Work Text:
Megumi's PoV
Growing up wasn’t the best for me. My mom and dad left me and my sister to fend for ourselves at an early age. We lived on the streets, the love from a parent was nonexistent until a man with white hair and striking blue eyes found us and took us home. Gojo always tried hard to show us the love a parent should, but it was never easy. When I was in middle school my sister, Tsumiki, was in an accident. She’s been in a coma since.
Gojo tried hard to make me feel better after the accident. He was patient and caring but I distanced myself from him. I still do.
I met Kugisaki Nobara the summer before our first year. We hung out almost everyday nothing advanced past a friendship. Neither of us liked the other that way, we’re fine as friends.
The first day of high school she ran up to me in the hallway.
“Megumi you won’t believe it” I looked at her confused. “That girl we saw at the festival over break, she goes here. She’s a 2nd year”. Kugisaki and I went to a festival held in Tokyo over our summer break and met a group of kids who we hung out with for a while. Well, Kugisaki mostly hung out with them. I just kind of sat in silence. She grabbed my wrist and pulled me down the hall.
“Oh Kugisaki, you found him” I looked up to see the group of people from break. There’s Maki Zenin, Toge Inumaki, Yuta Okkotsu, and Panda Masamichi. Apparently, Panda doesn’t like his name, so his friends gave him a nickname. “It’s good to see you again” Maki said with a slight smirk. I smiled softly at them all before looking down at my hands.
“Still anti-social I see” Panda said patting my shoulder. I shrugged.
“I guess” I mumbled back.
“Ah he speaks” I looked up at the voice as Yuta smirked at me. I looked at him confused.
“Last I remembered you didn’t talk much last time I saw you.” I said with a slight glare.
“What can I say, Toge pulled me out of my shell.” He said as he grabbed Toge’s hand. He blushed then leaned into Yuta’s shoulder. Yuta whispered something to him, which he answered in sign language.
“Awe you guys are so cute together.” Kugisaki said loudly with a big smile.
“They’re disgusting” Maki said rolling her eyes. She grabbed Kugisaki’s hand and started pulling her down the hall. “Come on let us show you guys around.” I followed behind everyone with my hands in my pockets as I listened to Panda and Yuta messing around, and Maki telling us about the school.
I looked down at Yuta and Toge’s intertwined hands. Toge leaned into Yuta again and smiled up at him. I frowned. Love is a weird thing. You can love people in different ways. There’s the love you have for family. There’s the one for friends. And then there’s the one for lovers. That one always seemed the farthest from me. I never really had a good model of romantic love.
Mom and Dad loved each other. That’s why they disappeared together; I think. Gojo had someone he loved once. Geto was around for a while. But they got in a fight one time and Geto left, and we never saw him again. Gojo never really seemed the same after that. He hides his feelings well. I’ve watched others around me date people. They’d hold hands, hug, kiss. I even held hands with people in the past. I kissed both boys and girls just to see how it would feel. But nothing felt right. At first, I thought I just wasn’t attracted to anyone like that, and that I just don’t want a relationship. However, the more I see the people around me. The way Kugisaki talked about Maki and the look in her eye when she did, and now the way I see Yuta and Toge look at each other.
It all makes me curious. Makes me wonder if one day I’ll find the one who makes me blush the say Toge did a few minutes ago. I also wonder if that’s what I want. It seems scary to love someone like that. But sometimes I wish I was less lonely.
Maybe if Mom and Dad stayed things would be different. Maybe these emotions would be less confusing and less hard to deal with.
“Earth to Megumi” I looked up to see Kugisaki waving her hand in front of my face.
“What?” I snapped glaring at her.
“Oo feisty, what is your schedule Maki wants to show you to your class.” I pulled out the paper and handed it to her.
“Class 1C” She mumbled before looking up at me. “You and Kugisaki have it together, and your teacher is Gojo so good luck with that. He’s a handful.” Kugisaki busted out laughing as my jaw fell slightly.
“Excuse me?” Everyone looked at us confused as Kugisaki laughed more. She pointed at me and laughed harder. “Satoru Gojo is a teacher at this school?”
“You didn’t know what school he worked at?” Kugisaki asked before laughing again. I rolled my eyes and sighed.
“Do you know him?” Panda asked looking between the two of us.
“Know him? Gojo is Megumi’s dad.” Kugisaki smirked before giggling some. I rolled my eyes again.
“He’s not my dad” I mumbled getting more annoyed.
“Oh come on Megumi, no need to lie to your friends. Wait when did you get friends?” We all jumped as a voice came up. Gojo wrapped his arm around my shoulder and smirked down at me. I rolled my eyes and pushed him away from me.
“Not my dad” I snapped and crossed my arms.
“Don’t worry buddy, you’re not the only one with a parent at the school. My dad is the principal.” Panda said with a smile.
“Although, Megumi your dad is way more annoying.” Maki said rolling her eyes then glaring at Gojo.
“Ah you wound me dear Maki, I’m everyone’s favorite teacher”. I rolled my eyes. “Now everyone get to class before we get in trouble.” Gojo said as he put his hands on my shoulders and began to guide me down the hall. I pushed him away and made my way into the classroom.
I sat in the back of the room and watched as other students began flooding in. A girl slowly walked up to the boy sitting in front of me.
“I made you some cookies.” She said quietly. He smiled up at her before standing up and kissing her cheek. She blushed before walking to the front corner and taking a seat. I looked down at my desk and blocked out the chatting of students.
I took notes when necessary but for the most part didn’t pay attention. I’ll ask Kugisaki for anything I missed later. Lunch rolled around quickly. I opened my bag to get my lunch.
“Did you forget it?” I looked up at Kugisaki with a frown. “Let’s go to the vending machine” I stood up and started to follow her. We started walking down the hall and as we turned around the corner, we bumped into Gojo.
