you weren’t planning on falling in love, but what happens when both Spider-Man and Michael Kaiser swing into your heart? now you’re left torn, caught between the two— Spider-Man or Michael Kaiser?
creds banner from pinterest , divider from @/strangergraphics !
lily ❦⋆ : dedicated to @mixolya °❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ for motivating me to complete this. ilyplsenjoy! 𝄞⨾𓍢ִ໋
not spoiler-free ! [ some manga spoilers ]
fluff / angst / mentions of blood and violence.
( using fem pronouns as it’s easier for me however feel free to imagine others )
status: completed 10-03-25
𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔯𝔱,
act 1 volume l
🕸️ 001 . hottie! underneath the mask
🕸️ 002 . please? no, MICHAEL KAISER!
🕸️ 003 . echoes! of the game
🕸️ 004 . fateful encounters
🕸️ 005 . caught! between the line
🕸️ 006 . between truths and lies
🕸️ 007 . shattered perceptions
🕸️ 008 . on the edge
🕸️ 009 . accidentally going viral over MICHAEL KAISER!
summary: you lived a perfectly ordinary life—until one day, you accidentally sent a love letter to RIN ITOSHI. everyone thought you had a crush on his older brother, when in reality, it was rin you were in love with all along.
inspired by Jenny Han’s ‘to all the boys i’ve loved before’.
# hand drawn dividers by @inklore
𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 ₗₒᵥₑ ₗₑₜₜₑᵣₛ 📨
💌 #one love letter mix-up.
💌 #two when the past comes running.
💌 #three nurse’s office.
💌 #four sae's younger brother.
💌 #five uncharted territory.
💌 #six coming home, in your arms, is the right place.
notes from lily ❦⋆ : fake dating with rin is what i didn’t know i needed .. hope you enjoy this mini-series! i wrote this because xokitty was trending on tiktok but i really enjoyed LJ’s story more 🥹💖 thank you for reading this til’ the end. <3
princess and the pauper ! satoru gojo x fem!reader
green divider by @hyuneskkami !! , @/loquatini on tiktok , blue lace divider by @cursed-carmine !
synopsis based on barbie’s princess & the pauper <3
main cast
princess anneliese as maki , julian as yuta ,
preminger as n*oya ,
erika, the doppelgänger as y/n. you !!! lastly king dominick as gojo satoru.
author’s note: not me dropping this & dipping again bye… i just thought of it while studying for my engineering exams ?! & it’s sooo unhealthy bcs i couldn’t concentrate until i got this done & over with. thank you & enjoy!!
wc 10k + warnings kidnapping, implementing of age gap romance, misogynistic views, naoya zenin.
reader is in her mid 20s, so as gojo being 28!! please don't comment on how unrealistic this is, it's fiction, of course anything is possible. inspired by my fav barbie movie ever. i wish i could have done this fic justice, it’s really just a wip :”) maybe in the future i will take this up again. enjoy!
the rising sun shone over glossy marble tiles like spring fire, catching on the golden banners that bore the zenin crest. even the summer berries glistened under its light, and the finest historic artifacts gleamed without a speck of dust upon them. the palace was beautiful, immaculate, impregnable, timeless.
and yet, within its small, isolated halls, loneliness lingered like a shadow.
servants bowed as princess maki strode past, her posture sharp and commanding. on the surface, she was every inch the perfect heir but her clenched jaw betrayed her thoughts.
“princess maki,” shoko ieiri, her longtime tutor and confidant, called gently from the doorway. “your mother is waiting. she is to talk to you about the meeting with king gojo tomorrow.”
maki scoffed, tugging off her gloves. “of course she is. why else would they throw me like some political bargaining chip? he’s twice my age for god’s sake!”
shoko arched a brow. “careful. walls have ears.”
maki wasn’t just royalty, she was zenin royalty. Which meant she carried not only the weight of a crown, but the shadow of a family legacy that valued power over people. a legacy already fractured by the absence of her sister.
mai zenin, the missing princess, had run away months ago. some whispered she’d eloped, others claimed preminger naoya had driven her out. all maki knew was that she had woken up one morning and her younger twin sister was gone, leaving behind nothing but her discarded crown on the nightstand.
and so the burden doubled. the preminger, together with her mother had made it clear: mai gone, maki must marry king gojo. unite two powerful houses. protect the zenin name.
her hands curled into fists. what about what i want?
as the sharp crack of wood against wood echoed through the courtyard below. maki’s eyes flicked to the window. there he was again. training when he didn’t have to. blade in hand, movements fluid, precise, almost too gentle for the strength they carried. he wasn’t like the arrogant zenin men who flaunted their techniques. his skill was quiet, deliberate, as if every strike was measured against something only he could see.
for a moment, maki let herself watch. the steady rhythm of his sparring matched the unspoken words she couldn’t bring herself to say. then she tore her gaze away. she couldn’t afford to.
meanwhile, in the bustling streets outside the palace walls, life was far less polished. the marketplace bustled with sounds of laughter and bargaining. a baker, his apron dusted with flour, tossed a warm roll to a child who chased a stray dog. “there you go, little one!” he boomed, a laugh rumbling in his chest. no one complained. they simply made do, sharing their scraps and laughter with a generosity that money couldn't buy.
you pushed through the throngs of people, your arms aching from the heavy laundry baskets. the cruel madam carp had you shackled to her, forcing you to work for the rest of your life to pay off your parents' debt. you resented her, but she was also your only refuge, the only one who had taken you in.
a familiar meow brought a smile to your face. wolfie, the scrawny stray you'd rescued and hidden, nudged your leg. he was lost and alone, much like you had been. "hi, baby. i’m busy right now. don’t let her see you!" you whispered.
suddenly, a voice like scraping stone shattered the moment. "Y/N! stop with that cat! finish those pile of clothes before i get back tomorrow. ta-ta!" madam carp cackled as she walked away. "have fun paying off your parents' debt, child."
you collapsed onto a nearby stool, and wolfie instantly curled into your lap, his purring a quiet comfort. you eyes lifted from your work, tracing the outline of the distant castle. only a single thought echoed in your mind: what would it be like to be a princess?
—
the last basket of laundry was done, and you let out a long sigh of relief. "we’re free, wolfie!" you squealed, scooping up your cat and swinging him in a playful arc. madam carp was out, and you had at least a half-hour to spare. plenty of time to perform. you slipped on your old coat, the one you'd stitched yourself the very first day of your indenture, and headed to the town square. performing was your only escape. seeing people smile and find comfort in your songs made you feel like more than just a pauper.
the crowd gathered as you strummed your guitar, singing a hopeful tune. soon, coins began clinking in your tin, each one a tiny victory against your debt. you were so lost in the music that you didn't notice the time until a cold shadow fell over you. "Y/N!" a voice shrieked. It was madam carp, and she was already snatching your earnings.
"finished your tasks, little girl?" she sneered, holding your tin aloft. "i’m leaving town today! don’t you dare slack off while i’m gone. be back next week, and make sure you've worked your ass off!" with a final laugh, she was gone, and your small pile of coins went with her.
yet across the village, a different kind of life was unfolding. princess maki stared at her reflection in the mirror. trapped like a bird in a gilded cage. shoko knocked on her door. "maki! the preminger has requested your presence again! wants you to see king gojo, shoko’s voice was strained, as if she were trying to be polite, and maki felt a pang of guilt.
"maki, please! this is the second time i’m asking you nicely! okay fine, count of three, i am coming in! one two… three!"
shoko burst into the room just as maki snuck out the back window. the princess was free, at least for now. her loyal best friend, yuta okkotsu, who had been with her since he was a boy, caught her by the courtyart. "i can only distract your mother and shoko for 30 minutes max," he told her, "you have to get back as soon as possible."
maki didn't reply; she was already running, a sense of freedom rushing through her veins. she ran until she heard music, a beautiful song that tugged at her heart. she followed the sound and saw a girl in a worn out coat, a crowd gathered around her.
upstairs, shoko frantically checked under the bed and behind the curtains. maki was gone.
she raced down the hall, nearly crashing into yuta, "yuta! what did i say about letting her off to the village!” shoko pleaded, her voice a desperate whisper, yuta only giving the poor lady an apologetic smile. "if she’s not back by 30 minutes, you’re coming to get her. no, actually! you’re going to get her NOW."
meanwhile, you were packing up your leftover tin of coins. your happy moment of performing was shattered by madam carp, who snatched all your hard earned money and disappeared. you sighed, defeated. “is it too late for another song?" you looked up, and your heart stopped. a girl with a beautiful dress and an expression of pure shock was staring at you.
holy shit... princess maki? she looked exactly like you.
"oh my goodness, your highness!" you stumbled, dropping into a clumsy bow. the girl in the beautiful dress put a hand up.
"nonnsense, please don't do that," she said, her voice a little hushed. "i’m trying to be undercover right now." a smile crossed her face. "and you have a very beautiful voice."
the compliment hit you like a surprise. just last night you were daydreaming about what it was like to be her, and now she was complimenting you. "that lady took your money, and you're okay with that?" she asked, her tone shifting to concern.
