Unexpectedly Yours

by Berricko

Summary:

Giyuu Tomoika is a single dad who tries his hardest at being a parent and it just so happen they have a new neighbor that would change the way he is

Notes:

Hello! This idea popped in my head when i wanted to draw a cute father-son relationship between Giyuu and Tanjirou as well as with Shinobu and Inosuke and I figured why not make it into a fic?

Anyways i hope you guys will like this

Chapter 1: revised

Notes:

(september 2025) hi, this story is not abandoned and i my love for kny came back so i decided to revise the chapters, enjoy!

“Come on, don’t be sad.” Giyuu sighs lowly as he continues to cheer his son up. It’s almost evening and he has failed to make Tanjirou smile even the slightest.

His son is usually a cheery person but now… he’s just sulking, not actively crying but at the same time, he’s following what Giyuu is saying but with just less enthusiasm.

It’s his day off today and he thought that by spending time in all of Tanjirou’s favorite places like the park and the nearby arcade would make his son happy but that wasn’t the case.

Tanjirou refused to play with the other children at first and Giyuu had to coax him to participate. Most of the time, Tanjirou would just stick by his side and stare at the others. It even took him an hour or so of convincing to make Tanjirou stand on his own and play but when he played, he got himself hurt and now has a big wound on his left knee.

The wound has been taken care of and Giyuu is sure that Tanjirou’s mood wasn’t even affected by it. Despite his calm expression, Giyuu is panicking inside, all the things he did, it didn’t make Tanjirou feel any better. He fully understands why Tanjirou has been feeling this way and Giyuu knows he should have done a better job at telling him the bad news.

“I miss Nezuko…” Tanjirou quietly sobs, trying his best to stop his crying and hugs Giyuu’s leg.

Giyuu nods in agreement, and picks Tanjirou up to hug him. “I know buddy but we have to be strong. Nezuko is with your grandpa right now. So, there’s nothing to worry.”

He still couldn’t help but feel bad about it, Nezuko had gotten sick as she was staying with his father in Hokkaido. His father told him it would be better to extend Nezuko’s stay until she gets better but still… he can’t help but worry about his daughter. Tanjirou was supposed to come as well in Hokkaido but he was recovering from a flu that hindered him to join his sister. In hindsight, Giyuu should have seen it coming and postponed the grandfather and grandkids get together.  But his children are so kind that Nezuko almost didn’t want to leave his big brother behind and Tanjirou being the considerate child that he is, insisted for his sister to go with their grandfather and enjoy the trip.

His father reassured him it wasn’t anything serious just a fever that would probably be gone in a day or two so he urged Giyuu not to worry and come all the way to his house.

“I want to go to grandpa!” Tanjirou demands with tears continuing to fall off his face and soon cries louder.

Giyuu couldn’t blame him. Any unexpected news about his family makes Tanjirou jumpy. Even if he’s just a kid, he had grown a stronger connection with Nezuko ever since the rest of their family died from an accident. It must have shaken him when Giyuu told him that Nezuko won’t be coming home today.

“There, there.” Giyuu tries to pacify his son, though he doesn’t know how to. He’s really terrible at this, terrible at showing emotions, terrible at comforting others, terrible at being a parent—no, he must not doubt himself. After all, he had promised Tanjirou’s mother that he would take care of him before she died.

Soon enough, Tanjirou tires himself out and just lets out small sniffles as they walk back on their way home. His tiny sniffles filled the air around them as Giyuu walks towards their home.

The apartment they're currently staying on is a modest one. The rooms are not too big nor too small—it perfectly fits the three of them perfectly with a little leg room for the kids to run around and play. The building itself is fairly new, just built around a few years ago and maintained well by the owners plus the tenants are all pleasant people—the ones that he knows at least.

Just as he’s about to get the keys from his pocket. He hears new voices around their area.

“Come on, Inosuke. You don’t have to act like that. You’re a big boy now, aren’t you?”

“Bu-but, I want to see Kanao-neechan!”

