It was a Monday. I dragged myself out of bed(or futon), got dressed, and trudged my way to school.
And then I got there. The classroom was still quiet, and I was already dreading the noise that would come with the arrival of Kaho.
“Good morning, everyone!!”
There she was. Kaho. The one person who could ruin my entire morning with just one word.
I didn’t even look up from my book. I just knew she was bouncing around, greeting everyone with that irritating cheerfulness of hers. She was so... loud. And bright. So damn cute. Why does she have to be so loud? Why does she have to be so distracting?
“Morning, Saa-chan!”
I didn’t even respond right away. I just stared at the page in front of me, trying to pretend she didn’t exist. Of course, she stood right next to my desk, expecting a reply. So I muttered a “Morning,” barely audible, hoping it would be enough. I didn’t want to deal with her.
The class started bustling with greetings. Everyone gathered around her, congratulating her on her birthday. I could feel the tension in my shoulders. I was trying so hard not to look at her. It wasn’t working. My eyes kept darting over to where she stood, laughing with the others.
Stop it, Satsuki. Focus. It’s just a birthday. Who cares?
I kept reading, but my mind kept wandering back to her. The way she smiled, the way her eyes sparkled, how she was so... unbothered by everything. How everyone adored her. It made me feel... weird. And not the good kind of weird. The kind of weird that made my heart beat too fast for my liking.
“Happy birthday, Kaho!” I heard the class cheer. She thanked everyone, of course, with her high-pitched, overly excited voice. And I, being the stoic person I am, kept my gaze fixed on my book, trying to tune out everything else.
But it was hard. Damn hard.
“Happy birthday, Kaho!” Mai shouted again from the front. The noise was starting to get overwhelming.
I sighed internally, already wishing the day would go by faster.
The bell rang, and the day went on. Everyone was still talking about Kaho’s birthday. I didn’t care. Or at least, I was supposed to not care.
I was still pretending to be absorbed in my book when Kaho came over again.
“Oi, Saa-chan! Heyya!!i!” she greeted me with that big, bright smile of hers, the one that always made my stomach flip.
“...Yes?” I said, my voice as monotone as possible. I couldn’t let her know she was affecting me. I didn’t want her to get any ideas.
“You okay? You look a little... serious today,” she said, her voice full of concern.
I almost choked on my words. What was she saying? Was she... noticing me?
“I'm fine,” I muttered quickly, hoping she’d just drop it.
But no. She didn’t. She gave me a huge smile, her eyes shining with excitement. “Good! I'm happy you’re okay, Saa-chan!”
I nodded and buried my face back in my book, hoping she’d leave me alone.
She didn’t.
By the time lunch came around, I was already exhausted from trying to block her out. The moment Kaho sat down at the table with the others, I did my best to focus on the conversation happening, trying not to look at her.
But of course, that was when she looked at me and waved.
“Hey, Saa-chan, how’s the book?” she asked, grinning.
I looked up for a second, trying to keep my cool. “It’s fine.”
“Mm, you should totally read something fun for once!” she said with a giggle. “Like, a romance novel or something! You’d probably enjoy it!”
I felt my face heat up at the thought of reading something like that. What’s wrong with me? Why am I so affected by this?
But I didn’t show any of that on my face. I just shrugged. “I’m good with philosophy.”
“You’re so serious!” Kaho laughed. “You need to have more fun!”
I didn’t reply, letting the conversation drift off as I returned to my book.
But my mind wasn’t on the book anymore. It was on her. On Kaho.
It was one of those moments where I just wanted to be left alone. It had started out as an innocent enough conversation about Kaho’s birthday, but now it had turned into something far more... awkward.
I was sitting at the lunch table with Mai, Ajisai, and Renako, trying to focus on the meal in front of me. But their eyes... their eyes kept drifting to me, and it was becoming increasingly uncomfortable.
“Hey, Satsuki,” Mai started, her voice light and teasing, “Have you thought about what to get Kaho for her birthday?”
I looked up briefly, but the look on their faces made my stomach twist. Why were they staring at me like that? Was there something on my face? My hand instinctively went to my cheek, brushing over it, but nothing felt out of place.
Still, I couldn’t shake the feeling that they were waiting for something from me.
“Uh... I’m not really sure. I don’t really do presents, you know?” I muttered, trying to sound indifferent, but I could already feel the blush creeping up my neck.
Renako raised an eyebrow at me. “That’s not really like you, Satsuki-san. You always think so carefully about everything. So... what’s the deal?”
I didn’t answer immediately. I didn’t know how to. I didn’t want to tell them that getting a present for Kaho felt... difficult. Because it wasn’t just any birthday. It was Kaho’s.
And for some strange reason, the idea of giving her something felt... too personal. Too exposed.
Ajisai, who had been quiet up until now, gave me a gentle smile. “You don’t have to buy anything extravagant, Satsuki. Just something from the heart.”
I looked at her, and for a moment, I almost felt like she understood. That was the thing about Ajisai. She always had this calm, serene way of making everything feel like it could be handled with grace.
But then Mai piped up again, breaking my momentary calm.
“You know...” she began, her voice casual, but there was something in her tone that made my heart race. “A certain someone would make a really good gift.”
I froze.
My gaze snapped to Mai, and then to Renako and Ajisai, both of them wearing the same sly expressions. The three of them were looking at me, their eyes filled with something I couldn’t quite place.
“What are you talking about?” I asked, my voice coming out sharper than I meant it to.
Mai’s grin widened, her lips curling into something I could only describe as mischievous. “Oh, come on, Satsuki. We all know what Kaho really wants for her birthday.”
