Chapter Text
Genya knew he screwed up when Sanemi was up his ass for the second time this month. Well, the first time was okay—like Sanemi had to keep Genya in check, that was fine. But the second time?? Get out of here!
God, what could he have ever done to get his brother to look this scary?? Like he was already scary to begin with but now it’s ten times worse! Who would’ve thought that they shared the same genes!?
Genya was kneeling down with Sanemi looming over him. Ironic that the former was the taller of the two, but in this current situation he felt as small as an ant about to be stepped on. There was a heavy atmosphere, he could barely breathe! This was gonna choke him alive.
“Listen, Genya,” Sanemi stared daggers down at his little brother with his arms crossed. Oh god, not the Spanish! Fuck, this is bad! The Shinazugawa family had a tradition to switch to Spanish in their household, but somehow when Sanemi, of all people, spoke it, he sounded even more aggressive. Damn it!!
Genya refused to lift his head up, he didn’t want to be jumpscared, but he could only imagine what the other’s face looked like. “I better not see your bitch ass get such a low score ever again! If you do poorly on the next proficiency exam…” Sanemi shot out an arm pointing in a certain direction. Dread fell on the younger brother’s face as his eyes slowly followed to where his older brother was pointing. In that direction laid a jar resting on the coffee table.
“I will confiscate all your summer festival redemption vouchers, you bastard!”
At this point, Genya would rather take his life right then and there. His face morphed into terror as he shot his head up to stare at Sanemi with his jaw agape. His face screamed: ‘NO, YOU WOULDN’T DARE’.
Sanemi’s frown twisted into an evil grin. His eyes narrowed and he nodded silently: ‘oh yes I will’.
No, those tickets! Dammit, he’s been saving up for them! His big brother is so cruel! What the hell was his problem??
Now that Sanemi is sure he had Genya right at his weak spot, this would surely be a motivator for him. He knew what he must do now.
He did not get much sleep that night. He was restless. He needed to get those vouchers back as soon as possible. It was like his life depended on it. He’s never been so determined to get something so minuscule back! Wait, what was he talking about? That shit isn’t miniscule at all!! That was like—three days worth of collecting those vouchers!
—————
It was the next day at Kimetsu Academy where summer classes were going on. Each class now had a fan because of how much everyone was sweating, even the summer uniforms weren’t helping. Earth really was just another form of Hell, especially in this weather.
Surprisingly, chemistry teacher Obanai seemed perfectly content with his many layers of clothing. The oversized lab coat, the mask, and talk about the fuzzy bunny slippers?? Even that white snake wrapped snugly around his neck. There was not even a break of sweat on his face. Bullshit!
He glanced down at his manual and sighed. He adjusted his mask for a moment before raising his voice a bit for the whole class to hear, “Well, that’s all for today. It’s almost the end of the course, so make sure you’re ready for the test.”
Zenitsu let out a sigh of relief as the students started to pack up. He shoved his notebook in his bag and caught up to Tanjiro and Inosuke who sat next to each other. Somehow they were like magnets, practically inseparable.
“Ah, it’s finally almost over. I’m so tired of these proficiency tests,” Zenitsu huffed out with his hands behind his head.
Inosuke didn’t pay much attention as he threw his bag over his shoulder and rolled his eyes. “I’m tired…”
Tanjiro smiled at his two friends while getting up and walking towards the sliding door. He would always have to put up with his friends’ constant complaining, especially at the end of the day. Somehow, the former was just as cheery as ever. He glanced back at the two, “Let’s have lunch at the Aozora restaurant before heading home!”
Inosuke immediately perked up at ‘lunch’ and like a flip of the switch, almost shoved past him to reach for the door handle. “Hell yeah!! Food, food—!”
His hand barely touched the handle when the sliding door slammed open and a very tall figure appeared in front of the trio. “KAMADO TANJIRO!” He bellowed with his head tilted down to stare at the said person.
Zenitsu yelped and jumped back to hide behind Tanjiro. He screamed, “You scared the shit out of me!! What the hell is that?? Please don’t beat me up!!”
“Oh, Genya. What’s up?” Tanjiro remained unfazed, and even had the audacity to smile up at their fellow classmate who barged in.
“Oi, you’re blocking the exit. Move out the way..” Inosuke grumbled.
Genya rolled his eyes and stepped aside to let Inosuke through, and Zenitsu was appalled by the sheer anticlimactic responses. “Why am I the only one who’s scared??”
“Aurghh, quit complaining! I just wanted to ask you a favor, a’right?? So shut up!” The other groaned in annoyance, rubbing his temples. He just came to the bamboo class and he already regrets it. Zenitsu’s pip squeak voice will perhaps be the cause of his hearing loss.
“Ahem,” a stern clearing of the throat caused the boys to turn their heads over to Obanai who crossed his arms and tapped his foot. Oh damn, he was still here?? To be fair, Genya had been blocking off the door, but still. “It’s the end of class… you are to be dismissed.” He warned.
“Gah! Sorry, Mr. Obanai!! We won’t cause you anymore trouble,” Tanjiro repeatedly bowed a few times and proceeded to shove both Zenitsu and Genya out of the classroom. He let out a sigh of relief and gestured with his hand for the mohawked boy to continue speaking. “Genya, want to talk about it at the Aozora diner? We were just about to head there.”
“You’re really gonna invite him?? Tanjiro, nooo…” Zenitsu whined, clinging on to the other’s sleeve with a pouting lip. The former continued smiling up at Genya waiting for his response. He seemed to ignore Zenitsu’s pleas.
A vein popped on Genya's forehead. He didn’t know how Tanjiro does it, he would’ve punched that little brat right then and there. He huffed and dropped his hands by his sides. “Fine, I can do that. Where’s the other one?”
“Oh—you mean Inosuke? Pretty sure he’s outside by now! Let’s go!” Tanjiro’s walk had a little bounce as Zenitsu trailed behind him with his hand still clinging on to the other’s sleeve. Genya had to hold back a sneer as he watched the pathetic sight.
They eventually made it outside and Inosuke was pacing around the entrance with his arms crossed and foot thumping against the concrete. His head perked up at the doors being swung open and snatched Zenitsu’s wrist away from Tanjiro’s with a heavy huff, “Took you long enough!” He dragged him away and ignored the other’s complaints when they started speed walking ahead. Tanjiro chuckled at the sight of his friends and caught up to their pace, gesturing for Genya to do the same.
—————
“Ohhh, so that’s what happened?” Tanjiro tilted his head to the side when Genya finished recalling what happened last night between him and Sanemi. “So let me get this straight—you want us to help you study??” He blinked a few times, and his smile froze in confusion.
Genya grumbled under his breath, looking away. He nodded as he took a bite out of his katsu chicken. “Yeah.. I need to score well on this round of exams.. at least this time around.”
Zenitsu shuddered when the mohawked boy finished telling his story, almost losing his appetite. “Eugh.. having that monster as your math teacher and living under the same roof as you… I understand your pain.”
“What the fuck are you talking about?!”
“Honestly, the fact you can fight him—massive respect for that,” Inosuke gave a few curt nods, obviously talking while he’s chewing his food. He ignored the scolding he got from Zenitsu criticizing his lack of table manners.
“That’s not the point!! I have to get those vouchers back! Fast!! Like—now!!” The thought of his precious tickets being held captive in his brother’s room was driving him crazy.
“The vouchers.. right. For the summer festival that’s coming up this month,” Tanjiro pondered aloud, and looked up at the ceiling fan. Why is he just now realizing that?! Genya’s eye twitched.
“Vouchers?” Inosuke blinked slowly, who had just now processed the full story.
Zenitsu had an unamused face also blinking. “For free games and such?”
“Yeah…” Genya mumbled.
…
“…Well that’s a shitty reason!! Might as well kiss those fucks goodbye cuz like…” Inosuke burst into a cackle and shook his head. He messily dug into his bowl to shove another tempura in his mouth.
“… Screw you?! I don’t want to?!” That’s it, Genya’s going to commit a murder. However, as much as it was tempting to lean over the table to strangle Inosuke, he had self restraint. He instead resorted to grabbing a fistful of Tanjiro’s collar and shaking him aggressively. “Fuck no!! I refuse!! I’ve been collecting those like mad, dude!! You hear this psychopath, Tanjiro?? You hear ‘em?!?”
“Ah, alright alright—I hear you!! Just calm down and eat, ok??” Said-person turned his head away, wincing at Genya practically shouting in his ear. He was fortunate enough that his food hadn't spilled yet even with all the shaking.
Zenitsu, who had been witnessing this whole mess across from the table, finally spoke up unfazed. “Well, what were you even going to use those vouchers for?”
Genya paused his aggressive shaking motion on the other and let go of his shirt. His face twisted in a grimace and his body shook slightly with gritted teeth. All he mustered out was, “I want to win all the prizes at the shooting practice gallery…”
“Without spending anything?!” Zenitsu went wide eyed and his jaw dropped. He then scowled and observed the other’s face face. “Look at your earnest expression—it’s as if you’re ashamed of your actions!!”
“Shut up!! Don’t you know how damn expensive those games are in general??? They’re all scams!! Scams, I tell you!!”
“Yeah, but the game operator won’t like that!!”
“Does it look like I give a fuck??”
“So cruel!!!” Zenitsu was now pointing an accusatory finger at him who just rolled his eyes and crossed his arms.
“No it ain’t. I’m giving those prizes to my little siblings, a’right??”
Zenitsu calmed down after hearing Genya’s reasoning. That was strangely considerate of the guy, he guessed he shouldn’t have misjudged so early. But then he narrowed his eyes again. “At the cost of that poor operator’s job?? And what about all the other people that want to play that game?? You’re stealing all their prizes!!”
“Some sacrifices are to be made.” Genya shrugged, taking a bite of his food finally.
Zenitsu grumbled under his breath, realizing he’s going to be talking to a wall if he keeps this up. Tanjiro decided to pipe in to get them on track again. “Well that’s very sweet of you, Genya. Even if your… actions are not so great, there’s good intent behind it. So yeah, we can help you! Right, guys?”
The boy with yellow locs sighed softly and smiled a bit. He nodded along, agreeing with Tanjiro. “Well.. I know what being an idiot feels like so sure. Genya, what was your rank on the final exam?”
“Thirteenth,” Genya answered simply whilst focused on eating his noodles.
Everyone at the table stared wide eyed at him. Tanjiro was in 28th place, Zenitsu in 47th, and Inosuke in 72nd.
A vein burst on Inosuke and he let out an irritated shriek and tackled Genya down onto the floor to pull on his shirt. He took a whole bite down and shook him vigorously. “Don’t fuck with me, you asshole!!!”
Zenitsu also joined in with his face fuming as he threw handfuls of salt on Genya. “Dismissed!!! Dismissed!! There’s nothing more to take care of here!! Get out!! Smartass!!” Tanjiro was frozen watching the three cause a ruckus, he didn’t say anything.
“Gyah!! What the fuck?! Get off of me, you don’t understand!!” Genya was downright being harassed and in his defense, he elbowed Inosuke off of his back.
This public act of indecency spread quickly to one of the restaurant staff to stop it. Aoi in particular, snapped her head to see the commotion and her eyebrows furrowed. She was holding a tray of food but she warned sternly, “Hey! Pipe it down there!”
“Ah! Sorry, Aoi!!” Tanjiro apologized. He firmly grabbed Zenitsu’s shoulders to push him down to his seat and went over to Inosuke who was still rustling with Genya. He pried Inosuke off by the back of his collar and forced him down at his seat. Inosuke huffed like a dog that was juked off getting his treat.
Genya was exasperated by then, catching his breath and shakily raising a hand to latch onto the edge of the table. He slowly lifted himself up and propped his arms on the table. “You’re psychopaths, you know that?!”
“Asshole,” Inosuke sneered and crossed his arms. The absolute audacity to say that in Spanish?? In public?? Let alone from his mouth?! Oh, Genya is going to whoop his ass. One day!
Zenitsu blinked in confusion before imitating Insouke’s pose and frowned down at Genya who was still catching his composure. “..yeah! What he said!”