Giyuu pauses for a moment and sees two new people, a mother and child, standing on the unit beside his.

The woman notices him, her violet eyes look calm and serene that matches well with her petite face, she looks back at him and smiles, even her smile looks angelic though Giyuu could hint something else in them, “Hello.” She greets, her red lipstick highlights her smile beautifully.

“Hello.” He mimics but with much less enthusiasm.

“I’m Shinobu Kocho and this is Inosuke. We just moved here.” The woman, Shinobu, introduces herself, her child on the other hand feels less ecstatic to meet them and only pouts.

“Nice to meet you, I’m Giyuu Tomoika and this is my son Tanjirou.” He returns the introduction with a small smile.

Tanjirou snaps out of his stupor and momentarily looks at the new people. He quickly wipes the tears from his eyes, “Hello!” Tanjirou immediately lets out his hand offering a hand shake. It always surprises him how well-mannered and friendly his son is. “I’m Tanjirou and I’m five years old!”

“My, what a charming child you have Tomioka-san.” Shinobu compliments and takes Tanjirou’s small hand and shakes it gently. “Come on Inosuke, say hi to our new neighbors as well.”

“No!” the kid responds and hides behind his mother’s legs.

“I’m sorry about that. This is the first time he gets to live in a city especially in Tokyo, so he’s not used to see many people.” Shinobu explains with a smile as she tries to silently encourage her son to be friendly with Tanjirou through a head pat.

“It’s fine,” Giyuu replies, he understands well at how kids could be at this age and doesn’t take it personally. He’s certain once Inosuke gets comfortable with Tanjirou, they’ll be close friends.

“It’s nice meeting you but I think we’ll be going now. We just had a long trip.” Shinobu excuses herself with a bow and picks Inosuke up.

 “I understand. I hope that you and your son will adjust well in here and welcome again.”

Shinobu gives him a big smile and waves one last goodbye, “Thank you, I’ll see you around then.”

“Yeah.”  Giyuu waves his hand in return and when he hears their door clicking. He looks at his son and mentions, “Well that’s interesting.”

Tanjirou could only nod in return.

Notes:

tbh, my notes for this fic are gone and some obscure details like in which ward in tokyo this story took place i kinda forgot so there might be some changes in the following revisions!

Chapter 2: revised

Notes:

starting from this chapter onwards, the format for this story will be written as a drabble for easier transition

(Smile)

“Oh.” Giyuu notes as soon as he opens the door.

Shinobu is already outside, her hands full with trash bags.

“Good morning Tomioka-san.” She greets with a smile. It’s one of the things he realized about Shinobu when they moved in a few days ago. “Do you mind telling me where to throw the trash?”

“Sure.” Giyuu nods and walks beside her. “I didn’t expect you to have trash so early.”

“Well, unpacking things could be a factor or you know, as much as we couldn’t avoid; humans still produce trash in a daily basis.” Shinobu quips not speaking a beat, her smile still plastered on her face.

And that’s when Giyuu realize how sharp of a tongue Shinobu has.

(Friends?)

Inosuke have been grumpy ever since they’ve move into their new place. Shinobu lets out a deep sigh. She understands that Inosuke is a difficult child but that’s a part of his charm. Even when she’s almost done unpacking all of their items, her son keeps on throwing tantrums, demanding to see his aunt, his grandfather and his uncle. She thought by now, he had gotten used to the new environment like how he gotten used to her so quickly but she figures this is a different situation all together.

“There, there.” Shinobu carries his son after he tripped on one of his toys during his latest tantrum. “If you won’t behave, I won’t let you pick a new toy. Do you want that?”

Her son immediately shakes his head, still stifling, he buries his wet face on her shirt, “But mama is always busy… I feel lonely…” Inosuke confesses.

