work today so Zenitsu dedicates himself to preparing a good breakfast. 

He is never home for breakfast, when he returns neither of them are there to help him. 

Kuwajima gave the last name to an abandoned boy who had nothing except a broken heart. 

Jigoro has been through so much in life, even though his soul hurts he cannot impose his thoughts on Kaigaku. 

He is a free bird who can now fly, next year he will be responsible for himself. 

The old man fears that they will not see him again and that is why he often forgives that boy's wrong attitudes. 

Zenitsu serves the dishes in silence, the fact that he who loves to talk or chat about everyday things is silent means that he has too much on mind. 

It's about to rain, the gray sky traveling down on the city as Agatsuma places the bowl on the table. 

—You're distracted today, are you?— the old man asks as the blond takes a seat next to him. 

—Worried, Aniki...he...— 

The boy doesn't know how to say it without sounding negative. 

His adoptive brother usually arrives with marks on his body, Kaigaku is free to do whatever he wants as long as it doesn't represent a danger to his well-being. 

Of course Zenitsu is angry at these selfish attitudes, it's just that... 

For the youngest Kuwajima this is not about a family, however that is his point of view. 

—Boy, are you really patient enough to find a kind side in him?— 

Grandpa doesn't seem convinced about the matter but that doesn't mean he isn't equally mortified. 

—I want to try, I know he needs help.— the boy with yellow hair murmurs, playing with the bowl in front of him. 

The door opens allowing a little of the draft of outside air to enter the apartment. 

Kaigaku is back but he doesn't seem to have anything to say as he heads to the room. 

Zenitsu pours another bowl as usual. 

Like the prodigal son, the black-haired boy always returns without giving any explanation, except that he does not seem to regret his mistakes. 

After changing he sits down without expression on his face, he places some money on the head of the table. 

Jigoro watch it without words or emotions, what is that supposed to mean? 

—Are you going to force me to explain myself? Sensei.— comments the young man crossing his arms. 

—Kaigaku, my boy. I have never asked you to make an effort, much less to do this.—Jigoro denies patiently, trying to reach that hard center that his protected has. 

—But I do it because I want to, aren't you the one who tells Zenitsu that you won't be here forever? Why would it be different for me?— asks the oldest of the boys. 

—Can you compare yourself to him? Kaigaku, I know you are strong but I'm worried about Zenitsu because you are different. It was never my intention to lead you to suffer. I wanted you to be able to deal with yourself so that your stomach wouldn't hurt, but now your heart hurts.— laments the tutor with a dejected sigh. 

—Then why did you pick me up from the street?— asks the youngest Kuwajima. 

—You are an honorable boy.— Jigoro finishes saying, taking a sip of the tea in front of him. 

Kaigaku tenses knowing that nothing he has done is honorable, he has lost the sense of decency with the nighttime activities. 

—And that means I can't pay my debts?— the black-haired grumbles, leaning back on the table. 

—You will, after all you are actually helping, right? Grandpa.— says Zenitsu, trying to break the suffocating tension in the kitchen. 

The youngest of the house kindly takes Jigoro's hand expressing what he wants to say but he cannot do it with the presence of his Aniki. 

Kuwajima can't say no when it comes to his grandson. 

He laughs slowly, palming the same hand Zenitsu has placed over his. 

—Okay, okay. Don't think about it anymore, Kaigaku.— the old man asks, returning to breakfast.

There is a connection that the brat and Sensei have made, it's true and the boy with the aching soul has always envied that bond. 

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•< 

Kaigaku sinks into the bathtub while the rain hits the roof of the building, the metallic sound of the drops is depressing but Sensei seems to enjoy this time of year abundant in rains of warm drops.

—Are you really going out?— Zenitsu asks from the living room with notable concern in his voice. 

The bathroom door is half open so Kaigaku can see Sensei putting on a jacket. 

—I have work all week, I won't be able to relax from Monday. A new boy has arrived at the Dojo and I want to teach him the techniques with good humor. Let me go for a walk, Zenitsu.— the old man begs. 

—It's okay but take the umbrella and the cell phone.— Agatsuma points out, handing him both objects. 

—I have never understood this thing.— the older man complains. 

—I'll call you, be careful.— the younger one asks as the little old man leaves the house. 

The blond stands in front of the door for a moment, silently reflecting, then returns to the kitchen where his older brother can hear the sound of a chair moving. 

Curiosity invades Kaigaku and so... they must talk about what is really happening anyway. 

He leaves the bathroom barely tying the towel around his waist, he sees the brat standing on the chair to reach a shelf that they never use. 

—What are you doing? Dwarf.— the black-haired boy jokes, leaning against the wall. 

—Maybe you don't know it, but I'm the one who does the shopping.— the golden-eyed answers, keeping the money inside a porcelain teapot. 

He doesn't seem impressed or angry to see the other half wet with just a towel. 

He walks past Kaigaku normally without saying anything. 

Agatsuma is ignoring him. 

He goes into the room where again arranges the books inside the briefcase. 

Kaigaku gasps, throwing himself onto his bed, spying on the roommate busy classifying school subjects. 

—So you're some kind of hypocrite? You don't like me leaving but you use the money I make.— the semi-naked boy continues to complain. 

—There are different ways to make money, since you insist that we should appreciate your effort and you also eat what I cook.— Agatsuma corrects with his back turned. 

—Are you still angry with me?— the boy with the chokers tries to ask. 

—Of course I do.— Zenitsu murmurs, taking a look at the math book. 

—Is there anything I can do to make that change?— the young man asks to know, eager for the answer. 

—Tell me where you get the money from, that is the price of my forgiveness.— the blond promises, leaving the book aside. 

—I really can't.— Kuwajima answers again, clenching his fist tightly. 

—Then I guess I'll stay angry.—

Zenitsu is ready to leave but Kaigaku's hand holds his in a gentle grip. 

He's not trying to hurt him. 

—What happened in the school bathroom... I...— stammers the black-haired boy, earning an indiscreet question. 

—Is that why you never call me brother?— Zenitsu questions, somewhat dismayed by the fact. 

Kaigaku has been a coward for half his life but when those golden eyes look at him the world seems to pause. 

He takes the little courage he has as his face blush.

He has done several things of dubious nature without blinking, when it comes to this brat his stomach churns as he doesn't know how he should react. 

—I like you, Zenitsu.— 

Some part of him breaks free, he's an idiot for confessing like this in this pathetic way at the worst of times. 

He has no alternative, it's something that oppresses his chest. 

—I couldn't call you brother when I like you like that.— he murmurs, trembling. 

Agatsuma however removes the hand holding him with a disappointed sound. 

—Then why you keep hurting me?— the blond doubts, leaving him alone in the room. 

Has he made it wrong? 

Maybe this is for the best, Kaigaku looks at the floor believing that he doesn't deserve love.

Chapter Text

Sundays are usually days of calm and silence but now boisterous laughter fills the apartment with a boastful tone. 

Kaigaku opens his eyes looking at the clock on the nightstand next to him. 

It's ten in the morning, no one has had the decency to wake him up. 

He dresses in the clothes he almost never wears from the closet while the neighbor's recognizable voice rings in his ears. 

This Uzui guy has probably come here to look for Zenitsu. 

The first image of the day and it's already a scene that bothers Kaigaku. 

Tengen is bold, sitting next to Agatsuma with a wide smile, arms under the table as if he has manners, a cup of tea barely poured. 

Sensei is also suspicious of this guy but there's nothing they can do when the same brat treats him as a friend. 

One of the paintings he usually paints is on top of the armchair covered with a cloth. 

Is this a gift? 

—You see him every day when he leaves the department, did you really have to come here?— Kaigaku asks with a bitter sigh. 

—Yeah, good morning to you too, Kaigaku.— Uzui responds without paying much attention. 

—Uzui came to visit us, it's been a long time since we had visitors, it's not bad to receive someone from time to time.— Agatsuma corrects from the chair 

Jigoro doesn't seem to be comfortable with the neighbor either, Kaigaku knows him enough to know that when Sensei moves his mustache it's because he does not like the situation.

—Did you really let him in?— asks the black-haired boy, sitting quite close to the old man. 

—I had no alternative, Zenitsu let him in.— the old man answers, crossing his arms. 

—Your family isn't used to whispering, right?— Tengen asks, hearing them perfectly. 

—It's not that, they just don't like you.—says the blond.

—Anyway, I won't be here for long, I came to leave you a gift.— the artist smiles, raising the cup of tea. 

—For me?— exclaims the boy with a blushing face. 

Zenitsu's smile is huge, it looks sincere, is that what it looks like when joy really touches the brat's soul? 

The youngest of the Kuwajima can't help but feel jealous, yesterday he told him that... but his reaction was the opposite. 

Maybe Kaigaku spent too much time pushing him away, now the distance is irreconcilable. 

He can barely frown cause he doesn't have enough authority to complain. 

Uzui seems like a good man and that's the worst. 

—I was thinking of giving it to you on your birthday but I didn't want to wait any longer, consider it an early gift.— Tengen says, getting up from the chair to grab the covered painting. 

When he lift the fabric the scene is simply beautiful. 

Clover fields have blossomed on the canvas while the peach trees are filled with precious fruits. 

The sky is the perfect mirror of a summer day.

Grandfather used to take both Kaigaku and him to tour fields like these when they were younger but sometimes things change, this became a pleasant memory. 

Zenitsu told him about it once but he didn't believe that Uzui would take it into account or remember that story. 

The boy is delighted with the colors. 

He liked the gift, Kaigaku can feel the damn feeling of anger. 

There's little point in giving way to envy now, Zenitsu appreciates Uzui. 

—It's very beautiful but I can't accept it, it's one of your paintings.— Agatsuma denies, looking at each corner of the canvas carefully. 

—I already told you, consider it a gift from both me and Hinatsuru. We think the same when we say that it's for you.— the painter agrees, handing the beautiful scene into the hands of the new owner. 

—Hinatsuru Chan also thinks it's for me? That's unfair, why didn't you bring her with you?— the blond asks in a flirtatious tone. 

—I know you well, you wouldn't look at my face if she were here.— Tengen whispers, raising an eyebrow. 

Grandpa takes a long breath before smiling. 

—Now get out of my house!— Jigoro shouts, shaking his fist in the air. 

—I heard it, Mr. Kuwajima. I'll see you around, Zenitsu.— Uzui greets before leaving the apartment on his own. 

—Grandpa, you can't treat all the neighbors like that.— the youngest in the house complains. 

—He's a pervert, makes me lost my nerve.— Jigoro comments in a low voice. 

Kaigaku is usually the one who reinforces Sensei's words but today he has lost the temper. 

He heads to the bedroom again, the only place where he seems to be safe. 

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•< 

The precious painting hangs in the kitchen where Kaigaku must look at it from now until the rest of his life, he supposes. 

Zenitsu is happy, he is humming a song to himself while he fixes the clothes for tomorrow. 

The uniform is still impeccable.

Grandpa has important work tomorrow but he takes his time watching some television before going to bed. 

Kaigaku organizes the collection of pendants he has in the nightstand drawer, some are given by Muzan Sama and others are simply bought by him. 

This time Muzan Sama has given him a bright red mouth that he will proudly wear on his choker tomorrow at their meeting. 

Agatsuma continues to ignore him, being in this little bubble of euphoria that the neighbor has left him in. 

The door is closed but there's nothing the two could say to each other, it's just a habit Zenitsu has. 

—You like him? That idiot of Uzui.— Kuwajima asks, preparing the uniform equally. 

—Who wouldn't? He's handsome, interesting and smart but there's no point in liking him. There is a woman, she is the right one, you understand?— explains the boy, leaving his tie at hand. 

—So all these months you were wasting your time with a guy who loves someone else or you are prone to love triangles?— the black-haired questions again. 

Agatsuma silently denies without answering the question. 

—You're not the best at talking about triangles or love.— the blond complains, placing his shoes under the bed. 

—What are you talking about?—

This time Zenitsu surprises his adoptive brother with a phrase that is not at all his own. 

—You look good every time you leave school, I guess you like the person you're going to see but yesterday you said...— The golden-eyed boy pauses saying, playing with his fingers. 

—That I like you and that hasn't changed today, nor will it change tomorrow. I can love you either intellectually or physically.— Kaigaku laughs, winking at him. 

—I think I'll try it with the Kamado siblings. — the blond swears, lying down on the bed. 

—Your dear Nezuko is cute but she is in love with that little monster Hashibira and Kamado Kun, well... half of the school is in love with him. You have tough competition.— says the oldest of the boys. 

—Please, Kaigaku, don't remind me what life is like.— Agatsuma asks, turning off the lamp on his nightstand. 

Kuwajima imitates him by turning off his equally. 

Sometimes Zenitsu sleeps with his face uncovered, looking to the opposite side, today is no exception and the street lamp reveals him with a slight light that enters the room. 

—What's happening? You want to come sleep with your Aniki?— Kaigaku asks, smiling from the corner of his mouth. 

—Idiot.— the blond mutters, throwing the pillow at him. 

He has made Zenitsu angry for the second time, maybe the third time he will make him react. 

The choker boy smiles grabbing the pillow to smell it, sweet just like Zenitsu. 

His perfume is addictive.

Chapter Text

Kaigaku wakes up with the pillow in his arms, still holding it as if it were Zenitsu himself but he is not in the room. 

Today is an important day for Grandpa so breakfast must be good, he can hear the two of them chatting in the kitchen until Sensei leaves the apartment with a sincere greeting for the boy with the yellow locks. 

Kaigaku gets up, wondering if he should continue insisting on Zenitsu or if it would be better to leave him alone. 

The blond continues arranging the table when his roommate appears calmly sitting in his corresponding place at the table. 

—You want some coffee?— Agatsuma offers, bringing a cup into view. 

—Fill it for me.— the older one asks, a little sleepy. 

—You couldn't sleep well?— Zenitsu asks, reaching for the cup. 

—If I told you that your pretty face was to blame, would you believe me?— Kuwajima asks, taking a big sip. 

—Ha, ha, very funny.— the owner of the expression says ironically without knowing it's true. 

After the small argument last night Zenitsu fell asleep first which meant for Kaigaku the opportunity to see that calm side of Agatsuma for an hour and a half. 

Zenitsu is an angel, Kuwajima's heart races every time he sees him, it's not something he can always appreciate. 

There is freshly brewed coffee but the youngest in the house prefers to drink tea. 

—Are you seriously not going to try a sip? Brat, stop acting as if you were sinning by having a little coffee.— the blue-eyed boy asks with boredom. 

—I'm not used to drinking it and it's bad at my age, caffeine can be somewhat harmful, I'm still young for some things.—Agatsuma reports. 

—And too old to continue feeling guilty about other things, drinking coffee is natural like smoking or drinking.— Kaigaku exemplifies, earning a gasp of reproach.

—Those are bad habits, I know you smoke secretly, don't do it anymore.— orders the youngest with a disapproving look. 

—I'm almost eighteen, I don't have to worry about what I can or can't do.— the black-haired young man denies capriciously. 

—And I'm almost sixteen but that doesn't mean I can do everything I want. If I drink coffee I will fly into the sky.— threatens the golden-eyed 

—Geez, you're young for something so simple, but aren't you too young to be falling in love with someone different all the time? Ototo, that sounds very hypocritical of you.— Kuwajima denies with a joke.  

—Don't call me that after...— stammers the boy with a red face. 

—Oh? We are not brothers anymore? Well, then I should call you Kohai.— 

—Keep dreaming I'll call you Senpai.— Zenitsu growls. 

—So what nickname would suit you best? Baby?— the young man asks maliciously, leaving the cup aside. 

—Don't you dare.— the blond whispers, looking away. 

—I think it would sound good after all, you're a crybaby.— replies the boy with the choker. 

—Tell me whatever you want, let's just keep up appearances at school.— 

He seems worried by how others see him, it's part of his nature to be insecure even when he has everything to succeed. 

—Why should I care? We are not blood brothers, we share no other bond except that of having been picked up by the same man. He is your grandfather and to me Sensei.— Kaigaku reminds him. 

—Were you telling the truth? When you said you like me?— Agatsuma doubts, tracing the edge of the cup with his index finger. 

—If I had time I would have already fallen in love with you.— declares the oldest with an abnormal harmony in his voice. 

—This is wrong and you know it.— 

The blond shrinks in his chair, internally debating the situation, facing the truth is sometimes not easy and for Agatsuma it means breaking the wall of a fragile relationship. 

Wrong? 

After all the nights at Kibutsuji's side, the term "wrong" seems taken from a children's story.

The devil exists within Muzan's red eyes, the small problem of being attracted to his adoptive brother seems the most innocent sin when it comes to recounting each nights mistakes. 

—You're the last good thing I have left, if this is wrong, then what's right?— Kaigaku murmurs as he leaves to the room. 

He seems sure of what he says, Zenitsu really didn't want to make him feel guilty. 

Sometimes the consequences of their different personalities divide them, this talk is proof that they both walk through different realities. 

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•< 

There are things that don't change, Kaigaku knows that for Zenitsu their relationship is personal so knowing or not that he likes him doesn't change much. 

He has told it but it's irrelevant. 

Nothing has changed, the brat continues the routine with his friends' table, smiling like he never does for him. 

It's useless, Kuwajima understands that life is not as one plans it. 

He prefers to wait for Daki in the parking lot to go to the club, once again. 

She is not alone, her brother Gyoutaro comes with the reproaching for something that Kaigaku cannot hear because of the distance. 

—I understand, you don't have to repeat it every hour.— the girl snorts, meeting her "work" colleague. 

—You're too distracted to notice things, if I repeat it it's because I know you don't take it into account.— Gyoutaro sighs, staying next to his younger sister. 

—I'm glad you're not that annoying with your little brother.— the white-haired girl murmurs next to Kaigaku. 

—Zenitsu is not my real brother.— He denies, looking away. 

—Uh?— Gyoutaro doubts with mixed ideas. 

—Yeah, Kuwajima adopted us but we are not related by blood.— the boy corrects. 

—You must be sick of him to deny it like that.— Daki assumes. 

—I have to go, take care of yourself, silly.— Gyoutaro asks, beating the girl's hair. 

—Is everything okay?— Daki tries to find out. 

The question is a reminder of what people often say when they see him in the face. 

Kaigaku gasps, nodding silently, there's not much to confess regarding his personal life. 

—You did a good job, Muzan Sama is satisfied with you.— the girl smiles. 

—Satisfied you say?— Kuwajima murmurs. 

He doubts that there is a way to satisfy that man, he has a well inside that drags him to make his darkest desires come true. 

Kaigaku has heard rumors but when they exist it's because someone made them up or they really derive from hidden truths. 

The pendant hangs from the choker proving that the boy is Kibutsuji's property. 

Until now the only thing he has received is money and shame, a shame that he does not show in the eyes of others. 

—And what you will do from now on?— she asks again. 

—Is there anything left to do? Continue with the work until Kibutsuji stops me or maybe I can leave.— says the young man without understanding that there is no escape from the nightmare. 

—The only way for you to get away is to leave without a pulse, you really think he'll let you go?— Daki laughs, searching for something on her cell phone 

—Aren't there some who came out?— remembers the boy. 

—Yes, but they weren't exactly what we are. Tamayo was barely a doctor, she treated the wounds of the less fortunate guests of Muzan Sama and Akaza Dono was nothing more than a kind of bodyguard. I'm really sorry he left, he was handsome.— the girl complains, making a dissatisfied face. 

—How about you? You never think about what will happen if one day he gets bored of you?— Kaigaku's voice is usually not worried but now it sounds downcast. 

—That's my business, worry about staying attractive and strong, pretty boy.— explains the young woman. 

Just in time the transport is here as the sun goes down, Zenitsu's missed call is still there but Kaigaku doesn't have the morality to hear his voice. 

Otherwise it would be impossible to concentrate when Muzan Sama takes him without thinking about that brat.

Chapter Text

There is movement in the club, many people move around.

Kaigaku isn't used to so much hustle and bustle but he guesses something must be going on.

The favorites' wing is little traveled with the occasional passing lover who leaves the next day.

Only eternally hosted Enmu seems to inhabit this place.

Muzan Sama hasn't called him so Kaigaku takes a break in the divine area that perfectly imitates a small in-house cafeteria only that instead of waiters the vending machines work here.

There is nothing in this fantasy land that can fill the emptiness that the blue-eyed boy carries inside.

Zenitsu cannot, or perhaps does not want to, return the feeling that afflicts him.

It's okay, love is usually unrequited so he thinks it will become just a rumor.

Someday the whole thing will be nothing more than a shameful memory of the past.

—You don't have anything to do? Today is an important day for Daki but you don't seem to know it, do you?— Enmu sighs, sitting on the table.

Kaigaku shakes his head silently from the chair.

—We're not friends, why should she tell me something?— the boy answers, shrugging his shoulders.

