Discover Top Posts Tagged with #tkdb zenji

Tokyo Debunker Characters x AFAB Reader (Part 2)

Synopsis: You’re itching for cuddles! but… you’re not sure how you’re going to ask that from your favorite ghoul.

Pairing: TKB Characters x AFAB! Reader (Separated) [Obscuary, Hotarubi, Mortkranken]

Content Warning: Cussing, making out (?)on Yuri’s part, hurt/comfort on Haku's part and slight spoiler on the latest chapter on Haku and Jiro's part.

A/N: I genuinely hope that I did good with Zenji and Haku’s part, despite loving Haku a lot, I feel like I did not do him justice. I might do the faculty as well!

Edward Hart:

Wanting to cuddle Ed is both exciting and eerie, for one, you know damn well he likes to make some of the most double entendre definitions. You went to Obscuary just to grab an anomalous plant that Mortkranken wanted since they traded something to acquire it, but with both Jiro and Yuri busy, you volunteered to attain it.

While you’re walking through the forest, you notice a familiar figure just sitting under a tree, looking tired and pathetic. “Ed?” you called out, immediately helping him up, he graciously accepted your help, fake coughing when you hoisted him up to stand. “What are you doing here?” You knew he was usually faking being old, and tired considering he seems to be perfectly fine most of the time, but you liked Ed and even if he’s 90% always using weaponized incompetence towards you, Rui and sometimes Lyca. You wouldn’t leave him alone here.

” Thank you Honor Roll” he languidly wraps his arm around your shoulder, standing more firmly this time and letting his arm fall down to your waist, causing you to jolt. "What brings you to Obscuary?”

” I... I was just getting something” You trailed off, still gripping on his waist at least to push him towards Obscuary. “And - I was hoping to watch some YouTube with you if you’d like” another straightforward question from you, because if you didn’t you feel that this man will suddenly try and flirt or give you some kind of eerie revelation if you don’t, the wind in the creepy forest suddenly turned cold, causing you to shudder, despite Ed lacking the warmth, you pushed yourself to hug him a bit, earning you a chuckle for the taller man. “What bought this on Honor Roll?” he asked, almost interlocking his arm around your waist as he leans down, brushing his lips to your ear, you stiffen at the closeness, immediately letting him go, your cheeks were flushed from the sudden intimate contact.

“What the hell Ed?” you scowl at him, but it had no effect, he merely stood there, eyes glinting, sometimes his actions really do show how vampiric he is under the shine of the moon. “If you wanted physical contact so much” he walks towards you, causing you to back away, he gently placed his hand behind your head; pressing it on the bark of the tree that you unfortunately bumped into.

“Why are you shying away when you’ve offered to give yourself to me?” he purred, your breath hitched, pushing away the man to give yourself some space, that was bad for the heart.

” Offering?! I never offered myself to you in the first place!” you bit back, “plus it’s just wanting to watch YouTube! whatever your nasty brain is thinking about, WON’T happen!” you stood your ground, scoffing when Ed just chuckled, walking towards the gate of Obscuary.

“No need to get so flustered” he said, a permanent smile that was mocking you stayed on his face. “We can watch YouTube together” he added, the creak of the old metal gate adding to the sound of his words. “We could invite Rui to join... or maybe Lyca, who do you want the most to “watch?”

The way he said it made your cheeks go full red this time, whining about his stupid innuendos you shoved him deeper inside the gate, finally seeing the door and due to your mind incorporating ... thoughts that Ed pushed inside your head you accidentally pushed him towards Rui, who just so happen to be going outside.

“Ah!” he jolted, as Ed dies on the floor, both of you stare in shock, your hands still in the pushing stance, while Rui froze there.

Unfortunately... you’ll have to wait for him to revive before you can cuddle up in his bed.

Luckily! it just took around 1 hour for him to wake up; groggy outside of the door for you to help him back into his room, he boo hoo’d his way into guilt tripping you to take care of him. I mean, it is your fault that he bumped into Rui, who he heard was just sighing about how he was the one in the way and you weren’t in the wrong, pitiful him.

The moment you finished cleaning his room, he was already preparing his youtube, which consists of 80% you; putting on his forgotten password, signing him in again and him picking what to watch, which usually is documentaries that fascinates him.

You were exhausted caring for this grandpa, why do you even like him? whatever, at least you could finally flop on him, as he fixes his position, pulling you closer to him, deciding that you’re better off being on top of him fully so that he could enjoy your warmth and others...

He wouldn’t do anything yet, having you all huddled up though is making him want to turn you into one of his kind. Too bad you kept rejecting him. One day though; he’ll have you agree.

Rui Mizuki:

You died.

Kidding! Let’s say this happened after his curse got broken so now, he’s a sappy incredibly touch starved little man. You think you’re the one asking him for cuddles? NOPE it’s him going out of his way to Clementia just so you can shower him with hugs or maybe kisses if you wanted to spoil him.

Cuddles with Rui would always take hours, so you ought to take your bathroom break so that you wouldn’t see him about to tear up when you try to untangle yourself from him, he’s going to nuzzle your nape from behind, mumbling about how you can hold it in, but you can’t, and he needs to move!

So, he’d begrudgingly move but wouldn’t go back to closing his eyes till you’re back in his arms again. Honestly, when you’re back, he’s already grabbing your wrist, which helps him a lot in exposure therapy, because he was getting used to it... Not seeing the way, he grabs your arm as a sign of death, his curse is broken now, and so are yours! So please stay with him, don't leave him.