It breaks her heart to hear this, Inosuke rarely talks about feeling down, always the energetic boy that he is, he normally prides himself to be strong. Hugging him closer, she beats herself for failing to realize that even when they’re in the same place Inosuke would still feel lonely whenever she works. After her son’s confession, Shinobu places a kiss on his cheeks. “I’m sorry baby, I’ll make it up to you, okay?” she promises and Inosuke’s emerald eyes lit up in excitement. She lets out a small giggle after seeing her son smile. Experiencing this feeling is the reason why she has taken the task to be Inosuke’s mother. She knew that without her intervention, he would end up an orphan and that thought horrified her.   

A small knock on her door catches her attention. Letting go of her son, she opens the door with her usual smile, “Hello, good afternoon” she looks at her new neighbor Tomioka and sees that he brought his son along with him. “Oh my, what can I do for you Tomioka-san? Tanjirou-kun?”

“Sorry to bother,” Tomioka says politely and Shinobu finds his face intriguing, is he trying to be formal or to be casual? It’s hard to tell with his stoic face.  “But Tanjirou here has been insisting all day that he wants to play with Inosuke.” Giyuu casts his eyes sideways afterwards as if he’s ashamed of what he just said.

“Hello! Good morning Kocho-san!” Tanjirou greets, it brings smile on her face to see how peppy and energetic Tanjirou is compared to his father. Perhaps he took that energetic side from his mother she muses to herself.

“Good morning to you too Tanjirou-kun, do you want to stay and play with Inosuke?” she greets back though Inosuke doesn’t seem to be pleased with the sudden appearance of their neighbors and beelines behind the couch.

The little boy nods enthusiastically with a huge smile on his face, “Look Inosuke! My dad bought me a new toy. He said Kanroji-san gave it to me just to cheer me up.” Tanjirou then brings out his new stuffed toy. It’s almost just as big as Tanjirou that he almost lost his balance when he showed it. Shinobu is not sure if it’s a cat with how the way it’s formed but it looks like one, though she’s certain that it is handmade.

“Are you ok Tanjirou?” Tomioka asks worriedly, “You could have told me that it was heavy, I would have carried it for you.”

“That looks weird.” Inosuke comments, it surprises Shinobu that her son didn’t continue on his hiding as he is currently peering through from the coach.

Tanjirou merely cocks his head in confusion while Giyuu’s face looked like something just clicked together.

“I have way more toys that are cooler.” He announces and runs towards Tanjirou.

She stares at her son happily, the two children are sharing a few banters and just as she’s about to make a small talk with Tomioka, she’s met with another surprise when Inosuke takes Tanjirou’s hand and invites him, “I’ll show you my cool toys!”

“Ok!” Tanjirou happily agrees and the children dash their way to Inosuke’s room.

Shinobu is awestruck, this is the first time Inosuke talked to anyone around his age on his own, let alone to show his toy. It’s so good to know that her son is actually putting an effort to socialize or act like his age.

Letting out a small chuckle she notes, “I’m glad that your son is at the same age as mine.”

“Ye-yeah…me too.” Giyuu reponds with a nod.

(Like mother, like son)

“That looks weird.” Giyuu hears Inosuke commenting on the gift Mitsuri gave to Tanjirou.

It’s like a light bulb appears on his head as he recalls the time when he and Shinobu walked out to throw the trash earlier.

I guess he inherited her sharp tongue, he thinks to himself.

(Neighbors)

Giyuu picks Tanjirou up from school. To his surprise Shinobu is not there along with her son.

Maybe she’s not yet done with filing the paperwork, he thinks and opens his arms wide when he sees Tanjirou running towards him. “Did you have fun today?”

Tanjirou nods enthusiastically, “Himejima-san said that we’ll be having a new classmate tomorrow and I know it’s going to be Inosuke!”

“Are you excited?” Giyuu asks while holding on Tanjirou’s hand as they walk their way back home.

“Yeah! He’s really funny and his mom is really kind.” Tanjirou answers. “I hope Nezuko will come back home soon so that she can meet them.”

“You like them huh?”

“Yeah!’

“How about you dad? Do you like Inosuke and Kocho-san?”

Giyuu pauses momentarily before forcing a small laugh, “I guess I do.”