Genya didn’t even cast a glance at Zenitsu, deciding to be the big person in this situation and get back on track. He finally plopped himself back in his seat and brushed some wrinkles off his shirt. He ended up whispering loudly, “Look, I only got a bad score in math which is my weakest subject! I mean, I don’t expect you guys to be good at anything—so I just need your help to get me in touch with someone!”
“Well, now that you put it so bluntly, that kinda hurts,” Zenitsu sighed and looked off to the side.
“Sorry to wound your pride, I’m very sorry for speaking the truth.”
“You don’t even sound sorry, you cruel bastard!!”
This whole time, Tanjiro had been quiet for some time. It turns out he had been concentrating, chewing down his food while thinking, “Hmm… What about an older student?”
“Well, why not just ask Aoi?? Oi, Aoi!!” Inosuke turned around to call for Aoi who finished serving another table from a distance away.
Genya immediately reached over the table to yank Inosuke’s hair back, whisper shouting at him. “Wait, wait, WAIT!! You idiot!!” Inosuke sure whipped his head back and frowned deeply. He smacked Genya’s hand away. The taller one continued with his voice low but his face flushed dark red, “No girls!! Anyone but girls!!”
“Ah, so Shinobu and Aoi are off the list then?” Tanjiro gave Genya a sympathetic smile. The other groaned and hid his face on the table. The tip of his ears are still red.
Aoi came over to the squad’s table and stood by Inosuke’s seat. She sighed, “What is it, Inosuke?”
“Seconds please,” was all Inosuke said who raised his empty bowl.
“Well, how about Murata? He’s pretty decent,” Zenitsu piped in.
Tanjiro shook his head, “No, I heard he’s away at soccer camp.” He was staring down at his bowl until he lifted his head up to face Zenitsu. “Oh, what about your brother? Kaigaku, right? He’s in the honors classes!”
The one questioned almost choked on his noodles at the mention of Kaigaku. “Absolutely not!! Next question!!”
“Why? Are you that motivated to have me fail or something??” Genya accused and raised an eyebrow. “I’ll take anybody, how bad could he be?”
Zenitsu jumped back in his seat at Genya’s small outburst and scoffed. “Trust me, Genya!! I’m saving you from absolute hell if you end up getting tutored by him. You two won’t get along, that’s for damn sure! He’s a complete douchebag, and with his arrogance combined with your temper, it won’t be a good mix. Take my word for it, a’right?”
“… I guess you got a point. Fine—but I swear if we missed that opportunity to go with an honors student, I’m killing you.”
“I swear, ok, ok!!”
“Oohh, what about the Hantengu brothers? They're third years, and I heard they’re transfers!” Tanjiro smiled proudly at his own idea.
Genya huffed while shaking his head. “Fuck no!! They piss me off!”
Zenitsu rolled his eyes and mumbled under his breath, “Hypocrite…”
“So you’ve met them before, Genya? Did something happen between you guys?”
“… I dunno, just that the blue one pisses me off. He’s too mopey, always bringing the mood down.”
“… you mean Aizetsu?? He’s not that bad, c’mon. He likes bunnies,” Zenitsu defended, rolling his eyes.
“Another reason to hate him more.”
“What?! Because he likes bunnies?! What if I told you I liked bunnies too? Would you also hate me too??”
“Yes.”
Inosuke snorted, some food flying out of his mouth. “Good one.”
“Both of you, stop. Now you’re just being mean at this point. Do you want us to help you or not, Genya?” Even Tanjiro switched to Spanish to scold Genya. He had a pouty look and poked at his shoulder.
Genya let down a bit after hearing Tanjiro’s part, sighing. “Alright, alright—I was just joking. He can like bunnies or whatever. But yeah, I still want your help.. I’ll take anyone else.”
Zenitsu looked so lost when his eyes glanced back and forth between Tanjiro and Genya. What the fuck are they talking about?! And why does Tanjiro look so stern?? He was going to lose his mind if this kept up. Right when he was going to ask, Tanjiro cleared his throat and went back to smiling, switching back to Japanese. “Anyways, while you two were talking, I found the perfect candidate for you!” He smacked the bottom of his fist against his other palm, like he just invented science.
Genya glanced down at Tanjiro with a calmer expression, slurping on his now cold noodles. “Mm, okay.” He can trust Tanjiro’s word, right?
————
“Uhh, Tanjiro?”
“Yes?”
“Why are we at the Butterfly Mansion?!”
“What do you mean?”
“Oh my apologies, let me specify: Why are we heading towards the fucking butterfly mansion?! Are you sure you even got the right address???” Genya raised his voice. His hand is flying over the place to emphasize his frustration with Tanjiro.
Said person tilted his head to the side a bit before nodding, “Well, I’m pretty sure this is where he lives so...”
“‘He’? Who are you talking ab—”
The redhead already pressed the doorbell and waited patiently for a response. Genya’s eye was twitching, he was going to lose all hope. He’s going to be doomed. He specifically asked for no girls. Did anything he said get through that stupid head of his?? Maybe that’s why his forehead is so durable, because of how thick his skull is.
“Still crazy to me that they live in a pretty big house like this..” Zenitsu, who was behind the others, craned his neck up to observe the architecture. He caught Inosuke trying to run off and yanked his arm to pull him back. “You stupid boar-head!! We must wait!”
“Aughhh, I wanna go inside already! What’s taking them so long??” Inosuke groaned, swiping his arm away from Zenitsu. Surprisingly, he did in fact stay in place.
“Hmm, maybe they’re not home?” Tanjiro leaned forward to ring the doorbell once again.
Genya was chuckling nervously. “Yeah how unfortunate, let’s just forget about this and go—”
The door suddenly clicked open and through the opening gap laid one of the Butterfly sisters, Tsuyuri Kanao. “Oh? Tanjiro? Everyone? What are you doing here?” She blinked, her voice was soft.
Oh. My. God.
Oh my god. Oh my god. Oh my god. Act cool, act cool, ACT COOL. SHIT!! Oh god, it’s Kanao. Kanao, for god’s sake!! Why is she here? Wait, no that’s dumb—this is literally her house, the fuck?? A million thoughts raced through Genya’s mind as he could feel his face turning hot. He was absolutely paralyzed in his spot.
“Hi, Kanao!! Are you available right now??” Tanjiro greeted, waving his hand. He leaned closer, causing Kanao to back up a bit. She stared back at him and blinked multiple times before quietly nodding. She opened the door fully for the unexpected guests and Inosuke immediately barged through, Zenitsu going after him.
Tanjiro was going to step in, but then felt a heavy hand land on his shoulder. His eyes trailed from the hand to its owner’s face; Genya was absolutely stiff!! Kanao glanced at the two boys expectedly, and Tanjiro sighed. With a polite hand raising up, he said, “Give us a moment.”
She smiled a bit and nodded. She closed the door leaving a small gap open. Once Kanao was out of earshot, Genya’s hand clenched into Tanjiro’s shirt and he shook him vigorously. “… What the fuck, dude?! I told you no girls!! Why are we at Kanao’s?!”
“Well, I—”
“Fuck!! I’m doomed for this exam!! I would’ve preferred Zenitsu’s asshole brother at this point!! N-not… her!! God, I am so cooked, I…” His voice cracked as he let go of Tanjiro’s shoulder to cover his own face. His face was blushing at this point. Oh god, why did Tanjiro have to choose Kanao of all people? She is so damn pretty, he was absolutely sure he wouldn’t even be able to focus! It’s always when the full squad met up to hang out, Genya strayed far from Kanao like the plague. That sounded so wrong, wait—no, nothing was wrong with her, ok?? Like yes, they know eachother but he cursed himself for lacking the ability to talk to pretty girls. I mean, who wouldn’t when it came to Kanao? She is literally one of the school beauties! The amount of courage to even approach her is impeccable! Genya was going to drive mad. “Tanjiro.. I can’t do this, man. I told you—I get so damn awkward around girls, and the fact you literally set me up with the most beautiful girl in our school, I—!!”
Tanjiro reached out his hands to firmly plant them on Genya’s shoulders. He raised his head to look up at the taller boy. “Listen to me, Genya! I-I didn’t realize Kanao would make you this.. worked up! Now, let’s calm down, and tell me everything again.”
Genya nodded, slowly taking deep breaths. Tanjiro patted his shoulder which signaled that his body was still tense. He had to ease his muscles and so he slowly let go of his balled up fists. He sighed and dropped his head down. “You’re such a traitor, you know that? Grouping me with the most beautiful girl in school…”
“… Girl?”
Genya blinked. “… Are you deaf?? Do I need to enunciate it for you??”
Suddenly, Tanjiro’s eyes widened in realization at something. He started to chuckle, and at this moment his face was tempting to punch. What—did he miss something?? Why the hell is he chuckling??
“W-what? What’s so funny??”
“Ah, sorry, sorry. Nothing’s funny, just… I guess he never told you,” Tanjiro calmed down and made a hand gesture to brush it off. He cleared his throat, “Genya, Kanao identifies as a boy.”
…
“… Eh?”
“Kanao’s a boy! He uses he/him pronouns! He just has a habit of not telling people his preferred pronouns, nor correcting them. He does dress and act pretty much like any other girl would, so I get it would be confusing at first.”
A long pause followed. Genya stared at Tanjiro with a straight face. He then dropped his head down, staring at his own hand.
“…. Am I gay?” He mumbled to himself with a deadpan expression, processing this new information.
“What?”
“Nothing… just—okay.. thanks for telling me, I..” he trailed off.
“I would never cross your boundaries, Genya! You should know that by now! Can’t believe you have no faith in me,” Tanjiro puffed his lip out and propped his hands on his hips. He shook his head while tsking.
The other rubbed the back of his neck, his cheeks flushing a bit in embarrassment, “… Yeah. Sorry for that… and my outburst. I freaked out over nothing and I knew you were just trying to help so..”
Tanjiro smiled warmly, and patted his shoulder. “It’s ok, dude! We cleared some misunderstandings, so all is good, right? You still want to study with Kanao?”
Genya hesitated on answering. Even if now he’s aware of Kanao’s actual identity, she—sorry—he was so, so beautiful. Oh god, how could he ever approach Kanao like this still? Now wasn’t the best time to rethink his sexuality.
Just when he was starting to get stressed again, Tanjiro’s firm squeeze on his shoulder brought him back to reality. He had a reassuring smile. “Hey, it’s going to be okay. We’re all here so you won’t be alone in this, but if by any chance you feel you cannot handle it—just let me know, and we can call it quits. How does that sound?”
God, how lucky Genya is to have such a considerate, selfless friend like Tanjiro. He is like a saint brought down from Heaven. Internally, he is crying tears of joy. On the outside, he held a straight face and nodded. “..Thanks, Tanjiro. I owe you.”
“Well since you’re offering, I could always use some help around in the bakery!”
“Yeah sure.. after finals though.”
“I know—anyways, let’s get going inside before Inosuke tears down the place.”
Tanjiro opened the door to the inside of the Butterfly Mansion and gestured for Genya to pass through first before following him behind. The two both took off their shoes at the front. The inside smelled of lavender and herbs, and both of them walked down the hallway to the living space.
On their walk there, Genya randomly asked, “So.. how long have you known about this?”
“Hm? Of Kanao?” Tanjiro blinked, and pondered for a moment with his finger stroking his chin and everything. “I would say like for a few months. I asked him when I noticed his sisters calling him by ‘brother’, so I wanted to confirm things.”
“I see. What about Zenitsu and Inosuke? Nezuko.. do they all know about this too?”
He didn’t even have to look back, as he visualized Tanjiro enthusiastically nodding. “Yes! I had to tell them myself though, like I did with you!”
Genya let out a sharp exhale, “Well… I guess it’s understandable me and her don’t talk that much, but damn—“
“Him.”
“What? Oh, right. Sorry. Still—getting used to it.” Genya mumbled, scratching the back of his head.
The two eventually made it to the living room and Zenitsu was sitting close to Kanao on the sofa while Inosuke was munching on a bag of chips. Genya could already feel his cheeks warm up again just by the sight of Kanao. Oh god, so pretty! He sits so modestly! So sophisticated! Genya’s absolutely cooked for this exam.