“Where are you two off to?” I rolled my eyes. “Did you forget your lunch again.” I nodded slightly. He pulled out his wallet and handed me some money. “Go get some food, try not to forget it tomorrow.” He patted my shoulder before walking away. I noticed some people looking at me and whispering.
“People are gonna get jealous if you start getting special attention from their beloved Gojo sensei” I looked towards Maki’s voice as her and the others walked over. I shrugged.
“I’ve lived with him since I was like 5, it’s none of their business if he gives me some money for lunch” I snapped before walking away from everyone.
“What’s his deal?” I hear Maki as I rounded the corner. I walked to the vending machine and got a soda and some snacks.
“He just gets uncomfortable around a lot of people. He doesn’t like school much according to Gojo sensei.”
“You’ve been to my house for dinner you don’t have to call him sensei.” I said as I opened the can of pop.
“You both should call him sensei while in school. It’s just better that way.” Panda said as he stood next to Toge. I frowned at him before walking back towards the classroom.
I sat back at my table as everyone circled around it. “Do you guys really need to crowd?” I asked with a frown.
“Stop frowning all the time. How do you expect to find someone if you frown all the time?” Maki said smirking at me. My frown deepened and my knee started to bounce some.
“Hey Megumi, Kugisaki, have you guys found a club yet.” We all turned towards Gojo who was sitting at his desk. He gave me a knowing look and I smiled softly.
“Yeah, I’m joining the martial arts club they’re all a part of.” I looked up at her confused.
“There’s a martial arts club? That’s allowed?” I asked looking between everyone.
“Yeah, Gojo sensei put it together last year when Maki mentioned how she hated all the clubs and wanted something fun.” Yuta answered chuckling. I turned to Gojo who was smirking.
“Want me to sign you up for it.” I nodded quickly. Gojo nodded they started filling form out.
“So back to what I mentioned before Gojo sensei changed the subject.” Maki said as she turned to me. “You interested in anyone? You might be dark and mysterious but I’m sure girls are all over you.” I frowned and looked around as everyone starred at me. I noticed Yuta and Toge holding hands again. Kugisaki was standing really close to Maki. Maybe she’s trying to act on the feelings she developed from talking to Maki all summer. My leg started bouncing again.
“Maki stop asking him uncomfortable questions change the subject.” Gojo said sitting up straighter and with a stern voice. Maki frowned and the other students in the class whispered. I slouched in my chair.
“So how was the first part of your first day?” Yuta asked quickly as he looked between me and Kugisaki. “I moved halfway through first year so my first day was weird.” I shrugged.
“I don’t know I haven’t really been paying attention.” I noticed Maki roll her eyes and she mumbled something under her breath. Panda nudged her and shook his head. I frowned again.
The day continued. We did what we needed to after class. Went to the club and eventually it was time to go home. Yuta and Toge walked one way. Hand in hand. Panda went back into the school about 10 minutes ago.
“Well, I’ll see you tomorrow Megs, I’m gonna walk home with Maki.” Kugisaki said before she grabbed her bag and ran to Maki, she was holding out her hand. Kugisaki grabbed it and they walked away. I plopped down on the bleachers and watched as they walked away.
How can she be so confident? Why does love come so easily for everyone around me. All of the hugging, hand holding, talks about the future. Loving smiles and gentle touches. Why does it come so easy to everyone? When will it be my turn?
“Will I get my turn? Or will I always be on the side lines just watching?” I whispered to myself.
“There you are. I’ve been looking for you. Didn’t club end an hour ago?” I looked up at Gojo as he stepped in front of me with his hands on his hips.
“It was supposed to, but we stayed a little longer. Maki and Yuta were sparring for a while, so we all sat and watched. Panda left to go see his dad a little bit ago. Everyone just left about 5 minutes ago.” I said quietly as I starred at the trees across the field. I felt Gojo sit next to me.
“What about you? Why are you out here all alone, you didn’t want to walk home with Kugisaki or something?” I shrugged.
“Her and Maki walked home together. They were holding hands and stuff.” I said as I kicked some dirt. Gojo ruffled my hair before standing up.
“Let’s go home kid.” I followed him as we walked off the school campus. We walked for about 10 minutes before I spoke.
“Thanks for the vending machine money today.” I mumbled.
“I can’t let you starve. The authorities’ frown upon that kind of stuff.” He replied with a smirk I rolled my eyes and we walked in silence for another 5 minutes. I sighed before saying more.
“Also, thank you for telling Maki to change the subject during lunch. I didn’t know how to tell her I’m incapable of loving someone.”
“It’s not that your incapable Megumi. You just haven’t found the right one.” He said as he looked up at the sky. I looked at him with a frown.
“Is that what happened to you. Just didn’t find the right one.” He looked at me with a frown and sad eyes. I felt bad as soon as it left my mouth.
“I’ll always love Geto kiddo. He was the right person wrong time is all. That happens sometimes. You just have to be patient.” He said as we approached our house. I nodded before going up to my room.
I laid on my bed looking up at the old glow in the dark stars Tsumiki wanted to put up when we were little. My phone vibrated on the nightstand next to me. I reached out and grabbed it opened the screen.
Kugisaki: Dude guess what
Megumi: What?
Kugisaki: Maki asked me to be her girlfriend on the walk home. We’re going on a date on Saturday
Megumi: Congrats
Kugisaki: geez you can at least pretend to be happy for us.
Megumi: I’m sorry. I am happy for you guys. You deserve to be happy Kugisaki. And I know how close the two of you have gotten since the festival. I hope you guys have fun on your date. Maki is great for you.
Kugisaki: Are you okay? You were acting weird today.
Megumi: Yeah dude. I’m good.
I turned my phone off and let it fall onto my chest. After starring at the ceiling for a while I eventually fell asleep.