I felt my face heat up. What did they mean? Why were they looking at me like that?
I blinked, trying to keep my composure, but my mind was already spinning. Could it be... No, no way. They couldn’t possibly—
“Really, Satsuki. You’re her girlfriend,” Ajisai said with a teasing smile, clearly amused by my reaction. “I think we all know what would make her happiest.”
I could feel the heat creeping up my neck now, turning my whole face red. “What’s that supposed to mean?” I managed to ask, but I already knew.
Renako folded her arms and leaned back in her chair. “Mai’s right. I think Kaho would really appreciate having you as her birthday present.”
I froze. Oh no.
“Wha—what do you mean?” I asked, my voice a bit more breathless than I intended. I could feel the nervousness in my chest rising, twisting into something almost unbearable.
I didn’t know how to react. How did they expect me to react to something like that? They were all staring at me like I was some... prize to be given away.
But then Mai leaned in, her voice lowering to a more teasing tone. “It’s true, though. Kaho’s always been so... all over you. Maybe you don’t realize it, but... she’s crazy about you, Satsuki. You are her gift.”
I couldn’t look at any of them anymore. I could feel my hands trembling. I squeezed them under the table, trying to calm myself down.
“I— I’m not just her gift.” I said, my words barely coming out.
But even as I said it, I wasn’t sure I believed it. Kaho had always been so open with her affection toward me, so genuine in everything she did. Was she really all that crazy about me?
They all laughed softly, their teasing glances and knowing smiles only making my anxiety grow.
I didn’t know what to say, so I just muttered something incoherent under my breath, my face burning with embarrassment. Why couldn’t they just leave it alone?
Mai’s eyes softened, and she leaned back, seeming to ease up on the teasing for a moment. “It’s fine, Satsuki. We’re just messing with you. But seriously, you should know... Kaho’s been a little... obvious.”
I turned my eyes to the table, trying to escape the conversation. “I don’t need you guys to point it out,” I muttered.
“Don’t worry,” Ajisai added with a smile, “we’ll figure out something special for her. You just do what feels right.”
But my mind was still racing. I couldn’t think straight. I wanted to forget this entire conversation, to go back to pretending like I didn’t care. But deep down, I knew something had changed.
I knew I cared about Kaho, more than I’d ever allowed myself to admit.
And now, with Mai, Renako, and Ajisai all giving me that knowing look, it was hard to ignore it anymore.
I wasn’t just her girlfriend.
I was her gift. And maybe that was the best present I could give her.
As if on cue, my head snapped up from the table, my thoughts still scattered, when a sudden burst of energy entered the room.
"Heeyyyyyaaaa!" Kaho’s voice rang out, loud and cheery as ever.
I blinked, slightly startled. Of course, it was her. Who else could have made an entrance like that?
She appeared in the doorway of the classroom, her usual carefree smile stretching from ear to ear. With a quick look around the room, she practically bounced over to us, like a little ball of sunshine rolling toward a storm cloud.
I hadn’t realized how tense my shoulders were until I felt the weight leave them at the sight of her. I almost sighed in relief, almost. But I kept my face neutral, as usual.
“Good morning, everyone! What’s up, Saa-chan? You look like you’re in deep thought!” Kaho practically skipped over to me, her eyes wide and sparkling. She stopped right next to me, giving me a little nudge with her elbow. “What are you thinking about?”
I didn’t miss the way the others exchanged glances, probably enjoying the way Kaho seemed completely oblivious to the fact that we’d just been talking about her.
I was still a little flustered from the conversation before, but Kaho’s presence always had this strange way of calming my nerves. Even if she did tend to make everything a little... chaotic.
“Nothing important,” I said, voice even and calm, the words flowing almost automatically. "Just... thinking about a book."
Kaho’s grin didn’t waver. “Ooooh, a book, huh? Well, don’t mind me! Just wanted to say good morning to my favorite girlfriend!” She leaned down a little too dramatically and planted a kiss on the top of my head, right in front of everyone, causing me to stiffen. My cheeks flushed instantly, but I couldn’t hide the small, involuntary smile that tugged at my lips.
I immediately glanced down at my book, pretending to focus on the words, though they were no longer in focus at all.
“Good morning, Kaho,” I managed to say, keeping my voice even as I felt a rush of warmth spread across my face. Damn her...
The others chuckled as if they knew exactly what had just happened.
“You two are so adorable,” Ajisai remarked softly, her smile warm as she looked at the two of us. She seemed more relaxed than usual, like she had accepted the quiet tenderness we shared.
Mai raised an eyebrow, a sly smirk on her lips. “Yeah, well, if you don’t mind, Satsuki... you’re definitely making a great gift for Kaho, huh?”
I groaned internally, but Kaho didn’t even blink. She just laughed, a light, carefree sound. “You guys are so weird. Are you still talking about that?” She turned to look at us all, eyes wide with mock surprise. “I don’t need gifts! I’m just happy to be here with you all. Especially with my favorite person.” She reached out to ruffle my hair, making me wince in mild irritation.
I let out a long, slow sigh, but even that couldn't hide the slight smile that tugged at my lips.
“Yeah, yeah,” Mai muttered, leaning back in her chair. “But it’s obvious that Satsuki is the gift.”
I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks again, but I refused to let them get the better of me. “Stop it,” I muttered under my breath, keeping my voice steady. “We’re just... fine.”
Kaho, of course, wasn’t having any of it. She gave me another playful, mischievous look. “Fine, huh? Well, if we’re ‘fine,’ then I guess I’ll just have to make sure you feel extra special today, Saa-chan” She winked at me, eyes sparkling with a teasing glint. “And I’ll make it even better later, I promise.”