“Hey guys! Thanks for waiting for us,” Tanjiro waved his hand as his words slipped back into Japanese, and walked over to the group. Genya followed suit, his movements growing more robotic the closer he approached Kanao.
Kanao looked up, and slowly blinked. He smiled, and nodded. “No worries. Have a seat, please. I.. will prepare snacks.” Kanao rose up from his seat, gesturing for Tanjiro and Genya to sit down. Oh god, he’s offering his seat. Genya’s going to faint.
Zenitsu was baffled by the butterfly boy suddenly departing. He also clumsily stood up, “K-Kanao! Do you.. want me to help you??” Genya resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Such a gentleman you are, Zenitsu.
“No thank you. I can handle it.”
“Aw. That’s very sweet of you—but it’s ok. We’re fine without snacks,” Tanjiro reassured him, smiling.
“The hell? I want snacks!!” Inosuke blurted out after shoving another handful of chips in his mouth. Zenitsu sneered in slight disgust at the sight.
Tanjiro whipped his head to give a particular smile, which actually looked quite scary (Inosuke did in fact shut up after that). He turned back to Kanao with his calm voice returning “It’s really ok, dude. You’ve already been such a great host. Let’s all just chill, hm?”
For damn sure Genya cannot for the love of god chill when being in the same room with this beautiful angel. He chose to sit on the sofa across from Kanao, far away. He pretended to observe the paintings on the wall.
“… If you say so. Then, what is the purpose of your stay? I assume it is not actually to ‘chill’.” Kanao sat on the sofa with Zenitsu and Inosuke. He had his hands resting on his lap. Those are some pretty hands.. fuck, Genya shouldn’t have thought of that. His leg was probably bouncing at this point.
“Well—” Tanjiro flashed a wide smile. “We want you to help Genya with his studies, right over here!” He gestured to Genya who was squeezing the sofa arm uncomfortably tight.
“Huh?” Once he realized the attention went on him, he got even more paralyzed in his seat. His eyes took one quick glance at Kanao who was looking at him. Him!! Oh my god, she’s—he’s looking at him. Holy shit, holy shit, fuck this is so awkward! What does he say? Should he be causal? Cool? Funny? “Uh. Yeah.” He ended up muttering out, looking away. He gripped tightly on his knee to stop it from bouncing so much. Wow, you’re such a charmer!
From the corner of his eye, he caught Kanao’s finger start fidgeting ever so slightly. He smiled more with his eyes creasing a bit, “Really? Well, I’d be happy to help—though I can’t promise I will be the best at teaching.”
“If you can’t teach, then why bother helping??” Inosuke bluntly grumbled, eyeing Kanao.
“Inosuke,” Tanjiro gave the boy a daggered look before apologizing on his behalf. “It’s alright. We can learn along the way—you are pretty smart so surely there’s perhaps a thing or two we can learn from you!”
“Ah.. thank you, Tanjiro. I will try my best then. May I see how your grades are currently doing?” Kanao turned his attention towards Genya and tilted his head to the side slightly.
Oh. OH, he was talking to him! Oh shit—ok, ok, play cool. Play cool. Genya quickly rummaged through his school bag and pulled out a few wrinkled sheets of paper. His hand shakily reached outward to Kanao.
“Thank you,” he replied softly and his hands reached out to grab the paper from Genya. For a moment, the other’s grasp on the paper was tight and he didn’t budge. Kanao had to quite literally tug the papers out of his grasp. He straightens the papers and decides to observe them.
Zenitsu raised an eyebrow, glancing back and forth between Genya and Kanao. He leaned over Kanao a bit to get a closer view of his grades. His eyes widened. “These are very high scores, what??”
“Hmm. He does very well on his tests. Even math, which he claims he isn’t good at, isn’t all that bad either,” Kanao explained as he flipped through pages of the test scores. Various tests include English in which he got an 89, and to Modern Literature in which he received a 92. Even with his math score, he got an 80.
While the rest of the squad circled around Kanao to see the test scores for themselves, Genya stayed glued to his spot, his hand still gripping tightly on the sofa arm for dear life. Did his ears hear right? Kanao just complimented him???? Ok, well maybe he was just speaking factually but oh my god??? Genya’s going to explode.
Kanao continued scanning through all the papers before neatly setting them down on the coffee table. He cleared his throat a bit, and Genya forced himself to turn his head towards Kanao’s direction. He avoided eye contact and his eyes wandered everywhere but the angel right in front of him. “I am guessing that rather than advising him how to study, perhaps we might teach him how to avoid mistakes.”
“Avoid… mistakes…?” Genya gruffed out. Fuck. He can’t even formulate proper sentences!!! He cursed to himself as his body was slightly shaking.
“Yes,” all of a sudden, Kanao rose from his seat and walked around the coffee table to go to the other side where Genya was. He took a seat next to the taller boy and Genya had to resist the urge to jump out of his seat and run away. Oh my god, oh my god. He’s sitting next to him. HE’S SITTING NEXT TO HIM. His grip on the sofa arm tightened immensely to the point he could probably rip off the cushion if he wanted to. He also applied pressure on his leg to remain still from bouncing so much.
He held his breath in. His eyes trail down at Kanao who scooted just a bit closer to raise the papers for the both of them to see. Oh shit, he forgot how small he is. He’s so short. Wait, now that he sees him up close, Kanao’s wearing such cute clothes too! What was that style called—Lolita? No, it looks a bit different, from what Nezuko said that he recalled, Lolita has more lighter, pastel colors. Kanao wore a pinkish blouse with a black high waisted mini frilly skirt. Honestly quite a bit of a dark aesthetic, Genya had never seen Kanao outside of school so this was a first for him. He’ll ask Nezuko what type of style Kanao has once he sees her again.
“See this question? You were rushing by the end and made a careless mistake here. And here, and here, here, here..” Kanao pointed at the various mistakes Genya made with his finger. Was it bad that he wasn’t even paying attention and focused on his finger? Damn, that guy’s got a nice manicure. His hands look so smooth whoa, so soft, so small! FUCK, he has to focus, ok—what was he talking about? His mistakes. Right, right. Damn, he made a lot of mistakes, ok. He finally processed the rest with what Kanao said, “… know the concept of Calculus?”
“What.”
“How well do you know the concept of Calculus?”
“Yes.”
“Sorry?” Kanao blinked.
FUCK. “I-I mean—fine. Yeah.”
So close!!! Kanao’s so close!! How long has he been holding his breath??? Is his face turning blue yet? Honestly he’d rather die at this point.
“Do you like matcha tea?”
“W-what?”
“Do you like matcha tea?”
“Uh.. yeah sure??” His voice cracked. Did he just lie? Yes. Can he help it? No. Is Kanao always this way?? If so, he will gladly agree to everything he says. So pretty!!!
“Hm, okay. I will make some matcha tea. Excuse me.” Kanao rose up from his seat and started to walk off. “Inosuke, if you come, there will be snacks.”
Like a dog, Inosuke’s head perked up and he raced to the kitchen, Kanao following suit. Genya let out a deep exhale to catch his breath. His body slightly relaxed and his grip on the sofa arm loosened.
“Genya, are you doing okay? You look stressed,” Tanjiro piqued in, patting his shoulder.
“Yeah, you looked like you were in cardiac arrest or something,” Zenitsu commented.
“Shut. It’s just.. stuffy in here,” Genya lied.
“But the air conditioning’s on?”
“I said shut!! I’m fine, a’right?? Just… let’s just wait for them.” He crossed his arms, looking away. He failed to notice Tanjiro and Zenitsu giving eachother a look.
He didn’t even realize his hands were already sweating. He quickly wiped his hands on his pants. Why can’t he think properly? Why can’t he just act normal?? Tsuyuri Kanao will be the end of him.
”Tea is ready,” the one in question called out rather quietly. His footsteps were light, and he came into the living space with a tray of empty porcelain cups and a tea kettle. Followed by a pair of heavy steps, Inosuke followed suit with a bunch of snacks in his arms. “Follow me— we are not eating here.”
Zenitsu immediately jumped out of his seat and speed walked towards Kanao with his hands hovered over the tray. “Ah, let me carry that for you, Kanaooo.” He dragged out his name in a coo.
“I got it, thank you,” Kanao politely rejected him and continued walking forward with Zenitsu standing back there dejected. Inosuke laughed mockingly at him whilst following behind the leader.
Genya was the last one that trailed behind, and since he was in the back by himself, he took deep breaths to compose himself. He shook his hands as an attempt to ease the muscles and cool their temperature so they won’t sweat so much. You got this, Genya, is what he chanted in his head. Just play it cool, it’s gonna be for one day right? Ok, maybe a few, but he can manage. He can get through this, he can survive—why are they going to the backyard??
I mean, ok—it is a nice weather outside. Pretty standard for a study session. He also noticed how spiffy and clean the house looked inside. Maybe Kanao didn’t want to make a mess. Sure, he can get behind that.
Out in the backyard, there was an empty patio table where Kanao set down the tray. “Everyone, sit.” He looked up, smiling softly. He gestured for Genya to sit in the middle on one side of the table with his finger. The tall boy went tense again. He complied and pulled out a chair to sit where the other pointed towards. Kanao proceeded to sit right across from him and everyone else followed suit; Inosuke obviously sitting at the host seat, Tanjiro on Genya’s side and Zenitsu sitting next to Kanao. There was loud crunching and rustling sounds from Inosuke rummaging his hand through the chips bag. He had a rather grumpy look, glancing back and forth between Kanao and Zenitsu. The freckled boy was staring like some lovesick dog while Kanao didn’t even acknowledge him, making eye contact with Genya. Said person was shuffling in his seat by the stares from Kanao. Oh wow, he’s right in front of him. Play cool, play cool, play cool—
“I have an idea to demonstrate that can help motivate Genya’s studies,” Kanao began, as he grabbed the tea kettle to pour matcha tea into a cup. Even the way he holds the tea kettle is so proper and elegant. Oh god, he made a whole plan to help Genya??? What a lucky guy he is!! Kanao’s so pretty!! He continued, having the tea cup ready, “See that tree over there? Pretend that is you, Genya. I’ll ask a question, and you will answer it. If you fail to answer correctly in time…” With a quick swift, Kanao swiped the tea cup and splashed it on the tree. That was not even the bad part—steam was coming out!!! Did Kanao boil the tea?!
“W-WHAT?!” Genya blurted out, his eyes flicking back and forth between Kanao and the now stained tree. “What the hell are we supposed to do with that in my studies?!” Great, his first full, coherent sentence and he was almost shouting at him. Real smooth.
Kanao was unfazed and answered with a small smile, “As I said, it’s about avoiding mistakes, and this strategy is perfect for building accuracy and speed.”
“That’s…. boiling hot tea, though?! Are you trying to send me to the goddamn hospital?!” Shit, he’s letting his temper slip out. But was he wrong though??? Most beautiful dude was going to repeatedly splash hot tea on him!!! He’s insane!!!
…Insanely beautiful.
“It’s not that hot…” Kanao mumbled and after pouring another cup that had literal steam coming out, he dipped his finger in the tea. His face remained blank as his finger stayed there for a few seconds before he took it out and used a tissue to wipe it off. “Feels lukewarm to me..”
“Kanao… there may be some problem with your senses if you can’t detect that it is boiling hot tea… please go check that out when you can,” Tanjiro commented with worried eyes. He leaned over a bit to rest his hand on top of Kanao’s and his eyes widened slightly, taking his hand back. “Whoa! You have cold hands!! Are you sure you’re okay??”
Cold hands? Kanao having cold hands? In the middle of the summer? Why is that such a cute yet concerning detail just now?
“It’s ok, Tanjiro. I did have it checked out with my sisters, it’s normal to me.” Kanao reassured Tanjiro as he chose not to go into detail about it. (Later on, Genya finds out from Shinobu that Kanao has some sort of sensory processing disorder called hyposensitivity. It’s pretty interesting once you look into it.)