He’s needy. Almost every day after his work hours, if you aren’t accompanying him during his night bars, he’d be chatting with you after midnight asking if you’re in Obscuary , are you busy? He wants to cuddle!

He would often take off his clothing, not all, just his shirt just so he can have skin to skin contact with you. It’s non-sexual! He just really loves feeling you after years of not being able to.

If by some miracle; you’re just as needy as he is and wants to hug him all the time just as he wants to hug you. He’d be so down for it! Tell him when! Is it now? Do you wanna give him a kiss first though? That'll make him a lot happier!

“Really Honor Roll?” he beamed, arms already wrapped around you as he sways you gently; ever the gentleman he was never rough with you. Drape your arms around his shoulders he’d die a happy man... Not actually die, he wants to be able to grow old and have kids and grandkids with you before he dies!

He’d lean down to kiss you, cause you’re so so cute he couldn’t help himself, pulling you close like a golden retriever puppy! If you really do ask (demand) him for more cuddles, he’d lessen his time manning the bar, (or give the responsibility to Lyca) to spend more cuddle time with you!

Lyca Colt

You weren’t actually thinking of cuddling Lyca when you saw him in his usual place with Subaru, just on the second floor, eating lunch together. You totally weren’t thinking of wanting to pet Lyca when his ears and tail randomly pop out when he senses danger.

Totally not.

“I want to cuddle you” you mutter one time, Lyca almost spitting out his ice cream, and staring at you shocked. “What?” he asked, looking a bit flustered. “No! I already let you touch me once!”

“Please Lyca?” you whine, going near him but he jumps back 10 feet away from you like you’re a danger to him, ouch. “I don’t even know what bought this on! what are you planning!?”

” Nothing! I just think you’d be really nice to cuddle! what about just a hug??” you tried to bargain with his ears and tail popping out suddenly, you desperately wanted to touch it. That fluffiness can’t just stay untouched!

” Ugh!” he relaxes, scratching the back of his head, “10 seconds” he declares. “One minute” you bargain once again, going closer to him but this time slow enough not to startle but he glares at you. “10 seconds!” he repeated, causing you to pout in defeat. “Fine!” you lunge at him, causing him to jolt and stiffen, “Oi!” he wanted to peel you off him but you’re hugging him tight, his tail unconsciously wagging, what you were doing kind of reminded him of Nero... He did say companionship could also mean physical contact such as this...

So, he relents, awkwardly hugging you back, preventing himself from crushing you, but you gently pat his head, ruffling his hair causing him to relax to your touch. Although you two are standing, he ended up just almost falling down leaning towards your hugs.

“Did Neros used to do this with you?” you asked, stopping yourself from pressing your fingers and massaging his ears, his tail stopped wagging. Looking at you.

Maybe you shouldn’t have asked, the way he was looking at you like a sad puppy made your heart ache, so you backtracked. “Sorry- I didn’t mean-”

” He did,” he answered, his mouth forming a thin line, as he still trailed off, remembering his father figure. “I bit him when he tried it when we first met,” he continued, hands still awkwardly wrapped around you while you two stood, “He flinched, but he didn’t stop being gentle with me” his ears drooped as you frown, patting him. “I see” you smiled, pulling him down as you finally found a bench you two could cuddle in!

You ushered him there as you placed his head on your shoulder, but he ended up flopping on your lap instead. “Neros’ a good guy” you smiled, Lyca staring into your eyes as he smiles fondly, “he is right? I can meet him soon,” he trailed off, “and introduce you to him”

” Oh why?” you tilted your head, running your fingers through his scalp causing him to grumble out of delight. “You, Suba, and Neros are the only humans that I care deeply for, and I guess Rui too” he added begrudgingly, you laughed, “I’m glad I’m in your list of kind humans Lyca” you grinned, causing his heart to do a weird flip, and his cheeks to warm up. “Of course, you need protection, and to break that curse of yours” he said the last part filled with determination as he grabs your hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

You could see it, the determination in his eyes, you sigh endearingly, “We’ll work on it together”

That made him really happy.

Hotarubi

Subaru Kagami:

Subaru is kind. But it takes a certain level of closeness for you to be able to unlock the idea in his head that you could cuddle him without accidentally triggering his stigma to turn on.

You might need to make a PowerPoint presentation, a thesis, heck a research proposal of how cuddling him could enhance YOUR, yes, your mental health since he cares for you that much. Because unfortunately for you, he rejects every advance you make using his “I don’t know if that’s safe” prologues, as if you care if he could see through everything, you’re hiding... well aside from the fact that you’re hiding a major crush on him. Maybe he’ll finally understand that you’re in love with him and no one else if he does? Because even Zenji, the ever more power of friendship enthusiast, had to sit you down and question if you fancy the captain. In which you said yes. Out of all the ghouls you have spoken with. Zenji is one of the most trustworthy ones. So, when he found out, he beamed and strung his biwa, wanting to create a tune that would set the mood if you decided to profess your love for Subaru sooner or later.

You were going to confess!... If Subaru just agreed to give you a hug. Asking Zenji for advice did help though... His ideas were nothing short of romantic. In which you think Subaru would appreciate it!

You didn’t go to Hotarubi for a few days, that was noticed by Subaru, who got worried that his insistence of not wanting to cuddle you due to his hazardous stigma had pushed you far away from him. Haku even noticed the shift of his usual demeanor, it sounded more forced.