I froze for a moment, my heart jumping unexpectedly at her words. Later? What does that mean?
Before I could say anything, Kaho plopped down next to me, bumping my shoulder in a friendly, casual way. The others, noticing her sudden shift, exchanged quiet looks. They were all grinning like fools.
“It’s her birthday, and she’s already making everything about me,” I said under my breath, but even I could hear the fondness creeping into my voice.
“Exactly,” Kaho grinned, completely oblivious to how hard I was trying not to give her an embarrassed look. “And I’ll make sure you get all the attention you deserve later, too. You’re my favorite person, Saa-chan. You know that, right?”
I didn’t trust myself to respond, so I just nodded, my stomach flipping with an emotion I wasn’t ready to acknowledge.
Kaho was never subtle with her feelings, and I hated how easily she made me feel like I was the only one in the world. I couldn’t let my guard down, not when she made it so easy for me to fall.
But in the end, I didn’t mind.
Not at all.
The conversation shifted, and I could feel the atmosphere around the table change as the others chatted about their plans for the rest of the day. My gaze flickered toward Kaho, who was happily chatting with Mai and Ajisai, laughing along as if nothing was wrong. But I couldn’t focus on what they were saying. All I could hear in the back of my mind was the constant reminder that I had... Completely forgotten about her birthday.
I felt a knot tighten in my stomach. My thoughts turned inward, spiraling. How could I forget?
It was supposed to be special, but here I was, empty-handed. The others had gotten Kaho thoughtful gifts, things she had probably mentioned wanting, things that would make her happy. And I? I had nothing to offer. The guilt weighed heavy on my chest, a sharp reminder that I had failed. I hadn’t even thought about it. It wasn’t like I didn’t care—of course. I cared. But my mind had been so preoccupied with everything else that I hadn’t even realized the day had come.
I glanced at Kaho again. She was so carefree, so full of life. How could she possibly love someone like me, someone who forgot the most important day of the year? I swallowed hard, trying to push the guilt down, but it only seemed to grow stronger. I should’ve remembered. I should’ve been more considerate.
I looked down at my hands, fiddling with the edge of my sleeve, trying to avoid anyone’s gaze. My thoughts were muddled, and the more I tried to push them aside, the more they consumed me. I wanted to pull Kaho aside and apologize, tell her how stupid I felt, but I knew if I said anything, I’d only make it worse. She doesn’t need to know that I forgot...
“I’m sorry, Kaho,” I muttered quietly under my breath, the words barely audible.
“Hey, Saa-chan, you okay?” I was snapped out of my thoughts by Renako’s voice, her tone filled with concern. She was looking at me with a furrowed brow, clearly noticing my sudden shift in mood.
I quickly put on a mask, pretending everything was fine. “Yeah, just... tired,” I lied, forcing a small smile. I felt a pang of guilt for deceiving them, but I couldn’t bring myself to explain.
Kaho, oblivious as usual, turned toward me with a bright, happy smile. “What’s wrong, Saa-chan? You look a little out of it!” She reached over, lightly poking my arm with her finger. I looked up at her, meeting her warm, golden. She was so innocent, so full of energy, and yet I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was somehow letting her down.
I hesitated for a moment, not sure what to say. Should I tell her the truth? Should I admit that I had completely forgotten her birthday? I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, the guilt weighing heavier with each passing second.
Kaho didn’t seem to notice the storm raging in my mind. She gave me a teasing grin. “Come on, don’t tell me you’re jealous of my presents already.”
It was almost like a punch to the gut. The teasing was lighthearted, but the fact that I hadn’t even thought about giving her anything... it stung. I forced another smile, trying to hide the embarrassment creeping up my neck. “Of course not. Just... thinking.”
“Thinking about me, huh?” She raised an eyebrow, her smile turning into a playful smirk.
“Something like that,” I muttered, looking away, my thoughts scattered.
But as the conversation continued around me, I felt myself sinking further into my own little bubble of self-doubt. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was the only one who hadn’t put any thought into this day. And all the while, Kaho remained so oblivious, so sweet and caring, as if everything was normal.
I didn’t deserve her.
I just needed to make it right. But how?
I tried to focus on the conversation again, but the guilt gnawed at me, a persistent, suffocating feeling. My mind was stuck, and no matter how many times I tried to push it away, it only seemed to pull me deeper into that uncomfortable pit of self-loathing.
And then, suddenly, I felt it. A light tap on my shoulder, pulling me out of my spiraling thoughts.
I turned, startled, only to find Kaho standing there, her expression unusually soft, a little more serious than usual. Her warm brown eyes met mine, and she gave me a small, concerned smile.
“Hey, Saa-chan” Kaho said softly, her voice filled with a quiet kindness that made my stomach twist even further. “You’ve been really quiet today... you’re sure everything’s okay?”
I swallowed hard, my throat tightening. The concern in her voice only made me feel worse, like I was failing her even more. She was so sweet, so pure, and I—i—was the one who had messed up.
“I’m fine,” I muttered quickly, not meeting her eyes. “Just... a little tired.”
Kaho didn’t seem convinced. She stepped closer, her gaze searching my face, trying to read me like she always did. “You’re lying,” she said gently, but there was no accusation in her voice. Just... Understanding.
I bit my lip, feeling the guilt surging back up. How could I hide it any longer? The pressure built in my chest, and before I could stop myself, the words came tumbling out, barely above a whisper.
“I... I forgot,” I muttered, my eyes fixed firmly on the table in front of me, afraid to look up at her. “I didn’t get you a present... I completely forgot it was your birthday.”