“Oh, thank god. But anyways, I would say this idea is a little too dangerous—even if you feel no difference, it doesn’t change the fact that tea is hot and could potentially hurt Genya.”
Kanao did not budge when Inosuke snatched one of his hands to feel it and looked fascinated by it while Zenitsu berated him. He let out a soft sigh, “Well, I guess it can’t be helped. We will just wait for the tea to cool down.”
Genya cast a glance over Zenitsu trying to pry Inosuke’s hands off of Kanao’s and he huffed. Deep down, he would’ve also liked to touch his hand, but he remained put. He has manners! He was already trying not to burst from being right across from Kanao. He is not mentally prepared if he were to make physical contact with him. “What, so I’m still getting splashed?! How is this supposed to motivate me??”
“… think of it this way. The more answers you get wrong, the more you will get splashed. Your clothes will be stained as well as yourself. Sure, I can lend you a towel, but you are going to take showers often to wash off the tea.”
“…. Is that why we’re outside?!”
“Yes.”
Genya’s eye twitched. Damn, this guy’s pretty but for one whose hands don’t even react to extreme hot temperatures, he sure as hell has a lot of nerve to say that. Now that he thinks about it, this was a new set of clothes he had. They’re out in the hot blazing sun so he’s going to feel sticky—wait. His hair will be covered in matcha tea???? Oh hell no!! Nobody realizes just how long he does his hair—that shit takes a whole millennia to get it this way!!!
“Dammit!!! I’m not gonna let you wet my hair!! I’ll… I’ll never make a mistake!!!” He suddenly got fired up with his teeth gritting and fists clenched.
“If that’s what gets you motivated, then what is even the point of the whole green tea thing?!” Zenitsu stared deadpan at the scene in front of him. He was unintentionally holding onto Inosuke’s hand who had long let go of Kanao’s. Inosuke didn’t move either.
Kanao lightly clapped his hands together, smiling softly. “That’s great, we can start right now. Let me go back inside to fetch some cold matcha tea since this kettle will take a while to cool down. You may serve yourselves in the meantime.” His hand gestured towards the tea kettle and snacks scattered on the table as he rose from his seat to go back into the house.
Zenitsu was just about to stand up as well, but Inosuke’s grip on his hand tightened and he kept him where he was, grumbling something under his breath.
“Oi, let me go,” Zenitsu mumbled as he tried to tug his hand away.
“Your hands are sweaty.. ew,” Inosuke mumbled underneath his breath as his lips twitched into a scowl. Despite his complaint, he moved his calloused hand so they were interlocking fingers with his grip tightening even more.
Genya rolled his eyes and sighed. Those two were actually so obvious it may perhaps drive him insane. He’ll probably make a bet with Tanjiro on how long it’ll be until one of them ends up making a move. On second thought, with Tanjiro being who he is, that’s probably not the best option. He’ll probably just bet with Gyutaro next time he sees him.
“Ay, aren’t y’all supposed to be studying, too?” His voice cut the silence as he raised an eyebrow at the trio.
“Eh?” They all said in unison while turning their heads at the former.
He crossed his arms and craned his head up towards the sky as he leaned back in his seat. That was a mistake, now he’s going to get his eyes burned by the damn sun, “If I recall, you guys have worse grades than me. Don’t you worry bout that? Don’t you wanna take advantage of this opportunity yourselves?”
“Well, I-I don’t know what to say to that,” Tanjiro meekly chuckled.
“Let’s just say we’re your moral support, eh?” Zenitsu swatted his free hand in an up and down motion.
“I don’t wanna study,” Inosuke bluntly said. His narrowed eyes trailed over the small freckles on Zenitsu’s hand whilst the other wasn’t looking.
Damn, with those dazed expressions, Genya could already imagine what those three idiots are probably thinking: ‘I don’t wanna bother studying during summer vacation’. They were already stupid individually, but when together, somehow their one brain cell combined into an even dumber one.
He was going to snap when the back door was kicked open and Kanao came walking through with a tray with several large bottles of matcha tea. “I.. I brought enough for everyone.” There were even more cups on the tray.
The trio all had the same reaction: mortified! Their reactions were actually priceless. Genya almost wanted to laugh, if it weren't for the fact that he was also going to be a victim in this. Kanao was an absolute savage, he’ll give him that.
“K-Kanao!! You’re not actually gonna…!” Zenitsu trembled, his jaw dropped in horror. He subconsciously squeezed Inosuke’s hand. They’re still holding hands?!
Kanao nodded with his face scarily serene. “Of course, I wouldn’t want any of you to feel left out. Besides, you all need to study too, no?”
“This is a brand new shirt though!!! I wore it just for you!!”
“Just take it off then.”
“That simple?! Not even a compliment?!”
“I did notice it was pink.”
“You hurt me, Kanao!”
“That’s why you wore pink? Lame,” Inosuke grumbled with his eyes glancing down at the yellow haired boy’s shirt.
“You’re just jealous!”
“Huh?! Your shirt’s literally plain!”
“It’s the thought that counts!”
“I could rock that shirt and be a 100 times cooler than you ever will!!”
“You’re going to destroy my shirt is what—!”
“Guys… you are seriously fighting over a shirt?” Tanjiro butted in with a sigh whilst shaking his head. He placed a hand on his temple and his eyes in disappointment. ‘I feel you’, is what Genya wanted to say. The redhead continued, now looking up at Kanao who set down the tray, “Anyways, like y’know—how will you be able to tutor us all at once?”
“Don’t worry, I can alternate between you guys,” Kanao answered with a smile.
That’s honestly admirable. To be able to tutor 4 guys at once? Genya couldn’t really fathom how that would be possible since they’re all on different levels but if Kanao says so, then he’ll take his word.
Without warning, his hand slammed down on the table to get everyone’s attention. Genya almost jumped back in his seat. “First question,” his finger pointed at a particular question in the textbook on the table (when did that get there?!), “What is the minimum and maximum of this function? You have 20 seconds!”
Tick. Tick. Tick. His slender hand was already reaching to pour some cold tea in a cup.
Oh shit—they’re actually doing this!! Five seconds probably already passed by him just gawking at Kanao’s beauty.
His eyes flickered down to the page in the textbook where Kanao pointed at.
Tick. Tick. Tick.
He got it!!
“If x=-3, the minimum value is -43 and x=-1 for a max of -7!!” He blurted out.
“Correct,” in an instant, Kanao reeled his arm back that was already in position to pour the tea.
Genya heaved out a heavy sigh in relief, his hand running through his own hair. Oh god, that was a close one.
“Next question.”
Already?! Give him a break!!! How could Kanao be so merciless?
Honestly, he lowkey fucks with that.
————
It was inevitable. Eventually, his hair got splashed on—along with the rest of himself. Right in the face too!!
Genya was absolutely drenched in the next hour as he gasped out for breath after his face got slapped with another wave of tea. Like thank god it wasn’t boiling hot, but how much strength does Kanao have on that cup?? Everytime he splashed him, it felt like a boulder right in his face!
Genya had one time screamed in agony the first time he got the question wrong. His hair!!! It was ruined!! He had to excuse himself from the table to rush to the bathroom to see if his hair survived that brutal attack.
It appeared that his scream spooked the rest of the people at the table, and by the time Genya had returned, it was only Kanao at the table. He explained that while Genya was in the bathroom, Tanjiro and the rest had to leave in a rush.
Had he heard him right? THEY LEFT?? HOW DARE THEY?! THEY WERE TRAITORS!! TRAITOROUS COWARDS!! A vein popped in Genya’s forehead as the idea to murder was suddenly very tempting. It was most likely because they saw how deep they were going with this and bailed at the last moment. FUCK, and now he was left all alone with Kanao!!! The most beautiful boy he’s ever landed eyes on!! He doesn’t know whether to curse or thank Tanjiro later. He’s definitely going to give an earful to him next time he sees him, trust.
There was an awkward silence, and his eyes cast down to Kanao fumbling with one of the frills of his skirt. Was that nervousness? That was rare. Was he weird for saying he looked cute? He was so pretty, he couldn't stay mad.
Kanao then asked if Genya was ready to continue. At this moment with green tea still rolling down his face, the boy wanted nothing more than to fucking leave. Not even an apology??? Ok, damn. Right when Genya was having a crisis over here, Kanao just asked him with those big ol’ eyes, ‘are you ready to continue?’ But oh man, that look he gave him. How could such an innocent, composed face get Genya to feel so.. so mushy on the inside?? Kanao was torturing him at this point!
He needed the studies though. He can’t let down Tanjiro—but was the same one who said ‘oh, if you ever wanna bail out, just let me know’. Yeah, look who’s talking now? And those vouchers. THE WHOLE REASON HE SIGNED UP FOR HELL. CURSE YOU, SANEMI!!! (just kidding, I love you.)
Genya sucked in a breath and exhaled as he reluctantly nodded. Too late to turn back now. He tried to compromise with Kanao, asking for him to not splash on his hair. All Kanao responded was, ‘Only if you answer the question right.’ It seems there was no way out of this. God, he is so done.
So is why he is here right now after an hour has passed. Absolutely soaked up until his lower half. He had to take off his sweater because he felt sticky and sweaty from the hot blazing sun which now leaves him in his tank top.
Meanwhile with Kanao, he still looked the same. Not even a bead of sweat! Maybe his face is just too good to ever start sweating. Or even having acne. His face is so beautiful, from those soft cheeks to his—
“Oh, break time. Now is feeding time for Spot,” Kanao abruptly interrupted his thoughts and he suddenly rose up from his seat. Huh?
“W-What??” Genya sputtered out with his eyes widening when Kanao turned around to make a beeline in the house. His jaw dropped slightly as he glanced around for a moment. There wasn’t even a towel he could dry himself up. He decided to take his chances and follow Kanao to rush into the house. Genya caught sight of Kanao in the kitchen who was rummaging through the fridge and pulled out various bags of plants like parsley and basil.
Genya stood by the doorway dumbly, watching Kanao fill a pink little bowl full of little leaves. “You… you have a pet?” Well no shit, Sherlock. That answer was obvious.
“Yes, his name is Spot,” Kanao focused on presenting the food decently on the bowl and even plopped a strawberry in it. Kanao paused his movements, casting a glance at Genya. “Would.. would you like to see him?” It was like he forgot to ask and suddenly remembered. How sweet!!
“Oh um—yeah of course, sure.” Genya sputtered out as he accepted his offer. Kanao nodded whilst grabbing the little bowl and led the way with Genya following behind. Wow, he was going to see Kanao’s pet. Somehow, he feels like he won the lottery.
They were going upstairs. Kanao’s footsteps were light as a feather compared to Genya’s heavy ones. Once they reached the top floor, Kanao made a beeline down the end of the hallway and the taller one trailed behind, swallowing. Are they going into his room? If so, oh god. He must stay calm. Yeah, of course he’s going to be nervous as hell seeing Kanao’s room. Well, he can’t be so sure. Maybe Kanao’s pet is in a whole separate room or something.
“This way,” Kanao spoke up as he opened a door and gestured for Genya to come in. Shit. Nevermind, it’s his room.
He wasn’t sure what he was even expecting. He’s never been in a girl’s room before other than Teiko and Sumi’s. Well—Kanao is not a girl. But he certainly dresses femininely. Surely, there’s a touch of femininity in his room? Considering Kanao, he’s probably very tidy and always keeps his room clean. He probably has a bookshelf full of books because of how smart he is. Probably just lots of pinks and blacks.
Wrong. He was all wrong. Well—he was right about one thing: Kanao is tidy. But the room wasn’t just tidied up.
IT’S EMPTY. THE ROOM IS BARE. Literally nothing except for a plain bed, an empty desk, a few drawers, and a closet. The only patch of color were the pink bed sheets. But that was actually it, he was not even exaggerating. It was like those rooms where you just moved in—except here, there are no boxes! Oh wait, there is a box. Like one little pretty-looking box on the desk, along with a stack of papers and some school textbooks. But like, that’s… it.
Lowkey, he can’t even say anything, honestly. His own room was very messy and cluttered. But at least, it felt full? That was the wrong word for sure to describe it but… for some reason, stepping in this room feels alienating. Isolating.