“Subaru, are you alright?” Haku asked, while Subaru ended up just staring at the newspaper of their new mission, he jolted, looking to Haku’s side; he forced a smile at him, despite knowing that Haku would suspect it. “Yes, I’m fine” he muttered, “where is Honor Roll by the way?” he looked around, hoping to see you but you weren’t popping up, figures, you were assigned to a more combat based mission, he heard from Zenji; that’s why you couldn’t meet up with them in this mission.

“You could go visit her in Clementia” Haku suggested, a lopsided smile on his face, Subaru shook his head, drinking his tea, taking a quick break from reading the newspaper. “I'd rather not give her extra problems” he trailed off, for a moment he was thinking about visiting you... but if his concern is right, and that you’re upset at him for rejecting you repeatedly. He didn’t want to impose his presence like that.

“Subaru! Haku’s right” Zenji piped up, causing both men to look at him. “If the girl ended up on a mission for a long time, you might not be able to reconcile with her!” he frowned, hovering on top of them.

Subaru tilted his head, looking at Zenji. “How... Did you know that I was worried about upsetting her?” he couldn’t help but question that. Causing Zenji to stop his hovering, an obvious bead of sweat accumulating on the side of his face. “It’s! it’s shown in your expression Suba! a gentleman like you is easy to read!” he lied through his teeth, causing Subaru to continue to stare at him.

“Zenji’s right though” Haku hummed, putting both of his hands behind his head as he flops down the floor. “We can’t continue with our mission if you’re having personal problems just saying” he added, “The mission needs our clear mental state in case the suspected anomalous makes you hallucinate regret”

Haku’s right, Subaru thought, smiling at both of his friends, without them; he would have been lost during his journey in Darkwick, he stood up, bowing to both of them. “Alright, I’ll go check on Honor Roll...” he murmured, grabbing an umbrella before saying goodbye to them and closing the door with a soft click.

Both men stared at the retreating figure and when the coast was clear they both sighed. “You almost got caught Zenji”

” It’s a slip of tongue!" Zenji whined.

You on the other hand, had prepped everything in the house! your bed divided and ready to be slept at! Your phone dinged, a chat from Haku informing you that Subaru was making his way to Clementia.

You panicked; you haven’t even set the laptop you decided to borrow from Ren! That bastard decided to milk you dry of your money just to rent his shitty laptop!

You looked around for the USB to plug in whatever movie came, then you heard the knock at the door. Subaru was there.

Before Subaru could get another knock in, you opened the door, still in pajamas, causing Subaru to blush a bit looking away, you were about to sleep? What was he thinking!?

“S-sorry! I’ll go back to Hotarubi now Honor Ro-”

” No!” you were about to grab his hand but stopped, before opening the door wider. “I was kind of expecting you to come so...” she smiled, showing that she did fix her bed. It had a pretty big divider, a long pillow. “I know I’ve been persistent in asking you to cuddle and” you scratch your cheek. “I’m sorry for that; for trying to force you”

” Oh” Subaru stared at the bed; indeed, you did add a divider. “Are you suggesting...?” he trailed off, you nod, “Just a movie night Suba” you placed both of your hands behind you, “I know that I should have asked Zenji and Haku, but from what I heard they’re both busy.”

” Don’t you have a mission with Sinostra?” he asked, worried that if he agreed, you’ll lose sleep and potentially endanger yourself in the mission. You shook your head “No, I wasn’t on any mission, I was going to join yours in Hotarubi!” you smiled at him, causing a wave of relief, so you weren’t mad at him, you just wanted to watch a movie?

” I’m still really sorry about not agreeing to the hug or a cuddle though” he muttered, going into your room and sitting down on the bed. “No” you smiled, grabbing the mouse before flopping down, the makeshift stars that you decided to place on the ceiling creating a slight design that made your room a bit prettier, you looked at him adoringly. “It’s my fault for insisting, but Subaru”

You wanted to reach out, of course, but you love this man, and you know that despite the lack of physical contact, he’s still with you, by your side. He gazed down at you, eyes soft, it makes you wonder if he likes you back. “Thank you for coming” you stare at him, adoring him.

”Honor Roll..” he sighs, was he fooled? “So, I was asked to come here just so we can have a movie date together?”

”hehe”

Haku Kusanagi:

You stared at the continuous rain that bestowed upon you when you went to Hotarubi once again. You were asked by Haku to come meet up with him, as usual he kept using his flirts that did not pass the vibe check with you.

Honestly... whenever you came there, it’s always a double-edged sword with the environment. With it being rainy, the pitter patter of the droplets hitting the roof or the wooden flooring did help give you a sense of relaxation, it was a great environment to relax and take your mind off the burdens of Darkwick.

But at the same time, it left you alone with your thoughts, which isn’t good. You always hoped that the busier you are the closer you are to breaking your curse. But no, nothing changed, Darkwick kept promising their “good name” to you but you know damned well there is nothing yet.

Nothing at all, you thought to yourself. You were getting drenched; you were curious where did everyone go? Even Zenji was gone, did you come at the wrong time? wait but isn't Haku the one who invited you?

You heard rushed footsteps as an umbrella covered your gaze on the cloudy sky, a streak of green hair flowing at the side of your eye, you looked to your right, to see the man who you were waiting for.

” Princess, “he frowned, grabbing the towel with one hand and draping your shoulders with it. Warm... did he warm it up for you?