The silence that followed was suffocating, and I couldn’t bring myself to lift my gaze. I could feel the heat creeping up my neck, my face burning with embarrassment.
There was a long pause before Kaho spoke, her voice soft, but I could hear the sincerity in it. “Saa-chan,” she started, her tone almost too gentle, as if she were treading carefully around my feelings, “I don’t need a present from you to know that you care. You don’t have to buy me anything. I... I’m just happy to have you with me.”
I wanted to say something, to apologize, to make it right somehow, but my throat was too tight. Instead, I just nodded, my fingers curling into the fabric of my sleeve, trying to calm the rush of emotions that threatened to overwhelm me.
But Kaho wasn’t done. She reached over, gently placing her hand on mine, a soft gesture that felt like it melted away the coldness I’d been carrying inside. Her touch was comforting, reassuring, and I couldn’t help but look up at her. Her smile was warm, understanding. No judgment.
“You know,” she said, her voice light but laced with affection, “you’re my present every day, Saa-chan. I don’t need anything else.”
The warmth in her words made my heart ache in the best way. It was so simple, but it meant everything to me. Kaho didn’t care about the material things. She cared about me, about us. She had been content just being with me.
I felt a lump in my throat, but this time it was different. It wasn’t guilt; it was... relief, mixed with something deeper. I didn’t need to buy her a gift to show her how much I cared. I just had to be here.
“Thank you,” I whispered, my voice barely audible, but it was filled with sincerity.
Kaho squeezed my hand gently. “You don’t have to thank me. I just want you to know that it’s okay.”
I exhaled, feeling the weight on my chest lift a little. “I’m sorry,” I added, my voice soft, full of guilt I couldn’t quite shake.
“Stop apologizing,” Kaho said with a small laugh. “It’s my birthday, remember? You’re already making it special just by being here with me.”
I couldn’t help but smile at that, my heart swelling. She was always so considerate, always so understanding, even when I was an emotional mess.
I reached out, pulling her into a quick hug. She didn’t hesitate, wrapping her arms around me in return. Her warmth seeped into me, and for a moment, everything felt right again.
As we pulled away, Kaho gave me that mischievous grin of hers. “Now, about that birthday kiss you owe me...”
I couldn’t help but laugh softly, shaking my head. “You really don’t let me off easy, do you?”
Kaho just winked. “Not when it comes to you.”
I felt a flutter in my chest at that, but I didn’t resist when she leaned in, her lips brushing mine in a soft, sweet kiss. It wasn’t anything grand or over-the-top. It was simple, but in that moment, it was everything.
As we pulled back, Kaho’s eyes softened, and she smiled up at me, that same light in her eyes that always made my heart skip a beat.
“I love you, Saa-chan.” She murmured, her voice full of warmth.
My heart stopped for a moment, and I found myself grinning, my own feelings finally matching the ones I’d kept buried for so long.
“I love you too, Kaho.”
The air felt lighter after Kaho kissed me. It wasn’t anything fancy, just a soft brush of lips and her usual bright giggle afterward, but somehow, it settled everything inside me. Like she’d hit a reset button on my system. The ache of guilt was still there, faintly, but her warmth dulled it, made it easier to carry.
She leaned into my side now, humming as if she didn’t just knock the air out of my lungs earlier with three simple words. Her arm was linked with mine, and I could feel how happy she was just by the way she swayed slightly, as if there was a melody only she could hear.
And then—
“Awwwwww,” a voice cooed behind us, far too dramatically.
I didn’t even need to turn around. That level of theatrical affection could only belong to one person.
“Mai,” I muttered without looking. “If you say one more word, I’m walking into traffic.”
Kaho just giggled again, delighted.
Behind us, Mai twirled like she was on a stage, one arm wrapped around Renako’s shoulders. “What? I’m just admiring true love in its purest form,” she said. “I mean, look at them! They’re adorable. Like a black cat that only tolerates one person.”
I ignored her. As usual.
Renako sighed, trying to pry Mai’s arm off. “Stop clinging to me in public,” she muttered, cheeks tinged pink.
“Oh, don’t be like that,” Mai grinned, leaning in so their faces were just inches apart. “You love when I cling. You’d miss me if I stopped.”
“No, I really wouldn’t.”
Ajisai’s soft giggle floated beside them. She stood a step behind. “You two are too much,” she said between chuckles.
I glanced at Kaho. She was watching them too, with that same soft sparkle in her eyes. As if watching the three like this made her inexplicably happy. I didn’t really get it, but... I guess it was kind of nice.
Then Mai turned her attention to Ajisai, eyes twinkling. “By the way, Ajisai,” she began, “you’re radiant today. Like always.”
Ajisai blinked, surprised. “Omigosh! Thank you!”
“And your voice? It could tame dragons.”
Ajisai laughed again, the sound light and sincere, like water trickling down a stream. “Aww stopp!” she said, flustered but pleased.
Kaho looked between them and whispered to me, “They look like a perfect couple sometimes, don’t they?”
I glanced at the three of them again. Renako grumbling, Ajisai smiling like sunlight, and Mai... well, Mai being Mai.
“…They’re some kind of disaster,” I said flatly. “But I guess it works.”
Kaho laughed again and gently nudged my side with her elbow. “You think we’re a disaster too?”
“…I think I’m the disaster.”
“You’re my disaster.”
I tried not to smile, but I was failing miserably. Her face was too close. Her voice was too sweet. It was like being in the presence of someone who had sunshine stuffed in their pockets and insisted on sprinkling it over you whether you liked it or not.