Void of life.
Genya felt a shiver go up his spine. Maybe he’s being too judgmental. That was a dick move of him. He just wasn’t used to such, empty rooms. Compared to when he comes into his siblings’ rooms, they all have their individual styles, scents, and identity.
Kanao’s room was stripped of that.
Genya came back to his awareness when he felt a poke to his shoulder. A cold sensation brought another shiver down his spine. He then suddenly remembered that his upper body was in fact still drenched in green tea and Kanao’s finger touched his bare skin.
His eyes snapped towards the shorter boy. He didn’t know what expression he was making—was he scowling? Frowning? Smiling like a maniac? Whatever it was, Kanao seemed to have a reaction, albeit small. He pulled his hand away to proceed tapping his fingers along the sides of the bowl which he still held in his other hand.
“You’ve… been staring off,” Kanao mumbled out. His smile was not present, and his eyes were darting all over the place except on Genya’s.
Genya blinked once, then twice before dropping his head and letting out an awkward chuckle (it came out more as a huff). “Sorry, t’was just thinking. Anyways uh—“ He cleared his throat and gestured towards the bowl in the boy’s hands, “—your pet.” God, this is so awkward.
Kanao slowly nodded in understanding, and his smile returned. This smile seemed a bit bigger. The taller one realized he was standing too close to him and stepped back to make distance. That was a close one. Now that he wasn’t towering over the shorter boy, he got to see a bigger image in his view. Something was behind Kanao’s legs.
Kanao turned around and knelt down, his skirt laying on top of his knees and he reached down to what looks like a cage. But it wasn’t? More like an open playpen? Genya peered over slightly to get a better view of it whilst still standing.
”Spot, come,” Kanao clicked his tongue softly. On cue, a black and white spotted bunny emerged from the piles of pillows and plushies to hop towards its owner. Kanao smiled more softly at the sight of his bunny coming, and set down the pink bowl by the entrance of the pen.
Oh. Suddenly, Genya wasn’t so surprised anymore. Of course the bunny would be named Spot because it is… spotted. What a rather simple thing.
”T…that’s Spot?” He didn’t mean for his tone to come out as disbelief.
“Yes. A Netherland dwarf. Do you get it? Spot being named Spot because…?”
“Because it has spots? Yeah, I know.” Was that supposed to be an attempt at joking? Kanao may be the most beautiful guy he’s ever known, but sometimes some people are not meant to be jokers. Not even questioning that, why is that bunny’s tongue sticking out?? Why does it look like that?! And why is it looking at him like that??
Kanao smiled and watched his pet rabbit eat off of the bowl. He decided to give some context while gently petting him. “He is a rescue. He doesn’t have an upper lip, hence why his tongue is always sticking out. I am responsible for taking care of him, as it was a hassle to convince my other two sisters for us to keep him. But sometimes I let him out to roam around the house.”
One of Genya’s eyebrows perked up at the second half of Kanao’s explanation. He got into an argument with his sisters? He wondered how that must’ve turned out. Never would he have thought even Kanao would have arguments with his sisters. “Huh. ‘Hassle’, you say?”
“Shinobu… she cannot handle furry animals,” was all Kanao said as he was only focused on petting his bunny. Now what kind of reason is that? Genya was actually surprised for a moment. Sure, he doesn’t know Shinobu that well (let alone even approach her to begin with), but she doesn’t like furry animals? Do they give her allergies or does she just downright not like them?
“That’s a little crazy, what?” Genya tsked as he planted his hands on his hips and his eyes still stared down at the scene on the floor. Was it unusual to see Kanao with a bunny? Yes but also no. Was it absolutely adorable? Yes.
The one on the floor shrugged, and leaned even closer to his bunny, “It’s also understandable that bunnies are difficult to take care of. They require a lot of maintenance.” Genya nodded. He made a huff in understanding and averted his eyes from staring too much. “Would you.. like to pet him?”
“Um—sure…” real smooth move there, Genya. He crouched down on the floor and slowly outstretched his arm to reach for the bunny. To his surprise (and disappointment), the bunny scurried away and curled up more against Kanao’s arms.
“I forgot to say, he gets scared easily.. he’s pretty shy around new people,” Kanao reassured Genya as he cooed towards his bunny in his arms and stroked him lovingly.
‘The rabbit is scared of me.’
“Eh, no worries, it’s nothing,” Genya ended up brushing it off as he now fully sat down on the floor across from Kanao. He had a knee up and just rested his elbow there while he watched.
All of a sudden, Kanao reached his hand over to lightly grasp Genya's wrist. The taller one jolted back in surprise. His body immediately froze once he felt that cold touch again. Holy shit, his hands are freezing!!!!! It wasn’t even that chilly in his room?? His mind started racing with a million thoughts at once and a shiver ran down his spine. Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god, oh my god. Play cool, play cool play cool play cool—oh stop, his hand doesn’t even grasp fully around his wrist. He’s going to faint!!!
“Here,” Kanao mumbled while guiding the other’s hand over to Spot that was still curled up on his lap.
He felt Genya’s pulse through gripping his wrist. Fast.
His eyes cast down to observe the details on his hand for a moment. Large. Rough. Veiny. Two moles; one on each opposite side. Three rings. Smelled faintly of green tea.
His large hand hovered over the bunny’s back before Kanao guided it lower to completely touch it. Trembling. His hand is trembling. Why is his hand trembling? What’s wrong? Was something wrong?
With Kanao’s free hand, he was scratching Spot’s chin to comfort him. His other hand let go of Genya’s wrist after seeing it had stayed on Spot’s back. His hand is so big, it almost took up the size of his bunny.
Genya’s body almost melted by the touch of Kanao. Those were the slowest five seconds of his life. How could his cold touch feel like his skin was burning? He was absolutely at the mercy of the boy's hold in those five seconds. But now, his hand was on this rabbit. And damn, this bunny felt soft.
He did feel the slight shakiness from the furry ball but it seemed through Kanao’s little scratches that it calmed down a bit.
Was he really that scary looking that it even cowered away from him?
“Oh, I forgot. Stay here and watch him for a moment please,” Kanao adjusted his hold on the bunny to gently set it down on the floor and stood up. He brushed the wrinkles off of his skirt and Genya was left alone with the bunny for a few minutes as Kanao hurriedly rushed out of the room.
Alone with his thoughts. With his free hand, Genya raised a hand up to his cheek. Yep, it is definitely burning. Was he obvious? Was it that obvious that his cheeks had been burning hot and his hand had been trembling? Did Kanao notice that? Would he have noticed that?
His eyes fell on the bunny that was staring at him. It was cute—but that tongue peeking out just throws him off a bit. Some part of him envied the bunny for stealing so much of Kanao’s attention. Perhaps, he just wasn’t one for bunnies. They were cute, don’t get him wrong, but he was personally more of a pitbull person. Genya didn’t attempt to pet the rabbit again, and the rabbit didn’t attempt to come any closer to the human. Was it being cautious?
Strangely enough, the bunny’s pen was the most decorative out of the entirety of the room. There were plushies and little toys, adding on to the pink little bowl and the bed too. He wondered if Kanao had only been buying exclusively for his bunny. Maybe he’ll hear more of Kanao talk about his pet. Afterall, he seemed more talkative than usual when it came to his pet.
A thought came across his mind that Zenitsu would’ve been on his knees sobbing at the sight of Kanao’s bunny. He liked bunnies, right? (Strange, but whatever.) Did the others know about this? Well—if they did, then Genya would most likely visualize the first thing Zenitsu would say when entering the Butterfly Mansion would be: ‘Ooohh, Kanaooo!!! Can I see your bunny?? Is he around??’
A smirk itched across Genya’s face, knowing that he was the first to know about this. His heart fluttered a little bit by that thought.
His thought process stopped once he caught sight of a folded towel handed over to him. His eyes flickered up to who was holding the towel: of course it was Kanao. His eyes immediately averted away out of embarrassment as he reluctantly accepted the towel.
“Sorry, I had been so caught up about Spot that I didn’t realize you were still wet. You can dry yourself off,” Kanao said as a matter-of-fact. Still with that damn smile. Genya is so done for.
He unintentionally let out a huff in response and the first thing he did was dry his hair. He roughly ruffled the towel against his hair and around his shaven sides. The towel was already getting moist and the once white towel was now tinted light green. He sighed, feeling that his skin was already dry and sticky from everything. He’s definitely making a beeline towards the shower once he gets back home.
Genya stole a glance towards Kanao, seeing that he just went back to playing with his pet bunny with that slightly bigger smile. Now that he thinks about it, they are basically on a break right now. Oh god, they’re actually alone. Why did he just realize that like right now? He’s been so caught up with the bunny talk and the sensation of sticky green tea on his skin that he forgot he was literally alone with Kanao!
Should he do an icebreaker? What should they talk about?? (Should he call it quits right now and bolt out of the house?) It is technically one of his first times alone with Kanao compared to seeing him in the regular squad hangouts. But he doesn’t see him there often because the other was always so damn busy. And the times that he was present, well—let’s just say Genya strayed away like the plague.
Said-plague is right here in their room at this moment, and their knees are almost touching!!! Genya’s going to pass out! How could Kanao look even cuter playing with his bunny??
The silence was getting palpable. He can’t take it anymore!!! It was either a fight or flight response right now and his body is itching to flee right now!! It’s getting too much!! “Uh.. Kanao..” he gruffed out.
“Yes?” Kanao turned his focus on Genya with his usual half lidded eyes. The latter immediately turned his head away, pretending to busy himself with the towel to play casually.
Fuck—what does he ask??! ‘Hey I really like you, wanna go on a date? Haha, just kidding, unless..?’ ‘HOW ARE YOU SO BEAUTIFUL??’ ‘What’s with your room?’ ‘May I excuse myself before I go into cardiac arrest right here and now??’ ‘Why does your rabbit look like that?!’ ‘Can we stop studying now?? I cannot bear to be splashed anymore!! I’m at my limit, please I beg of you!!!!’ ‘So you like punk music?’ FUCK, why can’t Tanjiro just be here?? Kanao’s not even a girl, why is he getting so worked up over this?!
“How long.. have you had him?” Genya ended up asking, lazily pointing at the bunny that was nestling in the pillows and plushies of its pen. Honestly, if that’s what makes Kanao talk, then so be it.
He did not miss the visible brightness in Kanao’s eyes when asked that question, even if it was subtle. He straightened his back and his fingers played with the frills on his skirt. “Recently. Like—a few months ago. I found him in our garden in the backyard. His family wasn’t anywhere so I brought him in since he did not look well. He did not look like a wild rabbit so…” he trailed off, his eyes cast at his bunny again that flopped on his side.
Genya grimaced and sighed, “Ugh, owners can be such assholes.. well, it looks like he’s in a much safer space so there’s that.” Honestly, he should congratulate himself for saying his first heartfelt, coherent response to Kanao.
“Yes, I’m glad too—I think Shinobu has also warmed up to Spot a bit.. I think.”
“I mean—who can’t resist bunnies, ha?” He awkwardly chuckled, punching himself in the face internally.
“A lot of people. Some are allergic. Others eat them as part of their diet. They are also prey so therefore predators would have to clear them out. Some of them are aggressive too, like hares. They are not suitable as pets. So yes, there are some that are in fact resistant towards bunnies.”
Genya wasn’t sure whether to fall in love harder or leave this room faster out of embarrassment. He was going to speak when he cleared his throat. “Uh… right.. yeah.”
“Anyways, are you ready to go back to studying?”
“A-already??”
“This is just a small break but we will finish at… 6 pm. Before it gets too late.”
How long has he been here already?? Three hours?? That long?? “Where are your sisters right now?” He muttered out, dropping his hand on his thigh in an awkward gesture. Maybe it’s because he hasn’t heard enough of Kanao’s silky soft voice hence why he keeps pushing these questions. But it was true, he is relatively surprised he hasn’t been jumpscared by one of the Kocho sisters [yet].