•••
The days continued like this. Gojo would wake me up, we’d walk to school earlier than anyone else. I’d clean up the classroom a little bit. Meet Kugisaki and Maki at the front entrance. We’d meet the others by the field. Hang out for a bit then go to class. Classes would go on like normal then we’d all meet up for lunch. Then more classes. Some more cleaning. Club time then me and Gojo walk home. It’s a cycle. It’s like this every day for a couple months. Until today.
Gojo stood up in front of all of us, but we all turned as the door opened and the principal walked in.
“Today we’re getting a new student.” Gojo said ad he gestured towards the door. “Please introduce yourself.”
A boy with pink hair turned to the class and bowed. “Hello, my name is Yuji Itadori, I hope we can get along well.” I felt my stomach flip as he spoke. I ignored it and began blocking out everything around me.
“-umi” I snapped my attention up to see Gojo point towards the back of the room. I looked next to me as Itadori sat at the desk next to me. I looked at Gojo with a glare, but he already turned around to continue class.
“Hi, my name is Yuji Itadori, I guess your name is Megumi.” Itadori said as he held out his hand.
“Fushiguro, you don’t know me enough to call me Megumi.” I snapped as I rolled my eyes. I saw him frown from the corner of my eye.
“Right” He replied quietly before he put his hand down. “Well, I could get to know you.”
“I’ll pass” I said before turning back to what Gojo was saying. He frowned at me slightly before turning towards the board.
Lunch was coming up quickly. I sighed as Itadori started talking again.
“You know you seem really cool Fushiguro. It would be fun if we could become friends.” I turned to him to glare but froze as he smiled at me. He looked so happy.
“Alright time for lunch everyone.” I stood up quickly and ran out of the room.
“What the hell, Megumi” I heard Kugisaki as I bumped into her. I ran down the hall apologizing if I hit anyone.
“Woah, hold up what’s going on, you’re running like someone is chasing you.” I was stopped Panda grabbed my arm. I turned to see Maki, Yuta, and Toge giving me a concerned look.
“Please let go”. I heard my voice crack. Why am I about to cry?
“Are you okay?” Maki asked as she stepped closer.
“Megumi?” I looked towards the voice and saw Kugisaki. I calmed down a little bit until I saw Itadori behind her. I forced Panda’s hand off me and ran around the corner and out to the courtyard. I continued until I got to the field and ran under the bleachers. I went farther under them and pushed myself as far back away from the gaps of the seats. I watched as they all ran out looking around.
I put my head against my knees and pulled at my hair. Taking deep breaths to calm down. Why am I freaking out in the first place?
Why did my heartbeat so face when he smiled at me?
Why do I feel like the world is crushing down on me?
“Megumi.” I looked up and saw Gojo. He was looking down through the gap on the bleachers.
“How did you know I was here?” I asked as I looked into his eyes. He shrugged.
“Hey guys I found him, go get lunch I’ll take it from here.” He watched as everyone left before turning back to me. “Why don’t you come out here?” I stood up and made my way to where he was sitting. “Me, Geto, and Shoko came out here during lunch everyday so we could mess around without anyone getting mad.” He said as I sat down. “So, what happened. I’ve never seen you that excited for lunch before. Was there something new in the vending machine you wanted that badly you had to run around the school?” I frowned at him and pulled my knees to my chest.
“I don’t know. Just wanted to get away from the new boy. He talks too much.” Gojo looked at me with a puzzling look.
“Itadori? He’s just being friendly Megumi. You need to learn to just talk to people kid. Not everyone is going to be a bad person or leave you after a few years. Like me, I’m still with ya.”
“Gojo you’re a parasite, there’s nothing I can do to get rid of you.” He put me in a headlock and ruffled my hair.
“You love me kid, you’re just really good at denying it.” I frowned and stopped trying to push him away.
“Love is confusing.” I mumbled.
“I know kid, you’ll understand it better one day. Now let’s go eat and apologize to your friends.” I groaned before following him back to the room.
As we walked into the room the group turned to us. A few other students pointed and whispered.
“Hey, he doesn’t need a peanut gallery stop pointing and whispering as if he can’t see you.” Maki snapped and they quickly looked away before walking out into the hall. Gojo nudged me towards them.
“I’m uh sorry for ignoring you guys and running off.” I said quietly refusing to look up at anyone. I sat back at my desk.
“Everyone has bad moments Fushiguro. We can’t blame you for that.” There it goes again. My heart.
My knee bounced again.
“Can we ask why you freaked out?” Kugisaki asked as she crossed her arms. I frowned then shrugged.
“I don’t like being confused.” I mumbled. It was silent.
“Um okay” Maki said confused. “Anyway, so this weekend a new Café is opening you guys want to join me and Kugisaki to check it out?” Everyone agreed quickly. “Megumi?”
“Yeah sure” I mumbled as I looked at her.
“Itadori, do you want to join?” Panda asked as everyone turned to him. I felt my heartbeat faster again.
“Um thank you for asking but I can’t, I have a family thing.” He said scratching the back of his neck.
“What kind of family thing, if you don’t mind me asking cause that sounds like a lame excuse.” Yuta said with a chuckle. Toge smacked his shoulder and glared up at him.
“No that’s valid” Itadori laughed. “But I do actually have a family thing. I’m uh being adopted on Saturday.” It was silent for a second, even Gojo looked up from what he was doing.
“You don’t have to finish that conversation Itadori.” We all looked at Gojo who at a serious look.
“It’s okay sensei, not like it’s anything too personal, besides my dad is a teacher here so everyone is bound to find out soon.” He replied with a smile. He seems uncomfortable.
“You just met us, if you’re not comfortable sharing your whole life story you don’t have to.” I said quickly. Gojo smirked. “Whatever happened in your past, I’m happy you’re getting adopted.” Kugisaki looked at me confused. Before she stepped forward and put her hand to my forehead.