She was still watching the other three when she leaned her head against my shoulder. “I’m really happy today,” she murmured.
“…I didn’t even give you a present,” I said, barely above a whisper.
“You did.” She turned and looked at me, her face calm and serious now. “You stayed.”
And just like that, my whole system short-circuited again.
Before I could think of a response that didn’t involve me crashing into the floor from emotional overload, Mai’s voice rang out again from the side.
“By the way,” she said loudly, “if any of you think this is where the day ends, you’re wrong! We still have cake later. And I’m paying.”
“Like hell you are,” I muttered.
“No one asked for your opinion, Satsuki~”
I sighed. Kaho just laughed again.
But I didn’t care about Mai being insufferable. Or the fact that the three of them flirted so casually, like it was a second language. Right now, Kaho was holding onto me, her laughter was soft and genuine, and I could feel her happiness radiating off her like heat in the sun.
And if she was happy, then maybe, just maybe. I'd done something right.
Later, after the sun dipped low and the cake had been eaten (a disgustingly pink strawberry one, obviously picked by Renako and Kaho), the group started to peel off one by one. Renako said she had to go help her sister with something. Mai dramatically cried about her “lover abandoning her,” and Ajisai simply patted her arm with a soft “there, there” and dragged her inside Mai's luxury(ew) car before she starts serenading in public.
That left me and Kaho.
Just the two of us.
She was walking ahead, a few steps in front, twirling a little under the golden streetlights like she was in a music video. Her jacket sleeves were too long again. Her hair bounced with every step. Her shadow danced on the pavement.
I watched her and thought, God, she’s so annoying.
So loud. So bright. So... not like me.
And yet.
She stopped walking and turned around, grinning like she had the moon hidden in her pocket.
“Well?” she said, rocking back on her heels. “Aren’t you gonna walk me home like the good girlfriend you secretly are?”
“I never agreed to that.”
“You didn’t have to.” She grinned wider, her eyes sparkling like she knew I would. “C’mon, stoic princess. Time to act like a romcom lead.”
I sighed, but I followed her anyway.
As we walked side by side in the dim quiet, something inside me settled. The city was softer at night. Less overwhelming. Just us and the sound of our shoes on the sidewalk.
“Did you have fun today?” I asked, surprising even myself.
Kaho turned to me. “Yup! Best birthday ever.”
I glanced away. “Even though I didn’t get you anything?”
She was quiet for a second. Then she said, “You stayed with me all day. That’s way better than a present.”
I hated how warm that made me feel.
The house smelled faintly of vanilla and strawberries. It wasn’t overpowering, just enough to be nostalgic, like the scent of sweets in an old patisserie. Kaho twirled into the foyer, her oversized cardigan slipping off one shoulder as she spun, humming some tune I didn’t recognize. Her cyan hair glimmered under the hallway lights, almost glowing in the evening dim, and the tiny fang she always had peeking out made her smile even more ridiculous.
“This way, Saa-chan~” she sang, beckoning me with a grin that felt entirely too proud.
I sighed, dragging my overnight bag with me. “Stop calling me that.”
“Nope~ You’re my Saa-chan forever.” She winked. “Even when you’re grumpy and scary and sexy in a terrifying way.”
I walked past her with a deadpan expression, hoping my burning ears weren’t too obvious. “You talk too much.”
“You love it.”
She wasn’t wrong, and I hated that.
Her room was exactly what I expected and somehow worse. One wall was plastered with posters of anime characters, and several mannequins were draped with half-finished cosplay outfits. Ribbons, wigs, fabric scraps, looked like a colorful explosion of chaos and glitter. There was a whole section of her closet dedicated to costumes, organized by theme.
I stood there for a moment, staring. “You live like this?”
Kaho dropped onto her bed and stretched like a satisfied cat. “It’s artistic clutter. My creativity thrives here.”
“It’s a fire hazard.”
“It’s personality, Saa-chan.”
I muttered something under my breath and sat down on the floor, crossing my legs. My eyes scanned her desk, where sewing materials lay next to a half-painted prop weapon. It was a mess, but somehow... it suited her.
She rolled over on her bed, resting her chin on her arms to look at me. “So. Still feeling guilty?”
My fingers tightened around the hem of my sweater. I didn’t respond.
“I noticed, y’know,” she continued, voice soft now. “You kept looking away when the others gave me presents. You wouldn’t meet my eyes.”
“I forgot,” I said, voice low. “I forgot your birthday.”
Kaho tilted her head. “Okay. And?”
“That’s it,” I replied, sharp and quiet. “I forgot. You’re my girlfriend, and I forgot.”
There was a pause. I didn’t look up, I didn’t want to see her expression.
Then I felt the bed shift.
Her arms wrapped around me from behind, her chin resting on my shoulder. “You were with me the whole day,” she whispered. “You stood beside me even when the others were teasing. You let me hug you in public. You even smiled when I blew out the candles. Do you really think I care about presents when I had all that?”
I stared at her hand where it rested on mine. Her fingers were smaller, delicate, but they held me with a gentle stubbornness that refused to let go.
“I care,” I admitted.
“I know,” she whispered. “That’s why it doesn’t matter.”
She pulled away only to plop down next to me on the floor, kicking her legs like a kid. “You know... if you really feel that bad, you could always cosplay with me.”
My head snapped toward her. “Absolutely not.”
“C’mon, Saa-chan! You’d make such a hot villain. Or—wait! You could be the scary hot teacher from that one manga—”
“No.”
She leaned in, eyes glinting with mischief. “I’ll make puppy eyes.”