“What are you doing just standing there?” he asked, hand on your shoulder while he guided you to shelter. When you went in it, he placed the umbrella down, while you stared at him, completely forgetting to answer.

“Princess?” he snapped you out of your thoughts, panicking a bit as you shook your head, forcing a smile. “Sorry! Hotarubi’s rain always gets me thinking more than I should.” you weren’t lying... well half lying.

“Right, are you sure?” Haku went to lift the towel, placing it on your drenched hair as he started drying you. “I walked out of my room since you said you were closer” he added, “then I just saw you absolutely getting drenched, did you want to play with the rain? “He smiles, while the towel covered your eyes, you played with your fingers, intertwining it with each other.

What were you there for again? you thought to yourself, looking at the way the droplets once fell, Haku sighs as he stopped drying you, then suddenly you felt him hug you, his warmth helping you relax your frigid body.

“Do you want to go spend the afternoon with me?” he asked once again, your eyes twinkling, you wrap your arms around him, flopping your head on his shoulder.

Haku, the first man you met after being cursed. The man who helped you through a few stages of grief you had for the first months.

“I asked you if we could cuddle by chat, right?” you smile to yourself, Haku chuckling “you forgot?” he asked, you nodded, gripping on his shirt as you pulled him closer, as if he’s going to vanish if you let him go.

Haku felt it, hugging you closer as well. "You’ve had a long day, haven’t you, princess?" he murmured, planting a soft kiss on your towel covered hair, “I’m sorry for not being able to be with you for a few months” he rubs your back, patting it occasionally. “Today, you have me all to yourself” he pulled away a bit, touching your cheek and making you look at him.

And there it was, tears streaming down your face as you bite your lip trying not to, everything’s been overwhelming you lately and you’ve been such a strong girl and he’s proud of you for that; it ached him to see this, but at the same time, he’s honored to be the shoulder you could cry on.

” Haku...” you sniffle, looking down in shame, you felt bad for dumping all of these when the first thought you were supposed to have was a cuddle session with him since he offered after a long day of work for him. He asked for you to accompany him, to help him recharge his energy, yet here you are still being treated like a princess when you planned to make him feel like your prince.

He smiles, looking at you fondly while he brushes away the tears on your cheek, before planting another kiss on your temple, “I know princess, you’re not a burden to me” he added, knowing that you needed those words the most; he’s not saying it out of kindness or pity for you; rather he was stating a fact that even if he’s the one asking you for a recharge. What you didn’t know is that he knows when you’re reaching your limit; planning a meet up when you need to vent it out to him.

He guides you to his room, grabbing comfortable clothing for you after he urges you to take a bath and change. Of course, he wasn’t much of a pervert to stay and watch you, Zenji would burn him if he did, so he stayed outside till you opened the sliding door, telling him you’re finished.

The moment you sat on the futon he laid out, he saw how puffy your eyes are, and you seemed to be looking sleepy. “Already tired princess?” he asked, sitting down beside you.

You immediately planted your head on his shoulder, wrapping your arm around his as you snaked your fingers with his. “Warm” you thought, not knowing that you said it outloud, causing Haku to shift a bit and wrap an arm on your shoulder, letting you cuddle up closer to him.

“Get some rest,” he whispered, and just like that, you felt your eyes drooping, he was comfy, a man you could trust. Haku glanced at you, feeling your breathing slow down and deepen, he rubs his thumb on the edges of your shoulders as the rain continued to pitter patter. A harmonious tune that he got used to as he placed his head on top of yours feeling sleep take over him.

Maybe in another life, you two met in different circumstances, would you give him the time of your day? would he have flirted with a cute girl like you, just sitting down in the train, waiting for your stop? or would you two have never met?

He never truly knows what the future holds for both of you... but he is scared, scared that one day; you’ll be gone, one day, he wouldn’t feel this type of comfort with you anymore.

Zenji Kotodama

"Drat! It appears, I'll need to practice hugging you as well. We can work on it together!"

It’s been in your mind lately, when you first met Zenji, he mentioned something about practicing on hugging you. You wonder why he hasn’t done that at all. Were you not huggable or did he simply forget?

You were mindlessly carrying your books that you grabbed after potionology class, unsure why Professor Nicholas decided to have a lecture on the weekend, talking about how midterms were close, and your section was the only one behind.

You sigh, until you feel your books floating, pale hands grabbing it easily, you look up to see Zenji.

”Zenji!” you smile, thanking him for helping you carry out books, so it is easier for him to touch objects than humans.

”Doll!” he smiles, as he floats right beside you, “Good morning! you sure do look tired” he added, looking worriedly at your eyebags since you spent the whole night studying for the post-quiz that Prof Nicholas mentioned. Yawning, you smile at him more, whenever he’s around your day seems to brighten up; so, despite the fact that he’s a ghost, he still very much is your close companion.

What worries you is he randomly meets a priest praying something that rests a soul, and he accidentally vanishes.

Well... He does hang around often with Haku, who clearly is a soul hazard.

” Doll?” he called out, he’s been rambling to you about his latest YouTube video, yet you were just staring at him with a cute smile. “Ah!” you shook your head, getting yourself to focus back. “Yes Zenji! right” you shuffled a bit, “I was hoping to ask you for something” you sheepishly muttered, scratching your cheek as you made your way back to Clementia, he floated beside you curiously, waiting for you to continue.