“Do you have a fever, are you okay?” She asked with a serious and concerned look. I frowned and smacked her hand away.
“It’s fine, there’s really nothing to it.” Itadori said quickly. “Both of my parents died when I was young, so I lived with my grandpa for a while until he died. I jumped around some foster homes for a couple years and when I was 12 my dad started fostering me. The court recently ruled I didn’t have any other family to go to so then we could start the adoption process, which is going to officially happen on Saturday.” He explained with a soft smile.
“Well congratulations on getting adopted we’re happy for you.” Panda said patting his shoulder. Itadori’s smile grew.
As the school day came to an end, we did stuff for our club then went back to the classroom to get our stuff.
“It’s so cool that there’s a martial arts club!” Itadori said loudly. He’s been excited since Gojo signed him up for it. “Maki and Yuta, you guys are amazing, And Panda you’re so cool.” Everyone laughed as he looked like a kid in a candy store.
“Yuji.” We all turned to the door to see a tall blond man standing in the doorway. Itadori smiled.
“Hi d-” He was cut off as Gojo busted into the room.
“Nanami!” He yelled and threw himself towards him. The man, apparently named Nanami, stepped to the side making Gojo fall to the floor. “You wound me Nanami”.
“Shut the hell up Gojo”. He snapped rolling his eyes. I smirked. “You ready to go home Yuji, I don’t want to be here longer than I need to” He handed as he glared down at Gojo.
“Yeah, lets go, see you guys tomorrow.” He said smiling at us and waving. We all waved back as they left.
“So, I guess that’s his dad then.” Yuta said as we all turned back to each other. Gojo got off the floor with a pout.
“Alright everyone should head home, see you guys tomorrow.” He said as he ushered everyone out of the room. I stayed behind waving at them as they left. “You seem to enjoy Itadori’s company”
“Not really. He’s annoying.” I snapped glaring at him. Gojo let put a laugh.
“Keep telling yourself that Megumi but I can tell you want to talk to him more.” He said as we walked out of the classroom.
When we got home, I immediately went to my room. I shut my door and locked it. I slid down the door and hugged my legs. I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket. I pulled it out to see a text from Kugisaki.
Kugisaki: hey the gang wants to hang out, you want to join us? We can come help you sneak out ;))
I ignored it and put it back in my pocket. About 5 minutes later it vibrated again. I pulled it out again I set it on the floor next to me and looked down at the notification.
Maki: Dude come join us
I watched as a few from everyone else started to light up on the screen.
Panda: Want us to come get you?
Toge: Come on it will be fun
Yuta: Are you okay? You don’t have to come if you don’t want to, but it will be fun :)
Unknown number: Fushiguro are you going to join us?
I picked up my phone confused. I quickly opened Kugisaki’s contact. I called her quickly.
“Oh, now you answer” she said with an annoyed tone.
“Is that Megumi?” I heard in the background.
“Did you give Itadori my number?” I asked quickly.
“What? Why would it matter. He just wants to be your friend?” She answered.
“Don’t give my number out.” I snapped before hanging up. I starred at it for a minute before she started spamming me with messages about what’s wrong with me, and if I’m joining or not. I turned my phone off and set it on the floor next to me.
I’ll only bother them if I join.
I don’t know how long I sat against my door for, but when I came back to reality, I heard small bangs on my window. Like rocks. The room was dark, it’s nighttime now.
“Megumi is there a reason your friends are outside throwing rocks at your window like some romance movie?” Gojo’s voice came from outside my door. He kept knocking on the door to get me to open.
“They wanted me to hang out earlier”. I said quietly. The knocking stopped.
“Megumi.” He said my name in a stern tone. He tried to open the locked door before sighing. “You’re not pushing people away again, are you?” I felt my eyes water. My silence must have been an answer for him because I heard his footsteps leaving. I heard the front door then a bunch of yelling.
“Oh shit” I heard Kugisaki as there was a noise on the side of the house. I quickly ran to my window trying to lock it before Gojo could open it. As I was about to lock it, he pushed it to the side.
“Why are you doing this Megumi?” He asked as he climbed into my room. He leaned out the window. “Front door is open, wait in the living room while I talk to him. Help yourselves to anything in the kitchen. You know where stuff is Kugisaki.” He said with a smile before he closed the window and turned to me. He had a frown. “Megumi”
I looked at the floor. We stood in silence for a few minutes before he started talking again.
“I get that emotions confuse you sometimes, but we’ve talked about this. You can’t push people away.” I looked up at him with a glare.
“I just didn’t want to hang out I was tired.”
“Megumi I could tell you were sitting against the door. I heard the thump when you hit the floor. I know how you are. Ever since Tsumiki’s accident you’ve been pushing people away. I know your sister’s coma is hard, but you can’t keep pushing friends away. Go downstairs and just hand out for a little bit. And be nice to Itadori, he’s a good kid.” I frowned as he unlocked the door and went downstairs.
I stood in the dark room, the only light coming in from the hallway. Sighing I made my way down to the living room.
As I turned the corner, I saw Kugisaki and Maki leaning on each other whispering about something. Yuta and Toge were holding hands and watching a video on Toge’s phone.
“Alright who wants to play a game?” Everyone looked up as Gojo, Panda, and Itadori walked into the room holding board games. Everyone jumped up and ran to the table.
“Are you coming Fushiguro?” Itadori looked at me with a huge smile. He grabbed my wrist and pulled me towards the table. I looked at his hand on my wrist with wide eyes. We sat as Panda set up the first game.
•••
As the weeks went on me and Itadori talked more. Well, he talked the most. I mostly listened and chimed in every once in a while.
We were currently sitting on the bleachers taking a break from the club training. Itadori has been telling me what he did over the weekend.