Notes:

if you guys have any prompts for this fic, you can leave it in the comments

Chapter 3

(After work)

The two of them stare at each other. Giyuu has just gone off work and is currently on the stairs heading towards their apartment.

“Hello.” He greets monotonously, his body tired from the entire day of training and he’s not even looking forward for it tomorrow.

“Hi.” Shinobu greets back, her voice as kind and sweet as ever. Her hair looks disheveled and her eyes have bags under them. “You just came back from work huh?” she adds.

“Yeah” he nods. “How about you?”

“Same, I’m actually on my way to buy coffee. Do you want to come with me?” she offers.

 Giyuu normally doesn’t go out with people he just met though he thinks to himself that since she’s his new neighbor it’s rude to reject her offer.

“Sure.” He agrees.

(Children)

“Worried about Tanjirou-kun?” Shinobu points out. 

She observed that Giyuu is a little preoccupied with his phone rather than enjoying his coffee. Though she got to say, not having Inosuke in their house during schooldays also worries her a bit.

Oh my, I’m such a clingy mother. Inosuke is only gone for four hours. She notes to herself. Feeling a little bit embarrassed at what she’s feeling.

“No, it’s my dad. He’s been contacting me about Nezuko.” Giyuu responds.

“Nezuko? Is she the one Tanjirou always talks about?” 

He nods, “Yes, she’s his baby sister.” Giyuu then proceeds to show her a family picture of the three of them on a zoo.

“Wow, you three look so cute~” she compliments, a smile forms on her face. “Say, Tomioka-san, I didn’t expect you to have two children at such a young age. What happened?”

“I guess it’s one of those things that you didn’t expect to happen.” He doesn’t spare her a glance but continues to look at the picture on his phone.

 The stoic guy she met the first time looks completely different now especially when he stares at the picture of his family. Shinobu doesn’t fully, even just a partial, know about Giyuu’s story but seeing him smile with such fondness when he talks about his children makes her understand more about her neighbor.

(Tanjirou and Inosuke)

“Wow! So you lived in the mountains before too?” Tanjirou asks, his hands are getting dirty from playing in the ground. 

“Yup, before I met mama, I lived with grandpa and baka Takosuke.” Inosuke replies with a big smile on his face. His eyes are trailing on the group of ants walking their way back to their home. “I miss grandpa but mama told me grandpa moved to a place I can’t go yet.”

There are tears starting to collect at the corner of his eyes, Tanjirou notices this and immediately holds his hands. “Me too, dad said the same thing about my family... But I’m glad that I still have Nezuko with me...” tears also started to collect at the corner of his eyes as well.

Soon, the two proceed to cry out loud making their classmates startle.

(Similarity)

“Now that you mentioned it, aren’t you a bit young to have Inosuke? If you’re 23 and he’s 5 then you had him around when you’re—“ Giyuu points out, he knows he’s stepping on a boundary but he’s curious and normally he doesn’t get curious about other people so easily.

“I understand that you might think that but in all honesty, I only had Inosuke for a year.” Shinobu answers, it surprises him that she doesn’t take offend from what he had said, he probably concluded that she has gotten used to people pointing it out. 

Giyuu doesn’t want to press further since he knows it’s a very sensitive topic. Even he has some troubles talking about Tanjirou and Nezuko’s predicament towards his family. Planning to change the topic, he’s surprised that Shinobu adds, ”It wasn’t an easy work but a rewarding one. I never expected to become a mom so early but remembering the very first time Inosuke called me ‘mama’, it made me realize life is not as bleak as I initially thought..” Shinobu then sniffles, “Oh my, I’m tearing up already. I apologize Tomioka-san.” She smiles while wiping the tears off her face.

“It’s fine,” Giyuu lets out a reassuring smile. He never expected that he and Shinobu would have another thing in common. 

Sometimes it funny how things just go together, 

“I actually know how you felt. When both Tanjirou and Nezuko entered my life, it’s like something changed. I know they’re still children but somehow taught me how to live life.” He couldn’t help but feel embarrass when he say those words but it’s true and when he looks back to see what Shinobu’s reaction would be, he’s surprise to see her smiling with such understanding on her face. 