” You know; you’ve mentioned before that you could practice hugging me...” you trailed off, “I was wondering why you never practiced it with me?” you didn’t know if you’d be getting an answer from him, he blinks, pondering for a bit before turning back at you. “You never properly answered me on that part, doll” he muttered, placing the books on your table, “So I thought you didn’t like the idea!” he chirped.

” Plus, I guess it was awkward of me to ask if I could hug a lady like you when we just met” he crosses his arms, deciding to cross his legs, watching you.

You sat on your bed, “I don’t think it’s bad to ask!” you reassured him, honestly back then you were just shocked at his bluntness, but the more you spend time with Zenji, the more you know that he didn’t mean that in a way that most people would think. He’s kind and if he were still alive, he would probably be one of the ghouls you’d be comfy initiating physical contact with!

But right now... you’ll have to work hard to try! His birthday is close too... It wouldn’t hurt trying just for your dearest ghoul, right?

” Zenji” you call out to him; he looks back at you after thinking deeply about it. “ I wanna try it” you exclaimed, luckily, you’re already back in Clementia, so it wouldn’t be weird trying to hug him as a ghost.

“Really?” his eyes widened, looking at you, as if he’s observing if you’re joking, but he didn’t see any type of deception which made his eyes twinkle, he goes closer to you, this time not minding the closeness as conservative as he is. “You want to practice hugging with me doll?” he asked, barely containing his excitement, how infectious! you find yourself nodding rather too keenly at his proposal.

And so! Operation try hugging Zenji has commenced!

At first, you tried to stay still when he hovered in front of you in your bed, then you suddenly felt cold as he passed through you, almost stumbling down to the floor. He stood straight, scratching his cheek sheepishly. “I have stage fright I fear doll” he joked causing you to snort.

” You want me to close my eyes Zenji?” you asked, swaying your legs since your bed is pretty high up, Zenji vigorously shook his head, huffing as if he’s silently cheering himself up.

“No!” he insisted, as he went up to you once again, this time you opened your eyes as a way to cheer him on. Noticing the slight blush on his cheek, wow he really is cute.

Swoosh!

Slipped through you again, he sighs, looking at you apologetically, “Are you okay that this might take a while doll?” he asked, feeling guilty that you might need to do this repeatedly for a few days... months? or maybe more to actually hug him. You reached out, about to pet his head which Zenji eagerly wanted to feel, but it slipped through him, causing him to frown. “It’s alright Zenji” you smile fondly, “That just means I get to spend more time with you,” you stare into his eyes, causing him to grow a bit more flustered.

You truly are a wonder to Zenji. He may not have met you when he could have still touched you, but he isn’t one to dwell in the past and drown in the misery of “What ifs?”

You did show up, any time of the day you were free, asking Haku or Subaru where he was. Doll! He's always around, he’ll always be around!

But... How long would that be?

He knew that he was thinking rather negatively, for every failure in hugging you made his heart ache. This might be the longest that it took for him to try and hug you! yet it keeps failing and he really doesn’t understand why.

He didn’t want to worry you about how upset it gets him whenever he fails, since when he tries, or you try, you give him the sweetest smile that any gentleman could fall for. Encouraging him, trying to touch his hand and comforting him when his frustration slips up.

... Was he falling for you? He let that thought stay in his mind, but even if he did, what good could he give you? He's deceased, and he’s always in danger of being accidentally laid to rest... you deserve better than a ghost.

Then one day, in his usual days for writing since you were quite busy every Tuesday, he uses the free time to write! However, when he sat down, he realized that his mini calendar had the date circled in a red ballpen.

Curiosity caused him to wonder, what was it that’s happening on this special day?

“June 19th...” he stared dumbfoundedly at the date, till his eyes widened, he stood up, opening the door only to be greeted with a cake shoved in his face.

” Happy Birthday Zenji” Haku greeted, he was so focused all night writing that he didn’t even realize the rustling outside was Subaru and Haku preparing their meeting room with balloons and fancy decorations!

” My!” he gasped, looking at the cake, it was absolutely gorgeous, donning in his favorite color with a design of a brush that splayed the color throughout the cake. “Haku! Suba!” he smiled brightly, he didn’t even realize it was his birthday! How joyful!

Wait, he frowns, looking around for you behind Haku but you weren’t there, which is, figures, he didn’t recall telling you about his birthday.

He was about to accept your absence till you burst into the meeting room, panting as you held a gift... what is that?

Zenji! you beamed, walking towards him, “Listen... We haven’t succeeded in actually holding each other” you said, he winces, not thinking you’d say that in front of everyone, but he knew that you didn’t find it embarrassing, or trying to demean him. In the first place, why is he so upset he couldn’t hold you?

“So, I thought about it” you murmured, before putting the gift down the table, he thought you were gonna give it to him already! “If it doesn’t work out this time... if you can’t hold me that’s okay, then my gift will always be that we can repeatedly try again” you declared, he stared at you shocked, till tears started accumulating in his eyes.

“Doll!” he sniffles, you’re way too kind to him, and without thinking he lunges at you, causing you to jolt and automatically open your arms for him.

Then suddenly, you felt him... you felt his body collide with you instead of going through you, he hugs you tightly to the point you almost stumbled. You teared up with him as you hugged him back tightly, gripping on his clothes as he sways you a bit, both of you giggling at the success you just feel.