—Today Muzan Sama wants the rest of the guests to see her, I understand that Daki will dance for some businessmen from... who knows what.— the pale boy stops to think.

—Good for her.—

Enmu laughs at the frivolous phrase.

—You don't understand, Kuwajima. It's not about the action but what Muzan Sama is actually trying to do. You're cute but that little head of yours can't give you the right answer. There could be several options but I don't know if any of them are correct.— doubts the boy with bicolor locks.

Kaigaku thinks about it again before sharing the idea with a small start.

—Is Muzan Sama trying to get rid of her?— asks the black-haired boy

—It's a more benevolent option than actually losing her in a more… aggressive way. She's pretty, it must be difficult to have to say goodbye to Daki, but if a club member becomes interested, it's easier to hand her over and forget about her.— Enmu assumes

—If that's true then the two of us would be the first on the street. He adores her, I don't see why he would separate himself from her.— the choker boy's refusal is more of an internal doubt

The insecurity of believing that actually...

Kaigaku frowns again like he had promised to stop doing.

—You're right, she is the beautiful one, to be honest I think I would have to be the candidate to leave the club, but you? What's up Kuwajima? Are afraid?—

This guy's smile always brings the same feeling, it's in many ways uncomfortable and unfriendly.

—You don't? Sometimes I have no idea what I'm doing.— the black-haired boy murmurs.

—Perhaps I'm exaggerating, other options that occurred to me were that Muzan Sama wants to flatter a guest with the presence of Daki or even... no, that would be cruel.— Enmu responds, raising his index finger in the air.

—Say it, you have no one to tell so speak.— Kaigaku states, crossing his arms.

—Imagine that you are a businessman who has taken the right to want to be benefited a little by other interests outside the company, so you ask for a loan, I don't know...— whispers the boy in the suit, doing the math in silence —Some many thousands? But the investment goes wrong, you have to return the money. Now, think you have no way to bring that money back. Your outside partner understands, with a helping hand he tells you that he understands, everything is fine, today you are going to see a beautiful girl dancing in an exotic setting and suddenly...—

The scene is terrible as is this boy's imagination, how far away from the rest of the world you have to be to imagine these nightmares or terrifying dreams?

Kaigaku stops him by placing a hand over his mouth.

—You're really unpleasant when you want to be.— the blue-eyed man complains.

—I use my imagination because I don't want Daki to leave either. Unlike you, she is a friend.— Enmu laments, removing the other's hand.

—It's not our job to assume, we obey orders from Muzan Sama and that's all.— the co-worker refutes, sure that this is just an attempt to scare him.

—Daki and I do a good job, you and her too, but it makes me ashamed to think that one night Muzan Sama will call us both. He is very jealous, he is not going to like to see that we get along well in bed.— Enmu is daring, fixing the collar of the particular kimono makes it evident

—It's the only thing we get along with, after all you like tough boys.— Kaigaku responds, holding the intruder's wrists.

This time Enmu's smile is warm, attractive and his pale cheeks blush a little with the pressure he feels on his wrists.

—That's your fault, keep that in mind.— the other remembers, removing his hands.

The eternal inhabitant gets up from the table and leaves the way he came.

Kaigaku is good at finding people's weak points, so why is it so difficult to get to Zenitsu?

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The music is really loud, the favorites room resonates.

Kaigaku is not interested enough to meet new faces, he lies on his own bed inside the club with his cell phone in his hand.

Zenitsu's call is still there waiting to be answered.

What could he say to him? What would be the correct words?

Zenitsu won't call him Aniki anymore, so he shouldn't call him Ototo either.

Does that mean that in some strange way Agatsuma understands what it means?

They have transferred the family relationship to an irreversible point.

Kaigaku is bad with words, even if he wants to praise him it would sound mundane or abrupt.

Zenitsu is worth of praise, after all he is a cute boy.

He has the voice of a sparrow, he is adorable even when he despairs, he has yellow hair and Kaigaku has always wanted to sink his fingers into that blonde hair.

He is a lucky fool, he has good friends and bad taste to falling in love.

Sensei appreciates him above all, because of him Jigoro would be able to cross the world, Kuwajima's student does not blame him.

Years ago, envy would have devastated Kaigaku, with everything in front of him, but now he can look through those same eyes.

Zenitsu is like a small spark of hope.

One of the biggest differences the two have, Kaigaku is lost in a pit that is too dark while Zenitsu still holds hope within a beating soul.

Kuwajima thinks at the moment that even sinners have the right to dream.

He dials the number on the way to the bathroom where he locks himself in solitude trying to get away from the noise.

The boy plays with the choker around his neck without thinking clearly, what should he say when Zenitsu answers?

The dial tone rings several times, taking away the peace of mind of the owner of the cell phone who has pressed the number.

The seconds he waits turn into bitterness until Zenitsu's voice brings him back to life.

—Are you okay? You don't usually answer my calls.— he says on the other side.

It's a complaint and a worried question at the same time.

—I'm fine, I just wanted to let you know that I won't be back today.— The black-haired boy sighs as if he really didn't care about the opinion.

—Are you saying that because I always ask where you are going? I had lost hope.— says Agatsuma

Kuwajima must be docile at this point, it's easy to lose his temper with the blond so the next sentence must be subtle, delicate.

—You're right?—

Kaigaku smacks his forehead with his free hand for being too sharp when it comes to Zenitsu, there's something about the brat that weakens him, he's not the best at showing it sincerely anyway.

—I will survive your absence if you talk about that, I'm use to doing things by myself, you distress grandpa, that is the only thing I regret.— Agatsuma assures from the cell phone.

—I'll go to school tomorrow, then...— the older of the two hesitates to say.

—It sounds logical, you come with Daki, right? You don't want to see me, I know that too. Don't worry, you won't see me.—

Zenitsu's voice is sharp and cold like an ice blade, Kuwajima blames himself for turning him this way.

A year or two ago he told him to... leave his sight, Agatsuma still remembers it.

—I have a lot to tell you but it won't be tomorrow.— the boy excuses himself against the bathroom door.

—It won't be today, or tomorrow, or ever. The problem is that you don't trust me.— Zenitsu protests, having a particular way of discouraging Kaigaku.

—That's not true, you know.—

The whisper of Muzan's favorite sounds sincere, the silence on the other end of the line tells him so.

—Good night.— Agatsuma answers, cutting off the call.

Again distrust, again loneliness.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu doesn't look for him during the day, the school seems to be the point where the two can meet but today Kaigaku doesn't go to the dining room.

He has had enough, Agatsuma wants peace of mind and he will have it.

Daki looks exhausted, she danced all night and now she has to stay awake during classes.

The morning flies by when the yellow-haired boy is not around Kuwajima.

He doesn't dare call him again, the response could be as sharp as the last time, Kaigaku's spirit no longer needs distress.

This is how lunch becomes hours of confinement with a cigarette in the bathrooms, in the afternoon waiting for transportation is a matter of playing with a lollipop between his lips.

Kaigaku gently pushes Daki away when he sees her eyes narrow.

—You're so annoying, Kuwajima. Can't you hold me for a moment?— the girl complains, yawning.

—Muzan Sama gave you the honor of being useful to him, you should bear the weight of the task.— answers the boy.

—Why you wasn't there? Enmu came last night.— Daki asks, leaning against him.

—I don't feel like meeting new faces, I prefer to rest.— Kaigaku answers flatly, pushing her again.

—Haven't you returned home? Is coexistence so bad?—

Daki's curiosity can be dangerous when it comes to information about his "family".

Kuwajima turns a deaf ear to her question by putting on the best frivolous face he has.

—Now I understand why you don't have friends.— the white-haired girl murmurs, tempted to fall asleep.

There is no person who can understand the absolute knot that exists in his mind.

He is lost, Zenitsu's spell has him chained.

Even when he is meters away, his presence is suffocating.

It's a thorn in Kaigaku's mind.

The transport takes them back to the club, this fortress of pleasures in where Kibutsuji is sinking.

The sun goes down as the boy's eyes turn to the streets through the glass.

There are clouds on the horizon, a storm is brewing.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Rain pours down on the city while guests seem scarce.

Muzan Sama has called him, this time alone.

It's something Kaigaku appreciates, he doesn't have the mind to have fun and if he did he would make unforgivable mistakes.

Kuwajima remains silent behind the boss, Kibutsuji remains distracted by papers that manage his small fortune.

Once again the boy frowns behind his master's back.

Muzan puts aside official business to still stretch a little from the ground.

—Kaigaku, be a good boy and bring me a bottle of Sake.— the man asks, placing a hand under his chin while holding onto the small low table.

The young man barely nods, searching Muzan's personal bar, the shiny bottle looks top brand, the correct glass accompanies the fine crystal.

Kaigaku silently pours the drink, leaving the glass in front of Kibutsuji.

The drops hit the ceiling even when it seemed impossible to hear, Muzan's hand clings to the cold glass before taking a quick look at the company of the night.

—You made that face again,.— the man warns between sips.

Kuwajima lowers his face trying to hide this grimace that has condemned him since he was little.

—I'm sorry, that's not my intention...— the boy murmurs.

—I guess we all have worries, I didn't expect to see you disobey one of my orders, tell me what's got you like this. Anyway, I'm not going back home today.—

The question sounds strange, the idea of ​​telling about his personal life is the furthest thing from comfortable.

What should he say?

The truth is that his heart withers in useless words that lead him nowhere, Zenitsu will not cross the line they have, it is partly Kaigaku's fault.

—I have no intention of boring you, Muzan Sama, my problems are everyday like school.— the guest avoids saying

—Is that so? You seem like an intelligent boy who knows what he's doing, it's hard for me to believe that something simple as school puts you in that mood.— Kibutsuji doubts, still with the glass between his lips.

—I'll try not to bring my worries here.—

Kaigaku smiles palely in apology before seeing the pale man grin.

—Come to bed with me.— Muzan asks, carrying the bottle with him.

The futon is always prepared, Daki is exhausted, she sleeps in the favorites room while Kaigaku takes her place tonight.

Kuwajima wishes it weren't like this but there is nothing he can do to prevent it.

Muzan is elegant even as he gently takes the bottle to his mouth.

The boy has no idea what he should do.

He waits obediently on the right side of the futon with his knees on top of the delicate sheet.

—You're not like the rest of my favorites, you're different. Others try hard to please me but you do whatever you want even when you pretend to follow my orders.— Kibutsuji laughs, unbuttoning the buttons on his shirt.

The blood in Kaigaku's body speeds up as his nerves play tricks on him.

What is that supposed to mean?

Now Muzan Sama is not pleased with his attitude?

—Don't worry, it's just that I'm used to everyone bowing their head to agree with me. I like that you are honest in some strange way.— admits the club owner

—I'm sorry that my personality upsets you.—

It's a pathetic apology, yet Muzan places a cold hand on the young man's face.

It's an icy caress that never feels the same.

—You're a willing toy, as long as I can quench my thirst you'll be fine.— the red-eyed man promises before kissing Kaigaku's tender lips.

It's wrong, the phrase, the way he treats him is... denigrating.

Kuwajima should get out of there before he gets lost in the abyss of sins but this is where he truly belongs.

If he gave up being the current distraction, everything would be worse.

There is only one consolation, Kaigaku closes his eyes as he thinks of Zenitsu again.

Of course if that idiot kissed him it would feel different, warm as the sun and sweet as a spoonful of honey on the tongue.

Kibutsuji smiles, releasing the boy's face.

—Who do you like more? Daki or Enmu?—asks the leader of the strange harem

—Does it matter? They are both good at what they specialize in, I can't choose between the two.— Kaigaku admits

—So you're ambitious? You can't choose between two favorites, people are divided on whether they can give you the pleasure you're looking for or not.— advises the man, passing the bottle into the hands of the youngest of the Kuwajima.

—I'm not the one who should say it, you're the one in charge here.— says the boy, taking a sip of the Sake.

His throat burns but it's fine, maybe he can forget about the ungrateful Zenitsu.

Muzan laughs slowly taking off his shirt, Kuwajima frowns but this time it's the alcohol filling his insides with the same feeling of having eaten fire.

—Take it easy, it'll go straight to your head.— Muzan murmurs, grabbing the bottle.

—What do you want me to do? You didn't call me to chat.— the teenager guesses.

He is bold to speak like this to someone who could get rid of him by barely lifting his fingers, but Kibutsuji enjoys prey.

Muzan licks his lips before taking a long sip.

Hands clinging to his body once again, again the price to pay is all he has.

A broken heart and his mind set on a wish that he will never be able to fulfill.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu has had very good hearing since he was little, today as the storm gathers strength towards the night he cannot sleep.

Even when the lights are off, the rays that illuminate the sky don't allow him to close his eyes peacefully.

In any case, Zenitsu doesn't have the courage to rest without first thinking about Kaigaku.

He's been away from home for too long.

Grandfather is worried and with plenty of reasons.

The blond clings to the sheets, it's useless to try to sleep.

The sound of the door opening is a sign that Kaigaku has returned, with doubts about whether he should talk to him or not Zenitsu turns on the lights in the room.

The first image he sees when he opens the door is a puddle of water at the entrance to the apartment.

Kaigaku doesn't even wait as he throws the school bag in the doorway.

He's soaked.

—What do you have in mind to come this time? Didn't you see the storm outside?— Agatsuma denies, meeting him.

Kaigaku however sighs heading to the room, the only place where he can be at peace.

Zenitsu follows behind, sure that there is something strange about him.

Kuwajima is usually the first to argue, the only thing he does now is sit on the bed wetting everything in his path.

—Are you okay?— The blonde asks, noticing how his adoptive brother nods silently.

He has his hands together, his eyes on the floor, his shoulders hunched.

Zenitsu prefers to maintain the silence that the occasion requires when looking for a towel to pass it to him.

—You're going to get sick if you stay wet.— he warns with kind concern.

Of course Zenitsu is gentle by nature, even when the relationship is completely broken he will still be that way, merciful.

Kaigaku smiles from the corner of his mouth, he has been walking entire streets in the rain, the dark blanket of night should be enough to make him forget most things but no one can remove this thorn from within his heart.

There is a small iron flower in fire that clings to the inside of him and has the name of this boy in front of him engraved on it.

Agatsuma knows that he won't take it, he is reckless to do so but he can't ignore it.

A gesture of understanding hits Zenitsu as he wipes the damp face of his adopted not-brother.

Kaigaku is a handsome boy, maybe that's why he ignores the danger of the world.

The stupid choker is still hanging from his neck, Agatsuma wants to take that thing off but the owner of the accessory stops him with a slight snort.

—Why you continue to tie yourself to the things that hurt you?— asks the blonde

—You really want to know?—

Kuwajima chuckles as if it were really a joke, he is drunk.

—Forget it, I shouldn't have asked you.— the golden-eyed boy whispers, leaving the towel aside.

—Zenitsu... in fact I...— the black-haired stammers, taking one of the other's hands.

—What would you say? That I'm one of your bad addictions?— supposes the youngest

—You answer your own questions, no... none of that matters. You hate me, there is no turning back for me.— the older of the two denies, marking Zenitsu's warm hand in an icy kiss.

—I don't hate you and something tells me that you don't either, Kaigaku, please tell me the truth.— Zenitsu begs as a last resort.

The rain is abundant outside, however the interior of the apartment remains dry, yet Agatsuma's hand gets wet with mysterious drops that come from an unexpected source.

Kaigaku is crying.

—If I tell you where I've been, will you forgive me?— asks the boy.

His blue eyes are now full of life as tears run down his cheeks.

—Forgive you for what?— Jigoro's favorite replies, trying to calm him down.

Kaigaku has never been the kind of emotional person that manages to connect with others but this time alcohol makes a hidden part of his personality come to the surface.

He's just a scared boy, in an act of trust he clings to Zenitsu in a hug that means a lot to him.

It's the first time Kaigaku shows him something like that.

—I love you, you know it's true. I'm trying to do it right but...— he stammers again, holding on tightly.

—Say what you want, it will be our secret, I promise you.— the blond swears, returning the gesture.

Kaigaku can breathe in his arms with the tears that don't stop flowing.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The morning has arrived with the city soaked and a lazy sun that refuses to rise in the sky.

Kaigaku fell asleep from so much shock mixed with alcohol.

Zenitsu told grandpa in the middle of breakfast.

—He has a fever.— the boy assures, placing a cold cloth on Kuwajima's forehead.

Jigoro takes a long breath before sitting on the side of the bed.

—Should we call an ambulance?— the old man hesitates.

—He's drunk, he's not going to die from that, but if it gets worse I'll call you.— says the golden-eyed man, standing up.

—Call me? You have to go to school, I can take care of Kaigaku if it comes to...— the old man tries to say but Zenitsu places a hand on his shoulder.

—I can't let you compromise your work, don't worry. I called the school and explained to Principal Himejima, if you don't mind, I'll stay to take care of Kaigaku.— the yellow-haired boy smiles, trying to cheer up his grandfather.

Jigoro nods regretfully looking at his protégé again.

—My child, why are you reckless with yourself?— the old man gasps.

—We'll be fine, after all... he's my Aniki.— Agatsuma speaks in a low voice, trying to look calm even when his nerves play tricks on him.

At some point he will wake up, it will be difficult to look at his face.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The morning passes so quickly that Zenitsu notices that noon is approaching when Kaigaku finally wakes up with a light run to the bathroom where the Sake finds a way straight into the toilet.

If his everyday sullen adoptive brother still dominates him it's better to leave him alone, Zenitsu doesn't plan to leave lunch anyway.

Kaigaku hates feeling his stomach burn in addition to enduring the sharp pain in his head but it's what he has earned from the dangerous proximity to Muzan.

The feeling of having a heavy shackle on his legs is real, he has a hard time staying on his knees on the toilet when the sensation hits his body suddenly.

Agatsuma turns off the stove to walk to the bathroom door where he leans on the porch with his arms crossed.

—You want me to fill the bathtub for you?— asks the boy with yellow hair.

—I think I'll stay here for a while, I can't stand up.— Kuwajima reports from the ground.

—You can't tolerate alcohol, I don't understand why you still drink it.— the youngest inquires.

—There are many things you wouldn't understand, you're blond.— Kaigaku jokes with a half smile.

—Well, Mr. Funny, I'll bring a towel for when you feel better. Don't lie in your bed, your clothes wet the sheets, take mine if you want.— Zenitsu offers, looking worried.

Kuwajima is surprised by his latent kindness, with the little strength he has left in his arms he gets up from the floor to cling to the sink.

—What did I say last night? I know I talked to you but I can't remember what about.— the black-haired boy asks shyly.

—The usual thing, you said you hate me and all those horrible things you think.— Zenitsu snorts, rolling his eyes.

—I did it? That's not... I mean I don't hate you, why... why did I say that?— The older of the two rambles trying to remember the little he can bring to his mind

Agatsuma smiles wide.

—I'm joking, take a bath, I know you don't want to eat anything right now but I made some tea.— indicates the blond

—No, seriously, I don't...— insists the blue-eyed

—I know, whether drunk or sober you repeat the same thing, if I didn't know you I would believe that you really do love me.—

Zenitsu shakes his head with a calm grimace before going to the bedroom to get a towel.

Did he really say it?

What is this relaxed attitude from the crybaby?

Chapter Text

Even though his body felt heavy, the fear was greater. 

It's not an attitude that Zenitsu would accept but Kaigaku takes the cell phone to go outside and call the first contact on the list. 

Muzan Sama must know the truth, as much as the boy does not like to admit, Kibutsuji now owns a part of his life. Kaigaku waits anxiously for a response as he leans against the street wall, the calling sound is like the sound of a sharp pendulum swinging over his head that doesn't let him breathe.

His soul returns to his body when Muzan Sama answers the cell phone.

—I know, you're not coming today.— he answers, silencing the boy with his lips parted.

—I'm so sorry, I'm not... Sake made a mess of me, I feel too weak to serve you.— Kuwajima whispers, unsure of what he's going to hear back.

—I assumed it, being logical I thought that you would get sick walking in the rain in addition to hearing from Daki that you were not present in class. There must be a good reason to make you return home in a storm.— the man supposes ironically.

Muzan is a cynical manipulator, he has been using Daki as a reliable source of information.

Kibutsuji distrusts Kaigaku, the boy can tell by the way he speaks, believing that he didn't show up to obey his duty out of simple whim or regret.

Kuwajima knows that he is halfway to a life of tortuous existence, he's not going to ruin an opportunity like this even when his mind is in another part of the city, even if his soul trembles in the arms of... Zenitsu.

—It won't happen again, I'll make it up to you.— the teenager swears, tugging whimsically at the choker.

—You always please me, you are pleasant in our games and submissive to the point of being perfect but I think this time I have to make it clear to you what it means to be honest, Kaigaku. Rest for a few days, when you come back you may need enough strength.— Muzan advises, abruptly cutting off the call.