“I’ll leave.”
“I’ll cry.”
“You won’t.”
“I’ll kiss you.”
I went completely still.
She paused. “Wait, that sounded like a threat—”
But before she could finish the sentence, I leaned in and kissed her. Just a brief brush against her lips, lingering, and so painfully vulnerable it left my chest aching. When I pulled back, her eyes were wide and golden and stunned.
“I’ll cosplay,” I murmured, voice low. “But only for you. And only once.”
Kaho blinked. Then she let out a quiet, airy giggle, the kind that made my heart feel too small in my chest. Her hand found mine again, and she squeezed.
“Happy birthday to me,” she whispered, curling up beside me.
I looked at her then, looked. At her messy bangs, at the fang she was trying to hide behind her lips, at the cyan strands tangled around her cheek. And for once, I didn’t fight the warmth crawling up my spine. I didn’t crush it under logic or push it down with silence.
I simply held her hand back, and let myself stay.
Because Kaho was loud and messy and insufferably cheerul, but she was mine.
And I was hers.
Even if I’d never say it out loud. God, i sound like a freak.
The room felt warmer now, the soft hum of night filling the space. Kaho had stripped off her cardigan and was now sitting cross-legged on the bed, bouncing slightly as if she was about to burst with energy. Her eyes glowed in that particular mischievous way I knew all too well.
“So,” she said casually, her voice light but tinged with intent, “You said you’d cosplay with me.” She leaned forward, her golden eyes wide with fake innocence. “So... when's it happening?”
I groaned inwardly. “Not tonight, Kaho. It’s late.”
Her smile dropped for a split second before the familiar glint returned. “I’ll go easy on you,” she said, her lips curling upwards. “Just one cosplay. You don’t even have to wear the full outfit. Maybe just the wig? The cloak? I’ll be gentle.”
I let out a sigh, dropping my head into my hands. “Not happening. Stop asking.”
“No,” Kaho persisted, crawling toward me. “It’s your turn! I’ve cosplayed for you, like, a hundred times already! Please, Saa-chan, just once. You’d be so cute!”
I was already shaking my head, fully prepared to stand my ground. “I’m not doing it. It’s embarrassing.”
She pouted. “But Saa-chan, you’re so tall and perfect! You’d look incredible as a villain! I already have the perfect outfit picked out for you. I even have a wig—”
“No.” My voice was firm, but I could feel the blush creeping up my neck, knowing she wasn’t giving up so easily. She always wanted me to give in.
“Please,” she begged, inching closer until she was practically on top of me, her breath warm against my cheek. “Just one cosplay. For me?”
“I’m not doing it, Kaho,” I said again, my tone softer this time but still resolute.
The room grew eerily quiet for a moment. Then, without warning, Kaho launched herself at me, pressing her lips against my cheek in a flurry of kisses. “Please, Saa-chan! Just one! Just one cosplay, and I’ll be good!”
I froze, the rush of her lips against my skin sending a strange heat coursing through me. Her kisses were playful, almost too sweet, and I fought the urge to melt into her. This was Kaho, always getting what she wanted with that ridiculous charm of hers.
But I stayed still, my expression neutral.
“No.”
Kaho’s face fell. She slumped back dramatically on the bed, throwing her arms over her face in mock despair. “I can’t believe this. This is the third time you’ve refused me! What is wrong with you? Why won’t you cosplay with me?!”
“Because I don’t want to,” I muttered, crossing my arms over my chest, refusing to let the smile tug at the corner of my lips.
“You’re horrible! Horrible, I tell you!” Kaho shrieked, her voice laced with exaggerated drama. “I’m literally begging you to cosplay, and you won’t! Why do I even bother? I should just throw my cosplay stuff out the window!”
I couldn’t hold back any longer. My lips twitched, and I let out a quiet laugh. Kaho caught it immediately, her head snapping up to meet my gaze.
“Don’t you dare laugh at me!” she hissed, her pout deepening, but even through the annoyance, I saw the glimmer of amusement in her eyes. “You’re just... you’re so frustrating!”
I leaned back against the bedframe, looking down at her with an unreadable expression. “I’m frustrating?”
“Yes! You’re so difficult! I love you, but you’re impossible!” Kaho huffed, crossing her arms dramatically. “I’m not asking for much! Just one cosplay... ONE!”
“Maybe another time,” I said, the teasing undertone creeping back into my voice. “But not tonight.”
Kaho groaned, falling back onto the bed in frustration. “Fine. Be that way. I’ll just have to find another way to make you cosplay. You can’t avoid me forever!”
I smirked, knowing that her “other ways” were usually much more... persistent.
But then, just as quickly as her dramatic tirade had started, she rolled over and buried her fa
ce in her pillow, her body still trembling with faux indignation. “But seriously, Saa-chan... you really would look cute in a cosplay.”
I sighed softly, my heart catching in my chest despite myself. “You’re ridiculous.”
“I know,” she mumbled from the pillow, sounding surprisingly satisfied with her chaos. “But you still love me.”
I didn’t respond immediately, instead choosing to run a hand through my hair, quietly processing her words.
“Yeah,” I said after a moment. “I do.”
Her head popped up from the pillow, her golden eyes bright and full of that irresistible spark. “See? I knew it. You love me.”
I couldn’t help the smile that spread across my face, even though I tried to hide it behind a mask of indifference.
“Maybe,” I muttered. “But that doesn’t mean you’re getting me into a cosplay tonight.”
She pouted again but then giggled softly. “You’re the worst. But I guess that’s why I love you too.”