“And then my dad rented a bunch of movies and we spent all of Saturday watching them. We had a bunch of snacks and drinks and stuff. We had to spend Sunday morning cleaning though, there was a lot of popcorn everywhere.” He said laughing as he looked over at me. “What about you, what did you do this weekend?” I looked at him for a few seconds before looking up at the sky.
It was mostly clear skies. There were some clouds dancing around the sky, and the sun was shining bright. I leaned against the bleacher bench behind me and frowned slightly.
“Same thing I do every weekend. I visit my sister then spend the rest of the day in my room.” I could feel Itadori’s frown as he starred at me.
“Why do you spend it alone? Why not hang out with Gojo sensei, he’s your dad right?” I sat up and glared at him.
“Gojo is not my dad. He was just some random 19-year-old who took me and my sister in as kids. All he’s done is let us live with him.” I said with a frown.
“I don’t think that’s true.” He replied as he moved to sit in front of me. I looked down at him as he smiled softly. “Did he legally adopt you guys?” I frowned but nodded.
“When he was 25, he finally got the okay to adopt us.” I mumbled.
“And even though he was still a teen when he took you two in, he took care of you right. I mean I’m assuming he fed you and kept you two safe as best he could. I know he cares about you. It’s obviously when he tells everyone to stop prying on days, you’re having a rough time.” I looked into his eyes as he gave me a soft, gentle look. I felt my heart rate pick up. “I’m not sure what you’ve been through, but I don’t think it’s fair for you to act like he doesn’t care about you. Is there a reason you refuse to call him dad or something? Like what happened to your parents that caused a random 19-year-old to take you in?”
“They left” I mumbled and looked at my feet. He stayed silent. “They left and me and Tsumiki were left to fend for ourselves. Gojo found us. Said he knew our dad. We hadn’t eaten in days, so we went with him. My sister was being really protective since we didn’t know him. But Gojo has always been really patient with us. He let us stay at his house with him, Geto, and Shoko. He’s always been there I guess.” I finished and hugged my knees.
“You’re still waiting for them?” I looked at him confused. “You’re parents. I think part of you is hoping they will come back for you. I’m sorry Megumi but I think it’s safe to say they aren’t coming back.” I looked into his eyes as he gave me a sad smile.
“Oi are you guys going to join again?” We both got up as Maki yelled for us. I watched as Itadori ran down the bleachers and ran towards Kugisaki.
After another hour we decided to stop and go home.
“See you guys tomorrow” Yuta said as he and Toge walked away towards were Maki and Kugisaki went a few minutes prior. Me, Panda, and Itadori all started walking back to the school.
“isn’t kinda cool we all have a parent who works here?” Itadori asked as a ran ahead slightly. He turned and walked backwards
“It’s stressful having my dad as the principal sometimes but other than that it’s fine.” Panda answered as they both looked at me while we entered the school and walked down the hall.
“Gojo is-” I was cut off as we got close to the classrooms.
“Oh, Nanami come on it will be fun.”
“Annoying. He’s annoying.” I snapped as we walked towards the room.
“I’m sure the boys will enjoy it.” Gojo said as we opened the door.
“Yuji would, but I have a feeling Megumi would rather not. And I understand him for that.” Nanami sensei said with a bored tone.
“I’ll see you guys tomorrow” Panda said as he excused himself and walked down the hall.
“What are you trying to get me into?” I asked as I made my way into the room. Itadori followed.
“We want to do lunch on Saturday so you guys can hang out more.” Gojo said with a huge smile. Itadori started buzzing with excitement.
“This is not a ‘We’ thing Gojo. I would highly dislike you being at my house.” Nanami snapped glaring at Gojo.
“Oh, come on dad it could be fun.” I glared at Itadori as he threw his arms around his dad. I then turned to Gojo.
“You know I always visit Tsumiki on Saturday’s” He frowned at me.
“Megumi. You and I both know that she hasn’t gotten better. We can visit her in the morning and then have lunch with them after.” I felt both Itadori and Nanami starring at us. I glanced and saw them both confused. I looked back at Gojo. He leaned closer. “You need to stop doing this Megumi it’s not healthy. You never act like this when it involves the others.” He whispered quietly so only I could here.
“Fine whatever” I said as I crossed my arms. Gojo pulled Nanami out of the room. I frowned and turned my back to the door. I felt my hands shaking. What the hell is wrong with me.
"Megumi?" I heard Itadori walk up to me he put his hand on my shoulder. "Are you okay?" He walked in front of me and gasped quietly. "Why are you crying?" I brought my hand to my face and felt under my eye. Why am I crying? "Megumi." He said quietly with a frown and pulled me into a hug. I grabbed the front of his shirt into my fists and cried.
"I don't understand why she's not getting better. it doesn't make sense."
"Do you mean your sister?" He asked gently. I nodded into his chest as I took a deep breath. I let him hold me as I calmed down.
after a few minutes I pulled away.
"I'm sorry" I said before I stormed out of the room. I walked past Gojo and Nanami.
"Please excuse me". I heard Gojo. "Megumi wait up". He yelled as I went around the corner. I slowed to a stop and leaned against the wall. Why did I let him hug me? "Megumi what the hell?"
"Can we just go home" I mumbled and continued walking. When we got home, I went to my room and forced myself to sleep.
▪︎▪︎▪︎
I woke up to my room being dark. I sat up and grabbed my phone from the table next to me. I slept for about three hours. I looked at my notifications. There were a few texts from Itadori, and a couple from Kugisaki. I opened Kugisaki’s first.
Kugisaki: Dude are you good? Yuji texted me asking a bunch of questions about you and your sister.
Kugisaki: I don't know what's been going on with your recently, but you've been acting weird since Yuji moved here. Do you like him or something? I know you have that weird shit with feelings. you really gotta figure shit out dude.
I ignored her and opened Itadori’s messages.