Haku smiles, watching as he places the cake down, you’ve told him about your gift, and he was happy that at least it’ll be two gifts for Zenji. “Doll!” he gasped, only realizing now that he could hold you, he shakingly grabs your hand with both hands, “I... - I can hold you!” he chirped, feeling your warmth against his, you wiped your tears before lunging at him back, pulling him into a full bear hug, squeezing him, “Yeah! I’m so proud of you Zenji-! whoa!” you squeaked when he wrapped his arms around your waist, lifting you up to the air that you had to grip on his shoulders.

He blushes, apologizing immediately since he got way too happy to the point, he lifted you without knowing, however! he doesn’t let your hand go. “I’m sorry, doll” he apologized, hand still clasped with yours. You rub your thumb on his hand, “you should take me out to fly sometimes” you joked, finally deciding to give him your gift.

He looks at it curiously, deciding to open it... with one hand only! He's not letting you go. You watched intently as what he opened was... an art piece?

It was you! and him, holding each other in Hotarubi, holding each other's hand, and what seems to be indicating, music playing. Before he could even ask what, it meant, he heard a song play as you tugged at him, grabbing him to the center of the meeting room. “Doll?” he called out confusedly, but at the same time, flustered at the ideas swirling in his head.

About how this feels like a maiden grabbing her lover to dance in the middle of a garden, you pulled him close, causing him to stumble a bit, your eyes twinkling as you held him so gently... like you were holding something precious.

From the looks of it, you were looking at him like he’s the precious one, causing his heart to thump wildly, he thanked the gods he wasn’t human anymore and his hands weren’t sweaty. “Doll... do you want to dance?” he asked, as he rests his hand on your waist, while you pull him closer by wrapping your arms around his shoulders. “I drew that as a way of manifestation for this to happen” you admitted, smiling as you pressed your forehead to his.

This was way too intimate for Zenji, but at the same time, he couldn’t help but think that he deserves to have this dream as his birthday wish. He smiles gently, closing his eyes as you two sway to the soft melody that’s played on the radio.

Maybe he didn’t regret meeting you late, because it was never late to begin with. He may be a ghost, but to see your determination to the fullest when he’s passed away... it helps him see the true beauty of love.

Mortkranken:

Yuri Isami:

Asking the Great Yuri Isami for cuddles is not only foolish but brave! Why do you think he’d give you a time of his day when every minute could be spent trying to find a cure for your pesky curse and gain funding for his research about a cure for you!? Isoprophen X!

“Yuri, please?” you begged him, not really clinging but hovering around him enough to make him feel annoyed and strangely flustered. “I told you, no! you’re going to bother me over and over again worm” he scoffs, looking back at your chart, noticing something strange in your health check.

” You...” he glares at you, pointing at the increased white blood cells along with various strange high counts or low counts of your complete blood count. “Have you not been sleeping well?! “He scolded you, causing you to jolt you and tap your index finger together. “That’s why I’ve been asking you if you could come sleep with me” you murmured before pointing an accusatory finger at him. “YOU’RE not getting any sleep too!” You scoff, glaring back at him as his eyebrow twitched in annoyance. “I have a reason why I’m specifically not resting” he crossed his arms, huffing, “What’s your excuse!? “

” Getting you to sleep with me!”

It was the wrong moment for Jiro to unfortunately go into Yuri's office, he stared blankly. “Am I interrupting something?” He asked, clearly unbothered—but the way Yuri stared back at him, pale as ghost. “Jiro!” he stood up, face flushed as he walked inside, handing Yuri a rather thick paperwork. “Prof Nicholas told me to bring this to you so you could double check if it’s all correct”

You were getting flustered yourself, letting your mouth run like that without thinking. Yuri coughed, grabbing it before shooing Jiro away. Of course... not before Jiro looked at you and back at Yuri. “If it helps with your health Yuri, maybe you should sleep with her” he muttered before walking a bit faster to leave.

That bastard! Yuri gaped, glaring at the door as if it’s Jiro. He decided to look at the paper, reading it and acting as if you’re not present.

“Yuri” you called out, he’s still ignoring you, causing you to pout, “Yuri!” you called again, grabbing the rolling chair and shoving it besides his seat, causing him to roll a bit due to his seat being exactly the same.

“I told you!” he scowls, glancing at you as you clung to his shoulder, pouting. “I-, I am not sleeping with you!”

” Wait- I think you’re taking that out of context” you said blankly, as you go and place your hand on top of his. “As much as I am joking,” you muttered, causing him to finally relax, maybe listening to you since... unfortunately he does care about you slightly.

“Your eyebags making you less handsome” you said, brushing your thumb under his eyes, he flinched, not even addressing that you just called him ugly as he looked away, rearranging the paper in his hands.

Damn it... he sighs shakily, since when did you stop being a worm for him? was it right now? or have you been slowly integrating yourself in his daily life that he started to feel soft towards you?

“tch” he clicked his tongue, placing the paperwork down as you touch his cheek, rubbing your thumb on his soft skin as he leaned down, his heart thumping, what was he doing? why is he leaning closer? Why does he want you?

You smile, teasingly brushing your lips on his before pulling away. “I take that as a yes?” he stiffens, glaring at you, “Fine!” he surrenders before leaning down to you and kissing you.

In between kisses, he heard you giggle, which annoys him so.

Why does he like you? He thought to himself while you led the kisses, pulling him by his collar, deepening it.

When you two pulled away, your hands found its place on yuri’s cheeks, cupping his flushed face. “It’s already past 7 pm, do you wanna take a rest from your work?” you hummed, as Yuri glares at you, but this time, it’s without edges.