"uhh, i work for her," you said with a sigh. "she's terrible, but i have debts to pay."
she just stared at you, her eyes wide with a strange intensity. you shifted uncomfortably. "uhm, may i help you? i’m not much, but i can sing for you, princess. what would you-"
"you..." she cut you off, her voice barely a whisper. "you look just like me. just with different hair."
before you could respond, a boy with messy hair appeared panting as if he'd run a marathon. "my lady! come back! i’m really sorry, but shoko is really furious today. you have to come back and meet the king right now!" he stopped short, his eyes darting between you and the princess. "whoa... wait, two of you?" he rubbed his eyes as if he were seeing a mirage. "mai?... no, i mean... nice to meet you. i’m yuta okkotsu, at your service." he looked at the princess, then at you.
long silence passed, filled only with the distant noise of the marketplace. she looked down at your worn out coat and up again at your face. a new light sparked in her eyes. "listen yuta, i don’t wanna go back. i know this sounds strange, but i have an idea." she glanced around nervously. "i’m so sick of being trapped in that castle. i just want one day, just one day, to be free. to be a normal person." she reached into her pocket, pulling out a small pouch filled with coins. "if you pretend to be me, you can have all this, and more."
your heart hammered against your ribs. "you want me to... be you?"
"just for a little while," she said. "we look exactly alike."
you weighed the offer. the coins would be enough to pay off half your debt. the idea of living in a palace, even for a day, was a dream you couldn't have imagined. "i.. okay," you said, your voice barely a whisper. "but what about you?"
"i’ll be fine," she insisted, already starting to unfasten the intricate buttons of her gown. "let’s trade just for a day, we’ll switch back tomorrow morning.”
"maki, this is a bad idea. are you sure about this?" yuta asked, his voice thick with panic.
the princess turned to him, her expression firm. "i am sure. you’re good at keeping secrets... well, except for this morning." she looked back at you, her eyes intense. "yuta’s there to help you. he knows everything about the palace and what it means to be a princess. i have wigs that look exactly like mine and some glasses you can wear in my drawer. it’s as if almost i prepared for this day my whole life." she gestured to the frantic yuta. "if you need anything else, you can ask him for help."
with that, you were off to the castle to meet your betrothed, doom.
—
“uh… yuta, sir i really think this is a bad idea. can i please back out? what if i get thrown in jail? or worse die in jail?”
yuta let out a long sigh. “first off, drop the ‘sir.’ you’re older than me. and second, you could’ve told maki all this earlier.”
your brain short-circuited. “hold on. you’re younger than me??”
“yeah. eighteen,” he admitted casually, like it was no big deal. “besides, you’re not gonna get another chance like this. and like maki said, i’ll be here the whole time. i’m only doing this because it’s her wish.”
before you could argue, you found yourself standing at the gates of the magnificent zenin castle. you wished you had time to admire the artifacts, the glossy marble floors, the sheer weight of history in every hallway… but yuta grabbed your wrist and tugged you behind a pillar.
“look,” he whispered, pointing past a row of buildings. “we need to move fast and stay quiet. if they catch us, we’re done. follow my lead and whatever you do, don’t look back.” he tugged your hood lower to hide your face completely.
you nodded, heart pounding, keeping your eyes down on the glazed tiles as you followed close behind. but then, a sudden gust of wind slipped under your hood, blowing it back and exposing your [hair colour]. you panicked, fumbling to pull it up again.
and then you froze.
across the courtyard, by the fountain, stood a tall man. hands in his pockets, posture relaxed, hair white as snow. his presence was enough to steal the breath from your lungs. but it was his eyes; piercing, glassy, the colour of so clear cerulean that made the world stop.
from the fountain, he felt it. the weight of a gaze that didn’t slip away when it met his. most people flinched under his eyes, but not you. a flash of [hair colour], a stranger where there shouldn’t have been one. and just like that, you were gone.
he tilted his head, a slow smile tugging at his lips. “interesting.”
you shouldn’t have stared. he shouldn’t have noticed but your gazes met. and for one impossible moment, time stood still.
who was he?
a sharp sound jolted you back, yuta’s hand tugging at your sleeve. you stumbled after him, pulled back into motion, the white-haired stranger fading from view as quickly as he appeared.
“we’re almost at maki’s room. stay close.” yuta’s voice was low but firm, guiding you down the dim hallway.
like the devil’s timing, someone stepped into your path. short hair, sharp eyes, a frown carved deep into her face., if you remembered right, her name was shoko.
“i see you brought her back,” she said, voice tinged with suspicion. “what are you hiding, yuta?”
yuta stiffened. “nothing! what do you even mean?” his laugh came out awkward, too quick to be convincing.
he leaned in close to your ear, his breath brushing against your cheek. “her room is just around the corner. go. i’ll handle this.”
you slipped away, but not without noticing the way shoko’s eyes narrowed. she wasn’t stupid. she knew yuta, and she definitely knew all the little tactics maki and yuta used to cover for each other. her gaze sharpened on him.
before she could follow you, yuta blurted, “wait—shoko! i heard her majesty, the queen wanted to see you.”
shoko stopped, clearly unconvinced, but after a long sigh, she turned on her heel. “whatever you two are hiding, i’ll find out.” with that, she disappeared down the opposite corridor.
once inside, he shut the door behind you both, breathing out in relief.
“okay,” he said, brushing a hand through his hair. “we don’t have much time. if anyone sees you before you can act like a proper princess, it’s over.”
you blinked at him. “act like a princess?”
yuta nodded seriously. “yeah. the way you stand, the way you talk, how you bow, it all matters. if you’re going to pass for her, you have to sell it.”
he guided you to the center of the room, placing a book on your head. “rule one: posture. no slouching, shoulders back.” he adjusted you carefully, his hands brushing lightly against your arms. “if the book falls, you’re dead.”
you huffed, wobbling immediately. “this is ridiculous.”
“ridiculous saves your life,” yuta said softly, “trust me.”
as the minutes passed, he corrected your steps, even teaching you how to curtsy without tripping over the hem of the dress.
you blinked, amused at how smoothly he took charge. “wow, you sure know your way around her room. almost like you’ve been here a hundred times before.”
a faint blush crept onto yuta’s cheeks, though he tried to mask it by busying himself with the hairbrush. “i-ive just helped her before, that’s all.”
—
back in the throne room, the queen paced back and forth, her hand pressed against her chin, worry etched across her face. shoko stood quietly by her side, calm as ever.
“your majesty, perhaps she isn’t… fit to rule the kingdom like her sister,” preminger murmured, voice oily as he bowed.
the queen’s eyes flashed. “what do you mean, preminger! that’s my daughter you are speaking of!”
“of course, forgive me, your majesty,” he said smoothly, though the words were hollow. preminger naoya zenin, the most insufferable man to ever hold such a position. his disdain was no secret, he loathed the idea of the kingdom falling into the hands of a woman, and worse, his own cousin.
before the queen could reply, shoko’s voice cut through, sharp and steady like a blade. “your majesty, she will arrive soon. as the king, have some faith in maki.”
the queen’s anger softened, and she turned to shoko with a rare smile. “you’re right, shoko. thank you.”
meanwhile, in the corridors just outside, chaos was brewing.
“suguru, i’m serious! she was really beautiful! i just have no idea who she was! suguruuuuu, please help me!”
“are you kidding me?” suguru sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “you’re about to meet the princess right now, and you’re still thinking about some random girl? if you behave, i’ll find her for you later.”
at that, satoru lit up, punching the air with a loud, “victory!” before grinning ear to ear.
“now let’s go meet the princess” he declared, dragging his long suffering best friend toward the throne room.
—
“nice to meet you your majesty, i’m king satoru gojo, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you in person.” he bows slightly, his lips brushing the back of the queen’s hand.
“likewise. the pleasure’s all mine.”
naoya scoffs from the side, his expression souring with every second. his mouth opens, ready to release some poisonous remark that might unravel the fragile peace, when the grand doors open.
you step in, yuta trailing protectively at your side. the two of you stepped into the room. yuta whispered “keep your posture, speak slowly, smile when appropriate. if you act natural, no one will suspect a thing.”
“oh, my darling!” the queen’s face lights up as she hurries to embrace you. guilt twists in your chest, your eyes instinctively searching the hall only to land on him.
the man. the same breathtaking stranger from before. confusion flickers across his features, as if he’s piecing together the truth.
no. did he notice?
“darling,” the queen says fondly, her hand warm as she guides you forward, “this is king satoru gojo, your betrothed. your majesty, my daughter.”
your heart stutters. king?! surely, whatever chance you thought you had with him is gone now.
gojo takes your palm, his lips brushing against your skin. his voice is smooth, teasing. “you are as beautiful as they say. nice to meet you, princess. mind if you take a walk with me?” he winks. you curtsied and straightened your shoulders, but a faint blush spread across your cheeks when you noticed gojo watching closely.
and tonight, just tonight you are not the pauper. not the poor girl who survives on the same bowl of rice, who wears the same threadbare clothes.
tonight, you nod, and let him lead you out. he offered his arm, his grin reassuring. “after you, princess.”
as you two moved toward the doors, naoya’s eyes glinted with malice. before anyone could react, he subtly kicked a loose rug near your feet.
you stumbled, heart leaping, barely catching yourself but gojo was faster. in one fluid motion, he caught your waist, steadying you effortlessly.