Then the two continue to talk and bond over their children.

(Trouble)

“Good afternoon Himejima-san.” Shinobu greets.

Inosuke is already outside waiting for her. “Mama!” he then proceeds to run towards her at the very second he saw her and gives Shinobu’s legs a hug. 

Shinobu chuckles from his action and hugs him. 

Tanjirou follows suit when he sees Giyuu beside her.

“How was your day?” Giyuu asks and carries Tanjirou in his arms.

“Great!” Tanjirou responds.

“The two were crying earlier.” Gyoumei reports, tears are also following down his face.

“Oh my, what happened?” Shinobu couldn’t help but worry.

“At first I thought they were fighting but I realized they were talking about how much they missed their family. I suggest you two should spend time with your children perhaps? I know they can be innocent but they’re already at the age where they understand what death is.” Gyoumei explains.

“I’ll see what I can do about it.” Giyuu responds.

“I’ll think about it.”Shinobu replies.

As the four walk their way back home, Shinobu couldn’t help but laugh.

“What is it?” Giyuu couldn’t help but be curious.

“Well it looks like we were the ones in trouble rather than the children and here I thought I wouldn’t get scolded by a teacher.”

“Life is full of scolding and since you’re housing a rebel child. I think you’ll be in for a ride.”

“Inosuke might be a little rowdy but he’s sweet and loving. I believe Tanjirou-kun will be the one who’ll be in more trouble.” Shinobu retorts.

“Want to bet?” Giyuu dares, his lifting a brow.

“You’re on Tomioka-san.”Shinobu agrees.

Then the two spend the remaining walk talking about their children and their possible future.

Chapter 4

Notes:

The kanao and inosuke interaction was based on a fanart i saw, tbh, I'm really weak at the two of them acting like siblings

(Sister)

“Why is she still sleeping?” Inosuke stares at Nezuko as she continues her nap despite their nap time being over.

“That’s because she’s still a baby and needs rest!” Tanjirou protests, and automatically pushes Inosuke away when he saw the other trying to wake Nezuko by poking her cheeks.

“She’s just a year younger than us! She doesn’t need to be babied!” Inosuke responds and pushes Tanjirou back as revenge.

“So what?! She’s still my baby sister!” Tanjirou then uses his head to clash against Inosuke.

Inosuke instantly goes down from the attack; his body causes the coffee table to wobble and they both heard something crashing soon afterwards.

“Inosuke, are you ok? I’m sorr—“ Tanjirou tries to apologies but pauses on his tracks when he sees how Inosuke is shaking. “Are you alright?”

“N-no, we broke something and mama is going to be angry!”

(Scary?)

“Don’t worry Inosuke! I’m sure Kocho-san will understand.” Tanjirou tries his best to comfort Inosuke who now starts to sniffle.

“No! You don’t get it! Mama is scary when she’s angry!” he then proceeds to cry out loud and in returb, Nezuko wakes up from her nap and is startled by the sudden cries of Inosuke.

“Oh my, what’s going on here?”Shinobu peeks through their room.

“A-ah, Kocho-san! We are just pla-playing, that’s a-all!” Tanjirou lies, his face contorts into something that is indescribable. He’s really not used to lying.

“I can tell you’re lying Tanjirou-kun, what’s going on?” she asks, the gentleness in her tone begins to dissipate.

Tanjirou begins to shake in fear. 

“Mama…” Inosuke sniffles, “We broke something.” He adds.

“Broke?” Shinobu then looks around and sees shards of glass in the ground. “Are you hurt?”

“N-no…” Inosuke responds, trying his best to stop crying. Shinobu then carries him into her arms and then approaches Tanjirou and Nezuko, “It’s alright, as long as the three of you are not hurt. I’m not angry.”

(Apology?)

Giyuu knocks on her door, “Sorry to intrude.” He says immediate after Shinobu opens the door.