Itadori: I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable today with that hug.
Itadori: I hope you're doing okay.
Itadori: I asked Kugisaki about your sister. she wouldn't say anything at first. All she said is that Tsumiki was in an accident and fell into a coma
Itadori: I'm sorry about your sister Megumi.
Itadori: Fushiguro, sorry I called you Megumi a lot today. I hope you feel better, and I hope your sister gets better. sorry again. I'll leave you alone now.
I frowned as I looked at the time stamps. They were only a few minutes apart. The last one was sent an hour ago. I thought back to what Kugisaki said.
'Do you like him or something'. I felt my heartbeat faster as I thought about the last few weeks, I've spent hanging out with him during school.
I got up from my bed and opened the bedroom door. I heard talking from downstairs. I quickly made my way downstairs. I walked to the kitchen to see Gojo and Shoko.
"How do you know if you like someone?" I blurted out. They both turned their heads towards me with wide eyes.
"Well damn" Shoko said with a smirk. Gojo turned to me fully before walking towards me.
"Are you okay? do you have a fever?" He asked urgently feeling my forehead. I smacked his hand away.
"I'm being serious Gojo. How do you know you like someone?" I replied quietly. I hugged myself as I started to feel exposed.
Shoko walked over and rubbed my shoulder. "Come, take a seat" She guided me towards the bar stool by the kitchen island. I sat down and the both of them sat in front of me. We sat in silence for a few minutes before Gojo spoke up.
"Did you want to know like the basic stuff of how people usually feel. Or did you want something from a person level." He sounded uncomfortable, almost a little scared.
"You don't have to talk about Geto if that's what you mean." I mumbled as I started to fidget with my hands. Gojo sighed.
"Why don't you tell us how you've been feeling first." Shoko said with a soft smile. I watched as Gojo poured a shot and continued to down it. I rolled my eyes as Shoko smacked him. "Well, go on." She said gesturing for me to start talking.
"Um well, I'm mostly confused. At first when I was around them, I was annoyed. But after a while my heart would beat faster. I'd catch myself waiting for them. I don't know." I said as I looked up at them.
"Do you find yourself wanting to be near him all the time. Do you find yourself relaxing around him? Like you can just calm down and let go of the stress and fear for a while?" I looked at Gojo. He had a look in his eye I couldn't describe. "You said your heart beats faster. Do you feel like your stomach is doing flips? Maybe you feel anxious, or like you might fall apart if he's not near? Or maybe you feel like you might fall apart because he's near." I frowned as he continued.
"Jeez Gojo, don't make it about yourself now." Shoko said rolling her eyes.
"I'm not" He snapped glaring at her. "I know who this is about." He said looking me in the eyes. "Yuj-" I quickly cut him off.
"Stop don't say his name." I yelled as I shot to my name. "Please" I begged. "Please don't speak it into existence. Thanks for the help that's all I needed" I said quickly as I started walking back to my room.
"Megumi!" I stopped but didn't turn back around to him. "Don't push this away. Don't bottle up your emotions." Gojo said with a slight strain in his voice.
"Yeah, I get it" I said quietly before making my way to my room. Once I got in the room with the door closed, I grabbed my phone. I pulled up Kugisaki’s messages.
Megumi: Yeah Kugisaki, I think I do like him, and I have no idea how to handle it. My whole life I've watched people who love each other either fall apart little by little or be absolutely perfect for each other. I sit back and I watch so many different couples, but I don't know how to feel myself. How is it that I see how everyone else is able to love, but it's never enough for me to understand how to do it myself.
I sent the message and let my phone rest on my chest. I starred up at the ceiling and waited for an answer. After about 20 minutes I felt it vibrate. I quickly picked it up, opening her message.
Kugisaki: Well damn that's a lot to unpack. You seriously like Yuji? I'm glad you finally figured it out. but I don't understand why you're so bent out of shape about it???
Megumi: What do you mean???
Kugisaki: Megumi, no relationship is the same. You sit by and see how other people are in their relationships but none of them are the same. Yeah, Gojo and Geto broke up that happens. And Yuta and Toge are like inseparable but that just shows that people are different. Just because you sit by and basically study how people love one another doesn't mean that you and Yuji will love that way too. It's your job to like him or love him in your own way. not the way other people might do it.
I reread the message multiple times.
Megumi: do you think I should tell him
Kugisaki: Absolutely. Get some rest and tell him tomorrow at school. do it tomorrow and get it over with.
Megumi: Right. Thank you Kugisaki.
Kugisaki: Of course, what are best friends for ;)
I rolled my eyes but still smiled. I put my phone away and sighed. I closed my eyes hoping tomorrow will be okay.
I texted Yuji early in the morning to meet me by the bleachers before school. It was still pretty early in the morning so not many students were here yet. I quickly made my way towards the field to find Yuji. As I rounded the corner I stopped when I saw Yuji and a girl in our class talking.
"Are we still on for our date tonight?" the girl asked as she grabbed his hand. I felt my heartbeat faster. My hands felt sweaty, and they started shaking.
"Um yeah ab-" She cut him off.
"Okay, I'm really excited Yuji Itadori." She said as she stood on her toes and kissed his cheek. He smiled softly as she turned to walk away. I backed up. I can't breathe. I started to walk towards the school. I picked up into a fast walk which soon turned into a run. I ran through the halls which were almost empty, except for the few students who were beginning to arrive. I ran into someone and fell to the floor.
I looked up to see Nanami. I started apologizing as he helped me up.
"Are you alright Megumi? did something happen, why are you crying?" I shook my head and pulled myself away from him and started down the hall again. I heard him say something about Gojo as I tripped a little then ran around the corner. I rubbed at my face trying to wipe the tears that kept coming. A sob escaped me as I flung the door open to the teachers’ lounge, that I knew Gojo was in. Him and Shoko both turned to the door. I heard footsteps coming down the hall.