“careful there,” he said, his voice low and teasing, but with that hint of concern that made your chest tighten. “some people clearly don’t want you to leave the throne room alive.”
you blinked up at him, breathless. “i… i think he was trying to sabotage me.”
gojo smirked, guiding you safely toward the open doors. “don’t worry. i’ve got you.”
once outside, the garden’s sunlight and gentle breeze washed over you. the danger passed, but your heart still raced. not from the stumble, but from the closeness of the man who had saved you.
you couldn’t help but glance at him. his snow white hair gleamed in the sunlight, eyes brighter than the fountains nearby. something about the way he had protected you, so naturally, so effortlessly made your chest ache in a way you didn’t expect.
“thank you,” you murmured softly, almost embarrassed by the flush spreading across your cheeks.
he leaned slightly closer, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “don’t mention it. that’s what princes or, well, kings do.”
and in that moment, walking among the flowers and fountains, you felt for the first time what it felt like to be a princess.
“so, what else do you do besides playing the perfect princess?”
he was so close that you could feel his breath brushing against your flushed cheeks.
“uh… i can sew! back when madam carp wasn’t looking, i used to make little clothes for wolfie. i also enjoy singing and—uh, i’m rambling. sorry.”
satoru’s gaze softened, intensity giving way to something warmer. he seemed almost mesmerized. “no, keep going. i’m listening. hmm… wolfie, you said? and who’s madam carp? and you have to let me hear you sing one day.”
your stomach sank. sess than an hour in, and you were already exposing yourself. trying to think about some excuses to cover up your mistakes..
“oh… madam carp was the previous seamstress here. she retired a while ago. and wolfie… he’s just my cat. he disappears sometimes, but maybe you’ll see him if he shows up again.” you forced a small smile, but your heart twisted at the thought of no ‘again’. soon, you’d be back to your own life, and this, would vanish. you weren’t in his league, and you never would be.
“you’re daydreaming,” he said, reaching out to tuck a stray lock of hair behind your ear. “come on, let me hear you sing. just once.”
a strand of [hair colour] peeked out from under your dark green hair, catching his attention. no. maki’s dark green hair…
“you want me to sing for you? hmm—”
“hey, by any chance, were you by the fountain earlier?” his voice was sharp now, curiosity flickering across his features.
caught like a deer in headlights, you could only mutter, “huh?”
before the tension could stretch any further, a familiar voice interrupted. “sorry for interrupting your majesty, but you have things to attend to.”
satoru exhaled, visibly distracted, then smirked. “drop the honorifics, suguru. i’ll be back later for dinner, yeah?” he gave a playful bow and walked away.
you… almost… blew your cover.
dinner had come and gone. the grand hall was emptying, servants bustling about, but one chair remained conspicuously vacant, king gojo’s.
suguru, ever so dutiful, appeared bowing slightly. “your majesty… i’m afraid the king had urgent matters to attend. he sends his apologies.”
a little sting of disappointment grew. you had wanted to see him… just once, to speak, maybe even share a moment. but the opportunity had slipped through your fingers.
hours passed. the castle quieted, lanterns glowing softly along the corridors. you found yourself in your room, the faint echo of music in your mind, humming softly to fill the emptiness.
unbeknownst to you, satoru had not left. quiet as a shadow, he moved toward your room, intending to apologise for missing dinner. but then he paused. a soft, trembling melody drifted through the slightly ajar door.
“hey princess–”
“…this night is sparkling, don’t you let it go”
he froze, chest tightening. every step toward your door slowed as the voice wrapped around him. tender, alive, impossibly beautiful. his usual confidence faltered, replaced by something entirely new: fascination. he was drawn in, helpless against the pull of your voice.
“… i was enchanted to meet you...”
satoru’s lips parted slightly. his heartbeat surged. every note seemed to resonate deep inside him. he pressed a hand against the doorframe, reluctant to move, afraid that leaving would mean never hearing it again.
when the song ended, he let out a quiet breath, leaning against the wall, completely undone. “who… is she?” he whispered to himself.
for the first time, satoru gojo wasn’t thinking as a king, or a ruler. he was simply a man, falling in real time for someone he had never even seen.
—
the morning sun spilled over the palace walls, painting the marbled floors in gold.
yuta appeared at your door, cloak in hand. “ready? time to head to the village. we need to switch back with maki before anyone notices.”
you nodded, swallowing a lump in your throat. part of you wanted to stay, just a little longer, just one more stolen moment with the king but duty and yuta’s persistent glances reminded you of reality.
as you followed him down the corridors, your mind drifted to last night. the way his eyes had lingered on you, the way your heart had raced. a small, sad smile tugged at your lips. you wouldn’t see him again. not really.
the streets of the village slowly came into view, familiar scents and sounds of everyday life greeting you. here, maki waited, unaware of the stir you’d left behind in the palace.
yuta’s voice pulled you back. “we’ll make it quick. once she’s back, you can return to your own life safely.”
and somewhere, deep in the palace, satoru gojo would wonder why maki didn’t quite feel the same anymore.
—
something felt off to satoru. princess maki, in her rightful place stood before him, poised and composed, yet distant in a way he couldn’t quite put his finger on.
“good morning, princess,” he said, flashing his usual grin. “shall we stroll in the garden and pick up where we left off yesterday?”
maki’s eyes met his, neutral but slightly guarded. “i don’t have time for walks today. yuta is waiting for me outside.”
he tilted his head. “yuta? but didn’t we—”
maki’s lips curved faintly, polite but sharp. “plans change. now, if you’ll excuse me…” she started toward the door, leaving him in the hall.
he hesitated. something about you, the way you carried herself, the cool precision in you movements felt different. the warmth he’d noticed yesterday, the laughter, the music… it was gone.
he, forced a smile. “right. yuta, then.”
maki nodded once, walking briskly, never glancing back. satoru then sank into a nearby chair, staring after her. he couldn’t shake the feeling that the girl he had met, the one who had made his heart skip a beat, was no longer here.
—
hidden away from the palace, preminger naoya’s hideout was a mess. dusty corners, scattered papers, and the faint stench of scheming.
naoya leaned over the cluttered table, eyes blazing with fury as he addressed his minions. “you two will lure the princess out and make sure she doesn’t leave here! i can’t let her marry the king. do you understand? a kingdom cannot be ruled by a woman, i forbid it!”
back in the castle, satoru’s usual confident grin was replaced by a frown, his arms crossed as he watched suguru carefully.
“i’m telling you, suguru! she’s… she’s so different from before. it’s like we never even met!” he whined, pacing a little.
suguru raised an eyebrow. “maybe you just fall in love too quickly.”
“no, you don’t get it!” satoru exclaimed, throwing his hands in the air. “i heard her sing, it was… it was unlike anything i’ve ever heard! and today? she just ignores me for yuta? they barely even knew each other yesterday! and she… she looks younger? am i hallucinating? suguru, slap me, please!”
suguru sighed, leaning back slightly. “okay, brace yourself, your majesty.”
“SUGURU!” satoru shouted, flailing dramatically as Suguru groaned.
far from the gilded halls and bustling court, you sat quietly in madam carp’s sewing shop. the familiar scent of fabric and thread should have comforted you, but it did little to chase the ache in your chest.
your fingers absently traced the edge of a folded piece of cloth, yet your thoughts were elsewhere on him. the memory of his cerulean eyes, the teasing grin, the warmth that had made your heart skip… it all haunted you.
you pressed your forehead lightly to the wooden table, letting out a soft, barely audible sigh. the palace, the throne, the marbled halls. all of it felt impossibly far away. and with it went the one person who had made you feel something you could never forget.
“meow”
you chuckled softly, reaching down to scratch behind your wolfie’s ears. “hi, baby… i told him all about you. i wish… i wish you could meet him someday.”
the little purr that followed felt like the closest thing to comfort, a quiet companion for the ache in your chest.
—
as the palace lay in quiet darkness, the golden banners and marbled floors bathed in moonlight. all seemed calm, yet shadows moved with intent.
below maki’s window, a soft, familiar voice whispered. “princess… over here… i have something you’ll want to see.”
maki hesitated, her instincts prickling, but curiosity nudged her forward. she slipped from her room, careful not to wake the guards, her footsteps light on the polished tiles.
in the courtyard, two figures waited, cloaked in shadows. “princess,” one murmured, “this way. you won’t believe what we found.”
before she could react, another pair of hands, strong and unexpected grasped her from behind, muffling her startled gasp. struggling was useless, as they had prepared well.
by the time she realized the truth, she was lifted into a waiting carriage, its wheels crunching over the cobblestones as it sped into the night. the palace lights faded behind her, replaced by the inky darkness of the road ahead.
somewhere in the shadows, naoya’s satisfied smirk lingered. “make sure she doesn’t return,” he muttered. “not until the king forgets her entirely.”
“what is this nonsense! maki, what are you thinking!?” the queen’s voice trembled as she held a letter, grief etched into every line of her face.
‘i’m sorry mother. i love you.’
yuta rushed forward, worry flooding his features. “your majesty! what happened?!”