Kaigaku places the cell phone against his forehead, sure he's in trouble while he clenches his jaw.

He has screwed up once again.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Zenitsu is some kind of saint, he prepares a bowl for him along with a cup of tea waiting with the kindest face anyone could have.

Kaigaku's body reacts although he cannot deduce what it is, he has never felt something like this, it's a sensation that forces him to look away.

—Still here? I can cook for myself, the only reason I don't is because I like to eat what you make, in any case, never let Sensei near the kitchen.— advises the older of the two, sitting in his chair.

—You feel better after the bath?— Agatsuma asks, still with the same smile as before.

—Yes, after brushing my teeth three times in a row everything is better.— the black-haired boy gasps, taking a sip of the tea.

—I'm glad but you made a mess, you wet your bed with rainwater, you were very lucky that the school books and your cell phone were inside the school bag.— Agatsuma reproaches with a slight movement of disapproval.

—I'm not that good at handling alcohol, my drink limit? Three.— Kaigaku indicates, raising his fingers.

—It's just a little soup, drink it while it's still hot.— Zenitsu is sitting next to him, under the table their knees collide while the blond knows it but he does nothing to prevent it.

—Listen... Ototo...— he murmurs unsure, trying to return to that bond he used to have but the blond stops him.

—You've never wanted to call me that, now I understand why.— Zenitsu assumes.

—I know we talked last night, I told you some things... I want to know what exactly.— Kaigaku asks, playing with the bowl.

Agatsuma seems insecure but sincerity is his weak point.

He opens his mouth with no sound coming out of his throat.

—Just say it!— the blue-eyed boy demands impatiently.

—You told me about the club, about that man and where the money comes from... You hugged me tight last night, you decided to tell me everything. I was happy because you trusted me, it's a little stupid of me, right?— Jigoro's favorite murmurs, lowering his head.

Kaigaku can only have one reaction when it comes to the truth, with red cheeks he grabs the bowl to throw it against the kitchen wall.

Zenitsu can barely look at the stain in silence, Kaigaku is filled with shame, anger has always been a part of him and today is no different.

—Shit!— Kuwajima shouts, standing up abruptly from his chair.

Zenitsu guesses his intentions as a result of living with him for years.

He stands in front of the apartment door, opening his arms wide.

—You can't leave, not with that state of health.— the youngest prohibits, denying him passage.

—And what should I do? Stay here and wait for Sensei to scold me? See the disgust inside your eyes? I refuse to go through all that shit.— exclaims the blue-eyed on the verge of tears.

—Do you think I would break my word? If you don't tell him then he will never know. Kaigaku...— whispers the blond trying to grab Kuwajima's hand but he abruptly turns his back on him.

—Don't touch me! The last thing I need is for you to pity me.— says the boy with the choker with a broken voice.

—I don't, I'm not trying to show you pity, I want you to trust me, I can't be disgusted with a person I love too much, do you know how much Grandpa loves you? He was willing to stay here with you or take you to a hospital, do you think if we really hated you we would do anything for you? Kaigaku, I love you.—

The brat's voice usually shakes when he speaks but this time it's an honest speech.

Everything would be perfect if the feeling of having his chest ripped off didn't bother him but Kaigaku is a sinner and everything inside his conscience screams that he's a terrible person.

—And what do I do to deserve it? I'm always rude to you and Sensei, why should he love me? Why should you love me? I don't deserve you.— the blue-eyed boy moans with tears running down his face again.

—It doesn't matter if you deserve it or not, please, Kaigaku, just stay.— Zenitsu begs, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Kuwajima is a huge ball of negative feelings, self-destructive attitudes but for once, just this time decides to be weak.

Last night he hugged Zenitsu while drunk, now he does it again with a heavy soul in dark feelings that try to sink him.

The blond comforts him in his arms, feeling how that cry seems like that of a tormented child.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

—What a disaster.— Zenitsu sighs, taking the broken pieces in his hands while kneeling on the kitchen floor.

Kaigaku is next to him taking the pieces equally with wet eyes.

—I'm sorry, I have no control over myself when I get angry.— explains the older boy.

—It was your bowl anyway.— Agatsuma says, putting the fragments into the trash can.

—Now what?— asks the black-haired boy, overwhelmed by this strange weakness.

—We have to turn your mattress, take your clothes to the laundry, you're lucky Grandpa is too busy to come at noon. Anyway, I have to do homework and hope that Director Himejima is in a good mood, at least for me.— Zenitsu remembers, taking into account that the same director had told him that Kaigaku should take a break for a few days to solve his problems.

—You mean that we will sleep in the same bed?— doubt sounds quietly in Kuwajima's mouth as he tries to clean the liquid from the floor with a paper napkin.

—I guess you still remember when we were little.— Agatsuma doesn't seem sure of what he's saying, even his gaze turns away.

—We're not children, not anymore, I don't want to make you feel uncomfortable, I'll sleep on the floor.— Kaigaku proposes, drying the floor vigorously.

—Are you afraid of touching me in your dreams or that I touch you?— both options are inappropriate, Kuwajima cannot give a word because his nerves are playing tricks on him.

—These are not things that matter to you, you perverted brat.— the black-haired mumbles with the typical aggressive tone.

—Oh, please Kai, we talked a lot last night. You know? I'm not virgin anymore, you're not the only one who knows about "that"— indicates the one with yellow hair, making quotes with his fingers.

"Kai" "That?" What the hell was that? Wait... Not virgin?

—Is this a joke?— Kaigaku doubts, watching him close the bag.

—Does it seem like I'm joking?— sighs the teenager, leaving the trash can at hand.

—Are you talking about your first time with a girl or a boy?— Kuwajima tries to find out, intrigued by the truth.

—Both, in any case, will you go with me to the laundry?— the one with yellow hair proposes, leaving the other speechless with a gesture worthy of admiration.

—What have you been doing behind my back?— stammers the blue-eyed boy, straightening up from the ground.

—You never pay attention to me, that's all.— Zenitsu states, standing up equally.

Chapter Text

After taking the clothes to wash Zenitsu returns home putting the sheets in Kaigaku's wardrobe.

Tonight there will be no need to make the bed.

They both turn the mattress in addition to preparing dinner for grandpa.

Kaigaku knows he has to explain himself, he's not waiting for Zenitsu to defend him all the time.

It's almost night when Jigoro arrives hanging his coat on the coat rack near the door.

—Grandpa!— Agatsuma greets as he serves the table.

—Ah Zenitsu, are you okay?— the old man hesitates, seeing him in a particularly good mood.

—Kaigaku is awake.— the youngest informs while the image of the aforementioned is on one of the chairs.

—Oh really? How you feel?— the man asks, sitting next to him.

There is shame on the face of his first protégé, he can barely look at the one who gave him a last name.

—Sensei, I'm not good at apologizing, I'm not good at many things but I'm sorry.— Kaigaku assures

—Boy...— the old man denies with a modest laugh —When will you realize that Zenitsu and I are not interested in what you do but that you stay safe?— says Jigoro, patting the young man's shoulder.

—You don't want to know what I've been doing all this time?— Kaigaku laments, closing both fists tightly on his own knees.

—Zenitsu trusts you, he has convinced me to no longer bother you with questions that would make you feel uncomfortable. You came back drunk last night, that saddens my heart but you are young, I know that you must fall to learn to get up again and if I didn't give you another chance, what kind of Sensei would I be? I love you just like I love Zenitsu, you are both my two precious children.— says the little old man with the truth in his voice

—Really?— Kaigaku asks with tears ready to come out of his eyes again.

This whole situation made him sentimental, the Sake, the rain, connecting with Zenitsu and now having Sensei's approval makes this a moment that he should keep in his memory.

—I forgive you Kaigaku, just promise me you'll stay safe.— Jigoro begs.

The first tear comes straight out to fall on the ground while the boy with the choker knows it.

He's about to lie, he really has no idea if Muzan will forgive him or it's the end of the road for him.

The scared boy nods trying to look confident, Jigoro smiles before giving him a hug that he should have given him a long time ago.

Agatsuma can breathe on the side trying to find peace even though there is so much more he should talk to Kaigaku about.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Dinner takes place amidst laughter and other concerns.

Grandpa has no time to waste as far as Zenitsu knows, the Dojo has been busy since Jigoro's new co-worker decided to transform half of the facility into a gym, despite Kuwajima's contrary vision.

He goes to bed early because he must teach this supposed savior a few tricks.

Zenitsu is quick to take showers and also to getting into bed but Kaigaku seems to take his own time when it comes to baths.

The blond finishes his homework and takes his clothes for tomorrow while Kaigaku is still in the bathtub.

Finally he has taken off the choker, Agatsuma is relieved to see that thing on the nightstand.

There are many things that Kaigaku has not yet told him and others that he has already mentioned are truths that make Zenitsu feel a kind of pain, it's a sensation that he cannot explain.

Kuwajima enters the room, closing the door behind him with his pajamas on.

He hesitates before approaching.

—Come on, Kai. Tomorrow I have to wake up early to make breakfast, turn off the light once and for all.— Agatsuma orders with a mischievous grin from the pillow

The black-haired boy approaches slowly, turning off the lamp on the small table, the light from the street can still be seen so they are not completely dark.

The older of the two climbs into bed in total silence, before being greeted by the comforting warmth shared under the sheets.

Kaigaku is afraid to look to the side so he keeps his gaze fixed upwards.

The blond doesn't say anything because he doesn't want to make him feel bad, he turns towards the wall giving him enough space.

He's already played with Kaigaku too much.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

It's incredible that even though the only thing he feels when sharing the bed with Zenitsu is calm, Kaigaku can't close his eyes.

He's been awake for hours, there's nothing that can convince him to find reasons to sleep.

Muzan is a monster, he's capable of doing any type of evil act while simply holding a happy face.

Who knows what punishment Kibutsuji will subject him once he recovers?

Kuwajima gets up straight to the kitchen to try to find solace in a glass of water.

He sometimes would like to go back in time but the actions he has taken to date cannot be rewritten.

Money is the biggest culprit, or is he the real culprit with the ambition that attacks him?

Kaigaku doesn't know, giving a small grunt he returns to the room.

He has awakened Zenitsu, he finds him with eyes half open.

—You can't sleep?— the blond doubts in a whisper.

—I'm confused, I don't know what's going to happen from now on, I don't know what I'm going to do either. Kibutsuji, he is...— the young man stammers, trying to use the correct word.

—Dangerous, I know. You told me.— Agatsuma remembers next to him with a worried gesture.

—I shouldn't have done it, I wanted to continue hiding it. I feel so ashamed when you look at me.— says the black-haired boy, frowning.

—I'm not judging you but the things that man does to you, what he forces you to do, all of that is wrong. I knew something bad was happening, you arrive with bruises and marks everywhere.— laments the youngest

—I don't want to involve anyone else, if I'm going to pay then...—

—Don't put it like that, we will find a way out of this. There is always a way out.— the golden-eyed silences him.

—You care about me?— Kaigaku smiles at the statement.

—Even when you like it or not, we are a strange family even though we...— the blond tries to assume.

Kuwajima's cheeks blush.

—You already know, what I feel and what I do. There is nothing I can hide from you, I just wonder if you feel the same way about me.— asks the young man with blue eyes, waiting for the answer.

 —I don't know— Zenitsu murmurs —We have been brothers until now, when you insinuated to me I thought you did it to annoy me.—

—I like you but I understand that you don't love me, who would it?—

Kaigaku's self-hatred is hurtful, it's a reflection of what he carries inside, it's one of the reasons why his insides break.

Zenitsu believes that tears are blood of a wounded soul.

As they grew up Kaigaku seemed stubborn, without feelings or remorse but now he's a boy who hides his true self for fear that others will think he's weak.

—Why a cute boy like you think such horrible things about himself? Sleep, tomorrow I'll give you a surprise.— Agatsuma promises, falling onto the pillow again.

Chapter Text

Kaigaku opens his eyes but Zenitsu is not by his side, he is too elusive to wake up in the same bed.

There is a fantastic aroma coming straight from the kitchen, Kuwajima can guess that the surprise is about food.

Getting up almost silently, the boy approaches the kitchen where his roommate is dealing with the dishes.

—You're awake? I wanted to bring you breakfast in bed.— laments the blond, pouring a cup of green tea.

—You make pancakes?— Kuwajima asks, still standing.

—How you know? It was supposed to be a surprise.— Agatsuma grumbles, discovering the plate he just made.

—I figured you wanted to make me feel good and since you cook wonderfully you would do something that I like.— says the older boy, sitting at the table.

—Am I becoming predictable?— Zenitsu questions himself quietly, placing the same plate in front of Kaigaku.

—Maybe.— Kuwajima smiles, sounding friendly.

—The truth is that I can't come at noon, you'll have to cook your own lunch.— says the blond, taking a chair next to him.

—Oh, and this breakfast is enough for me to last all day?— Kuwajima asks, playing the fool.

—Of course not!— the youngest denies.

—I'm joking, anyway don't expect a big feast at night. I know how to cook but not as well as you.— Kaigaku clarifies, taking a sip of the tea.

—The important thing is that it's edible, you remember the last time grandpa cooked?— Agatsuma says, pointing at him with the fork in his hand.

—I understand, don't be angry with me.— the black-haired boy asks, taking a bite of breakfast.

—I'll go to a pharmacy, I'll look for some medicine for you.— Agatsuma explains.

Kaigaku should refuse saying there is no need but he doesn't have enough patience to argue over small details.

—By the way, about last night...— the blond hesitates, bringing the edge of the cup to his lips.

—It's okay, you don't have to explain to me, I understand that we are two different people and even when we get along well you don't have to force yourself to feel something you can't. Let's forget about the whole thing.— Kuwajima begs, sounding cold as before.

Zenitsu nods silently trying not to argue.

It's not the exact time to delve into things, right now the commotion over Kaigaku's problems is much bigger in Agatsuma's mind.

There must be a way to fix it.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

When Zenitsu leaves the home is silent, he is like a small bell that never stops ringing.

Kaigaku is the opposite, quiet as necessary the boy listens to the clock while he washes the dishes.

It's hardly comforting when the cars outside drive past the apartment in a storm of honking horns.

Changing the sheets, cleaning the apartment a little, thinking about what dinner could be, quickly reading the math book are tasks that he carries out alone, in silence.

Life without other people around seems lonely.

Even when he tries solutions, they don't come out of nowhere, no matter how much he thinks about it, finding a way out of Muzan Sama's punishment is impossible.

Even in the bathtub the situation overwhelms him, sinking into the hot water is pleasant but not enough for Kuwajima to forget that something worse awaits him.

How could he hide it? What if it's physical? Zenitsu notices the slightest bruises, if this were to be on another scale, how could he go unnoticed?

Jumping into bed seems useless when sleep has long since left him.

Rolling on the pillow is the only routine he can have on the mattress.

The television remains off, there is nothing to give him an answer to his question amidst all the useless daily hustle and bustle.

It's not until the cell phone rings that Kaigaku's attention is focused on the device.

It's Daki, calling at inopportune times.

—I don't want to play with you, Daki.— Kuwajima complains, lying in Zenitsu's place.

—Come on, he scold you once and you throw yourself into sadness?— the girl laughs.

—Muzan Sama gave me a break, don't you know?— asks the "co-worker"

—Of course I know! We all know it but I don't care if he gave you time to repent. I have direct orders from Muzan Sama so get that sad ass out of bed and listen carefully to the address I'm going to give you.— the girl almost orders making Kaigaku raise an eyebrow.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The address is none other than a quaint cafe where outside tables abound, Kaigaku assumes that those two unpleasant characters are inside.

Sure enough, in a quick glance at the customers he can see Daki and Enmu sharing a quiet chat.

He approaches without anything to say.

—Gu, gu, poor Kaigaku, punished for being a bad boy.— the white-haired girl mocks, lying down on the table when she sees him arrive.

—I'm not in the mood to put up with your jokes, I'm listening.— Kuwajima says, sitting in the third unoccupied chair at the table.

—Those are not manners for someone who is punished. Accept reality, Kaigaku, this time you really ruined it.— Enmu laments, still holding a sickly smile.

—Why do you know it too?— asks the boy, surprised by the fact that a simple drunkenness was the cause of problems.

—How can we not notice it? Muzan Sama has been acting strange since that night, I don't know what happened between you two but it's not good at all.— Daki indicates playing with the drink in front of her

—I wonder what you have done to make the boss get in that mood.— Enmu inquires, spying on him from his place.

—I don't remember, I drank too much Sake.— the black-haired boy murmurs, crossing his arms.

—Anyway, he told me that you have three days of rest, considering this the first. When you come to the club, go straight to Nakime.— comments the young girl, listing with her fingers

—The one who plays the Biwa sometimes?— Kuwajima asks, surprised by the order.

—She is also in charge of sewing our costumes... Oh, sorry, I meant "uniforms"—Enmu corrects, putting aside a porcelain cup.

Kaigaku ponders for a moment what he may recall, he has no idea if he offended Kibutsuji or simply behaved too vulgarly.

He has a blur in his mind that he solves only with a direct complaint from his throat.

—Had any of you already dealt with a punishment like that?— asks the blue-eyed young man, a little scared.

—Never, I don't like to make Muzan Sama disappoint, but I heard that Enmu likes to be punished.— Daki assures, pointing to the side, earning a strange look from a waiter.

—Even though I like Muzan Sama's rhythm, I would say that it's not totally sincere, he seeks his pleasure, not mine, it's not fair to say that it's a true punishment when the only thing he cares about is reaching a happy ending quickly.— Enmu says with a wink

—How harsh is he in these false punishments?—

Kaigaku may look serious but he is noticeably shaking inside.

—Who knows? I can't speak on his behalf.— the boy with bicolor locks denies.

—There are two more orders: Just as you have three days of rest, you will have three full days in the club, you will begin to mix with the clients.— Daki finishes listing, lowering her hand.

—Three days? My family is going to kill me.— Kuwajima snorts, imagining the trouble that could cause him.

Just now, when the situation seemed to have been resolved.

—It's not about your family, follow orders, that's what you're paid to do.— the girl whispers, crossing her legs.

Kaigaku can't remember and that seems like the worst case scenario.

There is something not right, something hidden behind these useless games, a meaning beyond Kibutsuji's daily cynicism.

The boy snorts, thinking that maybe his mouth has something to do with it, he is not good at handling alcohol.

Just as he opened up to Zenitsu, perhaps he said some things that he should have kept to himself.

Chapter Text

There is no way Zenitsu will take kindly to what he is about to do, even if he's understanding. 

How can he explain to Sensei?

This time there is no way to cover the absence.

The mortifications continue to grow, so much that Kaigaku doesn't even hear when Zenitsu arrives at the apartment.

There are gestures in Kuwajima that speak of his character without opening his mouth.

He's attentive to the stove but with his mind distant from ideas with one hand under his chin and his elbow on the table.

Zenitsu touches him trying to get him to react which he manages earning a smile from Kaigaku.

—You arrived already?— he asks, obviously distracted. 

—Yes, I was thinking that dinner would be difficult for you. Here, this is something I got for you.— says the blond, leaving the bottle of medicine on the table.

—You're very kind.— Kaigaku whispers, reading the label on the container.

—I'm worried about you, I want to see you well again.— the youngest asks.

This are words that should go away like the wind but in Kaigaku's ears they hurt, it's like a small needle piercing his heart.

He will not be able to keep the secret, he must tell him the truth because Agatsuma has earned it, he's an honest and sweet boy who makes Kaigaku regret being a simple artifact in Muzan's hand.

—I'll be fine.— the black-haired boy promises with some embarrassment.

—I also bought peaches, they're fresh, I know you like them and I thought we could have that for breakfast tomorrow.—

The blond shows off a bag that he enthusiastically places in the refrigerator.

—Sounds good.— Kuwajima repeats again, getting up from the chair where he is.

—Are you OK? You look like a robot giving answers.— Zenitsu laughs

—Sorry, I can't get used to being alone for a long time, I missed you.— comments the black-haired boy.

Jigoro's favorite blushes with a wide smile.

—Really?—

—At first I thought you were annoying but I like having someone to talk or argue with.— Kaigaku agrees, looking at the stove.

—Did you have a good nap today?— Agatsuma asks.

At some point he's so innocent, Zenitsu has a healthy mentality on another level, believing that other people's lives can be peaceful or that problems don't come to your door to ask for you.

Should he tell the truth? Just now when this fragile relationship seems to find a reaching point.

—No, I... I don't usually sleep during the day.— Kaigaku answers.

Agatsuma thinks about it for a moment before complaining with a simple sound from his throat.

—I'll go take a shower.— the blond says, leaving him alone.

It's nothing elaborate but it's the best Kaigaku can do in this mood.

He takes out dinner, leaving it on the table.

When Kaigaku feels his own neck he realizes that he's not wearing the choker, did he come out like that? Without remembering that important detail?

