First Date, First Flare

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The first date

The first date

The weekend came faster than Sanemi expected. He wasn't the type to get nervous about anything—tests, fights, rumors, nothing ever fazed him. But the thought of going on his first real date with Giyuu? His stomach was in knots.

He stood outside the train station, hands shoved deep in his pockets, trying to act like he didn't care. His leather jacket contrasted sharply against the crowd of students in casual clothes, but he figured that was fine—he wasn't about to change who he was.

Then he saw her.

Giyuu walked toward him, her dark hair flowing freely, wearing a simple pale-blue dress with a cardigan. She looked effortlessly beautiful, and Sanemi had to stop himself from staring too long.

"...You're late," he said automatically, trying to sound annoyed.

"I'm right on time," Giyuu replied calmly, glancing at the station clock. She gave him the faintest smile. "Nervous?"

"Tch, as if," Sanemi scoffed, though the tips of his ears betrayed him, turning red. "C'mon, let's go."

They ended up at a small café Giyuu liked, tucked away in a quiet side street. The atmosphere was calm, with soft music playing in the background. Sanemi shifted awkwardly in his seat across from her, tapping his fingers against the table.

"So... uh..." He cleared his throat. "Why'd you say yes? You could've picked anyone else."

Giyuu stirred her tea slowly, her eyes lifting to meet his. "Because... you're honest, even when you try to hide it. You act tough, but you're not as scary as you want people to think."

Sanemi blinked, stunned. "...You... really think that?"

She nodded, a small smirk playing at her lips. "Besides, you looked cute when you tripped in front of me."

Sanemi nearly choked on his drink. "Oi! Don't bring that up again—!" His face flushed crimson, and Giyuu let out a quiet laugh, enjoying his flustered reaction.

For the first time, Sanemi realized she wasn't just calm and distant—she had a sharp, teasing side that left him completely defenseless.

After their café stop, they walked home together. The streetlights flickered on, casting a warm glow over the quiet neighborhood. Sanemi shoved his hands back into his pockets, sneaking glances at her.

"...Hey," he muttered, finally breaking the silence. "Thanks. For saying yes."

Giyuu glanced at him, her expression softening. "...You're welcome."

They walked side by side, their shoulders brushing slightly. For Sanemi, it wasn't just a first date—it felt like the beginning of something he had been waiting for without even knowing it.