“preminger naoya says… makiran away,” shoko said cautiously. “yuta do you think—”
“no. she’s not like that,” he cut in, taking the note gently. his brow furrowed. “wait this is written in pink ink? that’s strange… she only writes in green ink.”
naoya stepped forward, voice dripping with mock concern. “hat did you say, yuta? just a mere swordsboy, and now you think you can meddle? hmm.”
yuta squared his shoulders, keeping his tone steady. “your majesty, i swear, i will find your daughter.”
he didn’t linger. there was no time. naoya had something to do with this, he could feel it. carefully, he made his way toward the village, his heart heavy with worry.
finding you hidden away in the same shop, yuta’s usual calm was replaced by a frantic edge. “what? the princess is missing? and you want me to… to pretend to be her again? i don’t know… it’s riskier than before…”
“hey please,” he begged, desperation in his eyes. “she really in trouble. i just… i really want to save her. i just need your help and—”
seeing him like this, so earnest and panicked, your resolve hardened. you reached out, placing a reassuring hand on his arm.
“i’ll do it,” you said firmly. “don’t worry. we’ll fix this.”
as you followed yuta toward the carriage that would take you back to the palace, you couldn’t help but glance up at the night sky. somewhere in that glittering darkness, the palace awaited and with it, danger, deception and the memory of someone who had unknowingly captured your heart.
taking a deep breath, you stepped forward. the moment of truth had come: you were about to become maki once more, and the kingdom’s fate and perhaps your own hung in the balance.
—
maki groaned, her head pounding as the fog of unconsciousness slowly lifted. she blinked against the dim light seeping through a single small window, taking in her surroundings. cold stone walls, a heavy wooden door, and the faint smell of leather and hay told her everything she needed to know she was trapped.
her gaze hardened when she caught sight of him, naoya zenin, her very own cousin standing in the courtyard below, barking orders.
“good job, boys,” he said, voice dripping with satisfaction. “make sure that yuta boy doesn’t find this place. i’ll be very busy from now on. i assume you can handle all this.” with a dismissive flick of his hand, he mounted his horse and rode off into the night.
maki’s fists clenched. what the hell is he planning?
the two minions standing guard noticed her stirring and grinned. “well, well… looks like the princess woke up. let’s make sure you stay put.”
without a word, her instincts kicked in. her training, her discipline, everything she had learned, surged through her veins.
the first minion lunged, swinging a crude sword. maki ducked under the strike, rolling forward and grabbing a nearby chair leg. with a swift pivot, she struck his side, sending him stumbling into the wall.
the second minion charged from behind. maki spun, her foot catching him mid step and sending him crashing to the floor. she didn’t pause fluid, precise movements, honed from countless hours of practice.
within moments, both men were on the ground, groaning and defeated, while maki stood tall, chest heaving but eyes sharp. She glanced around the small room. the door was still locked, but that didn’t stop her. not now. not ever.
her mind raced. yuta’s out there. he’ll come. and naoya, he’s gone too far this time.
—
yuta entered the queen’s chambers. he knelt before her, voice steady but filled with hope.
“your majesty… i found the princess.”
the queen’s eyes widened, trembling as she turned. “my darling! where have you been! please, don’t ever run away like that again.”
from the far end of the hall, naoya stood silently. his expression remained unreadable, his sharp eyes fixed on the girl. no smile, no frown, only a quiet, piercing curiosity. he tilted his head slightly, as though calculating. the princess… returned? his gaze lingered longer than necessary, not out of warmth but suspicion.
as yuta lingered at the doorway, his hand pressed against the polished wood, as though he couldn’t quite bring himself to leave. his eyes flickered over your face one last time, full of hesitation.
“i’ll be fine,” you insisted with a small smile, though your chest tightened. “go. find the real princess before anyone else notices. that’s what matters.”
he exhaled sharply, clearly torn, but nodded. “stay away from naoya… and shoko. promise me that. naoya’s unpredictable, and shoko, she’s not evil but she doesn’t miss a thing.”
you swallowed, nodding obediently. “i promise.”
with that, yuta turned on his heel, cloak swaying as he disappeared down the hallway, leaving you alone with the silence pressing in.
you let out a breath you hadn’t realised you were holding and began to retrace your steps to your chambers. the corridors of the palace felt heavier now, every echo of your slippers on marble reminding you that you were playing a role far larger than yourself.
turning a corner, you nearly collided with someone, your breath hitched.
it was him.
king satoru gojo.
for a moment, time froze. his bright, crystalline eyes widened in disbelief as he stared at you, not at princess maki’s sharp, guarded expression, but you. the warmth in your gaze, the softness in your features. it was all wrong for the cold, distant maki everyone knew.
“...you.” his voice was quiet, almost reverent, as though he was speaking to a ghost.
you shifted uneasily, lowering your head. “my apologies, your majesty. i wasn’t watching where i was going—”
but he didn’t move. he just kept staring at you, stunned, as if he’d been searching for this version of her of you for a very long time.
he blinked once. twice. his steps faltered, as though the ground beneath him had shifted.
his piercing eyes narrowing as if trying to peel away a disguise. “you’re not her.”
your heart jumped. had you slipped already? you quickly lowered your head, clutching the edge of your dress. “i—i don’t know what you mean, your majesty…”
but satoru wasn’t buying it. for the first time, his playful charm was gone, replaced by something sharp and probing. he stepped closer, lowering his voice so only you could hear.
“maki never looked at me like that. never spoke like that. who are you?”
you stumbled back, caught between lying or confessing. his presence was overwhelming, like he could see straight through you. the walls you built cracked under the weight of his gaze.
“i…” you swallowed hard, eyes darting toward the guards down the hall, “i am the princess.”
satoru tilted his head, lips quirking into something unreadable; half amusement, half suspicion. “if you say so.” his voice was calm, but the way he lingered on you made it clear he didn’t believe it.
he leaned down slightly, his height towering over you. his words were quiet, but sharp as glass.
“i’m kidding, relax. don’t get so worked up. besides… you still owe me that walk from yesterday. you know, since you refused my offer.”
and then, just as suddenly, his tone shifted back to lightheartedness.
you followed him down a quiet corridor, footsteps muffled against the polished floors. satoru led you to a small balcony at the edge of the palace, for a moment, the world outside ceased to exist.
a soft rustle at your feet made you glance down. wolfie, your mischievous little cat, had somehow slipped inside and now padded along the balcony, tail flicking curiously.
“oh! wolfie, you came with me?” you whispered, crouching to scratch behind his ears. the cat purred loudly, rubbing against your legs.
satoru’s grin widened, amusement sparkling in his eyes. “well, hello there, wolfie.”
“woof!” wolfie barked suddenly.
“woah, a cat that barks? you don’t see this every day,” crouching down to pet him.
“he only does that when he meets new people,” you warned, voice a little nervous. “i’m sorry, he might bite.”
satoru chuckled, running a hand along wolfie’s back. “hey buddy, does that feel good? huh? he’s lucky he’s cute.”
your eyes widened, surprised. wolfie never warmed up to strangers this quickly and yet here he was, curling against satoru’s hand as if he’d known him forever.
you laughed softly, the warmth in your chest growing. “i guess he likes you… maybe more than me right now.”
satoru’s eyes met yours, playful yet soft. “not more than you,” he said with a wink, “but close enough.”
you watched as wolfie circled satoru’s legs before jumping back into your arms, purring loudly. his tiny body wriggled, and for a second, you felt completely at ease like the weight of the palace, of pretending, had melted away.
satoru straightened, brushing imaginary dust from his coat, but his eyes never left yours. “you know,” he said softly, “i don’t get why someone as… special as you hides behind all that royal etiquette.”
you tilted your head, curious. “special? me?”
he stepped closer, his voice lowering, just enough so only you could hear. “yeah… you. the way you care about the little things, the way you notice everything, even a weird little barking cat. not many people see that side of you.”
your chest warmed. “i just… like paying attention. it’s easier than pretending to be perfect all the time.”
satoru smiled, almost gently this time, and extended a hand, just brushing yours. the touch was light, electric, and your heart jumped. “well… i like this side of you,” he murmured. “the real you.”
you blinked, suddenly aware of how close he was. the sunlight danced across his face, softening the mischief in his eyes into something tender, something that made your pulse race.
wolfie mewed, breaking the spell for a moment, and you laughed softly, pressing the little cat against your chest. satoru’s hand lingered near yours, his fingers almost brushing again, and the unspoken tension wrapped around you like a warm blanket.
“what’s does the real you look like?”
he blinked, caught off guard by the question. for a moment, the playful grin faltered, and his eyes darkened slightly, as if memories weighed on him.
“the real me?” he echoed softly, voice quieter now. “you want the unmasked, unteasing, messy version?”
you nodded gently. “yeah… the one nobody sees.”
he sighed, leaning against the railing. “most people only see the lucky part. the strongest, the smartest, the guy who can handle anything. but they don’t see the rest. the loneliness, the pressure, the childhood i never had. always being better than everyone else.”
you stayed silent, letting him speak, feeling your heart squeeze for him. “i… i didn’t know,” you whispered. “i just see someone confident… someone who’s always joking.”
he gave a small, almost bitter laugh. “yeah… the joke is easier to carry than the truth. nobody wants to see the kid who had no one to play with, the kid who was always expected to be perfect. and now? people look at me and assume i have everything.”
wolfie nudged your hand, purring, and you gently scratched behind his ears. “i see you.”
his eyes found yours, something unspoken flickering between you. your heart fluttered at the vulnerability there, at the trust he was letting you in on. and for a fleeting moment, it felt like the two of you weren’t a (pretending) princess and a king. just two people, standing under the blue sky, sharing a fragile truth.
the evening air was cool, brushing against your face. the palace halls were quiet, the bustle of the day finally settling.
satoru appeared from the shadows of the balcony, a mischievous grin playing on his lips. “hey, little princess,” he called, waving a short practice sword. “ever tried sparring?”
you blinked, caught off guard. “sparring? me?”
he tilted his head, amusement sparkling in his eyes. “yeah. come on, it’ll be fun. i’ll guide you.”
you hesitated for only a moment before stepping forward, curiosity winning over nerves.