Kuwajima is determined to go for the symbol that characterizes him and on the way to the room he must pass in front of the bathroom, the small open gap is enough to see Zenitsu sunken in the bathtub while the steam of hot water fills the bathroom.

He's a lovely boy who deserves someone who can be honest with him.

In a single breath he returns to the room where the necklace that keeps him tied to Muzan Sama rests on the nightstand.

Putting it on is like feeling a ribbon of fire around his neck but still Kaigaku smiles, owner of his words and slave of his thoughts.

So be it, if Kibutsuji wants to vent his anger against him the least he can try is to face the situation delicately.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

—Dinner turned out very well.— Jigoro praises while his protégé smiles palely playing with the fork.

—It's just roast chicken, what could be so impressive about that?— Kaigaku denies with a laugh.

—You still took the time and dedication.— the old man admires, pointing to each plate.

—Yes, you also made a salad, that's a lot for you.— Zenitsu murmurs jokingly.

—What a big mouth you have, brat.— growls the youngest of the Kuwajima.

—Actually, you washed the vegetables before cutting them.— the youngest insists with a mocking smile.

—What if I tell you that I didn't wash the ones on your plate?— the black-haired boy answers before taking a sip from his glass.

—You wouldn't dare, I'm your little brother.— Zenitsu denies, provoking him with a childish gesture.

—Come on, you two, you're not little anymore. You are young adults now, I understand that but everything must have a limit. You are brothers and you always will be.— Jigoro exclaims, making Kaigaku spill some water on himself.

Zenitsu has an idea why and he really hadn't thought about it until now.

The relationship they maintain outside of the grandfather's understanding is incorrect because in the eyes of the man who raised them, both have a family bond that goes beyond blood.

A problem to add to the list of impossible ones.

—If no one wants to eat more, I'll keep the leftovers in the refrigerator.— Kaigaku announces, leaving such a question aside.

—I'm satisfied, I'll go take a shower. You did a good job today, boy.— congratulates the oldest of the three, patting the black-haired boy's shoulder.

A few words would have been enough to fill Kaigaku's wounded ego but now they are only praise that ends in an invisible smile.

—You want me to help you wash the dishes?— Zenitsu offers, stacking the dishes.

—Sounds good to me.— the black-haired accepts, getting up from the table.

Jigoro leaves in search of a bathrobe while the boys gather in the middle of the kitchen.

—Is everything okay?— the blond asks in a whisper, taking the forks.

—Not really, I had to tell you before but...— the older of the two hesitates, hearing Jigoro hum to the bathroom.

—Come, let's go out and put the garbage bags in the container.— Zenitsu proposes.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The walk to the street dumpster is silent, Kaigaku is hiding something.

The look on his face says it, now he just needs to speak.

The boy with the choker leans against the wall sighing as he looks at the floor.

—So? Are you going to continue playing intrigue or are you going to tell me what's going on?— Zenitsu asks with little patience.

—I'll be gone... For three days this time.— Kaigaku responds immediately.

The questions are usually difficult to replicate but this time it's automatic, there's shame in Kuwajima's voice as he clenches his fingers behind his back.

—Three days? What am I supposed to say?— the blond denies vigorously.

—Nothing, I'll inform you so that later you don't start with "you didn't tell me"— Kuwajima comments without the courage to look him in the eyes.

—So what? You just leave and that's it? Without explanations or plans. Is it because of that man?—

There is anger in Zenitsu's always clear voice but he has reasons to be in this mood.

—I can't disobey, this is an order, I have to follow it.— Kaigaku whispers with no possible way out.

—I understand that this man is dangerous but is there really nothing that can be done? Let's call the police.— the blond asks, standing in front of the other.

—It's a great idea, and say what? Perhaps you want to report that I receive money from a man for favors of a dubious nature to which I agreed with my consent.— the blue-eyed ironically says against the wall

—You're not eighteen years old yet.— Zenitsu insists.

—Do you have an idea who this guy is? Muzan Kibutsuji is not the kind of person you can freely denounce, he owns half of the city, in case you didn't realize.—Kuwajima remembers with a worried expression.

—So you're asking me to look to the side? Don't do anything?— the youngest despairs

—Is there anything you can do? Will you talk to Muzan about friendship and love? People like him spit on such ideals, that's not the point... I'm afraid of him, of what he might do, to you or to Sensei. You're not going to get involved with this matter, I need you here, at home.— Kaigaku insists.

Zenitsu has a look that makes him feel the weight of his actions, those bright eyes show his silent anger.

—It's okay, Kaigaku. I'll stay here to calm your storms, while you play at being a doll.— the blond ends up saying, leaving for the apartment again.

If only he understood that Kaigaku is trying...

He made a deal with the devil and now hellish Eden is calling him.

Chapter Text

Kaigaku prefers to avoid the nightly fight by lying on the living room couch, barely clinging to a pillow.

The morning arrives silently, Sensei surely passed by, he put a jacket on top of his protected as a sign of interest.

It's Zenitsu's presence that interrupts the moment.

The blond has a peach in his hand and a serious face.

—Have you decided that running away from responsibility is better than facing the truth?— Agatsuma asks, sitting in the same chair.

Kaigaku straightens up not knowing how he should respond to that.

—Are you talking about going to bed to sleep?— the black-haired boy whispers.

Zenitsu nods, taking a bite of the peach.

—I thought you would be angry with me.— Kuwajima responds, joining both hands in his own lap.

—Are we a married couple now? Should I kick you out of the room every time you screw up?— Zenitsu doubts, still without any emotion.

—You may not believe me, I can't stand it when you look at me, not because it bothers me but because... your eyes make me feel like I've done something very wrong.— answers the older of the two.

—Some say that the eyes are the doors to the soul and that they express everything that we cannot speak, it seems to be true.— Agatsuma assures passing the fruit

—I'm sorry, I know I seem like a coward but if I don't obey that man... he will come for you.— Kaigaku resents, accepting the peach.

—When you leave?—

Even though indifference seems to have touched the blonde's character, his voice cannot lie, he's worried.

—Tomorrow night, you don't have to cover me.— Kaigaku assures, studying the perfect bite.

—I can't believe you're older than me, you act like a child.— Zenitsu denies.

—Are you going to vent your anger now?— asks the black-haired, barely spying on him from his side.

Zenitsu smiles as innocently as ever but this time he gets close enough to give Kaigaku chills.

—It's funny, it seems that others can enjoy you, your pleasures, but I'm always angry with you. A while ago I would have said that I hated you, now...— the blond mutters, taking Kuwajima's face to face his gaze —I'm sure I love you.— he says before placing his lips on top of Kaigaku's.

His mouth still has the fresh sweet taste of peach, he's bold to the point of grabbing the collar of Kaigaku's shirt with both hands.

Kuwajima can barely react, this kiss... he expected it a long time ago but not under these circumstances, yet... It's like a caress for his afflicted soul while guilty pleasure fills his mind.

If grandpa saw them there would obviously be a huge punishment for both of them but now there are only the two of them in the apartment and Kaigaku's head is overflowing with ideas.

Despite being a brat, he knows how to kiss very well, he's brave to ask permission with his tongue to explore every corner of Kaigaku's privacy.

—What do you think you're doing?— Kuwajima asks, trembling against the couch.

—Disrespecting you, Aniki.— Zenitsu smiles, attracting him with both hands until Kaigaku lies on top of him.

—Don't call me that, I don't want to be your brother anymore.— answers the boy with the choker between deep breaths.

—Then what are we going to do with grandpa?— the blond doubts, licking his lips.

—I don't know, he'll probably hit both of us with the cane.— Kuwajima laughs, looking directly into the eyes that have him chained.

That particular glow does wonders inside, Kaigaku laments for being caught up in stupid questions.

If only he were free...

—I don't care, really, if you ask me I could do anything for you.— the blond muses, caressing Kaigaku's pale face with both hands.

—You were never submissive to me, kind perhaps, but those things are why I like you. You never shut up and say what you think, crybaby.— the blue-eyed boy jokes with a drawn smile.

—If you were going to be impulsive, I had to be smart.— Agatsuma returns the mockery by adding a short kiss to the corner of his roommate's lips.

—Poor me, I fell in love with a meticulous brat.— Kuwajima gasps as if it were some kind of punishment.

—I've been doing well except for the part where I like you but I can't help it, you're too handsome to ignore.— Zenitsu whispers

—I really love you, you're the last good thing I have.— Kaigaku swears, straightening up again.

—Please don't say it that way, there are many good things in you, you just need someone to show it to you from time to time.—

Zenitsu is the calm in the torments and every caress that his hands give is like the cure for internal wounds.

—You'll be late for school.— the older of the two smiles.

—Then make it worth it.— the blond whispers, kissing Kuwajima's cheek.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Perhaps fate is playing with him, Kaigaku can barely think when his racing heart leaves him in a state of euphoria.

His cheeks are flushed even though all he can do is lie in bed, staring at the ceiling.

Months ago the fact of being able to touch Zenitsu's skin could have been confused with madness but now an unexpected feeling hit both of their lives in ways that were not possible in the mind of another person.

Sensei was going to kill him, Jigoro would consider this as betrayal to the point of disowning both of them.

That man would not understand, love is a feeling that is not chosen, on the contrary, it seeks the least expected path to reach each person's life and for Kaigaku it was unexpected to feel such a thing for his adoptive brother.

Agatsuma's kiss was still latent on his lips, a mark that from now on would follow him wherever he went.

Had that brat said that he loved him?

That's how it was.

A wide smile invades Kaigaku's face but the gesture does not last long when the doorbell rings without warning.

He was not expecting visitors, the bad feeling soon wins over the joy as the boy slowly appears at the door.

With a deep breath he opens the door suddenly to find a package on the mat.

It has no name or signature, only a fine paper that cannot be compared to that of letters.

This has to be the work of Muzan Sama, as usual overshadowing the happiness of others.

He takes it inside to open it in the room and when he does he loses his breath for a moment.

Not only because of the idea that Kibutsuji knows the address of the building but it's a significant amount of money.

Is that time of the month already?

This time the amount is higher although Kaigaku doesn't know why.

His cell phone rings within a minute while it's obvious who is behind the call.

—Did you receive the payment?— Muzan asks slowly.

Kaigaku has to think carefully about what he should say next, a rude word could mean a very high price to pay.

—It's too much for me, why you spend on someone who isn't worth it?— The boy hesitates, hiding an ironic voice behind the submissive personality he adopts at the club.

Muzan laughs slowly on the other end finding the boy's diplomacy comical.

—You said that our relationship didn't go beyond business, that you and I have two ways of seeing the world. Those were your words, or should I say drunken babbling?— the man murmurs, bringing up the memory of that night.

Kaigaku repents within himself thinking that it was stupid to say so many things but it's not his fault, at least not in falling into sincerity because of the Sake.

—I'm very sorry for being rude to you.— Kuwajima apologizes even though he knows it's useless.

—What do you think of my way of seeing the world? Don't worry, I don't care where you live, I just sent someone to give you the money.— Muzan promises with an annoying tone of voice.

—I can't accept so much, I don't...— stammers the teenager.

—You're not worth that much, I know, but as I assume Daki informed you, you're going to start mixing with the clients, you have to be useful, you don't want to disappoint me again, do you?— Kibutsuji assumes with a chilling aura.

Kaigaku still can't remember what he said or what he did to make Muzan Sama in this mood but the boy curses every hour the moment he decided to take a sip of the drink.

—I won't do it again.— Kuwajima says between murmurs.

—Good boy, bring your uniform, I would hate if you miss more time from school.— the man orders, cutting off the call.

What does Kibutsuji mean to make him feel uncomfortable?

Would he be too bold to ask?

Chapter Text

Zenitsu is a quiet boy but there are things he can't hide.

The expression of concern is something that always accompanies him, today it's evident to the naked eye.

There is too much at stake.

There is nothing his friends can do to calm him down.

He should be home spending his last day with Kaigaku but he's here at school, trying to find a way to remedy the complex situation.

Lunch seems like the ideal time to look for a solution, if only there was a way out of this nightmare.

Kaigaku is afraid of Muzan, Zenitsu can tell in the way he describes him as an untouchable man.

How you find the weak point in a villain like this?

Classes sound like a background noise when his mind is busy with plans that never come to fruition.

It's not until leaving school that Zenitsu witnesses the heated argument between Daki and her brother.

Daki works with Kaigaku doesn't she? So maybe the two of them are arguing about something related to...

The girl is aggressive by nature, now she seems upset about a question that Agatsuma can't hear on the way out.

Daki grumbles as a final warning before leaving first, leaving Gyoutaro in the hallway with his hands clenched.

—Damn!— growls the oldest of the siblings 

The situation may not concern him but Zenitsu needs to know if there is a way to leave the club.

—Your sister seems angry.— the blond mentions, staying for a moment next to the other.

—She is an idiot who believes that everything can be solved without effort.— Gyoutaro whispers, helpless in the face of reality.

—Aren't they both like that?— Zenitsu remembers.

—I guess, that's what it's about, right? That man turns them this way.— Gyoutaro understands that Daki allows herself to be fascinated by the things of the world but reaching a point of no return is something she should think twice about.

—I need to find a way to get my brother out of there. Do you know anyone who has left the club?— asks the golden-eyed.

—And why would I help you? Agatsuma, you think this is a game?— The older boy denies —If Muzan Kibutsuji put his interest in him, I doubt you can do anything about it.—

—Don't you love your sister? She's no different to me but Kaigaku is in a situation. If Daki was in danger you would also find a way to get her out of it, you know who can help, right? You've been thinking about it.— resolves the blond

—There are people who got out and others stayed for power, Daki is the kind of girl who wants power. If I could make her understand that man is not... I would but she won't hear me. I'll tell you who can give you a hand, still don't expect too much.— Gyoutaro warns

Zenitsu listens attentively to what seems like a promise of salvation although he doesn't know if he should trust Gyoutaro.

Every detail counts in this race against time.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Kaigaku can be impulsive sometimes but now packing the bag seems like an act of power on Muzan Sama's part.

He shouldn't look worried now when it's his last day at home, he tries to look good when he's making dinner.

Sensei has not arrived and the door open makes Zenitsu visible.

Kaigaku sighs putting the plates on the table.

—Was it a hard day?— the blond asks, closing the door behind him.

—No, housework seems like a piece of cake compared to other things I do.— Kaigaku assures

—Grandpa hasn't arrived yet?—

Kuwajima shakes his head at the question.

Zenitsu puts down his school bag before washing his hands.

Kaigaku seems so preoccupied with dinner that he doesn't take his eyes off.

—You did something more elaborate this time.— says the boy with yellow locks, hugging a shy Kaigaku who trembles as he feels his arms clinging around him.

—What do you think you're doing? If Sensei comes and sees this, he...— murmurs the black-haired boy listening to Agatsuma's slow laughter.

—Don't worry, it's not yet time for him to return and besides... I miss you.— Zenitsu assures with a warm smile on the other's back.

—Anyway, I have no idea how we could say this, every time I think about it the words become knots in my mind.— The blue-eyed boy denies, turning off the stove.

—If it were up to you, we would escape from home and that's it.— Agatsuma jokes, releasing him.

—It doesn't sound so bad when I imagine Sensei's reaction, I love you but I don't want to disappoint the man who raised me.—

Kuwajima sits at the table as Zenitsu takes a chair next to him.

—I was talking to Gyoutaro today— the blond begins —Daki looked upset although I couldn't figure out why, but he says there is someone who can help you.—

—How could you trust him? Zenitsu, you should be more distrustful.— warns the older of the two

—I don't have anyone who knows how to deal with this situation, I don't care if I have to trust a stranger, I'm going to get you out of there.—

When Zenitsu says it, it seems like a whimsical promise, the boy with the choker takes a deep breath trying to calm him down.

—Have you heard of someone called Tamayo?— the blond mentions from the chair.

—I heard that she is one of the few who were able to leave the club but she was not... She was just a doctor who treated some people inside the place.— Kuwajima remembers

—I'm going to look for her, I can't stay home knowing that anything can happen to you.— Zenitsu promises, taking Kaigaku's hand in his.

The door informs that Sensei has arrived.

—Let's leave that aside for now, I'll give you an answer later.— the black-haired boy whispers, getting up from the chair.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Dinner takes place in peace without Grandfather realizing what is really happening.

Kaigaku is the last to lie on the bed with disturbed thinking.

Zenitsu smiles, turning to cling to one of his arms.

—Will you go to school tomorrow?— asks the youngest

—I'm sorry, I'm not coming home.— Kaigaku warns, his voice covered in sadness.

—What happened to the last night? Weren't you going to...?— stammers the blond.

—New orders, I'm really sorry.— Kuwajima laments, sighing to the point of sounding tired.

—I'm going to look for Tamayo San, this has to end one way or another. This is your life but you spend your days at the club with that man, if you really love me we should be together and it doesn't sound like there is a place for me as long as you continue with this job.— the golden-eyed swears.

—I also think about how to do it but it seems that Muzan Sama is still angry.— remembers the boy with the choker.

—Then I have to rescue you.—

Agatsuma smiles as he says it in a loving way, getting a smile from Kaigaku.

—You are my prince? I would like to see you try it.— the black-haired denies, trying to close his eyes.

—There's not much I can do right now, Grandpa will be worried tomorrow.— Zenitsu surmises.

—Sometimes I wish everything were a nightmare, it would be so good if one morning I woke up and it wasn't this way anymore.—

There is regret in Kaigaku's soul, he has taken the wrong path but there is no other option except to face the present.

Chapter Text

Saying goodbye is too hard a task for Kaigaku, with just a greeting he says goodbye to Zenitsu when he leaves school.

He may seem cold but it's harder on him than he lets on.

The path to the club is the same although this time it seems twice as long.

According to orders, the first step is to go to Nakime's residence, which is within the same club.

It's a room similar to the others with the difference that here Nakime dedicates herself to sewing what Muzan Sama asks in addition to flattering the guests with the Biwa.

She is a mysterious woman and not many know about her.

Kaigaku heads there, certain that it's a whim rather than an order.

Nakime barely looks up when she hears the visitor arrive.

—Welcome.— She greets him, leaving the Biwa on the small table in front of her.

The boy nods in silent greeting before looking at the mannequin that carries the new detail that Muzan wants him to wear.

It's a scandalous blue haori with white triangles that will surely be uncomfortable to wear.

—It's been a while since you came here.— the woman remembers, getting up from the comfortable place.

—I didn't expect to return but it seems that situations brought me back.— Kaigaku laments, approaching

—My stitches are accurate and almost never come loose, obviously you wouldn't go back if it was the sewing. Muzan Sama looked angry the last time I saw him, what have you done now?— Nakime asks, taking the haori in her hands.

—I don't know yet but I guess he'll tell me when I meet him.— the teenager murmurs, feeling the woman's hands cling to his shoulders.

—You are young and mistakes should be allowed, keep in mind that you serve Muzan Sama, we don't have permission to make any.— Nakime warns, carefully placing the new article of clothing on him.

—Why this sudden change in look?— Kuwajima doubts, looking at the long sleeves.

—Daki and Enmu have been serving the other customers for a long time, you were the only one who was not exposed to visitors. Muzan Sama had you in a privileged place, you didn't know how to appreciate that.— laments the strange woman returning to take the instrument

Kaigaku is again reprimanded for words that he does not remember, his unconscious played a bad joke on him, it's time to pay the debts with Kibutsuji.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Getting to the boss's office is the same as walking to the gallows with the slight difference that his neck is not yet at stake.

Or maybe yes?

Only Kibutsuji is able to say it through his mouth.

Entering the place scares the boy in ways he cannot imagine.

Muzan loses himself in the eternal papers that steal part of his time with diligence.

The man looks up, letting his red eyes do the talking, he's upset.

Kaigaku however kneels in front of the table in silence, with the submissive gesture that characterizes him.

—Nakime has a good hand at doing anything you ask of her, this time is no different.— Muzan murmurs, leaving the papers aside.

Even so, the youngest doesn't say a word, he's waiting for the answer that has been tormenting him for days.

—You're obedient, I like that, you have everything it takes to succeed, Kaigaku. You are young, ambitious, attractive but you have a small defect that I personally dislike very much.— explains the man, standing up.

Kuwajima lowers his face until his eyes are lost on the wooden floor.

Muzan gets close enough to send shivers through the young man until he kneels in front of him, taking Kaigaku's face in his hands.

Kibutsuji has a strange way of striking terror into hearts.

—I despise feelings, especially love, how dare you tell me you're in love?— the pale man whispers, causing Kaigaku's insides to compress until it causes inevitable pain.

—Is that what I said?— Kuwajima asks directly, feeling the pressure of the fingers on his skin.

—And you had the nerve to tell me that ours is nothing more than an exchange of money, if I didn't find you fascinating I would have ripped out your throat.— Muzan swears, lowering his hand to his choker.

