Chapter Text
Yoko stepped back instinctively as Kiyo strode forward after bursting into the room. “It appears I’d falsely assumed you had a single ounce of sense in your pathetic brain.” His hand slammed against the wall in front of Kirumi, separating her from the student council member.” Kirumi is my partner, yet you keep bothering her.”
Kirumi cleared her throat. “It’d be best if you left, Yoko. Have a good evening.” Yoko wasn’t visible to her, but she heard his pause before he turned to gather his things. She didn’t spare him a glance as he rushed out of the room, a few papers flying from his arms, nor did she turn when the door slammed shut.
Kiyo’s body was slightly heaving as his lungs struggled to expand and retract fast enough to keep up with his heart hammering in his chest. He took a moment to compose himself, breathing deeply and straightening up from his slightly hunched form. He turned to face the source of his torment for the past seven days. She was smirking up at him, a rare show of pride for her.
Kirumi stared, waiting for his next move. She wondered if he’d turn his anger onto her due to pent up frustration. Kiyo wasn’t prone to outbursts, but considering his entrance and the very pained look he had when they’d interacted previously she supposed his buttons had been thoroughly mashed. The thought made her lips twitch upward, as she already knew the outcome to any action he’d take.
Kiyo took another deep breath before reaching out to gently cup her face in his hands. “Kirumi, I am truly and genuinely sorry. I deeply and sincerely regret my actions, now please, please , speak to me, my love. I beg of you, please.” His eyes watered, not from sadness but from the intense feelings he’d experienced in the last few days. He was thoroughly spent in all he could do to win. This was his last option.
Kirumi lifted a hand up to cover one of his, satisfied with the integrity of his confession, and admittedly relieved that their little game would be ending.
“I win.” She whispered.
Kiyo leaned down, his free hand reaching for his mask. She instinctively shut her eyes, not wanting to intrude. “It’s alright, dear.” His voice was close.
Kiyo’s heart raced as he waited for her reaction. Eyes opening as she looked up at him. He didn’t explain the lipstick. Evidently, his lack of one told her all she needed, as she smiled and placed her hands on his cheeks before pressing her lips to his.
That wasn’t their first kiss, far from it. Their first kiss was delicate, explorative with a few pecks and feather light presses from Kirumi, who’s eyes were covered, and Kiyo, who hadn’t shared a meaningful kiss with another for years. No, this was charged as both shared their pent up feelings: desperation, anxiety, embarrassment, longing, the way they did best: without words.
Kiyo smiled into the kiss, feeling her lips quirk up as well. Oh yes, she was decisively the victor, but that was precisely what made Kiyo victorious in his efforts. They broke their kiss and took a moment to process their conversation.
An awkward cough sounded from behind them.
“Um.”
Kirumi shielded Kiyo’s face with her hands, giving him time to pull it up and hide the smudged lipstick. They turned to see Sarou awkwardly looking away from them. “Tojo, I need the mop and bucket.” Face furiously flushing, Kirumi gave him them as fast as possible, ushering him out of the room.
Kiyo pulled her gloves from his pocket. Kirumi returned and he chuckled a bit at the red smeared along her mouth. She shot him a look of confusion but was immediately distracted by her missing clothing in his hands. He watched as she pulled them on with a steady hand and gently smoothed the fabric into place.
Kirumi froze when he leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the corner of her mouth. “Whatever was that for?”
He smiled at her and said, “ To the victor go the spoils.” Kirumi shook her head. “I’d rather have my shoes back, if it’s all the same to you.” Kiyo raised his shoulders in a mock shrug, teasing amusement dancing in his voice. “Ah, those didn’t quite fit in my pocket.”
Kirumi hummed to herself, packing up the last of her cleaning supplies.
“I suppose you’ll have to bring them to my dorm tonight.” She spoke, knowing he’d picked up on her subtle hint.
“Of course, I’ll be sure they’re ready with your favorite tea, my dear.”
And just as if nothing had happened, the pair strolled out of the room, arms linked and a shared tranquility between them. It wasn’t until Kirumi made it to her dorm at 9 PM sharp that Kiyo got his earful about the lipstick stains he left on her person.