“alright, first rule,” satoru said, handing you the wooden sword, “don’t worry about being perfect. just follow my lead.”
you mimicked his stance, awkward at first, the wooden sword feeling heavy in your hands. satoru circled you slowly, his eyes tracing your movements, and every so often he’d reach out, correcting your grip. his fingers brushing yours sent sparks straight to your chest.
“like this,” he demonstrated a swing, smooth and confident. “now you try.”
you swung, missing by a mile and you stifled a giggle. “not bad… for a first try,” he said, stepping closer. “here, let me guide you.” he placed his hand over yours, adjusting your stance. his warm chest pressed against your back, and you could feel the teasing smirk on his face.
“better?” he whispered, and your heart skipped.
you nodded, cheeks burning. “yes… i think so.”
he chuckled, stepping back. “see? you’re a natural. maybe even better than me someday… though i doubt it.”
as you continued, swinging and parrying under his watchful eye, satoru laughed, lightly teasing, but every glance he gave you lingered just a little longer, like he couldn’t quite look away. by the end, you were both laughing, out of breath. satoru’s grin softened, eyes warm as he said, “not bad for your first lesson, princess. maybe you’re full of surprises after all.” when a shadow stretched across the balcony entrance.
“enjoying yourselves, are we?” a cold, measured voice cut through the night air.
you froze. satoru’s playful grin faltered slightly as he turned.there, standing in the doorway with a sharp, calculating gaze, was naoya zenin.
“preminger..” you muttered.
satoru stepped slightly in front of you, his grin returning but edged with warning. “well, well. look who decided to join the party.”
naoya’s eyes flicked between the two of you, lingering on your stance and the wooden sword you still held. “hmph. i see… maki has always been good at sparring,” he said slowly, almost to himself. “curious… very curious.” his tone was casual, but the sharpness behind it made your stomach tighten.
satoru’s smirk sharpened. “seems someone’s a little too observant for a late night stroll. why don’t you take your curiosity elsewhere?”
naoya’s gaze lingered a moment longer, eyes narrowing ever so slightly. “we’ll see about that.” with that, he turned and walked away, the sound of his boots fading into the halls.
you exhaled shakily, scared of what’s ahead of you.
—
the village was quiet under the moonlight, lanterns swaying gently in the breeze. yuta moved silently along the cobblestone streets, eyes fixed on the small, nondescript building at the edge of town.
inside, the two minions naoya had left behind were tied up and groaning on the floor, clearly out of commission.
peeking through the small window, he spotted her, maki. he reached the door and frowned. the lock was heavy and secure. naoya hadn’t left any easy way out. “of course,” he muttered, pulling a small set of tools from his cloak. “nothing’s ever simple.”
maki turned her head, eyes narrowing at first, then relaxing slightly when she recognised him.glanced at him, rolling her eyes. “about damn time”
within moments, the lock clicked open, and the door creaked slightly as he pushed it ajar.
“finally,” maki muttered.
“come on, we need to get out before anyone notices you’re gone and we need to expose naoya’s plans. i’ll tell you more along the way.” yuta held out his hand.
as she stepped past him into the moonlit streets, maki’s eyes softened slightly. “thanks, yuta… i knew you’d find me.”
yuta’s jaw tightened. “always.”
a chilling silence fell over the street. then, from the shadows, naoya emerged. his movements were slow, deliberate, almost catlike. the moonlight glinted off his cold, calculating eyes, and a faint, unsettling smile curved his lips.
“going somewhere?” his voice was low, almost a whisper, but carried an edge that made the hairs on the back of yuta’s neck stand. “i knew it… something was off. that ‘princess’ back at the castle. such a pitiful little fraud. and now, thanks to you, yuta… my work doubles. delicious.”
he stepped closer, each movement precise, his gaze locked on them like a predator sizing up prey. “that imposter girl? oh, she’ll pay… in ways you can’t even imagine.”
from the corner, the two minions stirred, barely able to hide their unease. naoya’s eyes flicked toward them. “boys… don’t fail me twice. throw them in the mine. make sure they remember who’s in control.”
before yuta or maki could react, the minions lunged, bags slammed over their heads, plunging them into suffocating darkness. only naoya’s echoing laugh followed them, low and unnerving, as the chill of fear sank in.
—
the bag slipped partially from maki’s head, the night air brushing her face. yuta whispered, “allmost there… just a little further!”
maki’s fingers worked furiously on the ropes, her movements precise. “i’ve gotten out of worse,” she muttered, tugging at the bindings.
they tried to push past naoya’s minions, darting toward the broken wall, but the two men recovered faster than expected. With a flurry of movement, they were grabbed from both sides.
“yuta! maki! don’t struggle, or you’ll regret it!” one minion hissed.
they fought with every ounce of strength, kicking, twisting, straining but the mens’ grip was too strong. in the end, their freedom slipped away as rough hands shoved them back into the waiting sacks.
“let us go!” maki’s muffled shout echoed inside the fabric. yuta thrashed, trying to break free, but it was useless. if only his sword hadn’t been confiscated by the preminger. damn you, naoya zenin.
the men dragged them toward the mine, the cold night fading as the world went black. even without naoya there, his influence hung over the scene like a shadow, making it clear that escape would not be easy.
—
“you wanna wear that necklace?” shoko stood beside your vanity as a servant carefully draped the blue crystal around your neck. one that mirrored his eyes.
“yeah… it’s really pretty,” you murmured, fingers brushing the cool gem.
shoko’s eyebrows lifted in surprise. “wow. that’s… so unlike you, princess maki. you usually hate jewelry like this. the queen will be proud.”
you blinked, caught in the reminder. right. princess maki.
snapping out of your thoughts, you straightened. “ready to go?”
you nodded, heart thumping. it was time to see the king one last time before the wedding. where the hell was yuta?
“my darling! so beautiful you are!” the queen exclaimed, eyes sparkling with pride.
king satoru, clad in crisp white, turned toward you, and his gaze froze. the blue crystal around your neck, his eyes caught the light. he breathed out, almost reverently, “you’re beautiful… the necklace…”
you opened your mouth, then closed it, unsure what to say.
then a chilling voice cut through the air. “fraud! that woman is a fraud! midas! get her!”
before you could react, the dog lunged. your wig was snatched off, and your fake glasses flew across the polished floor, revealing your true [hair colour].
gasps filled the room. time seemed to slow. satoru’s eyes narrowed, a mix of shock and something else flickering in their depths.
strong hands grabbed your arms, yanking you back. you struggled, twisting, but there was no escape.
“hey! let go of her!” satoru’s voice boomed, but the guards ignored him, their grips iron tight. he stepped forward, but the law of the palace held him back.
you caught a last glimpse of him. his blue eyes wide, chest heaving, a mixture of anger and disbelief painted across his face. the same man who had captivated you with one glance, whose presence had made your heart race from the very first day… and now, utterly powerless to stop this.
from across the hall, the queen’s gasp cut through the chaos. she stumbled forward, clutching the pearls at her throat. “no! this is madness!”
“i’m not the princess! but i.. i didn’t do anything to her! i swear!” you called, your voice muffled by the guards pushing you toward the dungeon stairs.
he clenched his fists, jaw tight, voice dropping to a ragged whisper as you were carried out of sight.
each step you took felt heavier than the last. the sparkling halls, the moonlit corridors, even the necklace glinting at your neck all vanished behind the guards. all that remained was the memory of his gaze, the warmth of the brief connection you had shared, now snatched away as quickly as it had begun.
the queen sank to her knees, tears streaming down her face. “my child… what have they done to you?” her voice cracked, full of grief and helplessness.
by the time the guards slammed the dungeon door shut, satoru was left standing alone in the hallway, staring at the empty space where you had been. his chest ached. the girl who had stolen his heart in a single, fleeting moment was gone and for now, there was nothing he could do.
—
at the mine, shadows flickered across the damp walls as the two, crouched in the corner.
“okay… think. how do we get out of here?” yuta muttered, running a hand through his hair, eyes scanning the room for any weakness in the setup.
“i don’t know, Yuta. we have to keep trying. Y/N is in danger!” maki whispered, her voice tight with worry.
yuta glanced at her, the dim light catching the determination in her eyes. then, as if pushed by courage he’d been holding back, he spoke, his voice low but earnest. “maki, i-i have a confession. from the day i stepped into the castle years ago, i’ve always felt… something for you. so when you said you wanted to run away from the wedding, i thought… maybe i finally had a chance. i didn’t know it would come to this. i’m sorry.”
maki’s lips curved slightly, her hand brushing his. “i know, you idiot. i feel the same way. we’ll get out of here, expose naoya’s plan together.”