Kaigaku has no other reaction than to regret the fact with a worried gesture.

—If this thing we both have seems like nothing more than a business to you then we should start treating each other that way, you can go serve the rest of the diners. I'll call you if I need you, believe me, you're not going to like what I'm going to do from now on.—

The threat sounds like a promise of unlimited torture, but the worst part is imagining that it has involved Zenitsu in the middle of the storm.

Kibutsuji grabs the choker with force until it breaks, perhaps Kaigaku's skin now has a mark but the impression of knowing the scandalous reaction that night leaves him speechless.

It hurts, yet the boy doesn't complain when the boss throws the jewel to the side.

—You can go, look for Enmu or Daki so they can give you a little help.— Kibutsuji proposes.

Kaigaku takes a few seconds to react, bowing again to the great tyrant of the club in silence before getting up and leaving without reproach.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The diners are those who have fun in the various rooms that the club has, members and friends of Muzan who mean something in his monetary world.

There are places where people drink, chat or simply do business under the mantle of a picturesque place where modern meets classic Japanese style.

Daki dances in an area where there is more activity, Enmu serves drinks in addition to attending to the needs of customers.

Kaigaku can't shake the idea that Zenitsu's name has been mentioned, if so he wouldn't forgive himself.

Even though the drunks tell the truth, Zenitsu is the owner of every reproach, every sincere smile and every heartbeat of the boy with the choker.

That thing... The blue-eyed boy caresses his neck, sure that he has a red mark visible to anyone's eye.

He is halfway there, the pain of the mark the choker has left on him is unmatched when he thinks that his crybaby may be in danger because of his unconscious act.

Damn Sake...

A hand rests on his back.

—Did you receive the reproach of your life?— Enmu asks, amused as usual.

—Does it matter? There's nothing wrong with changing routine, I was tired of being a toy for him.— says the boy, talking about Kibutsuji

—I guess it's different for everyone, Daki would rather die than stop being the spoiled one, but you're not her. You may be a bit of a coward for wanting to run away from a situation that cornered you, or you have separate reasons?— doubts the boy with bicolor locks.

—It's none of your business.— Kuwajima said, removing the hand from his shoulder.

At least Muzan Sama has had the decency to keep it private, or is this a valid excuse to blackmail him?

—Welcome to the zone of the punished, with time you get used to it... It's different from serving Muzan Sama. You'll have to do the same but with people you don't know, people you probably don't like.—Enmu threatens, walking ahead.

So the punishment also forces him to do... things with others?

—Have you been sleeping with the club members?— Kaigaku asks when he sees him come forward.

—Imagine this is a big red house, we are the guests' entertainment.— Enmu reveals with a slight change in his eternal smile.

Muzan has touched a weak point in Kaigaku, being in love means that his love belongs to only one person, but isn't giving the body to strangers a kind of betrayal?

Kibutsuji is vengeful, he takes revenge in a subtle way.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu has an address written down on his cell phone, it's a street that Gyoutaro remembers by heart.

The house is a residence somewhat far from the apartment but Zenitsu must make the effort on Kaigaku's behalf.

There must be a way for this dream of terror to end.

The doorbell rings alerting the owner of the house that visitors are waiting on the other side.

The woman who opens the door has a face that calms the pain that the boy carries inside at least for a few seconds.

—Tamayo San?— asks the unexpected visitor

—Yes?— She affirms and replies again.

—Gyoutaro gave me the address.— he reminds her.

Tamayo understands what he is talking about in the second, frowning.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

She is a gentle woman who has given him way into her home.

Zenitsu waits with an agitated pulse for her to return from the kitchen.

He explained the situation and still Tamayo nodded to leave him alone for a moment.

—I thought that at some point Gyoutaro would come looking for me, I had no idea that there was someone else grieving for his brother.— The woman warns, leaving a cup of tea on the coffee table.

—What that man does is despicable, I know my brother is to blame for accepting the money but... I'm sure Kaigaku didn't think about going that far.— Agatsuma mutters, embarrassed for assuming the truth.

—Muzan knows how to manipulate his victims, he's a monster, you know? It's not easy to get out of his presence, it was very difficult for me to get rid of him.— recalls the older of the two while she wears a loose lock of hair behind her ear.

—He is a monster, without a doubt— says Zenitsu with hidden disgust —In any case, what he does in that club is illegal.—

Tamayo however smiles with a sour expression.

—Muzan doesn't care about pleasures, it's not that he cares what others think of him. He is untouchable in ways you wouldn't understand, I know him well.— the woman admits

—I'm sorry to be the one who asked you, Tamayo San. I need to get my brother out of there, Kibutsuji is going to end up killing him... Of all the endings, that is the worst. I can't do it alone, Kaigaku is very afraid of him.— says the blond from the armchair where he is sitting.

—There are plenty of reasons, being afraid of him is the basic thing. Now, you ask me to mediate for him, it's a movement that requires precision. I can help you but it has to be at the right time, imagine I'm a wild card, you can't waste a card for nothing. Tell me, why should I take him out? We don't know each other, we don't have ties that unite us, at least give me a reason why I might be willing to help.—Tamayo asks, crossing her legs in the individual chair.

Zenitsu blushes knowing that he must tell the truth, this lady is not the kind of person who can be deceived or convinced with half lies.

If the situation becomes compromising then he has no choice except to be discovered or at least he must make it clear what Kaigaku means to him.

The ironic thing is that she is a stranger, the first to hear from his mouth that he loves Kaigaku will be a stranger but... This goes beyond pride or shame, this is for the safety of that blue-eyed fool.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

So this is the long-awaited night inside the club.

People who come and go in search of strong emotions or covered businesses.

Kaigaku is, for now, a simple waiter who brings drinks to the different tables.

Perhaps the time is not right to begin to demonstrate one's true nature.

There are people who look at him out of the corner of their eye, studying every step he takes.

Kaigaku sighs settling against an outside wall where he tries to catch his breath.

He's supposed to be home now, with Zenitsu.

He should be resting in his arms.

He could barely feel a kiss from his mouth before he fell back into torment.

Enmu laughs meeting him on the way.

—Are you afraid? Wait until the clients get drunk.— Enmu warns as he enters the room.

—It's not that, you think that if I were afraid I would be here?— Kuwajima denies.

—I want to see how loose you are, if you get tired you can go see Daki, I wonder if you know how to dance?— the other jokes, leaving the vest he's wearing until he's left with an interesting white shirt adorned with suspenders.

The room is full of people who recognize Enmu between greetings.

It seems simple but Kaigaku is sure that half of the clientele has ended up in Enmu's charms or knows him very well.

Men and women seem to enjoy the beauty, the exoticness of the club that welcomes all kinds of people.

It's awkward, he doesn't even have the courage to take his cell phone.

Involving Zenitsu means certain regret.

He must protect him, no matter what.

One of the many guests raises his hand asking for the club's specialty, a bottle of Sake.

Kaigaku is as fast as he can bring the drink to the table under the guise of a quiet waiter.

He still hasn't lived the full experience of being out here with the rest of the partners, according to what little he heard from Enmu there are no rules here.

The only one who seems to be saved from the punishments is Daki, eternally favored by that unmatched beauty.

There are others chatting at the table but one of them notices the small wound on his neck.

The man sighs, knowing Muzan's cruelty by heart.

So this is the new boy.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The night progresses among bottles that end up piling up on the tables.

Some empty, others still occupied.

Kaigaku at least had a quiet night, he hasn't caught anyone's attention in particular.

Although many observed him no one has said anything about his appearance or physical.

Maybe the stupid haori has something to do with it, the sleeves are ridiculously long and the pattern is so boring.

Who could be attracted to someone wearing that thing?

Enmu maintains a smile even when chatting with returning clientele.

When is he supposed to leave?

Kibutsuji has told him that he should go to school too, but the club entertainment can sometimes extend into the early hours of the morning.

Enmu looks at him raising a hand to indicate that his schedule is over.

Finally.

There is nothing more that Kaigaku wanted than to see Zenitsu but the situation will keep them apart for a few days.

Kuwajima wonders if he will be able to convince Sensei.

Taking off his haori, Kaigaku heads to the favorites' area but a shadow stands in his way.

Is a man he has never seen before, yet he prostrates himself against one of the walls of the place calmly.

The man looks back at him, showing an emotionless face.

Kaigaku pretends that he hasn't seen him passing in front of.

—You are the punished boy, Kaigaku?— He asks, making the owner of the name stop.

—Do I know you?— the youngest doubts, turning around.

—Maybe not, our jobs are different so we never crossed paths until now. I know that Muzan Sama is upset with you, the package that arrived at your house... I was the one who put it there.— reveals the mysterious guy

Kuwajima once again clenches his fists, haunted by the idea that something bad could happen to Zenitsu and Sensei.

—Muzan sends you to threaten me?— Kaigaku assumes in a question.

—Muzan Sama doesn't even care about your home address, he ordered me to look for it and deliver the package but he didn't try to find out where you live. Your neck is bleeding.— the stranger points out.

—What do you want with me?—

The stranger does not respond, he steps ahead of him, taking the lead.

—I'm Kokushibo, come, let me help you with that wound.— the man proposes, getting lost in one of the wings of the club.

Chapter Text

Kokushibo takes him to a part where Kaigaku has never been.

It's the wing where people who work for Muzan stay, away from the rest of the hustle and bustle of the people.

—Do you know who I am?— asks the man taking out a gauze from the drawer he has in the room

—If your name is Kokushibo then you are one of Kibutsuji's executors. You are the one who does the dirty work for him.— answers the teenager on the bed

—Then you know who you are dealing with, I don't need to be formal with you. I heard that Muzan Sama was upset with one of his lovers but I had no idea it was you until he ordered me to take the package to your apartment.— says the stranger soaking a little iodine in the gauze

—So? You still haven't explained to me what the reason is for talking to me.— asks Kuwajima to know

Kokushibo cleans the neck wound but not before hearing a complaint.

—I do this because I think you're in the wrong place, how old are you?— the eldest asks

—Seventeen, go ahead and say it's wrong. — Kuwajima ironically says 

—You may have your reasons but Muzan Kibutsuji is not the kind of person you can deceive or treat like someone else in your environment. What have you done to make him angry?—

—You have many questions, I don't know, I think that man hates love or something like that. I was stupid enough to say something in front of him, he's punishing me now but I guess you already knew, you're one of Kibutsuji's many trusted men. Surely you know everything that happens inside this place.— the boy informs while his wound burns

—I know what Muzan Sama deigns to say, in matters of love let's say that he is not graceful. He has dedicated himself to covering up the absence of a woman with different people but he doesn't know how to love, maybe that's why he lost her in the first place— Kokushibo whispers removing the gauze —Don't tell him I know, he would kill us both.—

—Why you want to help me?—

Kaigaku doesn't understand what's happening or why the sudden presence of a stranger.

—It's not because of you, there's a person I care about, I promised I would do the right thing. The best thing seems to be to try to relieve you and the rest of those who live here. I know Daki, I know the people who work here... as I also knew those who are no longer here.— the stranger murmurs

—Unless you have a solution for all my problems I have no idea how you could solve reality.— Kuwajima laments

—Write down my number, at some point you might need it.— Kokushibo offers

Strange things happen in the club, receiving comfort from a guy who is dedicated to fulfilling Muzan Kibutsuji's stained orders is one of those things.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Going to school with few hours of sleep seems like idiocy.

Obviously, with tiredness and stress, the grades will fall to the ground but even so, the boss insists that he must go.

The only good thing that can happen to him is to see Zenitsu at lunch time but not in the dining room where there are too many eyes but in the bathroom.

Zenitsu is the first to rush at him in a hug that shows all his concern.

—Calm down, I'm fine, see?— Kaigaku tries to calm him down with a half-lip smile

—You really think you can lie to me? I know you're having a bad time in that damn place, just look at you. You're exhausted.— Agatsuma quickly says, caressing the pale face

—The only thing I regret is being away from you, I can bear anything except your absence.— the black-haired boy assures

—Where's your choker?— Zenitsu asks, noticing the absence of the necklace, Kaigaku doesn't answer —It was that man, wasn't it?—

—I made him angry, he even has people who know where we live, I don't want to risk you or Sensei anymore. If I want to do something right I must obey, it hasn't been that bad.— the boy denies

—I found someone who can help us but she says that we should wait for the right moment although I don't know when it will be.— the blond informs with a small spark of hope

—Just promise me that you won't get involved in dangerous matters, I need you safe.— Kuwajima asks, returning the hug.

—Grandpa is worried about you, I try to calm him down but deep down he also knows that something bad can happen to you, I'm distressed.— Zenitsu whispers against Kaigaku's chest.

—Sorry, you shouldn't feel that way.— the blue-eyed laments.

—Stop apologizing, maybe half of it's your ambition's fault but not all of it is because of you. I love you, it's not fair that I have to share you with that guy, I'm jealous too.— Agatsuma complains again, raising his face slightly.

—Is that so? I never thought I'd see you in this state, it's useless for you to feel jealous because I only belong to you, even if I've sold my will my love is for you, I'm sorry I didn't realize it before all this happened.— Kaigaku murmurs with a slight smile

—Are you okay?— the golden-eyed boy asks again

—As long as I have you by my side I'll be fine.— Kuwajima promises.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The wait for the car doesn't seem so cruel when Zenitsu stands next to him while the sun sets in the cement sunset.

There are certain points that Kaigaku hasn't told him, the money, the matter of having to be exposed to any stranger, the truth about the night that ruined his relationship with Kibutsuji and the apparent help from Kokushibo.

There's no time now, Zenitsu has a lot on his mind, he's even looked for help but Kuwajima doubts it will be useful.

Still, it serves to calm Agatsuma's desperate heart, there is peace when he talks about this Tamayo San.

—Aren't you going to call me?— the blond asks with a little boy's expression

—I want to keep you safe, it's already too dangerous for us to be seen together. I guess no one at school imagines that we like each other because we're... well, brothers?— the older boy says with a certain morbidness

—It's better that we keep the profile, even when...— Zenitsu whispers, crossing his arms

—What? What's wrong?—

The blond seems a bit shy to admit whatever is going through his mind.

Even he is blushing.

—I want you... just for me, you understand?— Zenitsu says, shrugging his shoulders.

The words he uses are a bit modest for what he really wants to say, but knowing him well, Kaigaku can tell that...

—Oh... You want...?— Kuwajima smiles, trying not to appear euphoric at the blond's sudden curiosity.

—I know I sound like a selfish, I've been thinking about it for a while. You must be sick of having a bunch of perverts around you, I know, but I want to have you just for me. I want to make love to you.— Zenitsu tenses up as he says it to the point of having both cheeks red from embarrassment.

—You love me to that extent? You don't care that I've been sleeping with other people?— Kuwajima doubts with some guilt in his voice

—I don't really care, the only thing I need to know is if you love me the same way.— the blond denies between murmurs

—Of course I want you, I thought that was clear between us.— Kaigaku answers looking at the school exit carefully

—You didn't tell me directly but I had to see the signs.— the blond remembers against the wall

—It would have been too sick of me to say "I want to fuck you" in front of Sensei's face, don't you think?— the blue-eyed boy laughs

—Anyway, it's not the time to think about that when you're having a bad time in the stupid club. The important thing is your safety.— the younger one complains

—You're right, but now I can't stop imagining that all this time you've been dreaming about me, babe.— Kaigaku has been learning a couple of tricks since he entered the castle of pleasures so he adds a little flirtation in the last part of the sentence

—Are you really going to play with me now? Ugh, I'm leaving.— Zenitsu threatens with a slight sigh

—Why? You get excited?— Kuwajima asks with a mocking smile

—See you tomorrow.— Agatsuma says goodbye leaving through the parking lot to the street

Kaigaku's pulse accelerates while the expression is impossible to erase on his face.

Zenitsu has somehow managed to give him one more reason to continue with this heavy act.

Chapter Text

Kaigaku can barely stand up at night.

It's been a day but the tiredness is noticeable.

Sometimes he wonders how Daki and Enmu can stay awake for so long but there he is.

With his eyes straining to stay alert.

The customers have been carefree for now, Kaigaku may be handsome but to some he's just a boy.

Kokushibo allows himself to be among the customers as well.

As part of the club everyone is supposed to have the right to have a little fun even if the doubt of whether Muzan Sama has sent him to follow him seems the most reasonable thing to think.

Kaigaku continues to bring drinks while returning the empty glasses to the bar.

It could be a night like any other but luck is like a coin flip.

Muzan Sama has called him.

There's no point in needing to see him but the boy doesn't dare to challenge him.

Kokushibo follows behind.

He catches up with him in the hallway leading to the boss's office.

—What are you going to say?— the mysterious man asks, leaning against the wall.

—Is there anything I can say? I'm just going to wait for the devil to open his mouth.— Kaigaku murmurs, stopping for a second.

—Be careful, don't do anything stupid... Again. You already know my room, I'll wait for you there.—

It sounds like a kind invitation but Kuwajima thinks it's a terrible idea.

The walk to the office is a silent path where the boy's steps echo on the wooden floor.

The king of pleasures writes a letter in his own handwriting with patience, the fresh ink has a strange aroma that Kaigaku finds nauseating.

Old-fashioned for the era but Kibutsuji has this mania of staying in time.

The young man kneels to bow to him in total silence.

—Tomorrow I have a meeting with some club members, you're going to serve the drinks.— Muzan orders with the same coldness as every day

Kaigaku bows again to get up from the floor.

That's when Kibutsuji gives a long sigh.

—Is Kokushibo good as a lover as he is with the tasks I give him?— asks the club owner

—I don't know.— answers the boy leaving the office

The invitation to the room is pending.

Kaigaku heads there when the eternal party in the salons ends.

Kokushibo has the door open, he seems attentive when the boy enters without words until he throws himself next to him on the bed

—You don't lock the door?— asks Kuwajima

—No, there's no way to be safe in here. Why would I?— answers the executor without spirit

—He suspects you.— assures the teenager from the pillow

Kokushibo, however, smiles.

—That's not true. He thinks you're using me as a distraction, that you want to cover up your "secret" with me.— the man corrects using a strong accent on the word

—How could you know what Muzan thinks?— the younger suspects

—After years working with him it seems easy to see what his eyes say. He may be quiet but his emotions betray him.— Kokushibo swears revealing a secret

—You have no ties to me, why you help me?— Kaigaku questions dealing with the weight of his eyelids

—You remind me of me, you would do anything to survive. Beyond coincidences I had already told you that I made a promise to someone.— he limits himself to remembering

—A promise, can you keep it?—

For the boy it's a waste of time to consider the desire of others but Kokushibo seems infatuated with what resembles a dream.

—Does it matter? You have much bigger problems than mine, shouldn't you be trying to solve your last days of mercy?— the eldest of the two says 

—I'm not going to beg the wrong person.— Kuwajima ends up meditating

There is only one person to whom he would have to apologize and it's Zenitsu.

His heart only beats under his caresses, his lips are masters of every tremor in Kaigaku's body.

No one in this world can compare to him, not even Muzan with his reign of terror.

There is mercy in his words, comfort in his actions.

Zenitsu may be shocked to know what Kaigaku does in this club but not in a hypocritical way, he is truly worried.

He does not blame him even when Kaigaku has sold his will.

He is kind to the point of loving him even when Kuwajima is in the fifth hell.

Somehow the black-haired boy punishes himself believing that he deserves it, he can't purge his sins and neither can he give Zenitsu what he needs, however Agatsuma has shown himself sensitive to the situation.

There is no other human around Kaigaku who has given him what Zenitsu gave him.

A reason to keep living.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Back to school seems the same, Daki knows that Kaigaku is really tired when they travel in the car.

During the class break he prefers to stay on top of the desk, sleeping what he hasn't been able to last night.

Zenitsu knows he's exhausted.

He approaches silently placing a chair next to him before caressing Kuwajima's hair.

Kaigaku opens his eyes, with a yawn.

—I'm sorry, I didn't want to make you worry but... I'm a little sleepy.— the black-haired boy whispers, still with his head on the desk.

—You don't have to explain anything, I know what you're going through even when you don't tell me.— Agatsuma answers repeating the caresses.

—I'm fine, it's just been nights of work as a waiter, it's just that I'm not used to waking up again after a few hours— Kaigaku admits, getting up slowly —How is Sensei?—

—How you think he could be? Of course he's worried about you.— Zenitsu answers between sighs

—Thank you for covering me, I can't fix my mistakes and I'm not asking you to go beyond your limits either, take good care of Sensei for me.—

It's a kind of plea but Zenitsu gets the shivers when he hears it, it's like... it's a farewell.