I let out a breath, letting the warmth of the moment settle in. There was a kind of peace in knowing that no matter how much she drove me crazy, I’d always be here, in cosplay, in silence, or just like this.
“Yeah,” I said again, quietly this time, as Kaho curled up beside me. “You really are the worst.”
But that didn’t stop me from wrapping an arm around her and pulling her close. Despite everything, despite the chaos, despite her impossible obsession with costumes... There was no one else I’d rather be with.
—
The night had deepened around us, the only light coming from the soft glow of the bedside lamp that tinted everything with gentle shadows. I had barely recovered from the earlier awkwardness when Kaho’s energy returned with renewed force. Out of nowhere, she began peppering me with a rapid volley of kisses, each one catching me off guard and sending my heart lurching in my chest. I tried to protest, my voice a mixture of disbelief and exasperation, “What are you doing?” But even as the words left my mouth, Kaho’s playful grin widened, as if she relished every second of my feigned indignation.
Before I could muster a proper retort, Kaho’s exuberance escalated. With a wild, girlish energy, she swept me off my feet and pushed me onto the bed. I landed on my back with a surprised gasp as she clambered over me, her bright cyan hair spilling like a silken waterfall over her shoulders. I stared up at her, momentarily frozen in disbelief. “What are you—?” I began, but she silenced me with a kiss pressed firmly on my lips.
Her kiss was as unrestrained as it was fervent—commanding yet tender in a way that left me weak at the knees. I felt a dizzying warmth seep through my entire being as she held my trembling fingers in her own, intertwining them as if to bind our fates together. Then, as if the thrill of the moment demanded more, Kaho deepened the kiss, her tongue joining in a slow, explorative dance that made my breath catch. I could hardly register my own moans as her lips moved against mine with an urgency that both startled and thrilled me.
My heart pounded in my ears as Kaho shifted her attention to the sensitive skin of my neck. Without pausing, she trailed a line of soft kisses along the curve of my collarbone, her tongue teasing lightly. I let out a surprised little yelp, sound muffled and frantic, which only spurred her on. Emboldened, she pressed her mouth down onto my neck, kissing with an intensity that made my pulse race. Her tongue traced a deliberate path, and then, in a moment that bordered between sweet caress and deliberate torment, she bit gently but with a determined, almost wild insistence, leaving a delicate mark of affection that sent a shock of sensation along my skin. I felt a sting that mingled with pleasure, a delicious, contradictory mix of pain and delight that made me gasp and arch against her touch.
For a long, heady moment, I was entirely at Kaho’s mercy, between the onslaught of passionate kisses and my own inability to fully comprehend how this cascade of affection could both embarrass and enrapture me. I bit my lip, trying desperately not to let out a sound that might betray my inner turmoil, but the intensity of Kaho’s advances left no room for measured restraint. With every kiss and every tender bite, I felt my resistance crumble further, until all that remained was a fragile surrender to the moment.
As the fervor subsided just enough for me to catch my breath, Kaho finally pulled back, her eyes alight with a mix of mischief and tenderness. “See, Saa-chan,” she whispered, her voice soft yet laden with unspoken promises, “you’re absolutely irresistible tonight.” Even as she spoke, a stray lock of her cyan hair brushed against my flushed skin, and I couldn’t help but let a small, almost shy smile play on my lips. Kaho stretched and yawned. “Huwaaa! Welp, Happy Birthday to me!"
I lay there, still reeling from the intensity of our encounter, my mind awhirl with sensations and emotions I’d long kept buried under my usual stoic exterior. In that moment, as Kaho’s hand gently caressed mine and the night enfolded us in a warm, cocooning embrace, I knew that despite every protest, despite every attempt to remain aloof, I was irrevocably, perhaps wonderfully, by her.
And in the quiet aftermath of our shared passion, as my heart slowed its frenetic pounding and our intertwined fingers spoke a silent promise, I couldn’t help but think: even if I never admit it aloud, a part of me is profoundly grateful for every kiss, every touch, every wild, unruly moment that Kaho brings into my life.
—
The night wore on in a quiet, gentle stillness, in which the chaos of earlier had finally dulled to a soft murmur. Kaho slept soundly beside me, her even breathing the only evidence that she remained, even as I lay awake in a storm of conflicting thoughts. Unable to shake the nagging need to inspect what Kaho had left on my skin, I carefully slipped out of bed, my footsteps silent on the cool wooden floor.
I made my way to the restroom, the door clicking softly behind me. In the mirror’s dim light, I turned on the fluorescent bulb and studied my reflection. My red eyes, normally so composed and unreadable, seemed almost haunted as I focused on the delicate mark that adorned the side of my neck. It was deep, pronounced than I had expected. I’d always prided myself on maintaining an air of controlled composure, but now that mark was a glaring reminder of Kaho’s passionate advances.
I leaned in closer, running a trembling finger lightly over the bitten skin. The sensation, now stinging and tender, sent a shiver down my spine. Was this how it was supposed to be? For a moment, I wondered if I could cover it up, with a bit of makeup or a scarf, then I recalled Kaho’s mischievous grin when she had bitten me so indiscriminately, so boldly. Of all places, of all times, she’d chosen this spot, a place I never imagined could be subjected to such wild affection. And the thought filled me with a conflicted mix of anger and undeniable desire.
My mind raced. I chastised myself silently, wondering if I was overreacting, if I should feel more gratitude for the passionate reminder of our connection. But beneath that rational thread, raw indignation bubbled, had she bit me there? I turned the light off and looked again, the red flush on my skin mirroring the heat of my emotions. Every time I recalled the sound of her laughter and the wild way she had pressed her lips against mine, I felt both exasperated and strangely elated.