"Yeah Nanami, he's here". Gojo said as he ended the call he was on. "Megumi what ha-" I cut him off as I threw myself at him. I wrapped my arms around him and sobbed into his shoulder. My knees gave out and he slowly fell go the floor with me.
"What happened?" I heard Shoko ask.
"I don't know, he came running from outside and ran into me. I asked him what was wrong when I saw him crying but he ran off again." I heard Nanami before the door closed.
"Megumi?" Gojo whispered as he tried to pull me back and look at me. I clutched his shirt in my hands and shook my head.
"Why does it hurt so much." another sob left me as I shook. "Why did he have to be with some girl. Why won't it stop. Why can't I stop crying" I sobbed out as Gojo pulled me closer. He rubbed my back.
"I'm sorry Megumi." He mumbled as he held me. Eventually I stopped crying as hard. All that was heard in the room were small gasps as I tried to catch my breath. "Stay in here until you calm down okay. I need to go start class. Shoko can stay with you for now." He went to stand us up, but I wouldn't let go. I moved so I could quietly talk to him so the others wouldn't hear.
"I know I don't act like it. but I really appreciate you. so please don't leave like Mom, Dad, and Geto did. You're the closest thing I've ever had to a dad and I'm grateful that you took me and Tsumiki in even though you were still a kid yourself." He pulled me closer and squeezed slightly.
"I love ya kid" He whispered as he helped me up. He took me over to Shoko before walking towards Nanami and the door. I laid my head on Shoko's shoulder as he rubbed my shoulder.
"I got him for now go deal with your class." They both left and me and Shoko sat in a comfortable quiet. The only sound was the occasional sniffle.
After about 15 minutes she stood up and walked to the fridge. When she came back, she held out a bottle of water for me.
"Do you want to go back to class? or do you want Aunt Shoko to bust ya outta here?" I let out a small laugh and smiled at her.
"No, I should get to class." I mumbled as I drank some water.
"Are you sure? I know he sits next to you." She replied as we walked towards the door. I nodded.
"Yeah, I'll be fine." I said as we walked to the classroom. When we got there, I held the water bottle tightly as she knocked on the door. Gojo's voice died down as Shoko opened the door.
"Hey, just dropping off the kid." She said as she nudged me into the room.
"Kugisaki, can you switch seats with Itadori?" Gojo asked with slight anger in his voice. I looked at Kugisaki as she looked back at me with wide eyes. We both looked in Yuji's direction as he looked confused. He picked up his stuff and they switched seats. I then made my way to my seat without looking at Yuji. Gojo continued class.
"Um what the hell is going on? and why is Gojo so mad?" Kugisaki whispered. I frowned and looked at her. Her face dropped before she frowned too. "You've been crying. okay Hey, it's okay don't cry again." She whispered I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to stop them from watering. I leaned closer to her so we could whisper.
"I went to meet with him this morning to tell him my feelings and he was with a girl. She asked him if they were still going on a date tonight and he said yeah." I told her. she looked at me with a shocked expression. I shrugged before laying my head on my arms and listening to Gojo's lesson.
I don't remember falling asleep. But I was woken up to multiple familiar voices talking around me. I sat up slowly.
"Ah and the emo one lives." Maki said with a smirk. Kugisaki nudged her and shook her head. Maki rolled her eyes.
I looked at Toge confused as he signed something using sign language.
"He asked why you fell asleep during class" Yuta translated without hesitating.
"Because crying makes me tired" I mumbled as I closed my eyes again and rested my head on my arms. Everyone got silent.
"Why were you crying? is that why here were late at the being of our first class?" I felt my body stiffen as I heard Yuji ask me the questions. I sat up.
"Don't worry about it" I snapped and turned away from him. My knee started bouncing.
"Um I'm sorry to interrupt. But can I borrow Yuji?" We all turned to the door. I kicked Kugisaki’s shoe. 'that's her' I mouthed. We both looked back at the door as Yuji walked towards her. Gojo stopped what he was writing and looked at me. He slowly started to stand when he noticed my shaking. "You wanted to talk to me during lunch?" She asked Yuji as he stood in front of her.
"Um yeah we can go out in the hall." He said with a small smile.
"It's okay. whatever it is I don't mind it being shared with your friends." She said smiling up at him. She then turned to the rest of us. "We're going on a date tonight" She added with a big smile. We all looked towards Gojo as we heard a pencil snap. He held the broken pencil in his hand, and he tapped his fingers on the table, and angry look in his eyes.
"Okay um that wasn't really necessary." Yuji said frowning at her. "Uh anyway, so about tonight." He looked back at all of us since we were all watching. I could feel my eyes watering again.
I felt a hand on my shoulder and looked up at Toge. 'it's okay' he whispered quietly. I nodded and looked back at Yuji and the girl. She had grabbed his hand and smiled up at him.
"The truth is I um" Yuji paused I looked at Gojo as he took a drink of water and stared at Yuji. "I don't think we should go on the date" he said as he played with his hands.
"What? Why not?" She almost yelled. She let go of his hand and crossed her arms over her chest.
"Um well when you asked me out, I only said yes because I was flustered and felt bad, and the thing is I don't really like girls like that. And I also kinda like someone." Gojo spit out his water and started coughing.
"Sorry excuse me" he said as he walked out of the room closing the door. I watched as his head popped around the corner and he looked at me through the window. 'What the fuck' he mouthed to me, and I chuckled. "Oh shit" He yelled as my attention snapped to Yuji and the girl.
Did she just slap him? Yuji's head was turned, and his face was slightly red. The girl was crying. "You're a jerk." She said glaring at him.
"I'm really sorry" he said as he looked down at his feet.
"Who is it? who do you like?" She asked glaring at him. Yuji froze and looked up at her with wide eyes.