—Please don't talk like that, when you get back home you can fix things with him.— corrects the blond with a serious expression

—I hope so, I thought things would get worse for me, I'm very lucky.— Kuwajima supposes

—When you think it's a good time we can call Tamayo San.— Zenitsu suggests

—Nothing serious has happened yet. Relax, the only thing that bothers me is the drowsiness.— Kaigaku complains

—Lie on my shoulder, rest while you have time.— Agatsuma asks offering his shoulder

It's a touching scene that Daki witnesses from the small opening of the door. >•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

It's time to head back to the club but the school parking lot looks a bit busy today.

Kaigaku prefers to walk one street ahead waiting for the car.

Daki also follows him, catching up to him at the same corner where Kuwajima stays.

—Are you in a hurry?— the girl asks.

—There are too many brats in the parking lot, don't you think? I'm looking for some privacy.— Kaigaku answers, sitting against the wall

—You must be anxious, today is the last day of your punishment, you're in a hurry to get to the club.— Daki tries to guess the boy's intentions, observing the street

—You don't know how much I want to go home and stay there instead of going to the club.— he gasps, believing that he has had a sudden attack of sincerity

—You're an idiot, you could have gotten more benefits from Muzan Sama, as long as you keep him satisfied, he'll give you whatever you want.— the white-haired girl complains, leaving her school bag on the floor

—I got into this because I needed the money, I didn't think the situation would get out of hand. I don't like the way he treats me anymore.— Kuwajima clarifies

—Is it because of your family?— the girl asks

Kaigaku doesn't answer but watches her attentively.

Daki sighs, opening the first button of the white shirt she's wearing. 

—Yes, I saw you and your brother today, Gyoutaro told me that your brother wanted to know if there was a way to get you out of the club, of course that my crybaby brother told him how but...— Daki stops, lowering his head for a moment —Don't call that woman. I never liked you, the idea of ​​competing with you bothers me, I don't want you to take my place but seeing Muzan Sama so obsessed with the idea that he could beat you sometimes makes me think that I don't have a chance.—

Daki's cheeks blush while her attractive mouth turns to one side showing her discontent.

—You're crazy, you're so pretty that it's impossible to compare with you. I don't understand how it affects you but I don't want your place.— Kaigaku whispers

—I know... Or I know now, if you want to leave, good for you, I like what I do, I like Muzan Sama. If I can somehow help you get kicked out of the club, tell me.— she asks.

—It's something only I can do, be careful with that man.— the boy advises.

The afternoon passes in silence, there is not much to say between the two but understanding the bond they share, each has given their own version of the truth.

Chapter Text

Kaigaku has put on his haori with the care that should be taken.

Looking at himself in the mirror brings him a discomfort that he does not know how to recognize, he's a handsome boy but this sudden beauty is what dragged him here.

It's this face the one to blame for people feeling a violent passion.

Even when Zenitsu denies it, the attraction between them is impossible to deny, Muzan Sama's unbridled obsession to subdue him under his voracious thirst.

Kaigaku leaves his belongings in the locker before sighing with the feeling that he is about to enter a room full of people who share the same thought as Kibutsuji.

Enmu's laughter gives him chills but it's not a reason for anger.

—You look like a scared rabbit, you are afraid of Muzan Sama's dogs, of what they can do to you.— the other boy supposes between slow laughs

—I try to end it as soon as I can, I do not want to prolong my stay here. I'm not interested in your position or taking the boss's attention away from you, I clarify this because Daki got "sentimental" today— Kaigaku comments dealing with the sleeves of the kimono

—She's pretty but she's empty-headed, if it makes you feel better I never thought you were competition and you're not worth anything as a friend either but... I like the way you treat me— says Enmu winking, making himself understood —The idiot Daki will surely try to boycott your place but I'm simpler, I would die for Muzan Sama, I have no other reason that keeps me alive. If you need help to get out you have to tell me how, I don't read minds, yet.—

—You trust this Kokushibo guy?— asks Kuwajima putting the key to his locker in his pocket

—Muzan Sama's executor? He's attractive as hell, very mysterious but he's not the kind of person who opens up with a few kisses. He is loyal to Muzan Sama, if he is your way out, don't get your hopes up too much.— the one with the two-colored locks denies.

—What do you know about a woman named Tamayo?—

The question remains in the air while a silent grimace of discomfort appears on Enmu's face.

—That woman is a special case, don't mention her in front of Muzan Sama, not if you want to get out of that room completely tonight.— the other advises against one of the lockers.

—Have you ever been to a meeting like that?—

Kaigaku's nerves can be seen with the naked eye, he is shaking.

—Imagine that you are a rabbit that enters the meeting of a pack, those dogs can tear you apart. They can take you to the ground as part of the show, if you let them you could feel their teeth digging into your pretty skin as warm drops of blood fall to the floor.— threatens Enmu with a cynical smile

—It seems I'm not the only one who needs help.— Kuwajima sighs ready to leave

—You'll do well, it all depends on how close you are to Muzan Sama and your attitude. Don't be shy or the dogs will follow you to the burrow.— advises the pale young man.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The room where the meeting has been arranged is a curious room where there are plenty of ancient art illustrations, the table remains majestic even when it's almost touching the floor.

As if it were an informal meeting, the table has only small glasses.

There is not a single day where Muzan does not play at being some kind of noble from the last century.

The young man breathes deeply trying to find calm in the middle of this confusing situation.

The first to arrive is Muzan Sama, sitting at the head of the table, making his position clear.

Kaigaku waits for orders standing with his face to the floor, even Kibutsuji's carefree gaze causes a sense of senseless distress.

—You will serve the drinks today, consider them friends of the house.— Muzan orders, nodding one of his arms.

Kaigaku nods silently without letting his voice be heard.

—Bring the bottle.— the man orders, distracted by the pictures hanging on the wall.

Simple as taking the bottle in his hands and pouring a small amount.

Once again, Muzan's gaze causes fear in Kuwajima, he has made the mistake of observing him but finds his boss's pupils returning the gesture.

—Blue eyes, I had forgotten the color.— whispers the eldest of the two

Kaigaku leaves the bottle aside, showing himself obedient.

—You are an idiot, I could have treated you more gently, I could have been the solution to your problems but you prefer to run after an illusion. Love is the father of chaos, imperfection in a form, believe me.— Muzan speaks with bitterness in his voice

Kuwajima remains silent, nothing could make him talk because it's a matter that compromises Zenitsu, before mentioning it he would prefer to suffer any punishment.

The only thing Kaigaku can wait for is the boss's boredom, the moment when he will be nothing more than a momentary distraction.

Is this how some were able to leave?

The guests arrive slowly amid laughter, greetings, names that are heard in the air without meaning.

Maybe all this is for fun, the guests ignore the boy as if he really did not exist or was invisible.

This isn't a punishment, there's something that doesn't make sense.

The night passes quietly between chatter, glasses clinking, Sake spilling on the nice floor mat.

Kuwajima's only function is to listen to the tangle of cross conversations, wait for a glass dancing in the air, asking for more Sake.

It seems like a common job that anyone could do but Kibutsuji's presence is an eternal constant to keep feeling chills.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Finally the three days are over.

Kaigaku can go home in the early morning, under the cover of night.

Muzan calls Kokushibo for trivial things that shouldn't matter.

Kokushibo however presents himself with the seriousness that his own character imposes.

—That brat has been flirting with you, right? Michikatsu.— asks Kibutsuji still prostrated at the meeting table

Michikatsu is the name he has left behind, that Muzan uses it means that the matter bothers him.

—No, despite being young he is not the kind of boy who seduces every person who crosses his path.— answers the executor giving his point of view

—Then? You talk to my favorites for no reason at all?— the owner of the place hesitates again

—I feel sorry for him, he reminds me a little of myself.—

Sincerity is not enough for Kibutsuji but Kokushibo has no reason to lie at this point in their relationship as boss and employee.

He has done many terrible things for Muzan, he would not lie for a simple boy.

—Of course, the whole matter of your family and that annoying brother of yours.— mutters Muzan wearily remembering Yoriichi

Kokushibo returns to the original idea that nothing matters anymore except being useful in some way.

—He's just a boy, if he said something that made you angry... Why don't you just discard him?— Michikatsu asks, maintaining his posture.

—It sounds boring, when something goes wrong or I can't manipulate a person, it's the fastest way, although... It's ordinary.— Kibutsuji answers, still holding a glass in his hand.

—I'll do what you order, Muzan Sama. — Kokushibo ends by saying.

—Keep a close eye on him, I want to know what the cause of this scandal is, I want to know if the person he loves is enough to compare to me.— Kibutsuji asks, taking another sip of the drink.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu can breathe easy when he wakes up and sees the image of Kaigaku in bed.

He sleeps calmly, the sun hits his face but he doesn't react.

It's the weekend.

Cooking for everyone seems like some kind of epiphany, Zenitsu can safely place three plates on the table.

Grandpa gets up sure that things can change today.

Kaigaku has been away for a long time, now that he's home peace can return to Jigoro.

Zenitsu is in charge of waking him up by lifting that semi-fringe that covers Kaigaku's face.

There are no marks on his body, that's the best part.

Maybe he got away free of punishment?

Zenitsu saves his questions for later.

For now he limits himself to caressing his face, looking for a way to make him react.

Kaigaku smiles when he feels that warm hand on his cheek.

He's finally home.

—Enjoying the view?— the blue-eyed boy jokes, still on the pillow.

—We're not alone, behave yourself.— Agatsuma whispers with a knowing smile.

Zenitsu returns to the kitchen serving breakfast.

Grandpa heads to the table as well when the image of Kaigaku appears before him.

—Oh, Kaigaku. How...? — Jigoro tries to say but the words are interrupted by an unexpected gesture from the eldest of the children.

The boy hugs him like he has never done before, from the moment Kaigaku entered his life he showed himself disinterested, apathetic. It's a confusing surprise to feel the sincere strength he puts into that display of love.

—It's not enough... I'm sorry, Sensei. I'm so sorry to make you suffer like this, I can't promise you anything yet but I want to change.— the black-haired murmurs, fighting with guilt

—My boy... How could I have picked you up from the street without knowing that you were going to make mistakes?— the old man answers, placing a hand on Kaigaku's back

Zenitsu sighs, thinking that this situation should be the right one, the peaceful daily coexistence of every family, but there are still things in between, things that could compromise the happiness of home.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Grandpa has agreed to have lunch with some friends, something strange for him since most of the time he spends fixing up the Dojo, trying to teach his movements to those who take his classes.

The new instructor may have something to do with it.

Kaigaku has returned to bed, enjoying the sun on his skin, only distracted by Zenitsu's tireless shadow.

—Kaigaku, it's okay for you to rest, but help me a little. I'm tired too.— Zenitsu complains with a childish gesture from the door

—Then come here, leave all the housework, stay with me.— the black-haired offers with a daring smile

—It's easy for you to say, I still have to think about what to cook for lunch, clean the windows, sweep the place completely.— the blond sighs, tired of so much cleaning work

—Don't you have five minutes for your Aniki?— the older of the two plays at saying

—We said we wouldn't use those titles anymore, it's not right.— Agatsuma murmurs approaching to lie down next to Kaigaku

—I thought you liked it, now if it bothers you I'll call you something else, like... Honey?— Kuwajima asks biting his lower lip

—Good luck using those nicknames around grandpa. It was very touching what you did today.— Zenitsu remembers

—I don't want to be the same person forever, Sensei has done nothing but take care of us, I love you but I don't know how I will tell him that I like you, that I fell in love with you.— laments the blue-eyed boy

—I feel guilty, seeing that grandpa is happy I would even like to forget that we...— the youngest doubts

—You can do it? You can look me in the face to tell me that you don't feel the same as me?— Kuwajima questions but Zenitsu silently denies

—What happened? You came back unharmed, if that man is dangerous why he didn't do anything to you?— Agatsuma inquires

—I don't know, I still don't understand what happened. He released me without much pretext, it scares me to see him silent, even more than if he were angry.— the boy assures

—Should we talk to Tamayo San?— Zenitsu doubts

—The presence of this woman is strange, everyone in the club knows her except me, it's a kind of taboo. No one has told me why yet.— Kaigaku remembers looking up

—She is a kind person, why would someone like her be known among this kind of people?— Agatsuma stammers confused by the reasons

—I have some suspicions, for now I'll keep my theories to myself, until I meet her I can't decide whether to trust her or not.— Kuwajima concludes

—I'll call her, we could go see her tomorrow.— the blond offers

—I'm paranoid, I don't trust almost anyone anymore.— Kuwajima growls, shaking his own hair

—Relax, you can trust me and grandpa.— the golden-eyed swears

—I've done bad things before and after meeting you, I'm ashamed, I know you deserve better but I can't help it, forgive me too for leaving you alone or making you feel sad.— the older one apologizes

—It's a matter of two, I can't help loving you. When you feel better get up, take a shower, I'll help you catch up on your school subjects.— Agatsuma promises, getting out of bed

—You want to order pizza? Take a break from cooking for a day, I'll pay.— Kaigaku proposes trying to look carefree

—That's junk food.— Zenitsu sighs

—Oh please, you used to love pizza.—

Kaigaku brings back old memories at once.

—We were kids and it's time for you to cook your own food, you depend completely on me.— the blond insists

—Well, we could stay on an empty stomach or I could eat you.— Kaigaku whispers in an impatient tone

—I'll call the delivery man.— Agatsuma exclaims, addressing the house phone.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

After a light lunch, Kaigaku heads to the trash container to throw away the day's bag.

It's strange to see the neighbor approaching from across the street.

—Is your brother okay?— Uzui asks without much patience

—Ah, Uzui. You don't get tired of chasing Zenitsu around?— the boy asks, weary

—He told me what's been going on at home, I know Zenitsu is mortified by you, these days he looks tired and distracted. — Tengen reproaches crossing his arms

—That's true but... — Kuwajima tries to say

—Look, I'm clear that Zenitsu doesn't feel the same but I love him, I'll take care of him whenever I can. The only suspicious person here is you, in case you haven't noticed a strange guy was on the corner of the street this morning, lurking.— Uzui speaks through clenched teeth trying not to attract attention

—A strange guy?— Kaigaku mentions again thinking that the only person who could be called "strange" would be Kokushibo

So he really act worried under false promises on behalf of Muzan Sama?

—I don't care what you're involved in, but don't drag Zenitsu with you, he's a good boy, if something happens to him because of you I'll kill you— Tengen swears crossing the street again —Have a good day, neighbor.— Uzui exclaims happily before entering the building

—Is everything okay?—

Zenitsu's sudden voice sends shivers down Kaigaku's spine.

—Since when have you been there?— the eldest of the two asks

—I just got downstairs, you promised to accompany me to the laundry.— Agatsuma smiles confidently with the bag of clothes in his hand.

—Of course, let's go.— Kuwajima quickly answers taking the lead

—What did Uzui want with you?— the blond questions following behind him

—Nothing in particular, just talk about the weather.— Kaigaku lies walking quickly

Something is wrong, Zenitsu can feel the overwhelming stress on top of Kaigaku.

Chapter Text

Keeping the situation calm is a challenge for Kaigaku.

Grandpa on one side, Zenitsu on the other.

Taking Uzui's warning is perhaps the best way now that Kokushibo's gaze is on the two of them.

Zenitsu has insisted on going to see Tamayo San for help, for the peace of mind of both.

It's somewhat uncomfortable to walk down the street knowing that Kokushibo's presence may be a few meters away, trying to find out the cause of Muzan's anger.

—You've been acting strange since yesterday.— Zenitsu suddenly speaks bringing a distracted Kaigaku back to reality.

Kuwajima sighs as he walks to the house of this supposed savior.

—There is something you don't know, promise you won't be startled.— Kaigaku whispers knowing that it's the only way the executor won't hear.

—Is about Uzui? I know he's a little intense sometimes but he's not a threat, I like you, there's no way I have eyes for anyone else.— clarifies the blond next to him

—He may be an idiot but he has sharp eyesight, there's someone following us.— Kaigaku mentions lowering his gaze to the ground

Agatsuma can barely react to the information with a slight sigh.

—Is this how far that man would go? Is he obsessed with you?— asks the blond trying not to draw attention

The street is strangely uninhabited, some cars drive down the avenue but there is no movement of other people around.

Tamayo's house seems like a lonely house but in reality it's quiet neighborhood.

Kuwajima spies from the corner of his eyes behind his shoulder noticing this kind of tension in the air.

—He always talks about love as if it were a disease, we'll be fine as long as we keep a low profile.— advises the black-haired boy, crossing his arms.

—So the plan to tell grandpa will have to wait, right?— Zenitsu hesitates.

—Forgive me, I don't know how I could protect you otherwise.— laments the blue-eyed with his shoulders slumped.

Upon arriving at the house, they ring the bell but no one seems to be inside.

There is a small note on the door that Zenitsu manages to see.

"Problems are solved in pairs." quotes the words on the paper.

Both boys look to the sides without understanding exactly what Tamayo San means.

Kokushibo also doesn't seem to understand what's happening one street behind.

The woman's laughter makes the executor's senses tingle as he has the owner of the house in front of him.

—These are the jobs that Muzan gives you now? I remember you used to be one of his best henchmen.—

She is smiling, mocking the lack of wit on the part of old acquaintances.

—When you left the club you broke away from us, why so much interest in what I do or don't do?— Kokushibo answers against the alley wall

—I find it degrading that with your esprit and talent you dedicate yourself to stalking two boys.— Tamayo denies, getting a little closer

—Muzan Sama's orders are absolute, you know that.— the man assures

—He is just using you, can't you or don't you want to see? You're like that boy.— Tamayo answers, raising the cell phone in her hand

—We all chose this path, don't act like you didn't do the same.— Kokushibo complains, changing the eternal calm gesture for a slight annoyed movement

—I decided that it was time to free myself, stop following those boys.— the woman orders

—And go back to the club to have my head cut off? You have no power over me.— he whines

—No? Look closely.— Tamayo indicates, showing the cell phone screen

The name of Yoriichi next to a contact number can be seen clearly.

—You wouldn't dare!— Kokushibo replies with an abnormal frustration

—Your brother is looking for you, it wouldn't bother me at all to call him, I can even pass the call to you.— the woman threatens

He has no choice, without another complaint he prepares to leave. 

—Michikatsu...— Tamayo calls as a final warning —You didn't see me today.—

Kokushibo has suffered too many low blows, he even has to hear his real name.

Under the shadow of silence, Muzan's servant leaves the street.

The woman sighs, putting the cell phone back in her pants pocket until she gets home.

Zenitsu is here as promised, along with the one who is supposed to be Kibutsuji's new victim.

—Ah, I'm sorry. I didn't want to scare you, but I had trash to take out.— she excuses herself, arriving with a smile.

—Tamayo San, we didn't want to interrupt your Sunday, but I was in a hurry to come.— the blond apologizes, bowing to her.

—You're lucky it's not the holiday season yet, otherwise my son would be here making a fuss at the door. Is this...?— the stranger asks when she sees the other boy.

—Kaigaku.— Zenitsu answers, giving Kuwajima a push to get him to speak.

—Good afternoon.— the owner of the name whispers without sympathy.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The owner of the house receives them in the living room where the afternoon light enters through the windows behind.

Kaigaku is the kind of "lover" that Kibutsuji would look for.

Young, pretty, black hair and expressive eyes.

—Zenitsu explained the situation to me, I know what you're going through because I experienced it firsthand.— she says, leaving both cups of tea in front of them on the coffee table.

She is terribly sincere, she doesn't use metaphors or drag things out.

—I don't know what to do, I got into this for money but lately Muzan acts as if something bothers him.— explains the boy with a little discouragement

—For Muzan talking about love is to bring back old memories, wounds that he thought were healed, it's a constant Déjà Vú that repeats itself in his mind but he can't help it, how do you tell a narcissist who doesn't know what it's to love?— sighs Tamayo sitting down in an individual chair

—What you propose?— asks Zenitsu from his place

—I'm not doing this for money, the only thing I ask is that you survive. Can you do that? Kaigaku.— questions the hostess crossing her legs

—What you call surviving?— demands to know the boy

—For years I have been looking for a way to bring Muzan Kibutsuji's crimes to justice, for years that man has been playing with other people's lives as if they were dolls. I tried to help others get out of this but many gave up or were discarded before giving testimony. He is powerful and has friends everywhere you look, it's difficult to carry out a trial without evidence. I do not stop to see if it's possible or not, Muzan ruined my life, forced me to flee for years from one place to another, to change my name, he took me away from my son.— Tamayo laments leaning back against the chair

—So what do you want from me? Testimonies? Evidence? Sounds great but who can ensure the safety of my family? — the blue-eyed boy mumbles

—Unfortunately I can't swear to you any of that, as long as you don't implicate Zenitsu or your grandfather they will be fine, many families report the disappearance of a member but there are no answers. Muzan doesn't care about a couple of desperate people, just his enemies in particular.— the stranger deduces

—I don't want to get to the point of having to run away, of ruining my house.— Kaigaku murmurs thoughtfully

—I've decided to use myself as bait, I'll stop running away for once.— the woman promises

—So you're the reason Muzan has that twisted idea of ​​love? Is that why everyone in the club talks about you like a taboo?—

Kaigaku still remembers the mentions of the others, the expressions every time Tamayo's name is mentioned within the walls of the place.