For a long moment, I stood in front of the mirror, the solitude of the restroom making my thoughts even louder. I traced the outline of the mark with my finger, contemplating whether to cover it or let it stand as an indelible souvenir of her relentless affection. I didn’t know which option felt less like a betrayal: denying the memory by erasing its evidence or embracing it as proof of what we shared.
In that solitary silence, I realized something subtle but undeniable, a part of me didn't want to hide this mark at all. It was chaotic, it was raw, and it was wholly, unforgettably Kaho. Despite my outward brusqueness and the perpetual air of detachment I maintained, inside I was unraveling, piece by piece, beneath her unpredictable tenderness.
I exhaled slowly, deciding that maybe I would leave it be, least for now. Tonight, I wouldn’t worry about covering up this fierce reminder of our intimacy. For tonight, the mark on my neck would be a secret, held quietly under the cool glow of the restroom light. And when I returned to where Kaho slept, I’d carry it with me as both an insult and a kind of twisted, tender affirmation.
With one last lingering glance in the mirror, I stepped back into the room, my heart a tangled mix of reluctant guilt and hidden warmth. I knew there were more complications ahead, and more words I might never dare to speak, but for now, I allowed myself this small concession.
The door creaked softly as I was about to head back to Kaho's room. I was careful, trying to move quietly, but as I stepped into the dimly lit hallway, I noticed something unexpected.
Kaho was awake.
She was sitting up, leaning against the headboard, her golden eyes watching me intently, as if she’d known I’d be sneaking back in. I froze, caught off guard, my breath hitching for a moment. She was smiling that mischievous, knowing smile of hers, and the air between us thickened.
"Saa-chan," she cooed, her voice playful but with a hint of something more. "You know, you can’t run away from me forever."
I tried to hide the surprise on my face, but it must have shown because Kaho just giggled softly, swinging her legs over the side of the bed and hopping to her feet. "What were you doing?" she asked, a little too casually for my liking.
I frowned, trying to keep my composure. "Nothing," I muttered, feeling the heat rise in my face. I didn’t want to explain why I was inspecting my neck in the mirror, why I’d been trying to avoid facing her after what
she’d done. But, Kaho, of course, wasn’t going to let it slide
"Oh, you’re hiding something, aren’t you?" Kaho’s voice dropped an octave, her smile never leaving. "Let me guess... something about this?"
I followed her gaze. She was staring down at my neck, one spot I was hoping to keep hidden. The heat on my face flared up again as I instinctively reached up to cover it. But Kaho was already on me, her arms wrapped around me before I could react.
Her laughter was light and teasing, but I couldn’t help the frustrated sigh that left me. "You really are impossible," I muttered under my breath, trying to push her away gently. But Kaho just didn’t relent.
Without warning, she jumped on me, pushing me back onto the bed. I was caught off guard, not expecting the sudden shift in her energy. My mind went blank for a second, and before I could say anything, Kaho was straddling me, her face inches away from mine.
"Whoops," she said with an exaggerated pout, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "Looks like I’ve got you pinned."
I opened my mouth to retort, but before I could get a word out, Kaho pressed her lips to mine in one last, playful kiss. Then, she pulled back and grinned widely. "Best birthday ever," she said, almost breathlessly.
I was too stunned, too annoyed, to even respond.
The next morning came far too quickly. I found myself in front of the mirror again, now with Kaho standing beside me, looking at me with the kind of grin that screamed "I know what I did."
I stared at my reflection in disbelief. My neck, my shoulders, and even my thighs were covered in hickeys and bite marks(dont ask), each one a visible reminder of Kaho’s insatiable playfulness from the night before.
"Great," I muttered sarcastically, my voice heavy with frustration. "Just great."
I could feel the irritation bubbling inside me, threatening to spill over. How could she have gone this far? I didn’t even know what to say, was she really this reckless? And then, as I caught Kaho looking at me with an almost innocent look in her eyes, the anger surged, but I couldn’t stop it.
"You..." I started, but I was cut off as I caught her staring at my reaction, her face suddenly shifting into a worried smile.
"I guess I went a bit far," she said sheepishly, but that smile still remained, the one that made my resolve waver just a little.
I turned to her, glaring now. "You think?" I huffed, crossing my arms. "I’m gonna have to cover this up at school. People are gonna think I got mauled by an animal."
Kaho, always the one to playfully avoid my direct criticism, just grinned and tried to avoid eye contact.
I raised my hand slowly, my fingers twitching with the kind of discipline I intended to instill. I wasn’t about to hurt her, no, that wasn’t the point. But she had definitely pushed my limits.
Kaho’s face froze as she saw my hand rise, and despite the playful grin still on her lips, her eyes widened in alarm. She immediately took a step back, her voice cracking slightly as she raised her hands in defense. "W-wait, I’m sorry, I didn’t—"
I stopped and looked at her, fighting the urge to smile. The way she looked right now, all flustered and nervous, made me realize something. Despite how pissed off I was, I couldn’t stay mad for long.
I lowered my hand with a soft exhale, glaring at her, but it wasn’t as harsh as I meant it to be. She still had that goddamn grin on her face, and the thought of raising my hand at her, especially after everything, just felt... wrong.
"You really are impossible," I muttered again, though I knew my voice had softened, even if I didn’t want it to.
Kaho just stood there, her smile softening as she pulled me into a hug. "I’m sorry, Satsuki," she whispered into my ear. "I couldn’t help it... you’re just so cute when you’re mad."
And despite myself, I laughed.
And with that, I decided to let the night’s events go. For now.