“yeah,” he said, pressing his hand over hers, warmth grounding them both amidst the damp, cold stone. “i promise we’ll get out of here.”
a sudden splash echoed from deeper in the mine. water licked at the edges of the floor, creeping closer.
“hey…” maki’s eyes widened. “…that’s water rising.”
panic flared for a moment, but yuta’s grip on her hand tightened. “then we move. now. together.”
as the water lapped higher, cold and relentless, yuta grabbed maki’s hand. “this way!” he urged, pointing toward a narrow tunnel partially hidden in shadow.
maki nodded, heart pounding, and together they sprinted, careful to keep their footing on the slick stone. the sound of rushing water echoed through the mine, mixing with distant shouts from naoya’s men.
“watch out!” yuta yelled, grabbing her as the floor gave way slightly under her step. they stumbled but recovered, pressing on, adrenaline lending them strength.
“i can’t believe we’re actually doing this,” maki panted, trying to keep up with his long strides.
“you’re stronger than you think,” yuta said, flashing her a quick grin. “and smarter. that’s why we’ll get out of here.”
they rounded a corner, the tunnel narrowing, the water now chest high. yuta gritted his teeth. “almost there… just a little further.” he hoisted maki onto his shoulders for a short stretch where the water surged higher, then dropped her down safely on the other side.
suddenly, a shadow loomed behind them. two of naoya’s men had caught up, their faces twisted with fury.
“yuta!” maki shouted, drawing on every ounce of skill she had learned. with precise strikes, she disarmed one man, while yuta tackled the other. the two minions fell to the wet stone, scrambling to recover.
breathing heavily, maki grabbed yuta’s hand once more. “now! run!”
together, hearts racing and drenched from the water, they dashed toward the dim light at the tunnel’s end, the promise of freedom, and the chance to expose naoya’s plans once and for all.
—
“he’s like a poem i wish i wrote…” you hummed, the dungeon’s cold silence wrapping around your words.
“quit it, girl,” murmured a guard nearby before drifting back to sleep. with careful fingers, you pinched the keys from his belt and slinked away, heart hammering.
the dungeon corridors twisted confusingly, shadows stretching long under the flickering torchlight. you ran as far as you dared until suddenly, you collided with a heavy armour.
“shit, i’m sorry! please, don’t hurt me!” you stammered, trying to back away.
unfortunately the man’s grip on your arm was firm, yet gentle. he pulled off his helmet, revealing… him.
“…you.”
there he stood, as breathtaking as the first moment you’d seen him at the fountain, the king whose smile had made your chest ache. the playful, piercing gaze that had lingered on you before was now intense, focused.
“you were the one who caught my eye that day by the fountain,” he said quietly, voice a low rumble that sent shivers down your spine. “your… [hair coloured] hair, your voice… i knew it wasn’t the cold princess maki who refused to walk with me just for some boy named yuta. i’ll get you out of here.”
your chest fluttered, hope mingling with disbelief. you stumbled slightly as the weight of the moment hit you. he had sought you out, recognised you, and wasn’t letting go. before you could respond, he cupped your face, leaning down. “i couldn’t… i just can’t let you be locked away again,” he murmured.
and then, urgent and tender all at once, his lips met yours. the dungeon walls faded into shadows, the distant sounds of guards and dripping water replaced by the quickened beat of your hearts. the kiss was brief, desperate, and full of unspoken promises but enough to anchor you both, to remind you that this moment was real.
breathless, you pulled back slightly, eyes wide. “satoru…” you whispered, remembering him and yet, none of it mattered now.
“shh,” he said, forehead resting against yours. “we’ll get out of here. together.”
with that, he took your hand, leading you down the twisting corridors.
—
the throne room was chaos in gilded silence. yuta and maki had burst in, holding proof of naoya’s sinister schemes, while king satoru gojo’s presence radiated authority. the reader followed, her crystal necklace glinting in the torchlight.
naoya’s cold gaze swept over them. “what… what is this?”
“you planned to kidnap the princess, so you can seize the throne,” yuta declared. “everything you schemed has been exposed.”
the queen’s hands flew to her mouth, disbelief written across her features. “no… this cannot be… my own nephew, my flesh and blood… plotting against us?” her knees wobbled as the truth crashed down, and a wave of panic gripped her. “i can’t… i just can’t believe it…”
shoko was immediately at her side, kneeling to support her. “your majesty, breathe. in… and out… you’re safe. the princess is here, and everything is under control.”
naoya’s lips curled in a cruel smirk, clearly enjoying her distress. “your majesty, you should have seen it coming. a woman on the throne? impossible. i was only trying to—”
satoru’s eyes narrowed, voice low but commanding. “that’s enough.” with a fluid movement, he stepped forward, while yuta mirrored his motion. they closed the distance, restraining naoya. the man struggled, fury flashing in his eyes, but satoru’s strength and yuta’s determination were unwavering.
“resist all you want,” a faint smirk tugging at satoru’s lips, “but the kingdom isn’t yours to play with.”
the queen’s hands clutched shoko’s as she steadied herself, finally able to breathe. “i can’t believe he would go so far. guards, get him.”
with naoya firmly restrained, the tension in the throne room began to ebb. the queen’s eyes, still wide with shock and relief, fell upon maki.
“maki… my darling!” she cried, rushing forward. the young princess stumbled slightly under the weight of the queen’s embrace, but she didn’t resist. tears glimmered in both their eyes as they clung to each other.
“i’m so sorry, mother,” maki whispered, her voice trembling. “i didn’t mean to worry you. i just… i had to see things for myself.”
the queen pressed her forehead to maki’s, taking in the sight of her daughter. safe, alive, and unharmed. “you’ve grown so strong… braver than i ever imagined. i was terrified for you, but seeing you here now… it’s more than i could have hoped for.”
shoko stood a few steps away, quietly watching the reunion, a small, knowing smile on her face. the tension of the day melted a little in the warmth of mother and daughter finally being together again.
maki pulled back just slightly, brushing a stray tear from her mother’s cheek. “i’ll never leave your side like that again, mother. i promise.”
she clutched her hands over maki’s, nodding firmly. across the room, yuta and satoru exchanged a glance, silently acknowledging the victory not just over naoya’s schemes, but in preserving the bonds of family and trust. and for a fleeting moment, the palace, despite all its chaos, felt like home again.
“and you… i hope you understand the risk you took, though i’m grateful you kept my daughter safe,” the queen said, clasping your hands gently in hers.
when she finally let go, the throne room erupted in laughter once more, and you quietly slipped away from the crowd, leaving the necklace behind.
the palace gates stretched before you, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight. your heart pounded in your chest as you hurried across the courtyard. you needed to leave.
footsteps echoed behind you fast, sure, and impossible to ignore. “wait!”
you froze, turning to see satoru closing the distance with ease, his white hair catching the moonlight, eyes locked on you. “you can’t just run off like that,” he called, voice laced with both concern and amusement.
“i don’t deserve you” you blurted out, stopping in your tracks. “i lied to you, i—this… none of this is real. you… you need to marry maki, she’s the true princess—”
he closed the distance, grabbing your hands gently but firmly. “maki?” he said, raising an eyebrow. “you really think she’s my type?” his smile softened, teasing but warm. “you, on the other hand… i want you.”
you shook your head, tears threatening to spill. “satoru… you can’t. you’re a king. you need to marry proper royalty, not… not a pauper like me.”
he chuckled, brushing a stray strand of hair from your face. “i’m a king. i can marry whoever i want.” his hand cupped your cheek, thumb brushing lightly. “and right now, i want you, i don’t care what or who you are.”
before you could protest further, he leaned in, pressing his lips to yours with a gentle, yet confident kiss. the palace walls, the distant laughter, the torchlight all fading to nothing but the two of you.
pulling back just enough to look into your eyes, he whispered, “maki will rule this kingdom when the time comes. but tonight… tonight, i’m choosing you.”
you blinked, caught between disbelief and hope. his hand found yours again, strong and certain. “come with me,” he said, voice low but commanding. “it’s you i want by my side. my kingdom… our future… it starts now.”
and for the first time, you let yourself believe it.
—
the early morning sun spilled through the shop’s windows, illuminating rows of spools, fabric, and half-finished dresses. you ran your fingers over the counter, heart heavy.
“goodbye, madam carp,” you said softly, trying to keep your voice steady. “thank you… for everything.”
the seamstress’s hands froze mid-motion, a small frown tugging at her lips. ‘hmph. goodbye pauper. girl.” she muttered under her breath, fingers tightening slightly around a measuring tape.
you knelt, placing wolfie in your arms, patting his head. “i’ll take good care of both of us.”
as you stepped out of the shop, wolfie tucked under your arm, the sun glinting off the rooftops, you stole one last glance at madam carp. she stood there, arms crossed, lips pursed, and eyes full of mixed emotions pride, envy, and a touch of sorrow.