“Oh, them? They are visiting their parents for the weekend. I’ve decided to stay back to look over Spot,” Kanao answered as he slowly rose up from his seat and brushed off the wrinkles from his skirt. Genya quickly glanced in another direction.
“Oh.. good. Hope they’re—having fun then.”
This kind of awkward banter continued onward in their continued study session. Where Genya would ask a question, Kanao would answer, and the former makes a small comment. And that was. It. Didn’t help either that Genya couldn’t even ask some of them because he still had to answer the given question in under 20 seconds. Thankfully, it looked like he was doing speedy progress, as he wasn’t getting splashed so much anymore!
“Great, in comparison to this hour, I only used 3 cups. The first hour was 10 cups. Good job,” Kanao praised as Genya got another question right on time once again.
The other was breathless, green tea dripping down his face. His face was about to go numb with all the force being thrown upon him in those few splashes. He can’t take it anymore!!! As a response, he dropped his head to rest on the table, on top of his drenched textbook.
“Hm? Is something wrong?” Genya only groaned in response. “Are you hungry? Wait there, I will bring out a snack.” And like that, Kanao trotted off back into the kitchen.
If Genya were to die in this place right now, at least he would die with last thoughts that Kanao was going to give him one of his snacks. What a lucky man he is.
By the time Kanao returned with a platter of snacks, Genya was already passed out with the side of his face resting on the textbook. It took a splash of cold green tea to wake him up.
——————
“… So.”
“‘So’?”
“Ah, when’s the next time you’re available? To.. to study?” Genya scratched the back of his head sheepishly. His hair was dry at this time, and smelled of green tea. In his arm, he had his sweater neatly folded and he was by the entrance of the house. His eyes flickered down to Kanao’s. So short..
“Oh, that? I can do… hmm,” Kanao pondered for a moment, tapping a finger against his chin in concentration. “Tomorrow is fine? But—it will have to be later, like 2pm. I have somewhere to go tomorrow morning.”
Tomorrow is Sunday. That was perfect. “Fine by me.” Genya ended up huffing out and turned away. He opened the door and took one step before stopping himself. How could he be so rude? Leaving without a goodbye? “So… see you.” Real smooth.
“Farewell,” right when Kanao shut the door, Genya suddenly remembered that he had a lot of questions to ask. He whipped his head around to the clicking sound of the door and his shoulders deflated. Shit. No longer in Kanao’s presence, he regained his rationality.
He was going to ask if next time he can drag Tanjiro’s sorry ass back. He was going to also ask if his sisters were going to be back tomorrow. He was going to ask many things. His mind which once felt so empty around Kanao now fills with a million thoughts like a dam being broken.
Genya dumbly stood staring at the door for a few more moments, debating whether to push his luck and knock on the door again. But like the coward he is, he refrains from doing so and thinks: ‘It’s too late, I’ll just see for tomorrow.’
By the time Genya got home it was around evening time and he was met with a shocked little Shuya who questioned him why he’s all wet and smelled like green tea.
“I was studying with a friend,” Genya sighed aloud, waking down their hallway to head to his room.
“Studying? And you came back looking like that?” Shuya, the oblivious little child he is, tilted his head to the side in confusion as he followed his big brother behind.
“It’s a long story…”
“Well, I wanna hear it!! I have all night!!”
“Nooo. I have to shower.”
“Pleaseee! Please tell me!!!”
Genya couldn’t help but let out a deep sigh. He placed a hand on his forehead to compose himself. This day was tiring for him. He ended up saying in a more gentle voice, “Fine, fine. I’ll tell ya at the dinner table.. lemme shower first though, ok?”
“Yeah ok, you stink anyways!!” Shuya laughed and it took all of Genya’s might to ignore him and go off to his bedroom to find a spare change of clothes. Little siblings can still be little siblings after all.
In the shower, Genya made sure to massage his hair to rise out all the sticky green tea. When he dropped his head down, his eyes landed on the light green liquid going down the drain.
This was going to be one hell of a study time.
——————
When dinner was finished, Genya flopped onto his bed with his leg hanging off the edge. He pulled out his phone from the charging stand and his eyes squinted at the brightness of his phone. He recalled pulling his phone out of his pocket to find out it was also vaguely wet from the whole green tea fiasco. Even though it’s been cleaned and wiped off, it still smells faintly of that damn drink. Kanao would truly be the end of him.
He opened the messenger app and pressed on the groupchat that had him, Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Inosuke and Nezuko (Nezuko more or less just lurks in the chat). Unfortunately, Inosuke named the chat “minions” and somehow disabled the option to change the group chat name but no one had the heart to make a new chat. This was where they talked the most, the other being another one with Kanao named “kamaboko squad”. He proceeded to ignore the new messages in the minions group chat and started to type away.
Genya: Tanjiro, what the fuck was that?
While he waited for a response, he decided to scroll up to see the previous messages. Something about the other having to leave in a hurry and he’s sorry or whatever. BULLSHIT!!!
Tanjiro: ?
He immediately sat up on his bed and frowned upon that message. He won’t hold back anymore. His fingers typed vigorously on the screen.
Genya: YOU ABANDONED ME, LEFT ME OUT IN THE WILD BY MYSLEF!!!!!
Zenitsu: *myself
Genya: SHUT THE FUCK UP YOU’RE IN THIS TOO!!!
Inosuke: wut
Genya: all of you fuckers!!! You all left me out there to die!! TRAITORS!!!
Tanjiro: Genya, I’m sorry! Please forgive us! :(
Zenitsu: I couldn’t get my new shirt wet :(
Genya: nobody gives a shit about your shirt
Inosuke: shyt up
Genya: you shut up!
Tanjiro: ok guys stop.
Tanjiro: Genya, does that mean you did not enjoy studying with Kanao?
Genya: it went fine i guess
Tanjiro: just fine?
Genya: would’ve been better IF YOUR ASS DIDNY LEAVE ME BEHIND!!!
Zenitsu: *didn’t
Genya: someone kick this guy off
Tanjiro: sorry!! >~<
Genya: look I was in war over there alright. Was completely soaked by the time I was done. But like.
Genya: I did see his bunny
Tanjiro: oh?
Zenitsu: bunny????
Inosuke: o god
Zenitsu: KANAO HAD A BUNNY AND NEVER TOLD ME???? WHATTTTTTTTTT
Zenitsu: AUHEHEHDGDHJSJ!!!!/!11
Zenitsu: I WANT TO SEE THE BUNNY WHAT?!
Tanjiro: aw that’s so cute, I didn’t know Kanao had a pet bunny! Maybe we’ll see his bunny one day, zenitsu :)
Genya: yeah if you guys come tomorrow
Inosuke: no
Genya: fuck you mean no??
Zenitsu: I gotta go to gramp’s peach farm tomorrow. Family thing.
Inosuke: im cumin!!
Genya: WHAT
Tanjiro: he said “I’m coming”!
Zenitsu: Inosuke’s coming with me so yeah
Genya: notice how you always correct my typos and not Inosuke’s
Zenitsu: SHUT UP OK I GOT FED UP WITH IT SO NOW TANJIRO JUST TRANSLATES FOR HIM
Genya: whatever. How will you guys study though?? Exam is next week!!
Zenitsu: ehhhh it’s fineeeeee
Genya: you’re not gonna see the bunny then
Zenitsu: inosuke.
Zenitsu: change of plans
Inosuke: NOHH!! i wat peech!?
Zenitsu: I can get your fatass a bunch of peaches from my place!
Inosuke: HEY!! PEECH TREEES!! peech!!
Genya: can you guys go to your dms or something I don’t wanna hear this
Genya: Tanjiro, you’re coming with me.
Tanjiro: I suppose I have no choice in the matter
Genya: of course you don’t. YOU OWE ME.
Zenitsu: ok, we’re back. We’re going to the peach farm.
Inosuke: yaur!
Zenitsu: DON’T TALK TO ME.
Tanjiro: yay!! Have fun guys! :)
Genya: cool
Genya honestly did not know how Tanjiro put up with those two. They bicker and fight like an old married couple, how was Tanjiro not getting gray hairs by now? He sighed and closed his phone, charging it to the station again.
He laid his head back on the pillow and stared up at the ceiling. Another day to see Kanao. The thought of that made his heart speed up a bit. Today was an absolute disaster but it’s ok now since Tanjiro will be here this time. Kanao has actually been helpful despite their extremely awkward conversations (that single thought made him cringe inside) and it’s true Genya is already improving. There’s hope!! He will reunite with his precious vouchers! Just you wait, Shinazugawa Sanemi!!
——————
“Where are you?!”
“Genya, Genya—please quiet down!!”
”I’ve been waiting here for 10 minutes now!! Hurry your ass up!!” Genya’s patience was starting to wear thin as he had been waiting outside of the Kamado Bakery, holding the phone up to his ear. His foot tapped on the concrete rapidly. He couldn’t just barge in the bakery and cause a commotion to call out for the burgundy-haired boy from the kitchen. He may be mean, but he’s not a monster.
He huffed when he heard some clattering noises on the other line, and some muffled chatter. Then Tanjiro spoke again, “Okay, I’m on my way out now.”
“That’s good,” the former harsh tone subdued once he heard Tanjiro’s confirmation. He ended the call and let out an exhale through his nose, slipping his phone in his pocket.
The sound of the bell chimed and Genya’s eyes flickered towards that sound. The glass door flung open and he saw the familiar green and black checkered shirt that belonged to only one person.
“Genya!! So sorry to keep you waiting!! You know that Sundays are pretty busy,” Tanjiro breathed out a chuckle as he swung his bag over his shoulder.
A twinge of guilt sprouted in Genya and he looked away sheepishly. “Sorry about that… I mean, we could always do this—”
“No, no—it’s ok!” Tanjiro waved his hands around in persistence. He huffed through his nostrils and landed a firm hand on Genya’s shoulder. “I’m already outside and I won’t back down this time. Besides, I need to study myself anyways!! So, let’s go!!” Seeing him smile so brightly like the sun was almost blinding for Genya.
————
“Ah, Genya. Tanjiro, you came,” Kanao greeted as he opened the door.
The latter waved his hand. “Hi, Kanao!! We’re ready to study!!”
“Where are the others?”
“Ah, Zenitsu is away with his family and Inosuke came with.”
“Hm.. I see. Well, ok—come in.”
And just like that, Genya’s mind went blank again once he witnessed the perpetual beauty of Tsuyuri Kanao. Where had his confidence disappeared off to? Even if Tanjiro was now accompanying him, that doesn’t fully subdue the pounding in his heart.
“Kanao! I heard you have a pet bunny?” Tanjiro exclaimed as he finished taking off his sneakers by the door. His smile is bright and wide. So pure.
Kanao jumped a bit by the loud tone but nonetheless was unfazed and smiled. “Yes, I do. Would you like to see him?” If it couldn’t be any more possible, Tanjiro’s smile got even bigger and he nodded enthusiastically. The shorter boy smiled a bit more in return and turned on his heel, gesturing for the others to follow him upstairs.
“Uh—I’ll stay down here,” Genya called out when the duo were at the top of the stairs. He wasn’t even sure if the others heard him because Tanjiro was yapping on something about how Zenitsu would’ve loved to see the bunny and all that. But away from that, Genya needed to slow his damn heartbeat. He needed to take a breather and prepare himself for another day with Kanao. He dropped himself on the sofa and took a few breathers. His hands lightly gripped his knees as he concentrated on his breathing.
A few minutes later, he felt his phone vibrate in his pocket and he pulled it out to look at the notification. Tanjiro sent a photo in the groupchat which of course was Kanao’s bunny.
Tanjiro: [image] Zenitsu!! Look how cute he is!! :D
He stifled a chuckle. He knew what he was doing with that and it was absolutely hilarious to watch it. He could already predict Zenitsu’s reaction.
After a bit, Tanjiro and Kanao finally emerged down the stairs with Tanjiro a smiling mess. Behind them was Kanao’s bunny trotting down the stairs slowly.
“Ah, Spot is so cute!! Genya, did you see my message??” Tanjiro practically skipped his way over to the living room where the former is.