—It's complicated, forgive me for not being able to explain it clearly but we don't have time. We must plan this carefully, above all you have to be aware that the worst is yet to come. You must be prepared to withstand Muzan's temper these days, Kaigaku.— warns Tamayo

It sounds like a threat but in this woman's eyes there is only sincerity, this goes beyond a little money and nights of pleasure.

Kibutsuji is capable of doing anything.

Kaigaku gives a long sigh before nodding.

—What do we have to do?— questions the young man.

Chapter Text

There are things that Kaigaku has not told Zenitsu, perhaps it's best to keep certain aspects of the unruly life he leads within that club to himself.

There are no new orders or calls to the cell phone, everything seems quiet for a moment.

Zenitsu is against the plan, of course in that look he hides what he wants to say under the image of a meek and kind boy but Kaigaku can predict his movements.

Quiet at the table, twice as silent as he arranges the books inside the school bag.

He has been keeping his thoughts since they arrived from Tamayo San's house.

Agatsuma is a sensitive boy who cannot stand the pressure of such a matter.

For Kaigaku he has always been a crybaby along with everything that hides an appearance like that.

Zenitsu is considerate, kind and fair.

There is sadness on his face previously marked by a smile.

He even goes to bed without saying a word but Kuwajima assumes that it's a movement waiting for Sensei to go to sleep.

Kaigaku gets up from his bed taking a place next to the blond.

The night has advanced, surely Jigoro is asleep.

—Are you okay?— the blue-eyed whispers touching Agatsuma's shoulder

—How could I? You plan to return to that damn place and I have to act like everything is okay.— Zenitsu complains from his pillow

—I know the idea bothers you but...—

—No, the idea doesn't bother me, what worries me is that they can hurt you. Kibutsuji is a madman, if he doesn't like what you say or he has a bad day he could take it out on you. I'm suffering and I can't even show it.— the younger complains turning around until he meets Kaigaku face to face

—You can show it to me, we're in this together, I know you wouldn't abandon me just like I wouldn't either. Scream, cry, do whatever you want, I'm here for you now.— the black-haired boy murmurs, smiling as much as he can

—I don't want to lose you, I don't want to lose us.— Agatsuma answers with a broken voice

—You won't.— Kuwajima almost promises, hugging him

There are silent tears that wet the bed, a compromising situation that attacks them without anyone knowing.

It's a matter of patience, Tamayo can help them but the price is high to pay if they make a mistake.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Somehow the tension reaches the point of leaving them without energy as shown by those long faces at the breakfast table.

Grandpa ignores the cause but assumes that it's a hectic week.

It's not until Jigoro leaves the apartment that Zenitsu takes the plates, placing them in the sink.

The boy sighs, heading to the room where undressing seems like an easy task.

The uniform waits on the bed as Kaigaku enters as well.

—What will we do now? Should we act like before?— Agatsuma asks putting on his shorts

—No, it should look normal, if we show ourselves distant it will be weird, let's fight a little in front of the others.— Kuwajima agrees taking off his pajamas as well

—Will you eat alone again?—

Zenitsu's compassion sometimes gets out of control turning him into this kind of saint that he can't help but bring out from within.

—I actually want to alter the situation inside the club a little, I'm going to talk to Daki's brother today.— the blue-eyed assures dressing in a hurry

—Gyoutaro? I don't understand why...— the blond hesitates closing his shirt carefully

—He is very protective of his little sister, Daki could betray me so I won't give her time to react, I'll take the problems to school so she can't get in the way. I'll teach Kokushibo a lesson, see if Enmu is useful.— Kaigaku assures while dealing with the buttons

—Don't rush to do everything at once, start with the simplest.— advises the yellow-haired one putting on his tie

—There's one thing I might not be able to avoid, like being away from you. Come see me in the bathroom, okay?— Kuwajima asks, finishing putting on his pants

Zenitsu laughs, turning around.

—We can fix that.— Agatsuma answers, pushing his roommate onto his own bed

—Are you crazy?— Kaigaku complains, suddenly falling onto the mattress

—Maybe, it depends on the situation.— the blond murmurs, sitting on Kaigaku's knees with a playful smile.

It's almost automatic that Kuwajima's heart speeds up, pumping blood harder, weakening his body, forcing him to blush to the point of becoming shy.

—I've been thinking about nicknames... you'll be my honey and I'll be your babe.— the golden-eyed boy proposes, playing with Kaigaku's hair.

—That's not fair, you've chosen on your own.—

Kaigaku speaks quietly, trying to appear confident in the situation even when his face says otherwise.

—Just promise that you won't get into any more trouble, think carefully before making a decision, we have to be ready for the next few weeks.— Zenitsu asks enthusiastically.

—I'll try, I'll do my best to gain time.— Kaigaku answers.

Life is made of moments and this seems like one worth remembering.

Zenitsu smiles again, the sunlight hitting the window, illuminating his face with special magic is engraved in Kaigaku's memory.

If only life was simpler...

>•<•>•<••••••<

With Zenitsu's help some subjects can be retaken points.

Kaigaku's attention is not exactly focused on school but on how to get out of Kibutsuji's club.

Gyoutaro usually waits for Daki at the main exit of the school, today is the same.

Kaigaku grunts before approaching trying to sound convincing inside his head before giving a speech about Daki's activities in great detail without feeling uncomfortable.

It's none of his business and he doesn't care, honestly.

He needs that girl to keep the attention focused somewhere other than his personal movements.

Kuwajima sighs looking for a place next to the other boy.

—If it's about Tamayo, I already told your brother.— Gyoutaro answers with his gaze on the other side of the street

Kaigaku laughs for no apparent reason, waving his hand.

—No, I'm not here to ask that. What my Ototo does is his business, I have no interest in knowing what he's up to. I just wanted to know... How is Daki?— the black-haired boy asks, crossing his arms

—Don't you two work together? You should be the one who knows the most about her condition.— the older brother points out, taking the question as a kind of joke

—Oh, I see. She hasn't been telling you what she does inside the club. I was just curious, I wanted to know how she manages to stay awake and look good despite all the effort she makes.— Kaigaku gasps, launching a rumor that draws the other's attention

—What do you mean?— Gyoutaro asks

The concern has stung him, the blue-eyed boy smiles as he achieves his goal.

—Daki is one of the best dancers in the club, she can spend hours on stage, people love her.— explains the partner using a bit of euphoria in the sentence

Gyoutaro is not an idiot, he must have understood what the tangled words are trying to say.

This will keep Daki busy, a slight possibility that she won't stick her nose in Kaigaku's life.

—What do you know? That little liar told you she was a waitress in a club like that? I imagine you're not innocent enough to believe her. She's quite a beauty, you know?— the black-haired tells, prolonging the conversation.

—If you have something to say to my sister, tell her yourself.— Gyoutaro murmurs reluctantly.

—Send her my regards.— Kaigaku says as a farewell to walk ahead on the street.

Saying those things in such a way makes him feel like a terrible person, but there's no one else who can do it, Zenitsu is very nice person to sound ironic or ruthless.

Words sometimes hurt, there's no way to beat the demon without a pinch of your own evil.

Chapter Text

The afternoon has come to an end but Kaigaku is not in the club.

Kibutsuji complains, lightly placing the pen he has in his hand on the table as a gesture of discontent.

Kokushibo has arrived to prostrate in front of him in the best way.

—Any news?— asks the boss, waiting for the name of the daring one who has stolen the attention of one of his prey.

Kokushibo's knee trembles for a second remembering his encounter with Tamayo, mentioning her is tempting fate in two different ways.

If the name of that woman escapes from his mouth Muzan Sama will lose his sanity, again.

If that woman finds out, she will call Yoriichi, giving him in great detail the information that his brother needs to find him.

Seeing him is the last thing Michikatsu wants... and he wouldn't forgive himself if something bad happened...

—The boy lives his life as usual, he goes to school, returns home and occasionally goes out to do some shopping but he hasn't met anyone lately nor has he been close to anyone in particular.— the servant reports

Muzan gasps in discontent hitting the same pen against the wood repeatedly.

He's anxious.

—Should I bring him to the club again?— Kokushibo asks

—No, let him go for now. Continue following him, at some point we will see the supposed love. No one can be far from the focus of its desires.— the club owner orders

Kokushibo nods silently leaving the office.

Deep inside the idea bothers him, now he is a babysitter under threats.

There is nothing he can say, Tamayo is cunning, as long as he has a weakness she has a leash around his neck.

But it's all her fault, why did Yoriichi have to believe her? Of all women, her.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The driver who brings him from school has told him that Kaigaku called him to ask for an unusual trip away from what is Muzan's castle.

Maybe now he is going to meet the mysterious person?

Kokushibo walks through busy streets under the image of just another pedestrian.

The place is ironic, it's a club not as eccentric as Muzan Sama's.

It's a vulgar dive where people gather to drink uncontrollably while letting their dark emotions flow.

Who is he to judge?

Maybe the boy is used to feeling desired, maybe he just wants a little human warmth.

Kokushibo is not going to enter that little rat's nest with neon lights.

He waits outside, in the protection of the darkness of a dead end.

Hours pass until the young man leaves that seedy establishment.

Of course Kaigaku knows he's there, the charm of mystery was broken.

Kuwajima walks past the alley rolling his eyes.

—Aren't you tired of being the ghost of the street?— the youngest asks, continuing on his way

—I have orders, even if you use that woman as a shield I'm supposed to be here. Where else could I waste time if not following you?— Kokushibo complains, leaving the alley

—So what? You are here to drag me to the club?— Kuwajima demands, stopping in the middle of the street

—You should come back of your own free will, Muzan Sama is losing patience.— the man warns

—He owns half of Japan, he doesn't need me to find fun, or maybe he does, I'm a toy in his hand. You agree with that, right?— Kaigaku accuses, crossing his arms capriciously.

—We all have a role to play, you knew what you were doing when you came in.— Tsugikuni murmurs.

—You lied to me, you got all emotional to get close to me, you even said that I reminded you.— the blue-eyed boy complains.

—And that's true, you would do anything to keep living.— the executor explains, clenching a fist.

Maybe it was like that once, but now Kaigaku can't get it out of his mind that all of this is for Zenitsu's safety.

—So you were acting like a good tutor for your own benefit?— the teenager tries to find out.

—There is only one master, don't blame me for having him above the others.— Kokushibo murmurs.

—What about your brother? Is Muzan more important than him?—

Touching a weak point is dangerous, Michikatsu can lose his temper to the point of giving him a good beating but Kibutsuji's right hand lowers his gaze to the ground, as if shame suddenly attacked him.

—Don't you have a brother too?— Tsugikuni doubts

—He knows, my brother knows all my mistakes, my defects, he knows my bad things and my good things. How could I hide from him?— Kaigaku remembers turning his back on him

It's a bit cynical to have to elaborate this scene of family ties because more than a brother Zenitsu is the boy he loves, the innocent one in this problem, the only one worth lying for.

—There are things that take a strange course in life, I'm not asking you to stop loving. We all lose part of our humanity when entering the club, even the woman you trust so much. Let's go back, Muzan Sama hates that his devotees leave his sight.— Kokushibo orders, letting the icy conversation die on the same street.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The return to the club is always the same, even when the time changes there are eyes watching every step and strangers lurking around the different rooms.

Kaigaku supposes that it's better to stay here tonight.

Trouble never waits but this time Kuwajima sees the result of his plan approaching in the form of an angry Daki.

—You! Were you the one who told my brother?— she asks pointing at him as she walks down the hall

—Is it my fault that you hide things from Gyoutaro?— the boy answers crossing his arms

Kokushibo supposes that there is some rivalry between the two of them being favorites even when Kaigaku says he wants to leave the place.

—What the hell you think you're doing? I offered you help, why are you doing this?— Daki growls facing him

—I don't need your help.— he murmurs

—You put me in trouble, Gyoutaro was at the door all night, I won't forgive you.— the white-haired girl complains

Her delicate hand can also be a dangerous instrument, so Kaigaku thinks when a slap reaches his face.

—Enough, you're behaving like children.— Kokushibo interrupts, getting in between the two.

—I had to beg for my brother, Muzan Sama is upset with me, you're going to pay for this, Kuwajima.— the girl threatens, walking off in the direction of the favorites' room.

—You shouldn't fight with her, you don't want to know how she looks upset.— Tsugikuni advises, watching as Daki walks away.

—I'm not interested, she can knock down stone by stone from the place, I'm not afraid of a capricious girl.— Kaigaku corrects, touching his cheek.

—Come, I'll clean that up for you.— the executor offers, taking the lead.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Kokushibo has enough patience to take Kaigaku to his room, repeating the same procedure with the neck wound.

He hasn't worn a choker since Muzan Sama ripped off his old one.

On that pale skin everything seems to leave a mark, now Daki's hand looks like a red mark on his face.

If Muzan Sama asks it will be bad because even if he is angry with Kaigaku he still belongs to him.

Michikatsu silently wonders how long he will have to take care of him.

The silence is absolute inside the room until the boy looks up.

—Why are you doing this?— he asks less aggressively than usual

He looks like a punished child, sitting on the edge of the bed with a hurt expression.

—I told you before, I have orders to obey and besides...— the executor murmurs, making himself understood

Tamayo's blackmail is still in place, any sudden movement means danger.

—Still, behind that icy face you are gentle.— Kuwajima answers, feeling the sting of the slap a little better

—I would have liked to have someone by my side to comfort me, to tell me that it was okay to make mistakes. Now, I can't tell you the same, I can only advise you.— Tsugikuni assures.

—And that's the only reason you take care of me?—

Kaigaku is impertinent when he wants to be but Kokushibo ignores him, throwing the piece of cotton into the trash can before lying down in his own bed.

—What do you want me to say? I feel sorry for you, if you keep tempting fate you could end up badly.— Kokushibo reminds him.

—So your tasks are to feel sorry for me and spy on me?— Kuwajima moves a little higher up on the bed, returning to be next to this unusual caretaker.

—If you want to continue living, reconcile with Muzan Sama, forget about that person you say you love.— the older of the two reproaches, closing his eyes.

There is a moment of silence that separates them, Kokushibo supposes that the truth is difficult to assimilate but the feeling is impossible to confuse. 

Kaigaku dares to put his lips on Kokushibo's, a furtive kiss that takes Tsugikuni by surprise.The man quickly parts away, wiping his mouth with the sleeve of this particular kimono that Kibutsuji allowed him to continue wearing.

—What are you doing?—Kokushibo hesitates, straightening up.

—Isn't that why you brought me here? You don't want to take me?— the boy asks, acting in a perfect shy tone.

—You misunderstood, I don't... We don't... I don't have these intentions with you.— the executor stammers.

It's the first time someone has managed to make him stutter.

It's a little late to regret it, Enmu's eyes have seen everything through the open door, he's a distant shadow that walks through the halls without anyone noticing, humming a song to himself.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu has a special perfume, it's the scent of his skin that somehow distracts Kaigaku even when he's far away from him.

The kiss he gave Kokushibo last night was fake, it felt like kissing a piece of paper.

Kaigaku can only apologize to Zenitsu inside his mind while feeling guilty as well as alone.

Maybe this got out of control in ways Kaigaku couldn't understand, he's in love and would do anything for Zenitsu.

The thought distracts him even when the cup of coffee is in front of him slowly losing its heat.

Enmu is timely in appearing, Kaigaku was waiting for him.

—Is love terrifying as they say it is?— asks the pale boy sitting next to him.

The small round table is adorable, in this kind of "Cafe" where everything seems tailor-made for dolls.

—You have to go around in circles with me so much? I know what you saw last night.— Kuwajima murmurs

Enmu hesitates for a moment.

—Aren't you scared? I can go talk to Muzan Sama and he would know.— Enmu supposes playing with his hair

—That's exactly what I want... You've been waiting for a long time for an opportunity like this to come along, you would become a favorite again, you would help me get out of here.— Kaigaku resolves with a calm face

—Or Muzan Sama could go crazy, kill us all but, these are assumptions. I don't care, I wouldn't mind if Muzan Sama was the last thing I saw.— the boy with two-colored locks smiles

—We all have plans, it would be best if you returned to your favorite place.— Kuwajima advises

—I've been talking to him lately, he thinks you're weak for believing that love exists, he also thinks you're a bad influence for the rest of the people in the club.— Enmu reveals, combing his hair with only his fingers

—I'm more than willing to leave here.— Kaigaku answers, frowning

—How much you trust in your luck to get out of an extreme situation unscathed? Muzan Sama could push you aside, people like him aren't interested in people like us.—

He's a mysterious boy who has kept his secrets better than anyone else in the club, Kaigaku has no idea where he comes from or his last name.

He's a kind of ghost who enjoys the misfortune of others.

—You still not understand? I don't care what he thinks or preaches by creed, I want to leave, I need a proper push.— Kaigaku concludes, leaving the cup aside

—You're looking for trouble on purpose, if I open my mouth Kokushibo will also receive a punishment because of you.— Enmu supposes

—I don't care, none of you matter to me, just do what you have to do.— Kuwajima ends up saying, getting up from the table

—It must be a lovely person— the pale young man exclaims —The one you're doing all this for.—

Kaigaku pretends he didn't hear as he leaves the place.

If Kokushibo must fall with him, so be it.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The repercussions will have to wait.

Kaigaku returns to school as if he hadn't started a raging fire.

He can't risk Zenitsu any more. Agatsuma looks happy with his friends even though he sometimes turns to see him on that lonely corner.

The only time they can see each other is at the exit.

Zenitsu is worried, that anxious face speaks for him.

—How is your plan going?— the blond asks in a low voice

Kaigaku is sitting on the edge of the sidewalk when he lets out a long sigh.

—I don't know, I'm still waiting for the impact of the waves I've been creating.— Kuwajima says honestly

—I still have doubts about what you're doing, don't you think it's too risky?— the blond supposes trying not to draw attention

—I don't know what else I could do, it's not as simple as just going and giving up.— Kaigaku admits rubbing his forehead

—I know, after hearing everything Tamayo San said I think that man is some kind of sadistic narcissist.— Agatsuma snorts

—It is, I have no idea what goes through his head but for him we are not human beings.— Kuwajima remembers

Maybe in a while ago he was no different than Muzan Sama but now the situation has changed.

—I'll make time to go home... I miss Sensei.— the black-haired boy whispers with rosy cheeks

—I would get sensitive if you had said it months before but now I just feel that we should start practicing what we should say to grandpa.—

Zenitsu shows an intimate side that until now seemed exclusive to the home.

—I'm not going to plan it, let it be in the moment, something spontaneous. I want to do it after I get out of that damn club.— Kaigaku assures

—Is it so urgent? We could wait.— Zenitsu proposes sitting next to him

—It is, I can't stand being away from you anymore, I want to walk down the street holding your hand without anyone reminding me that we are...— Kuwajima hesitates to say

—It will take time but I wouldn't mind correcting everyone for you.— Zenitsu smiles as he plans how they will live after Kaigaku gets rid of the dark bond he has with Muzan.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Kibutsuji is a person of patience but with little sense of humor.

Enmu has come to tell him some news that seems true even though what it contains is absurd.

Kokushibo has been called once again, this time in his own room.

Muzan Sama has taken the trouble to go to this small room to meet him.

Something new, knowing the boss's personality. Muzan smiles as he sees Kokushibo enter with an expression of abnormal impression for a serious person like him.

—What a modest way of living you have, as one of my many right hands I thought you enjoyed things a little more stylized.— the red-eyed man supposes from the bed

—I don't need to surround myself with useless objects, I just need a place to rest.— Michikatsu corrects, closing the door behind him

—I know your simplicity, that's why I know that what they told me about you is nothing more than an excuse to put you in the spotlight.— says Kibutsuji, settling himself in the middle of the pillows

Kokushibo can't do anything but listen, leaning against the door.

—Boys are problematic, drama abounds when it comes to favoritism and positions. I'll be direct, Enmu told me that he saw you kissing Kaigaku.— Muzan snorts crossing his legs

He could deny it or act disinterested about the subject but there's no point in lying to the owner of the club.

—It's true, Kaigaku is a boy who is too impulsive when he sets his mind to it and he easily confuses the feelings of others. I was trying to help him but for him any show of attention means attraction.— Kokushibo whispers embarrassed as well as expectant of the leader's reaction

Muzan's silence is chilling but the tension is broken when he pants as if he were tired.

—That brat has been causing trouble on purpose, including you in the middle of the matter only shows the lack of alibis.— Kibutsuji assures shaking his head

Kokushibo kneels on the ground looking for the forgiveness he is supposed to obtain.