“time for a new adventure, buddy.”
the streets of the village felt strangely small as the wind tugged at your hair, and for a moment, fear bubbled up inside you fear of leaving behind the world you knew, fear of stepping into a life so different, so grand.
there he was. gojo satoru, waiting at the carriage, his signature grin lighting up his face. he knelt slightly, hands outstretched, and you felt your heart skip. “ready to welcome your new home?” he asked, voice warm.
you nodded, holding wolfie close. “ready.”
he lifted you both effortlessly, cradling wolfie in one arm while holding your hand with the other, eyes twinkling.
as you crossed the threshold, leaving madam carp’s shop and your old life behind, you realised something. this wasn’t just a new chapter, it was the start of a life you had never dared to imagine, and for the first time, you felt truly… free.
lily — gna dip now bye 😂😂 i can forsee this flop
ffleurist 2025 do not plagiarise, translate, or rewrite my writings without my permission !
synopsis when the star football player Michael Kaiser shows up at your window injured, you tend to his wounds and uncover a deeper side to him. as secrets unfold and emotions rise, you find yourself questioning your growing feelings for him. wc 1.8k
as you skimmed through your textbook for the calculus exam you were struggling with, doubts swirled in your mind. you couldn’t shake the unease about inviting a stranger into your house. your study lamp was the only source of light in the dim room.
your thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the window.
you glanced over and saw a silhouette of a man outside. hesitant at first, you received a text “i’m here.” it was from kaiser. as soon as you opened the window, a gust of wind rushed in, followed by the sight of a shivering Michael Kaiser.
"did you really climb up a 15-story apartment? you could’ve just come through the front door."
you stepped aside, letting him in as he walked around your room, inspecting your bedroom. “nice room.”
“yeah, it’s nothing special, though.”
his gaze fell on your study table, where papers were scattered everywhere. “oh, what’s this? calculus? you’re struggling with this?” he hid a smirk behind his smile.
“hey! this is the only chapter i need help with, and my exam is soon”
as he stepped closer to the light, his face was illuminated, and for the first time today, you saw his features clearly.
“what’s that on your face?”
his eyes met yours, but before he could respond, you stepped closer, brushing your fingers over his cheek. you felt the cut and bruise.
he quickly pulled away, looking down, hiding behind his hoodie. “it’s nothing. just a cut from football.”
“no, it’s not nothing,” you insisted. “let me help you. i’ll go get it the first aid outside.”
as you carefully tended to his wounds, you couldn’t ignore how close his face was to yours. just as you were finishing up, he winced, and a rush of sympathy just hit you. this bruise seemed to cut deeper than just the surface.
“you know, normal people use the door,” you said, attempting to ease the awkward tension hanging in the air.
“yeah, but then i wouldn’t get to see that look on your face. totally worth it,” he replied with a faint grin.
you opened your mouth to respond but decided against it, letting the words hang in the silence. his eyes, however, never left yours.
“i know what you want to ask,” he said, breaking the quiet.
“what?” you asked, your voice softer than you intended.
“you want to know where i got all these bruises,” he said, his tone unreadable.
“i mean, yeah but if you don’t want to talk about it, that’s fine”
“just a rough game, tackles hit harder sometimes. it’s not a big deal.” he shrugs
“you’ve got bruises everywhere, and a broken rib the other day and i’m supposed to believe this is just soccer? what soccer have you been playing?”
he leans back slightly, smirking, “why are you so worked up over this? maybe i should get injured more often then?”
you shot him a look. “don’t even joke about that. do you think i want to keep patching you up every time you get yourself hurt?”
“i didn’t ask you to but maybe you secretly like it”
"yeah sure, i just watching you wince in pain," you teased, smacking his bicep lightly. but the way he flinched made you pause.
your brow furrowed. "wait are you hurt somewhere else?"
"no" he said quickly, but the way his hand instinctively clutched his arm betrayed him.
you shot him a pointed look, and he sighed in defeat. "fine."
slowly, he pulled off his hoodie, revealing a nasty injury on his arm. you breath hitched as you took in the sight—though it wasn’t just the wound that caught your attention.
this was your first time seeing his tattoo up close. the intricate blue rose tattoo on his arm was impossible to ignore, the way it seemed to almost bloom under the light. as you gently cleaned the wound, your fingers brushed against his skin, and your eyes lingered a second too long.
"cool, right?" his voice was softer now, almost playful.
you glanced up at him. "yeah but why a blue rose?"
he hesitated, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "honestly? i don’t really know. i got it after i started playing football. it just felt right."
there was something unspoken in his words, something that made your heart beat a little faster. but before you could press further, a loud knock echoed through the house, snapping the moment like a twig underfoot.
“oh no that’s my dad! you have to hide! and don’t leave this room”
he raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by your sudden panic. “your dad? is he one of those ‘clean my shotgun while i meet your friends type?”
you glared at him, shoving him toward your closet. “don’t test it. now go!”
“fine, fine relax schatz.” he scrambled to his feet, wincing slightly as he moved. “but if he asks, i came through the door like a normal person.” surrendering his hands in the air.
“just hide!” you hissed, practically shoving him inside. he ducked into the cramped space, grumbling under his breath about how tight it was.
the knock sounded again, louder this time. taking a deep breath, you smoothed your hair and rushed to open the door.
your dad stood there, holding a set of car keys. “hey, i left my keys at home and just wanted to let you know i’m heading out to work again. need anything when i come home?”
you forced a smile, trying to steady your heartbeat. “nope, i’m good! thanks.”
he frowned slightly, eyes narrowing as he glanced past you into your room. “are you okay? you seem... jumpy.”
“nope, not at all. actually, i was just doing yoga” you leaned casually against the doorframe, praying he wouldn’t notice the slightly ajar closet door.
“in the dark?” he asked calmly but still suspicious.
“yeah it’s just a girls thing hehe”
after a long moment, he shrugged. “alright. i’ll be back tomorrow morning, love you.”
as soon as the door closed behind him, you let out a breath you hadn’t realized you were holding. turning back to the closet, you yanked the door open.
“coast is clear”
he was sitting on the floor of your closet, holding one of your old basketball trophies. “didn’t know you played. pretty impressive.”
you grabbed the trophy from him, trying to hide the blush creeping up your cheeks. “just a past time hobby.”
you sat beside him despite the small space, the silence between you heavy but not unwelcome. for a moment, it was just the two of you, the closeness offering a strange sort of comfort.
“you have a nice dad,” he said softly, breaking the quiet.
“thank you,” you replied, glancing at him. “he works really hard, and i try my best to make him proud.”
he hummed in acknowledgment, leaning his head back against the wall. his gaze seemed far away, as if the room had disappeared around him. “my dad used to beat me up for every little thing i did, especially when we didn’t have any food.”
he words hit like a brick, cutting through the air with quiet devastation. your breath caught, and you turned to him, studying the way his expression stayed oddly calm, like he’d come to terms with it long ago or maybe just buried it deep.
“that’s awful i’m so sorry,” you whispered, unsure if anything you said could even begin to be enough.
je shrugged, offering a faint, bitter smile. “it was what it was. i guess some people aren’t meant to be dads.”
you hesitated, the weight of his words sinking into you. “but you turned out different. you’re not like him.”
he finally looked at you, his eyes softer now, as if your words had reached a part of him he didn’t let people see. “i try” he murmured, his voice almost inaudible.
“your calculus, let me help you with it” he whispered.
you blinked at the sudden shift in conversation, confusion written all over your face. “my calculus? are you seriously using my math homework as a distraction right now?”
“yeah as a reward for patching me up, i’ll help you. you can’t say no because i’m not leaving here until you understand derivatives.”
he sat up, and walked over to your the notes you spread out on the table.
in the past hour he has taught you, you catch yourself watching him more than your notes. the way his brows furrow in concentration, the way his voice softens when he's explaining something challenging.
"see? it’s not that hard," he says, leaning back and grinning.
shaking your head. "yeah, easy for you to say. you ace everything without trying."
"that’s not true," he counters, his tone lighter now. "i’ve got a lot going on, just like you."
you hesitate, noticing the way his grin fades slightly as he speaks. for a brief moment, his vulnerability peeks through again, and it stirs something unfamiliar in your chest.
"you know you’re not what i expected” you say without thinking.
he looks at you, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "what did you expect?"
you shrug, trying to play it off, trying to not get on his nerves “i don’t know. some overconfident star athlete who only cares about himself. but! you’re different."
he smirks, “glad to know i’m not a total cliché."
you find your heart beating faster, your mind racing with the realisation that maybe this isn’t just some casual friendship.
"why are you looking at me like that?" he asks, breaking the moment.
you blink, heat rushing to your cheeks. "looking at you like what”
he smirks, leaning closer. there it was, undenying gaze— intense, unflinching, and impossible to look away from. It was as though he could see right through you. you swallow hard, unaware of how close he is.