“Yeah, that’s a cruel move you made,” Genya huffed out a chuckle as he returned the eye contact.
“Cruel?”
“Don’t give me that innocent look!!”
Tanjiro blinked once or twice to process that information and held back from bursting into giggles. He flashed an uncharacteristically cheeky smile. “I’m just showing him what he’s missing out on is all.”
“You are one cruel man, Kamado Tanjiro.”
Kanao looked between the two boys with a confused smile. His expression did not change much else though and he glanced down at his bunny that was roaming around the house. “Anyways, we should get started. I already prepared the tea so let’s go.”
The trio made their way out to the backyard again, and just like he said, there was a platter of cups and a large liter of matcha tea ready. Genya’s mood immediately plummeted upon seeing that bottle.
Tanjiro awkwardly chuckled and started to take off his green checkered flannel. Seriously, who wears flannels during the summer?? “Oh—we’re actually going to…”
“Yes,” Kanao answered. “It is proven to be very effective. You will take turns with Genya.”
“Oh.. great…” Tanjiro’s face scrunches up. Genya had to restrain himself from bursting into laughter.
————-
One moment after another, it felt like a water cannon was being fired at him. By the third hour passed, Genya was already struggling to lift up his head from the table.
Surprisingly, Kanao’s trajectory changed and started to aim more towards Genya’s face down to his chest area. The force was still just as brutal but at least it wasn’t directed so much at his hair anymore. Yet Kanao would sometimes give him a push: ‘If you get the next question wrong, your hair will be next.’ He knew how to rile up one man for sure! He even had the audacity to put on such a beautiful smile!
Tanjiro wasn’t doing so much better on his side. Genya winced and found it painful when it was the other’s turn and he had been ruthlessly dumped with tea almost every 20 seconds. Tanjiro yelled after his first time and the tea got into his mouth which caused him to choke. But a measly choking did not deter the burgundy haired boy as he still confidently said out the wrong answers.
“Kanaooo!! I—I don’t know this concept!!” Tanjiro pleaded, raising his hands up to stop everything. He was also just as drenched as Genya with green tea dripping down his face.
“Oh, you don’t? Um, what do you need to know?” Kanao set down his cup and tilted his head to the side.
Finally! A break!! Tanjiro straightened his back and pointed at a certain damp page. “Here!! I don’t really get derivatives… Can you help me with that?”
Kanao’s eyes followed Tanjiro’s finger that landed on a multiple-choice question about derivatives. He slowly blinked with that same smile. “Number one is the answer.”
“One..?” Tanjiro had a frozen smile and blinked. “Why.. why is it one?”
“Because that is the correct answer.”
“Ah… how do you know it’s correct?”
“Because I checked the answer key.”
”But—but… can you explain it??”
“The answer key explains it. Here.” Kanao flipped the rather wet pages close to the end of the textbook where the answer key was (the ink was almost bleeding out).
Tanjiro’s smile twitched and for a moment it seemed like he was having second thoughts about this. He gestured towards the soaken textbook with his hand, absolutely lost. “That—ok. Kanao…” He let out a sigh and shook his head. Bless this man’s soul. His unwavering patience is truly admirable. “Just because the question explains the answer doesn’t mean I’ll know what is going on. I need you to like—teach me—this concept.”
“Oh,” for the first time, Kanao’s eyebrows knitted together and he placed a finger on his chin, like he was contemplating on something. Wasn’t Kanao one of the smartest kids? Does he himself not know the concept or was it something else? “I—I will try to explain it. But I cannot promise I am the best at teaching. I hope you understand.”
Now both Genya and Tanjiro were shocked. Genya whipped his head towards Tanjiro with wide eyes screaming: ‘He can’t teach?!’ Tanjiro looked back at him with a guilty smile: ‘oopsie!’
What did they even sign themselves up towards? Ok, well—they did hear kanao’s warning yesterday that he could not teach well. Genya thought he was just bluffing or something! Right now, being tutored by Zenitsu’s asshole brother seems much more promising. Okay, maybe he wouldn’t go that far. His accuracy was surely improving because of the tea method, whether he wanted to admit it or not. The problem is Tanjiro and the rest, as he is now questioning if the others will even pass this exam.
“It’s alright, um.. I’ll try to take in everything you say,” like the supportive guy he is, Tanjiro allows himself to be indulged by Kanao. He wiped some wet strands of hair away from his face and sat up properly.
Oh, what a ride he will be on. There was no turning back once Kanao brought out a large whiteboard to write on. At that moment, Genya felt sorry for Tanjiro.
————-
After hellish studying hours (and a quick break for Kanao to feed Spot), the time was 6pm. Whoever thought time flies by when you’re having fun?
Tanjiro needed to take a break from all the writing he’s done in his notebook. His hand was cramping! He’s never written so much in his entire life! He was too nice to ask Kanao to pause for a moment so therefore he was always rushing to catch up to him. It wasn’t that Kanao even spoke that much, it was that he was writing too much on the board! And erasing everything too quickly. He went way too in depth about such a small concept such as derivatives, now Tanjiro knows the derivative contracts in finance. This wasn’t even part of the exam!! Where is Kanao even getting this knowledge??
Genya had to self study in the meantime, as he set timers for himself everytime he started on a new question. Everytime the timer went off before he finished the question, his body would flinch as if bracing for impact. Damn reflexes. He was sure to avoid matcha tea for a while in the meantime.
He occasionally lifted his head to check up on Kanao and Tanjiro, and couldn’t help but steal a few glances at Kanao himself. Even when he still maintained that straight face when lecturing and writing on the board, he sure as hell still looked beautiful. Somehow the sight of him brought butterflies in Genya’s stomach. How could one be so smart and beautiful yet so so awkward? Like what does stocks have to do with calculus?!
“Okay, I think that is all to explain about derivatives. Do you understand now?” Kanao finally turned to face a passed out Tanjiro and smiled.
“Um—yeah, yeah sure…” Tanjiro rasped out an answer as he dropped his pencil to shake off his sore hand.
“Did I… explain well?”
“Well… yeah sure, sure just… you went a little off topic.” That was an understatement.
“Ah, that’s good then. I promise to do better in the future.”
“Good, that’s the spirit!” Tanjiro smiled supportively and Kanao sheepishly nodded. So cute!
“Are you two hungry? I can order.. food,” Kanao hesitantly said, one of his hands playing with his side ponytail. “I lost track of time, I didn’t realize it was already dinner time—so this one's on me.”
“Oh Kanao.. you don’t have to—“
“It would be rude of me to send my guests home hungry. What would you guys like to eat?”
Genya and Tanjiro glanced at eachother for a moment. The latter responded, “Well, I can’t be sure if I’m allowed to stay later. So I’m gonna call my mom if that’s okay.” He gave a thumbs up and stood up to excuse himself. Genya was internally screaming ‘DON’T LEAVE ME!!!’
“What about you, Genya?” The one questioned whipped his head to turn towards Kanao. He stared up at him almost with an anticipated look.
“Uhhh…. um,” crap, his mind gone blank again, “I don’t mind—I don’t mind staying. Yeah, I’ll eat whatever.” He shrugged, shoving his tense hands in his pockets.
“That’s great. What are you in the mood to eat?” Kanao noticeably relaxed his smile.
Was he actually hoping for Genya to stay? Genya shoved that thought out of his mind.
“Pizza?”
“Pizza… okay sure. What toppings do you want on it?”
“I like pepperoni with mushrooms but I don’t mind plain or pepperoni.” As long it’s not pineapple, is what Genya refrained from saying. Who knows if Kanao likes pineapple on pizza? He would gladly eat ten slices of those if Kanao also likes it.
Kanao looked away, blinking a few times. “Mushrooms.. oh.”
“You don’t like mushrooms?”
“It’s okay.. I’ll eat it.”
Kanao not liking mushrooms? That was a new fact. Genya quickly tried to compromise, “We can stick to pepperoni.. I’m fine with that.”
“We have to hear from Tanjiro.”
“I know what Tanjiro would want—he loves pepperoni so yeah!” His eyes were scanning for Kanao’s reaction. Why was he overthinking about such toppings and if he would like it or not??
“Okay.. so pepperoni it is then.” The shorter boy nodded and pulled out his phone to dial for the pizza place. Genya noticed a small bunny phone charm dangling from the side of his phone. He wondered if he was just as insane about bunnies like Zenitsu. His eyes snapped back up to the owner’s eyes once he brought the phone up to his ear. “Hello? Yes. Pepperoni pizza….. hm?” Kanao’s eyes glanced between Genya and to the side and he blinked several times in conflict.
“What? What’s wrong?” Genya mumbled, arching an eyebrow in confusion,
The other pulled the phone away from his ear and raised his hand to cover the speaker. “Medium or large?”
As much as Genya had a big appetite, he remembered Kanao was paying for this. He quickly answered, “Medium.”
Kanao nodded and finished mumbling out the order. He hung up and let out a small sigh of relief, even placing a hand on his chest. He looked up at Genya after regaining his composure and smiled, “The order is placed. I will feed Spot in the meantime.”
“Oh right—thanks,” Genya looked away again. He worried he might’ve been staring too much again. “I‘ll let Tanjiro know and all…” God, this is so awkward!!
Genya found Tanjiro on the balcony (since when did the Butterfly siblings own a balcony??) and when he walked closer, his ears picked up Tanjiro’s voice. “…the cleaning tonight… really? Thanks, mom!” He hung up his phone and turned back, only to be jumpscared by Genya for a moment. “You startled me! Don’t do that.” He chuckled as he slipped his phone back into his pocket.
“My bad, just letting you know that Kanao ordered pepperoni pizza and stuff…”
“Oh, perfect! My mom let me stay here for dinner, so hooray!”
Genya can’t help but let out a sigh as he went forward to lean on the railway. A lot has been going on these past few days—it was all going to take a toll on him. He stared off into the distance. He didn’t realize that this house has a good view of the rest of town.
Tanjiro tilted his head slightly while he watched Genya. He patted his back and smiled widely. “Don’t worry, Genya! You will surely get your vouchers back! Let’s do our best on the test!”
“Oh uh.. yeah, that..” If he were being honest, he had not even acknowledged the vouchers all day. That wasn’t even part of his mind—it was all Kanao, Kanao, Kanao. How could one not?
These past two days have taken an assault on his heart. It’s pounding even harder than his usual workout. The cool tea being splashed on his face does not subdue the heat radiating off his face. It was even a rarity that he managed to speak full sentences to him.
“Kanao is really amazing,” is what slipped out of his mouth. “Even if he has a.. weird way of thinking—he could still tell where I made a mistake. Everything he can just absorb from just looking at a textbook.”
“Mm, yeah that’s true,” Tanjiro nodded in agreement. He sighed and looked defeated, “Even if I learned nothing about calculus derivatives, at least I know about swapping futures!”
“Huhhhh? You’re telling me this whole time he didn’t even mention it??”
“No no, I meant—” Tanjiro waved his hand a bit, “He did. Very briefly. Before going off topic about the financial part. And he looked pretty engrossed in it so that's why I didn’t bother to stop him.”
“You’re crazy, Tanjiro.” Genya would do the exact same—to hear Kanao ramble on for hours about such an unnecessary topic in careful detail would be music to his ears. He’s never even heard Kanao speak that much either.
“Eugh… it was nice hearing him talk so it’s fine. But next time I should really start taking advantage of Mr. Shinazugawa’s tutoring hours.”
Oh. Sanemi. The menace that brought them upon this whole thing in the first place. If it weren’t for him, then Genya could’ve been practicing his aim this whole weekend! If it weren’t for him, then he wouldn’t have to hate matcha tea! If it weren’t for him, he wouldn’t have been coincidentally paired up with Kanao by Tanjiro. If it weren’t for him…
”Maybe if I was perfect like Kanao.. then my brother wouldn’t be as upset with me for being such a loser. I feel like he’s ashamed to have me, always bringing him down.” The words just slipped out of his tongue like that. He had been staring up at the stars at this point.
Kanao is a beauty—even more compelling than the stars than the galaxy. He is intelligent—not even casting a second glance at the textbook, he could memorize all the information. He was even very productive and contributing as a student. Hell, if Kanao ever picked up a gun, he would already master marksmanship. He was truly admirable.