“I guess that would be a logical solution” he exclaimed, standing up and grabbing your hand away from his face. “You’re resting here, it’s already too late for you to go back to your house."

” You just want me in your bed” you teased, as he rolled his eyes. “You’re sleeping in the futon”

” Mean!”

You walked inside his room, opening it and realizing how neat everything is...

Because there are barely any designs at all. What the hell? you frown, looking at the bed and wiping a finger on the sheet as if you’re expecting accumulated dust on it with how obvious that it is that it’s rarely used.

“It’s clean you idiot” you heard Yuri huff from behind, closing the door, already changed in his pajamas. “Wow, who would’ve thought” you teased him, a smile on your face, luckily Yuri had two pairs of the same pajamas, so despite his being too large for your figure, it was snug enough for you to sleep in.

”Your room lacks design” you pout, flopping down the bed as you grab a pillow and hug it to yourself. “Why would I put effort in decorating my room when it's only used for sleeping?”

”So you just clean it?” Yuri stared at you like you’re an idiot, “No, I grow trees on it and wait for mother nature to take a hold and give me a solution as to why Isoprophen X isn’t working on you or maybe it’s attacking your brain receptors!” he glared, ushering you to the side as you giggle at his creative comeback.

Due to your teasing, he almost didn’t notice that he was supposed to get the futon out and not let you sleep in his bed, when he was about to grab the futon, you scooted over, wrapping your arms around his waist. “Oh, great Doctor Yuri Isami, let’s get some rest” you hummed, burying your face on his back, you looked up a bit, not really seeing his face but noticing how red his ears were was already a sign.

“Are you blushing?” you grinned causing Yuri to look at you, only for you to surge up and kiss him. You felt him stiffen before relaxing and kissing back. “Let’s go sleep” you smile fondly at him.

“I-” He looks away, pushing you off a bit and planting a long pillow to divide you from him or else he’s gonna get a heart attack being with you.

“Let’s sleep normally! no cuddling!” he declared only for you to shove the pillow down and lunge at him, he cussed for a bit but lets you drag him closer to your side. “Research said that if you cuddle with the person you love, it’ll help you sleep better” you stated, locking your arms around him, yet you’re not feeling his arms wrapping around you!

“Yuri?” you called out, to which suddenly a blinding light of his phone flashes on your face causing you to squint your eyes. “Yuri, what are you doing?”

”Checking which reliable material did you get that research from” he hummed, and you grabbed his phone away slamming it on the nightstand as you pouted. Yuri complained but was shunned by you covering his mouth. “Sleep!” you glared at him, while he looked at you with disdain, grabbing your hand away from his mouth.

”You, did you even clean your hand?” he scoffs, pulling you close to him. “Obviously! what do you take me for?!” you asked but from the looks of it, he was about to call you a worm so you just flopped your face to his chest. “Just shut up Yuri and sleep!” you commanded him.

Surprisingly, he’s the little spoon when you woke up earlier, his arms and legs locked around you, his face nuzzling your chest. You almost thought of him as a Koala...

Well, it doesn’t seem that far with how cute he is.

Jiro Kirisaki

Now, since when did you ever considered Jiro as intimidating? aside from the fact that he scared Kaito, he wasn’t really a man that you feared. Sure, he was strong, but he never once threatened you with violence. He’s quite easy to talk with!

Which brings you to your current predicament, Jiro Kirisaki... He’s tall, and pretty strong, being able to man handle you while fighting off that spider anomaly a few missions back; and yet...

You want to hug him! cuddle!

“Why would you want to hug that man?!” Kaito screeched into your ear as you giggled at him, “Because! I’m curious!” you giggled at how Kaito was looking at you. “I mean... sure but Honor Roll this is Jiro we’re talking about” he sighs, looking rather worried, you sipped your drink. “What’s with him? We went through so many missions (which is just about 3 missions), why would he say no?”

” First off, I’m pretty sure he’s not the cuddly type!” Kaito argued, “And you could just cuddle me! I’m always down for that!” he teared up, you pat his head while he complains, till a shadow loomed over his back, “You can’t be serious that you’re picking Jiro as the ghoul you want to cuddle! he doesn’t deserve you! , he’s emotionally constipated and always need Yuri around so it’s going to be two terrifying beings with you!”

” Uh-” you stopped patting his head, causing him to rant a bit more. “Plus! he’s a potential killer! why would you wanna hug someone who probably has blood in their hands?!”

” I mentioned this before,” Jiro interrupted, “There’s a lack of evidence pertaining if I truly am the person responsible for the one-eyed sleeping beauty murder” he stated in a matter-of-fact tone; causing Kaito to scream so loud he started walking on top of the table and jump to your side. “J-J-JIRO!?” He cried out, while Jiro remained indifferent.

“Honor Roll” he focused back on you, ah you’re caught, you smile sheepishly as Kaito shakes besides you out of fear. “So... you heard what I said-?” you muttered, embarrassed that Kaito basically outed what you wanted from him.

“A bit,” he replied vaguely, “I am curious how cuddling me is going to satisfy your curiosity” he asked, Kaito remaining silent at your exchange with one another.