"maybe i should go," he says, but there’s hesitation in his voice.
and for the first time, you find yourself not wanting him to leave.
series MASTERLIST
notes from lily ❦⋆ : my fever went down so i decided to just post this, hope u enjoy & thank you for waiting!
i know kaiser didn’t really go to school but i feel like if he did then he would’ve been smart at everything…
TAGLIST
@mixolya @x3nafix @96jnie @tamashithe2nd @cookielovesbook-akie @yuiearyi @noomimi @stargirljas @jhsluvv @sof888a @livelaughloveshidou @swagkittybear @axquella @passw-0-rd @hwaassaa @bbladie @tofumiarchives @justanotherweeb666 @metaphorically-here @ravenbc @levihanmyotp @rybunnie @adrnmyknight @etherealrin @shosuki @90s-belladonna @wwastro @shr00mfairy [tell me if i missed out anyone’s name]
synopsis it’s the new year's while the city is alive with celebrations, the top trends on X are blue lock and the masked hero spider-man.
series MASTERLIST
notes from lily ❦⋆ : kaiser + spiderman ??!! sign mee tf upppp 🙋🏻♀️ (this was originally and supposedly to be rin, before i changed to kaiser...)
took a long hiatus just to make a brand new smau from a totally diff anime 😭 so sorry guys for making yall wait on the previous smau. so far no updates for thatt until i say so! thank u all!
synopsis you confront him about his hidden identity as spider-man, leading to a vulnerable moment where he admits his struggle with love. as the emotional connection deepens, a strange unease fills the room when the nurse lingers with an unsettling gaze. wc 1667
the hospital room hums quietly under the dim lights. kaiser leans against the pillows, mask discarded, revealing the exhaustion etched into his face. you should leave, visiting hours ended long ago but you can't. not when his usual cockiness has given way to something softer.
"you should go home," he murmurs, but his hand finds yours. his grip is weak, but the warmth sends a flutter through your chest.
"not a chance," you say softly, brushing a strand of blonde hair from his face. "you'll start climbing walls again the second i’m gone."
he huffs a weak laugh. "tempting."
for once, he doesn't fight your care. when you adjust the bandages, he just watches you, quiet and unguarded. it's that silence that pulls something raw from him.
"you really stayed," he says after a pause, voice softer. "even after everything."
"of course i did," you reply. "what, you thought i'd leave you to flirt with the nurses?"
a ghost of a smirk tugs at his lips. "jealous?"
"don't push your luck, kaiser."
“mihya.” he whispers, his voice barely audible.
“what?” you ask, not sure if you heard him right.
“earlier... you called me that. please, say it again.”
you pause, your heart suddenly racing at the vulnerability in his voice. “mihya,” you repeat softly, unsure of what’s happening but feeling an unexpected pull.
his gaze softens, and for a moment, it feels like the world around you fades. he looks at you, eyes wide with something raw and unspoken, as if he’s just let down a wall he’s been holding up for so long. “nobody has given me a nickname before.”
“well then mihya, let me be the first.”
his smile fades, and something more serious lingers in his gaze. "i'm not used to this. someone staying."
your heart aches at his honesty. without thinking, your fingers curl tighter around his. "well, you better get used to it. i'm not going anywhere."
his eyes soften in a way that makes it hard to breathe. "good," he murmurs, head tilting slightly toward you. "because if you left, i'd probably do something reckless."
"like what?"
"like this."
before you can respond, he leans in, brushing his lips softly against yours. the kiss is light and hesitant, like he's afraid to break whatever fragile thing has settled between you but when you don't pull away, his hand moves to the back of your neck, deepening it just enough to make your heart stutter.
"you're a terrible influence, spider-man." you whisper, your forehead resting against his and just for a moment, the danger outside the hospital walls feels a little farther away.
“but how did you know? what gave it away?” he asks, his voice tinged with curiosity.
“your tattoos, mostly,” you reply, trying to keep your tone steady. “and your injuries. you weren’t as careful as you thought. i’ve been thinking about it a lot, and everything started to fall into place. it all makes sense now.”
he looks at you, his expression unreadable for a moment. then, he exhales slowly, the weight of the silence settling between you. “you always were sharper than i gave you credit for,” he murmurs, almost to himself, before meeting your eyes again, the tension in the air thickening.
“i didn’t want you to know,” he admits, his voice quieter now, raw with unspoken fears. “i didn’t want to drag you into this mess.”
you stood away, your voice soft but resolute. “i’m already in it, whether you like it or not.”
he looks back at you, a mix of uncertainty, something softer, yet equally dangerous. "and what if I’m not the person you think i am?” he asks, his words heavy with something deeper.
“not this again, but then we’ll figure it out,” you reply, your gaze unwavering. “but i’m not walking away. not now.”
a flicker of vulnerability passes through his eyes, and he’s silent for a long beat. then, his lips curl into a faint smile, though it’s more weary than anything else. “you’re stubborn, you know that?” he says, almost in awe.
“maybe," you say with a small grin. "but i don’t mind being stubborn about this."
“i was bitten by a radioactive spider, and ever since i saw you at the stadium, i knew i had to get to know you better. when you caught me with the hoodie soaked in blood, and i watched you rush an injured man to the hospital, in that moment, i just… fell for you. i let myself get too close, too attached and i was already in too deep. but knowing the kind of man i am, one without the love of a family, one who finds solace only in soccer, i had to pull away. when i was spider-man, i felt invincible, like i could do anything. i felt reborn. i thought that with spider-man, i could love you and protect you. but instead, i just ended up putting you in danger.”
his words hang in the air, thick with the weight of his confession. you’re speechless for a moment, absorbing everything he’s said. slowly, you step closer, your voice quiet but steady. “you’re not the only one who’s afraid of getting someone hurt,” you reply, your eyes meeting his. “but running away, pushing me away, won’t keep me safe. it’ll just keep me distant.”
he looks at you, his eyes searching, as if trying to gauge whether he can trust what you’re saying. “to be honest with you,” he begins, his voice raw with vulnerability, “i don’t know how to love. i’ve been searching for it my whole life, and when i finally get close, i just push it away, and i—”
“mihya,” you interrupt softly, stepping closer. “stop rambling. i told you, i’m here. i’ll teach you how to love but only if you’ll let me.”
he stares at you for a moment, a mix of disbelief and hope flickering in his eyes. he opens his mouth, as if to say something, but the words seem to get stuck, as if there’s something holding him back.
then, suddenly, a third voice cuts through the silence.
“ahem.” the nurse clears her throat, and you glance up, the sound sharp in the otherwise still room. there’s something unsettling about her tone—too calm and too composed for the situation. “miss, you should really head home.”
you feel an odd chill in the air, a slight shift in the atmosphere, but you push it aside. still, the nurse's eyes linger on you for a moment longer than necessary, as though she’s studying you, almost calculating.
you glance over at mihya, who seems equally taken aback, his eyes flicking between you and the nurse, a frown forming on his face.
“righttt,” you mutter, trying to shake off the odd feeling, but the weight of the moment hangs in the air. “i’ll let you rest. we’ll finish this conversation later.”
he gives a small nod, his eyes still locked on yours, but there's an unspoken weight between you now. as you turn to leave, you feel his gaze follow you, the tension lingering in the air. “take care on your way home, mein Schatz.”
the nurse watches you leave, her gaze too steady, too sharp.
you pause, turning to face him, the sound of the german term of endearment catching you by surprise. his gaze is gentle, almost tender, as if he’s offering you a piece of himself he’s rarely shown.
"don’t think this is over," he adds, his voice carrying both a promise and a hint of vulnerability. “i’ll be waiting for you once i recover.”
you feel the weight of his words settle in your chest, a promise you want to believe, but the eerie feeling from the nurse’s gaze still lingers. you give mihya a small nod, trying to push past the unease. "i’ll be careful," you reply, though it doesn’t sound convincing, even to you.
even as you stood outside the door, the nurse’s eyes remain fixed on you, too steady, too sharp, like she's watching you leave for a reason. you turn to walk down the hallway, but with every step, that unsettling feeling grows, gnawing at you.
you pause, the weight of the moment pulling you back. something doesn't feel right.
turning back around, you find yourself walking back towards mihya’s room, feeling a strange pull to go back. when you step inside, the room is empty—mihya’s bed is untouched, the nurse gone as well.
but there’s something else.
the window is wide open. the cold night air rushes in, making the room feel even more hollow. you step toward it cautiously, noticing the curtains swaying slightly as if someone just left.
your eyes flick to the window, and that’s when you see it—a faint green flicker from below, glowing just beyond the edge of the building. you freeze. it’s almost imperceptible at first, like the shadow of a lightning strike without the thunder. another flicker—this time brighter, stronger. a green light cutting through the darkness.
your breath catches in your throat. the air around you feels heavier now, the chill from the window mixing with a rising sense of dread. you step closer to the window, peering out carefully, but the light vanishes as quickly as it appeared, leaving only the dim, cold streets below.
was it just a reflection? a trick of the light?
no. there’s no mistaking it. the green flickers came from the direction of the alley behind the building—too controlled to be random, too deliberate to ignore. your mind races, the pieces clicking together. it’s him. the green goblin.
what just happened?
your mind races, but you can't quite piece everything together. and yet, the echo of mihya’s words remains, a quiet promise hanging in the air.
“i’ll be waiting for you once i recover.”
despite everything, you feel like you can’t walk away just yet. not when you just got him back.
synopsis seen through kaiser’s pov: the photos should’ve been his. he remembers being there. holding your hand, whispering promises. but now, it’s all gone. rewritten. like he was never part of your story.
i thought so hard on this, look at the timestamps & compare
series MASTERLIST
notes from lily ❦⋆ : thank you all for reading 🫶🏼 i hope i did a good job on this, & i hope yall had fun reading this. shjsjeksk ineed2sleep