"Do I really have to share it here?" He asked quietly. I looked at him confused.
"Oh, so it's one of them? The only ones it could be is Panda and that weird anti-social kid." I glared at her as she pointed at me. I was about to butt in, but Yuji did.
"His name is Megumi respect that." He snapped glaring down at her.
"Oh, Megumi huh? So, you choose the weirdo over me?" She snapped. They started glaring at each other.
"Actually, you can call him Fushiguro. I don't like the way you say his name" Yuji said as he took a step away from her.
I looked at him shocked. Is it really me who he likes? This morning was a huge misunderstanding?
"Yuji Itadori you don't get to just do this. You will go on a date with me." She snapped as she stepped closer to him. He backed away clearly uncomfortable. Gojo came back in the room ready to step in. I stood up and stepped in front of her.
"You need to respect the fact that he is attracted to you." She gasped her hand raised. "Hit me, I'm not afraid to hit a girl back." I said with a straight face. "Just because you get rejected doesn't mean you can force someone to do something. No is still no. At least he had the decency to tell you instead of standing you up tonight. Don't be toxic and move on with your day." She glared at me before looking me up and down.
"I don't know what you see in him Yuji" She snapped before she started walking out of the room. "Freak" she muttered as she slammed the door. We all stood in silence for a few seconds.
"Well, that was quite the display." Gojo said as he looked in our direction. I opened my mouth to say something when I felt a weight on my back. I watched as everyone made their way out of the room. "You guys have 10 minutes before classes start again." I looked at Gojo with wide eyes.
"Wait where are you guys going?" They all ignored me as they closed the door. I stood stiff as Yuji rested his head on my back. My breath hitched as I felt his arms wrap around me loosely.
"Why didn't you come to the bleachers this morning?" He asked quietly.
"I did" I replied and pulled away from him. I turned to look at him and saw tears in his eyes. "She was with you, so I left."
"Did I make you cry Megumi. Seeing me with her this morning, is that why you were late to class?" He had a sad look in his eye. I nodded softly and looked down at my hands.
Silence.
"I-" we said it at the same time.
"I like you Megumi. A lot. And I'm sorry you saw that this morning. I was excited you know. When you called this morning asking to meet. You said you had something to tell me, and I could tell you were nervous. I guess I was really hoping you'd be confessing. But then you never came."
"I'm sorry. I saw you guys together and I heard her say something about you guys going on a date, and then I couldn't calm down." I replied looking up at him. He was crying. Why is he crying? I looked at him confused he looked hurt. There was a bang on the window.
"Oi dumbass you didn't confess back" I looked as Kugisaki was smack by Maki and pulled down by Yuta and Toge. I shook my head and turned back to Yuji.
"I like you too Yuji. a lot" I said with a small smile. He looked at me with wide eyes.
"You called me Yuji" I rolled my eyes. and stepping closer to him. "Are you sure Megumi?" He asked as I wrapped my arms around him, and he rested his hand on the side of my face.
"I've spent a lot of time watching people, trying to understand how they do it. How they are able to love each other, or how they're able to break each other."
"People watching sounds kinda sad Megumi". I glared at him.
"Hush I had a lot to think about. Anyway, I'm sure Yuji, I'm tired of people watching and if you'll let me, I'd be happy if I could call you mine." I said quietly.
"Awe how cheesy is that" he said with a laugh. I pushed him away and turned to walk away.
"Nevermind" He grabbed my hand and turned me back around cupping my face and making me look into his eyes.
"I was just joking" He whispered before he pulled me towards him. My eyes got wide as our lips touched. I wrapped my arms around his neck before relaxing and kissing him back.
"I'd love to be your boyfriend Megumi" he said as he pulled away.
"O-Okay" I stuttered as he looked down at me. The door opened and students started coming in. We stepped away and went to our seats. We looked at the door as Nanami walked in.
"Gojo, Principal Yaga is looking for you, something about yelling swear words around students." We all looked in Gojo’s direction.
"Satoru Gojo" was yelled from down the hall. Gojo looked at me before he went running down the hall. The principal flew past the room and continued yelling for him. I slid down in my seat as some people started looking at me. Nanami looked at me with a bored look. I stood up as I heard Gojo coming back down this hall.
"What are you doing?" Kugisaki asked as I walked towards the door. I held my hand up and told her one second. I stood in the doorway and saw Gojo running towards me.
"Megumi help your poor dad." He yelled as he got closer. As he got in front of me, I pushed my leg out and tripped him. "Oh shit" he yelled as he flew into the floor. He rolled onto his back as the principal showed up.
"You're not in high school anymore Gojo, this is Ridiculous." Principal Yaga snapped as he pulled him off the floor. Gojo looked me in the eye.
"You're grounded." He said with a pout.
"Yeah, good luck with that" I said as I closed the door and walked back to my seat. Everyone laughed as Gojo gasped and called me a traitor. Nanami continued class. I frowned as someone put a folded piece of paper on my desk. I opened it reading what was written.
'Date after school? we can skip club the others will cover for us' I looked at Yuji. then answered the note.
'I'd like that, but they will definitely not cover for us' I passed it back I looked at him as he read it. He turned back at me and mouthed 'Yuta will' I chuckled and looked back at what Nanami was teaching.
After school me and Yuji snuck off skipping club. We walked towards the front gate. We tried our best to stay out of sight.
“Did you hear anything?” Yuji asked looking at me. I looked around. And shook my head. He grabbed my hand and pulled me out of the gates, and we took off away from the school.
And if Gojo and Nanami just so happen to be standing by the front gates watching us sneak off, then they never said anything.
In the end watching other people to figure out how to love, and when it would be my turn was pointless. All I had to do was open up and it found me itself.
Yuji turned and smiled at me. I felt my heartbeat faster and I smiled back.