—I know it's impossible that the person Kaigaku is in love with could it be you, your opposite personalities as well as the short time you know each other don't match at all.— the curly-haired man on top of the bed remarks

—I didn't mean to disrespect you, Muzan Sama.— Michikatsu murmurs

—Do you know why I have several lovers?— Kibutsuji asks, suddenly getting up with a quick movement

The executor prefers to remain silent.

—Each one of them reminds me of her, Tamayo— Muzan confesses, lifting Kokushibo off the ground with both hands—Each one of them has similar characteristics but none has managed to captivate me like her. Kaigaku reminds me of Tamayo's fresh youth as well as her black hair, her rebellious personality, her doubts about morality. He didn't want to see the reality, just like her Kaigaku has proven to be untrustworthy.—

—My lord... Is that what you mean?— Kokushibo asks

—I'm not going to blame you because a boy tries to mark you for elimination, you must not follow him anymore. I will take matters into my own hands from now on.—

Muzan Sama's smile is unlike any other Michikatsu has ever seen before in his life, it's as if ice gets into his veins every time Kibutsuji has a "happy" grimace.

There is tension in the air, a hollow promise of justice gives way to silent doubt.

Does this mean Kaigaku will be punished no matter his efforts?

Chapter Text

The club remains silent even as Kaigaku waits for a riotous crowd running back and forth between surprised faces.

There is silence in the hallways, the few customers are not able to create an echo in the rooms.

Kaigaku knows the routine by heart, leaving personal items in the locker, changing clothes and waiting to be called.

The hours pass without any news.

It's not until almost midnight that Muzan Sama asks to see him.

With his eyes on the ground Kaigaku goes to Kibutsuji's office where he greets him submissive as usual.

—I still don't understand why you continue to act as part of this, you have decided for yourself to get out of here no matter the risk, right?— asks the owner of the club with a book in his hands

It's the first time Kaigaku sees him without documents or a pen held in his fingers.

—Could you just let me go? I've never been totally to your liking, it's not like I was an essential part of the place, I was ambitious but if the problem is money I'm willing to return what you consider fair starting with this.— Kuwajima proposes handing over the same package that arrived at the apartment in front of the small table

— My dear, I can earn twice that on a good day, the problem isn't about what I gave you but what you take from me, you know why you're in here?— the man hesitates turning the page

Kaigaku denies silently trying to finally hear a good explanation.

— All of you, you, Daki, Enmu and many others who have already left are part of a collection so to speak. It puts me in a bad mood to think that one of my boys wants to leave because he found love. I'm very envious.— the club owner admits smiling as he turns the page

—I'm sure you'll find someone who can give you much more than I gave you, I was incompetent in serving you.— Kaigaku laments standing

—The Kokushibo thing was your idea, right? I'm terrible at handling jealousy but not so stupid to believe your little tricks. You wanted to give Daki a hard time and tried to use Enmu for your convenience. Trust is the greatest of bonds, Kokushibo wouldn't be stupid enough to get tangled up with one of my...— Muzan hesitates to say

—Toys?— the youngest asks ironically

—It's not like love springs from your eyes when you see Kokushibo, attraction is one thing now feeling true love is a different matter.— Kibutsuji resolves

—You call me a liar?— Kuwajima inquires

—Who knows?— the red-eyed man supposes

—If I'm no longer useful to you... Why don't you let me go?—

Kaigaku's curiosity is innocent, he's a boy after all, how could he know that there are some decisions that have no return?

—Kaigaku... We had a great time, wasn't I generous enough with you? Didn't you feel pleasure by my side?— Muzan tries to find out closing the book

—Pleasure, is that what you call the humiliations you made me go through? Muzan Sama.— he answers with total arrogance

—Now you have moral codes, it seems that you forgot that you sold your will, my boy.— there is a smirk on Muzan's face that is impossible to erase, he is enjoying remembering everything he has done

—I did it and there is not a day that I don't regret it but you taught me that no one is irreplaceable, all of us are like dolls in your hand. What do you want in exchange for letting me go?— the blue-eyed boy proposes

Kibutsuji laughs hearing Kuwajima's unusual way of speaking.

—That is true and at the same time it's not true, you see, my heart is hurt. Although all of you beautiful flowers are not the cure for pain at least you work as an incentive. For being part of the club I will give you one last chance, tell me who the person you love is, then I will let you go.— the owner of the place promises

—If I do, what will you do?— Kaigaku demands to know

—Kill it of course, I don't need the money, I'm not interested in hurting you but if you don't tell me it will be a fact that I will go look for your adorable brother or your beloved grandfather. It's time to decide your family or that supposed person you love.— Muzan offers

Kaigaku frowns again after so much time outraged by so much cynicism, there is no point in threatening Muzan Kibutsuji nor a way to reach him without being harmed then... How could he get out of such a situation?

Kuwajima can barely squeeze his hands together until they hurt.

—Can I think about it?— the teenager asks.

—You are truly selfish, you are putting your little summer love above your family— the man judges —You have a day to think about it.—

It's the best Kaigaku can have for now.

Muzan Sama has won once again, victoriously smiling from the chair where he contemplates the boy's misfortune, turning into a dismayed expression.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

Kaigaku cannot return home with a heavy heart and worries in his head.

He has called Zenitsu to meet as far away from the apartment as possible.

Agatsuma finds him in a total state of unhappiness.

Both hands on his head as he appreciates the sunrise on this bridge near the river.

—What happened?— Zenitsu asks, approaching.

Knowing Kaigaku, something bad could be happening at the very moment they speak.

—I'm totally ruined... I didn't want to talk about this in Sensei's presence, sorry if I made you walk.— the black-haired boy laments lowering both arms

—Just say it, you don't have to hide anything from me.— the younger boy asks looking for a place next to him

—Muzan wants me to tell him who I'm in love with.— Kuwajima murmurs, losing his breath while he contemplates the sun going up to the water level

—What's the problem? Are you ashamed or...?—

—He wants to kill the person I love, he threatened to look for you or Sensei if I don't tell him.— Kaigaku interrupts saying

Zenitsu can barely think what he just heard with a strange grimace.

Kibutsuji has reached a point where madness seems the best solution to solve problems.

Is this the price to pay? Is it about money or simple wounded pride?

There is a lot that Zenitsu wants to ask but it's pointless or it's not the best of times.

—What are we going to do?— Kuwajima doubts on the verge of tears

—Stick to Tamayo San's plan, the day has come, we must call her.— Zenitsu answers a little calmer

—I'm a terrible person, aren't I? I should face the punishment alone but I know that lunatic will do it, I'm sorry, Zenitsu. Loving you is the worst thing I could have done to you.— the blue-eyed laments

There are silent tears falling on the railing of the bridge illuminated by the sun's rays.

Kaigaku has always been a difficult person to understand, hard on the outside, hard on the inside... Until now.

He's really opening up to Zenitsu in a way that not even the blond would have imagined a long time ago.

Love is a feeling that changes even a stone without feelings like him, his not "Aniki" until turning him into this broken-hearted child.

—Don't say that, we've been planning it, what you will tell Grandpa, how our life will be from that moment on. You made a mistake, maybe it's too late to take a step back but I don't regret loving you the same way, I love you and I'm glad to take the same risks as you. If you really feel bad about us it means that it never meant anything important to you, I don't care if I have to go to the depths of hell for you.— Agatsuma exclaims before lying down by Kaigaku who is still dealing with his wet cheeks

—Aren't you afraid that this will be our last sunrise?— Kuwajima questions, clumsily drying his face with his hands

—Then let it be with you, by your side. I don't want to be away from you, ever again.— the blond asks, clinging to his side

The sun goes up until they can feel its heat as Kaigaku's heart breaks into pieces.

The only one who should suffer is him but now he drags the person he loves the most into a chain of mistakes that led him to a point of despair.

There is only one way out of this mess, Kaigaku prays that it's the right one.

Chapter Text

Leaving the apartment without words seems like an act of cruelty but Zenitsu knows he can't face his grandfather.

His feelings aren't stable either, if he saw his grandfather face to face he would start crying for no reason knowing that he will go through a life or death situation.

He hasn't gone to school and his steps through these streets are new.

The club is really big, Agatsuma can tell when he enters.

Kaigaku is waiting for him in a hallway so long that it's hard to see the end, or is it an effect of nerves?

Everything inside the place seems to have a connection to the past.

This time Kaigaku isn't wearing the kimono or the blue triangle haori.

Kokushibo purses his mouth when he sees both boys take a step out of Muzan Sama's office.

There is courage in the eyes of Kuwajima's brother while in his own... a question of doubt seems to form.

So Kaigaku is so despicable as to hand over his brother or... what is the reason for him being here?

There are no words he can say nor motivation in what he wants to express.

The executor opens the door silently indicating the interior with one hand.

The black-haired boy enters first with the same expression he used when entering Kibutsuji's office.

Muzan Sama waits patiently in the same chair as yesterday with his fist under his chin, he has waited so long to see the cause of the break in one of his perfect puppets that he even seems happy, with a slight smile on the corner of his lips.

Isn't this Kaigaku's younger brother?

Has he come to willingly give himself up for the mediocre Kuwajima?

—I don't usually say it often but it's a waste... Kid, aren't you afraid?— asks Muzan upon hearing the door close.

—Is there any reason I should be afraid? Let's talk, maybe we can find a solution to our differences.— Zenitsu proposes standing up

—Kaigaku hasn't told you why you're here?— Kibutsuji asks, taking one of the books on the desk with little interest

—You wanted to see me.— Zenitsu answers dryly

Kaigaku remains silent with his gaze on the floor.

—See you? You misunderstood, I wanted to see the person he loves.— the man corrects, opening the book to look at a random page

—Yes, I understood it well.— the blue-eyed answers

Muzan thinks about it for a moment until raising an eyebrow.

—Are you in love with your own brother? Kaigaku... I didn't expect such a thing from you, little devil.— Kibutsuji states

A completely unconventional laugh comes out of his throat as he looks at these two boys.

—We're not blood brothers, we're stepbrothers, there's a difference.— Zenitsu corrects

—Oh? Is there any? If the bond is just as strong with the person who raised you both, it's incest because there are family relationships beyond the flesh, but... it's a sin that I suppose is difficult to deny. I am not surprised that Kokushibo could not find out before, the lovers were at home, like two birds that take refuge on the same branch... On your knees.— Muzan orders, leaving the book in place before opening the desk drawer.

Any false move means danger, so the two of them get on their knees waiting for the boss's reaction.

A sigh from Kibutsuji is enough to take a weapon in his hand as if he were taking any other object of daily use.

Both boys tense in silence without daring to say anything about it.

—I'm tempted to leave a hole in this pretty head of yours.— Muzan suggests, placing a hand on Zenitsu's hair.

Agatsuma avoids looking at him or giving any warning signs, but his heart accelerates at an obvious pace.

—But... This confusion has me intrigued as well as fascinated, to be honest I miss you, Kaigaku.— the man admits putting the gun away on his waist and barely playing with the yellow locks

—If you have to kill someone, let it be me, it was me who betrayed you, let Zenitsu go, do what you have to do with me.— the boy exclaims out loud with his eyes still on the ground

—Betrayal, that's a very ugly word, I had high expectations of you but you ruined everything because of your lack of common sense although half of me doesn't blame you.— Kibutsuji murmurs crouching in front of Zenitsu

His cold hand touches the side of the younger man's face raising his gaze until their eyes meet, the iris in the middle of the red sea formed his pupils causes a certain feeling of hypnosis.

—Actually... This confusion incites me, I miss how you used to get tangled in my sheets, I miss your moans and your body writhing on top of me but I think it would be worth it to see the two of you fucking in my bed.— Kibutsuji whispers while licking his lips

Zenitsu is just a boy, hearing so many things makes his cheeks blush.

—You like the dirty talking? Oh honey, I can give you more where that came from.— Muzan offers tempted to play with Zenitsu

—Muzan Sama, please leave him alone, just kill me.— Kaigaku begs showing his face again

—Let me think about it— Muzan answers with irony finding a weak point —What should I do? I can eliminate you and keep your brother or I can eliminate your brother so you wish to die... Oh, I mean your boyfriend.—

Kaigaku has a lump in his throat, he is not able to give his honest opinion, the fear is great as well as the rage.

—Everything results in chaos in my office, cleaning it will take all day, it sounds like a terrible idea. Why don't we talk civilly? Since the situation has changed I can forgive you, you just have to give me Zenitsu, ok?— Kibutsuji proposes leaning against the desk

The air is freezing inside the office where the light doesn't enter except for that ridiculous green lamp.

Zenitsu has a mixture of feelings that knot in his stomach, indignation and disgust, hatred.

Kaigaku returns the smile, with the necessary irony.

—I know I'm a bad person but getting to that point... it's despicable. What makes you think you deserve someone like Zenitsu? That you can know about love? There is no man less suitable to talk about these things than you, Muzan Sama.— the boy answers

Zenitsu has no idea if it's a provocation but Kaigaku's voice sounds real.

Maybe it's something he always wanted to say. 

—We weren't talking about love.— the man corrects

—But that's what it's about, this is all because of her, isn't it?— the teenager murmurs

Kibutsuji stands up again, Kaigaku's words are a perfect provocation for the boss's lack of patience.

The rumors have spread, the little birds inside the club can't keep quiet.

Now Kuwajima also knows about Tamayo.

—Are you trying to make me angry? Brat...— Kibutsuji denies calming his sudden new anger.

>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<

The club members enjoy leisure and luxury in these beautiful facilities but a familiar shadow walks through the different wings where the recurring customers murmur among themselves.

It's a woman who had left the club a long time ago but now she smiles as if she were one of the members of the place.

Some recognize her and others murmur her name in a low voice.

There is a silent commotion where she passes, it's known that...

Of course she knows the place by heart and according to what she heard from Zenitsu, Muzan may have them cornered in his office where all the unpleasant things usually happen.

It's like a mirage in Kokushibo's eyes that loses his breath for a moment.

She ignores him, with a grimace of joy she opens the door without saying a word.

Who would dare to stop her?

Zenitsu and Kaigaku are on their knees on the floor, a typical gesture that Muzan usually forces his followers to do.

There is nothing but stupor on the face of the great owner of this entire fantasy castle.

—You never lose bad habits, right?— Tamayo questions, closing the door behind her, leaving Kokushibo in a state of total stillness.

She is daring to show herself in this place.

Muzan is still holding on to the edge of the desk when Tamayo takes off his coat, hanging it on the coat rack in the room.

—What are you doing here?— Kibutsuji whispers, barely reacting to her image

—I suppose you are smart enough to know that behind every person who leaves here, I'm there, it's a daily occurrence for me to get involved in your affairs.— Tamayo laughs, looking for a chair to sit down

He turns around, sure that this woman has only come to torture him.

—So? Should I react in any other way than ignoring you?— Muzan complains

—Don't get excited, I'm not here for you, I've come to ask for a pardon for these two boys.— she informs, settling into his seat

Despite that confident smile, Tamayo is afraid that it will end badly, she knows what Kibutsuji is capable of, she still fears him... beneath that calm expression hides a beast.

—These brats? They were clever enough to find you, I wonder if you sent them yourself.— the red-eyed man asks

—I don't have that much imagination, let's say they were able to find me somehow.— the woman answers

The situation is no longer about forgiveness or punishment.

The tension is suffocating, silence reigns for a few seconds.

Zenitsu silently takes Kaigaku's hand.

—So, lady, help us resolve this matter, I think I was quite generous in letting both of them still keep their heads. The deal is about Zenitsu, either he becomes part of this place or things will get a little ugly.— explains the man distracted by the presence

—What does Zenitsu have to do with it? I thought the problem came from Kaigaku's ambition.— Tamayo recalls

—I'm hurt! He's left a wound in my heart, there must be a way to mend it.— Kibutsuji exclaims as if he really felt it

—Heart? Do you know what that is?— she laughs under the lamplight

—Are you trying to play with me? You know I could kill you, Tamayo.— Muzan threatens leaning on the desk

—You won't, not after hearing my proposal.— the woman offers getting up

Muzan stands up again to hear her and see her get so close that there is no space between the two.

—Let the youngest go, there has to be a limit Muzan, if you don't know it I do.— Tamayo murmurs near his face

—What you offer in exchange?— Kibutsuji asks

—I'll stay with you— she promises with a sigh hidden in her throat —I'm serious.—

The owner of the club smiles tempted to be an atheist about the promises of others.

—But the ungrateful Kaigaku?— the boss asks

Tamayo looks at Kuwajima, they have talked about this behind Zenitsu's back, perhaps things have no return after this action but still... Love is a strange thing, often twisted, so much that sometimes it causes pain.

She murmurs something in Muzan's ear.

Kaigaku can smile again.

—Zenitsu... I'm so sorry, I really wanted to have a future with you.— Kuwajima whispers next to him

—What are you talking about?— the blond barely says, looking at him for a moment

—I love you.— even if Kaigaku said it spontaneously, it's a promise

The action is too fast, the sound is light as a needle falling to the ground but it's actually the trigger of a gun.

Kibutsuji has shot straight at a specific point where the blood stains the wall behind with a very special splash.

Zenitsu's mind clouds over for a few seconds, this... can't be happening.

Chapter Text

Zenitsu's hands are stained with Kaigaku's blood.

He sits on a hospital chair, waiting for some news.

The light in the hallways is especially white, so much that it hurts his eyes.

Tamayo San is sitting next to him and was the one who called an ambulance as well as applying the correct pressure on Kaigaku's wound.

—If my calculations are correct, the bullet hit the shoulder, although I would have preferred it to have lodged in the collarbone.— Tamayo whispers, still holding the coat she used to stop the bleeding.

—He asked you to.— Agatsuma answers, looking at the ground.

—Kaigaku felt guilty for what he was putting you through, he called me asking me to act as an intermediary between Muzan and him if the situation got worse.— the woman gasps.

—He tried hard to hide it from me.— Agatsuma laments, putting both hands on his knees.

—Listen Zenitsu, there are times when we believe that people are good or bad... there are times when they are just people, life is difficult.— Tamayo tries to comfort him.

—People have little boxes of happiness inside, Kaigaku's was broken but I thought... I think I can fix his.— the blond says distantly.

—I tried to protect both of you, Muzan wasn't serious. I've seen him do much worse things without words, he was just playing.— assures the doctor

—What's going to happen to you?— asks Zenitsu directing his gaze at her

There is still room for kindness in him, Tamayo supposes that it's one of the reasons why Kaigaku preferred to sacrifice himself.

—I advise you to look for a new place to live, moving would be a good option, as for me I will entertain him as much as I can. There is one thing I must do.— assures the woman before frowning

—You think Kaigaku is okay?— Zenitsu doubts showing a hidden fear

—The people here are very good at their job, they are my friends, if you need something just ask under my name. By the way, you want me to tell your grandfather? — she offers

—I don't even know what I should tell him. — Agatsuma murmurs, prostrate in his seat

—Sorry if I sound too frank, but it's better if he doesn't know anything about the club or what Kaigaku did in there, at his age it's not good to go through a bad time.— Tamayo opines, squeezing her coat tightly

—What did you tell the doctors?— the boy asks to know

—An attempted robbery, was the first thing that came to mind.— she answers

A nurse leaves the emergency room looking for the two who arrived with this Kaigaku Kuwajima.

Tamayo is recognized here, it's easy to remember her face.

—He's stable, we had to anesthetize him but that was close, Tamayo. The bullet almost hit the artery, we're going to have him in surgery for a couple of hours, does the boy have any close relatives?— asks the nurse lowering the mask from his face

—Yes, Zenitsu is his boyfriend and his grandfather hasn't arrived yet.— affirms Tamayo making Zenitsu speechless for a few seconds

—Hang in there, buddy. We're going to leave him good as new.— the nurse nods returning to the emergency wing

—I have to go, you need anything else?— she asks with a weak smile

—I thank you for everything you've done, take good care of that madman.— advises the young man

—It's a difficult task but the effort is worth it.— Tamayo says as a farewell before getting up from the chair

Zenitsu breathes alone for a moment reacting in a way that only he could.

He goes to the bathroom to wash his hands before thinking about what he's going to say to his grandfather.

Jigoro will have a bitter taste in his mouth when he hears the news but with luck and a little help things can get better.

Now... Zenitsu is not going to lie about the two of them or hide his feelings anymore.

When Grandpa walks through that door he will hear what Zenitsu really has in his heart.

While the blood runs through the sink the ideas flow like the water coming out of the tap.

Zenitsu Agatsuma is in love, he loves Kaigaku above any danger and this is a reminder that will keep in his mind along with the luck of having come out unscathed.

Zenitsu will be by his side as long as necessary because when Kaigaku wakes up the first thing he should feel is one of his kisses on his skin, because Zenitsu will be there when those blue eyes open again.

THE END.