Tanjiro didn’t realize this would get so heartfelt and serious. He stared at the taller one, “Genya…” he pondered for how to word his next few words. He ended up smiling reassuringly, “I don’t think you’re a loser at all. No one is perfect, not even Kanao. The reason your brother is so demanding about your grades is that he’s worried about you. Because you’re his favorite!”
“F-favorite??” Genya gritted his teeth, and scoffed in embarrassment. Absolute bullshit.
“Yeah! I’ve never seen anyone else be scolded by a teacher for a grade as high as yours—but he’s super strict on you!” He pondered and turned his head to face Genya again, with a bright smile. “That’s a kind of favoritism, isn’t it?”
“… you really think that, huh?” Genya huffed, cracking a small smile. Even if what he thought Tanjiro said was absolute bullshit, he still found it endearing.
“Yep! If you do well, I bet he’ll even reward you!”
“Absolutely not.”
“You never know,” Tanjiro shrugged and his eyes went back to the landscape that was littered with city lights. “Well, with that being said, if you don’t like his methods, you should totally talk to him about it, and I’ll back you up.”
“Yeah uh no, but thanks. First, I’ll do my best and see where that takes me.” Genya smiled at Tanjiro’s offer.
He contemplated for a moment. He trusts Tanjiro. He could tell him what’s been stressing over his mind currently. How would he react though? Would he take it well or would he find him weird? He decides to just shoot his shot. “Hey, Tanjiro. I wanted to ask about Ka—”
He had been interrupted by a ringing doorbell sound coming from inside the house. Both boys turned their head back by the signal and Tanjiro’s eyes brightened. “Oh, pizza must be here! Let’s go!” He dragged the taller boy inside the house and made their way to the entrance to the door.
Kanao was grabbing the pizza box from the delivery person, which so happened to be a bubbly girl with pink and green braids. She made small chat, “Ahh, Kanao!! I didn’t realize you were the one that ordered pizza! Is Shinobu home too?? Can I say hi??” She was practically beaming.
Kanao remained blankly smiling. “Hello, Ms. Kanroji. Shinobu is not home at the moment, she is visiting her parents. But I can say hi for you.”
Mitsuri pouted slightly, “Aww… this would’ve been perfect timing to surprise her! Okay then..” she composed herself and went back to being all joyful. “Okay! Just tell her I said hi and that I love her very much! And I love you too, Kanao!!” She leaned over to pat Kanao’s head. She tilted her head a bit to look past Kanao and gasped. “Hello, Tanjiro!!”
“Hi, Ms. Kanroji!! Thank you for delivering us this pizza!!” Tanjiro returned the same enthusiasm and he bowed.
“Hehe, hope you all enjoy it!! Bye, bye!!” Mitsuri waved her goodbyes and she skipped her way back to her moped. Kanao nodded and closed the door, holding the pizza box in his hands.
Genya was stiff the whole time and relaxed his muscles a bit once Mitsuri was no longer in sight.
“Pizza is ready. Let’s go,” Kanao simply announced and walked ahead to the dining room.
Tanjiro and Genya trailed behind and the former glanced at the other with a big smile, “Sorry—you were going to say something? You wanted to ask me about what?”
“I—” Genya stopped himself and he sighed. It was too late, the person he wanted to ask about was in the same room as them. And after everything that happened, he was tired. He decided it was best to drop the subject for now like the coward he is. “Nevermind, it’s nothing..”
“Ah, if you say so…” Genya missed the way Tanjiro gave him a side glance.
The trio were blissfully unaware of the spam of messages from Zenitsu who had reacted to the bunny picture Tanjiro sent as they chowed down on their pizza.
————
Test day had finally arrived on Tuesday. After a few more days of treacherous studying (and even more showers taken than usual), the day has arrived. Throughout the week, the kamaboko squad resorted to studying in the library, and even with no matcha tea present, Genya was able to waste no time and improved tremendously.
Ever since Sunday, Zenitsu had been begging Kanao to see his pet bunny and also to help him study. He exaggerated his story that he regretted ever asking Kaigaku for his help to tutor him and Inosuke. The peach farm trip was an absolute disaster, but when Kanao asked for the yellow haired boy to elaborate, Zenitsu got defensive, excusing it was too traumatic to retell. (Genya heard from Inosuke that he gave Kaigaku a bloody nose after insulting Zenitsu. Inosuke had no shame at all it seems).
Genya’s getting distracted!!! He stared down pensively at the piece of paper on his desk. This was it. This was the day. This single piece of paper will decide his fate.
“Hey, back there. You got all the sheets? The test starts in 30 seconds!” Sanemi called out in front of the classroom. His eyes scanned over the seats, barely casting a glance over at Genya. At least he has no bias..
Genya thought back to what Tanjiro said on that night: ‘That’s a kind of favoritism, isn’t it?’ Damn, what is that wacky inspirational quote? Was he really Sanemi’s favorite? If that’s the case, then he’s gotta meet up with his expectations.
He can’t let him down. He can’t let those vouchers down.
And he can’t let Kanao down. Could you imagine after all that effort Kanao put to help Genya only for him to fail his exam?? He wouldn’t dare to face Kanao ever again!!! He won’t see his pretty little face, those cold little hands, nor his soft voice—
“Begin!”
Oh fuck, he got distracted—AGAIN! Now is the worst time to think about Kanao under pressuring times. He picked up his pencil and the lead tip hovered over the paper.
He will have to be as quick as possible so that he will have time to go over his answers.
Before he gets splashed with matcha tea!
—————
Two days passed by. No rumor of test grades releasing yet.
Genya’s patience was wearing thin. He had been pacing around his room for a hot minute, his eyebrows knitted and staring down at the cluttered floor. What was Sanemi taking so damn long? Did he just have that many students or did he want to torture his little brother?? He still has not returned home, probably lounging at his little desk in the teacher’s office. He’s probably taking his sweet time marking off every single question Genya got wrong.
The summer festival is tomorrow! There’s not any guarantee he’ll even pass this stupid exam and get his vouchers back! Honestly, under any other circumstances, he would’ve probably cared slightly less.
But no, not this time around. He was planning on asking Kanao to go to the summer festival with him.
Oh god, thinking about that already gets Genya so nervous! He shouldn’t make a big deal out of this, really. It’s not like he’s asking him on a date haha yeah no of course not!! (He shoved that thought out of his brain. He’s getting too ahead of himself) It’s just a friend thing, right? He wanted to invite Kanao as a thank you gift for all of the tutoring. It was the least he could do—regardless if he failed or passed. If he failed, well he will still invite Kanao and try to distract him from the fact that he failed. If he passes, then he will still distract Kanao from noticing how damn awkward and nervous he is. That’s a pretty solid plan, if you ask him.
His finger hovered over Kanao’s contact on his phone screen. When was the last time they actually messaged eachother? Did they even actually talk outside of the groupchat?? His finger pressed on the contact and his face went deadpan—their chat is completely empty!!! This may be the consequence of his actions for never having the courage to talk with him (even right now at this moment).
He should probably take this casually. Who even knows if Kanao already had someone to go with—like his sisters? What if Tanjiro pulls another one of those ‘we're-going-to-this-place-all-together-without-planning’ moves, and he’d make himself look like a fool. What if Kanao’s too busy?? Worse—what if Kanao says no?
He’s overthinking this! Dammit, just text him already!! Genya let out a soft sigh and his fingers started typing on the keyboard. He had to revise his little text message three times.
Genya: Hey, Kanao. This is Genya. Are you going to the summer festival by any chance?
That singular message took off five years of his life. Is he being too forward?? Should he have been more casual? He can’t just ask outright: ‘Hey, wanna go to the summer festival with me hahaha???’ Only psychopaths do that.
His phone dinged and his eyes flickered back to the screen. Whoa, he’s a fast responder.
Kanao: Hello, Genya. Yes I will be going, are you? :)
Genya wanted to die of joy. Even through text, he’s so polite and formal—it’s almost irritating in an endearing way. He quickly typed out his response, trying to avoid typos.
Genya: Yeah, I am. Are you going with anyone?
That was a bold question he just said. Oh god, what has he become? Is he that desperate to see Kanao again that he would ask such a question like this? Is he getting ahead of himself again? Someone shoot him already—
Kanao: I assume I will be accompanying the rest of the party. So yes?
Genya exhaled through his nose. So Kanao was expecting to be with the rest of the group? He still has a chance! Also the question mark at the end was absolutely adorable. He planned out his next words, with his fingers hovering over the keyboard. How can he do this? To get Kanao to be alone with him without coming off as weird? Thinking about that already makes him die on the inside. Get back on track—keep this casual!! It’s just a friend thing, that’s all.
Genya: Cool. Want me to pick you up at 4?
He wanted to throw his phone across the room. Why did he send that?! He swears, this guy will be the end of him. He’s losing all rationality at an alarming rate. It was an in-the-moment kind of thing. It’s not his fault that Kanao is driving him crazy!! Once he heard another ding, he brought the phone up to his face.
Kanao: If you are willing to make the trip :)
This time, he actually threw his phone on his bed and covered his face. He restrained himself from squealing like a highschool girl in love. He said yes!! Oh wow, wow—ok, calm down, Genya. Nothing to get too excited over. He reluctantly picked up his phone and scanned over the message again to make sure he wasn’t seeing things.
Genya: Yeah, I don’t mind. See you.
Kanao: Farewell :>
What a master at conversation Genya is: already abruptly ending it. He cursed under his breath and dropped his phone on his night stand. He was tempted to talk more with him, but it was already too late. This plan was actually going through. It was going to be set in motion.
He was restless by the time it was nighttime. He stared up at his ceiling while he laid in his bed. Tomorrow will surely be an eventful day—if he actually ever receive his fucking test grades back.
—————
“100 points!!”
”I guess a perfect score really does exist,” Zenitsu muttered as he stared in belief at the piece of paper in his hands.
“The urban myth,” Inosuke loudly whispered right next to Zenitsu.
“Stop gawking at my test!!” Genya groaned and snatched his test paper away. He hurriedly shoves it back in his bag.
Genya, Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke were walking out of the gates of Kimetsu Academy. Surprisingly, the other three also got improving grades on their tests. That studying must’ve paid off.
Zenitsu slapped Genya’s back to push him forward. “Just go back home and get those vouchers back!!”
“We’re heading straight towards the summer festival from here, so hurry your ass up!!” Inosuke called out.
Genya started to jog away. He scoffed and responded back by raising his voice, “Shut up!! I’ll meet you there, a’right?? I gotta pick up Kanao!!”
”What’d he say?” Inosuke turned towards Zenitsu for answers as he didn’t hear him. Genya already disappeared in the distance.
Zenitsu decided not to answer him, and grumbled. “It’s nothing, let’s just go…”
Genya proceeded to sprint all the way back to his apartment. By the time he reached his floor, he was gasping for air. His throat was burning but he stumbled his way to the door to his home. He fished out for his keys and rammed it in the keyhole to unlock it.
Did Sanemi actually return those vouchers back? He hopes he at least returned them in good condition. “I’m back..” he ended up rasping out. “Sanemi…you home?”
His eyes caught sight of a jar sitting on the coffee table once he entered the apartment. His vouchers! They have returned to him alas!! There was also an envelope for him with his name scribbled on it.
Did he leave them there for him?? What the hell is that?? Genya hesitantly picked up the envelope to inspect it before opening it and pulling out its contents.
Money?
A crumpled piece of paper came along with it:
Don’t be a cheapskate. Take this. -Sanemi
It’s…
Cold hard cash!! Five-thousand yen!!
Had he actually been rewarded? He can’t believe it!! He stared wide eyed and gawked at the money in his hands! This can’t be real! This is a dream come true!
Ah—what is he doing?! He has to pick up Kanao!! It’s almost half to four! He shoved everything in his pocket and rushed to the bathroom to straighten himself up in the mirror.
He got a perfect score on his exam. He got his vouchers back and even got an allowance! What more could happen today?