” Well” you trailed off a bit, “For starters, whenever you hold me, or grab me, you feel...” you look down, not really knowing why you decided to push forward and tell him why you’re curious. “You were really cold, it makes me wonder how you get warmth, like, insulation-”

Jiro hummed in acknowledgement, putting a hand on his neck, “My temperature most likely came from my diet, since I have a slower metabolism, it impairs with the distribution of my warmth-”

You stare at him dumbfoundedly, surprisingly... you understand what he’s saying! He really is similar to a doctor who tries to explain to his patients in a simpler manner.

“Then, I wanna try cuddling you!” you chirped, Kaito’s eyes bulging and grabbing your arm. “Are you sure of this Honor Roll?! he’s dangerous! "he muttered, just concern for your being, you smiled and ruffled his hair, calming him down and reassuring him that you’ll be fine.

Honestly... Jiro stared at Kaito dead in the eye, causing him to squeak, should he be offended with how adamant Kaito Fuji is with not wanting you to cuddle up to him?

He remained blank, nodding. “We can have a sleepover in Mortkranken” he suggested, thinking more logically since he might have an Episode at midnight and needed to go back to his house to get his medicine.

“Really!? "Your eyes twinkled, even Kaito was shocked with how easily Jiro agreed. “Do I need to bring anything?” you asked him, already grabbing your phone to jot down what he needed.

He stared at you slightly confused, “Yourself?”

”.... that's not what I meant”

” Oh”

You didn’t bring anything like he suggested, since he can’t eat anything solid, you just bought him a chocolate drink. It was midnight already, and you checked your phone for his chat, still nothing.

You were about to rule the possibility that he ghosted you till you heard your door creak open causing you to jolt.

” Hello-” “GAH!” you jumped away, clutching your phone like you’re an old lady clutching her bag. Jiro snorted a bit, before bursting out laughing, you glared at him and pouted. “Learn how to knock!” you huff, before he stopped, a small smile staying on his face. “Sorry, I didn’t message you?” he asked, then you look at your phone, it had the words “I will arrive soon” literally just 5 seconds before he arrived.

”You can’t just tell me you arrived 5 seconds before you do!” you scolded him, his brows furrowed, if you didn’t know better you thought he was mad, but you’ve been with Jiro for a while... that’s just him pouting. “Sorry, I still chatted that I’ll be picking you up though.”

”Fine...” you slumped, the plastic bag in your hand almost forgotten, he glanced down at it, noticing it was two drinks. “I told you not to bring anything.” he repeated, as you two walked out of Clementia and into the streets, you noticed he seemed curious at what you bought so you went and grabbed the Choco drink you bought for him. “Here” you smiled brightly as he took the drink. “...Chuckie?” he asked, this is the first time he heard of a brand name like this. “I couldn’t find the drink you wanted... Since I don’t recall you mentioning anything so,” you admitted, hoping that he at least likes chocolate.

You didn’t get a response, looking up at Jiro you already noticed that he punched the straw in the drink, sipping it already. “It’s good” he smiles, looking back at you, seeing how you beamed at him, cute.

“I’m glad, I was worried I wasted money, and you wouldn’t like it "you were proud of yourself as you made your way into Mortkranken with him. “How is Yuri by the way?” you asked, while Jiro was opening his dorm bedroom with his keycard. “He’s in the lab again, there was a new anomalous specimen that was recently found by the gen ed students,” he explained, opening the door wider to let you in. You went inside, you were expecting a plain room but to your shock, it had decorations! different... specimens? is that an ant colony. You look at it in disbelief while Jiro explains Yuri’s situation.

“I told him that we were going to have a sleepover and he just scoffed and told me that he didn’t need me for such a simple observation of the specimen” he finished, noticing you eyeing his collection. “Oh, Yuri has a lot of shelves for different specimens, but he let me keep the ones I was interested in,” He realized this was the first time he showed someone his collections and a deeper part of himself hoped you didn’t find it disturbing.

“Wow...” you exclaimed, hands on your knees while you stare at the taxidermized, unique looking crab, “This looks really cool Jiro!” you said to him, eyes sparkling. He smiles slightly while he sits down on his bed. “That’s the crab I saw during our mission in Waves of Love if you recall.” You nodded eagerly while he explained.

After looking around each piece he kept in his room, you went to crawl into his bed, loving how soft and neat it is. Jiro on the other hand, went to lay down like a corpse, facing the ceiling with a blanket, you had to hold back a laugh when he even had a sleep mask, you scooted closer to him, feeling nervous at touching the tall man.

“Oh, right” he pushed the covers away, before touching your wrist and pulling you towards him, causing you to tumble. “I nearly forgot what your main purpose was sleeping in my bed” he muttered, before pulling you close for a snuggle.

He was cold... but not the uncomfortable type of cold, you snuggled closer, as he grabbed the blanket, putting it on both of you. He looked down at you, gauging your expression if you’re feeling uncomfy, but with the looks of it, you look right at home in his arms.

You looked up from his chest, with a giddy smile, it was infectious, he couldn’t help but smile back at you as he let you snuggle him. No words, just a comfortable silence that enveloped you two in a warming embrace.

You’d make a nice heat insulator though.

Jiro couldn’t help but shudder throughout the night as he looked out his window, noticing a doll there, he didn’t really care much, but he has been seeing that doll everywhere. He wondered why it stalked him every day, what purpose could it possibly have?

A/N: I hope you enjoy my first contribution to the TKDB Fandom! feel free to request or leave a comment if you want me to tackle a request!

Credits: The artworks are from the official Tokyo Debunker website, or the game itself.

I do not consent to my work being fed to AI.