“It’s fine, come on in.” Shinobu then leads him to her living room. “So how’s your seminar Tomioka-san?”

“Fine, same old thing.” He responds nonchalantly. “I’m really thankful that you volunteered yourself to take care of my kids when I’m away.”  

Shinobu shakes her head, “Don’t worry about it. Say, did your colleagues congratulate you for a job well-done?”

“No.”

“Oh my, it appears that you’re hate by them.” Shinobu teases, she can’t fully explain it but she finds his little antics endearing especially when she teases him.

“No, I’m not hated.”

Shinobu then lets out a smile. “Your children have fallen asleep waiting for you. I think it would be better if you’ll wait for them to wake up rather than waking them up.”

“Were they behaved?”

“Nezuko is a sweetheart but Tanjirou… he and Inosuke had a little fight. They broke one of my ornaments.” 

Then somehow, the world stops turning and Shinobu’s easy going attitude turns into something menacing. 

Receiving the hint without much context, Giyuu implies, “Oh, am I supposed to pay for the broken item?”

“Yep.”

(Goodbye)

“Okay, say goodbye to Kocho-san and Inosuke you two.” Giyuu says as he holds Tanjirou’s hand on the left and then Nezuko’s on the right.

“Bye! It was fun playing with you!” Tanjirou lets out a big smile soon afterwards and Nezuko nods in agreement. “I’m really sorry for breaking your stuff Kocho-san.”

“Don’t worry about it Tanjirou-kun, your father already fixed it.” Shinobu smiles while patting Tanjirou’s head.

“Wow, really? You’re awesome dad!” Tanjirou looks at his father, his eyes gleaming with much awe and amazement.

“Ye-yeah.” Giyuu merely nods, trying to conceal the fact that he had to pay thousands worth of yen.

“Well Inosuke? What are you going to say to the Tomioka family?” she then turns her attention at her son, who is still clinging on her.

“I had a great time and I’m sorry for bothering you Nezubo, you’re not a bad sister.” Inosuke confesses with a pout on his face.

“You too!” Nezuko chrips, “let’s play again sometime!”

“Yeah!”

(Big Sister)

“Say Inosuke, could you do something for me?” Kanao asks, her big eyes look like they’re pleading. 

“No!” Inosuke protests.

“Oh no, don’t you love your big sister anymore?” Kanao adds, there’s now tears collecting at the corner of her eyes.

Inosuke pauses for a moment. His mother is out buying groceries and she tells Kanao to take care of him but then she also said that he has to be good and not to make Kanao cry or else he won’t get ice cream later.

Gulping, Inosuke looks at Kanao and says, “Ok, what do you want?”

(Visit)

“Inosuke! Nezuko and I came to play with you.” Tanjirou announces as he knock on the door.

To his surprise, it wasn’t Shinobu who opened the door but someone else. She looks younger than Shinobu, just probably a few years older than them.

“Oh hello, I’m Kanao, Shinobu’s younger sister.” She introduces herself. “You must be Tanjirou and Nezuko, right?” Kanao smiles at them and Tanjirou could immediately see how she’s related to Shinobu.

“Yes! Can we play with Inosuke?” he asks and Nezuko nods in agreement.

“Sure! Inosuke and I were just playing, come in.” she then invites them inside.

As soon as they enter, Tanjirou immediately sees Inosuke sitting in the couch dressed up as a girl with tea and biscuits in his hands. 

“Run.” Inosuke mouths.

Tanjirou could feel a sense of incoming dread while Nezuko looks enticed by the array of sweets and tea on the coffee table. She easily clings on Kanao, who in result gives her a quick make-over and food.

Notes:

Also made this

Chapter 5

(Family?)

Shinobu is collecting all the dirty clothes in the hamper when she sees her son doodling on a piece of paper in the floor. “What are you drawing Inosuke?” she asks out of curiosity.

Her son then perks up, his eyes gleam in pride and he has a huge grin over his face. “Look mama! I drew us!” he then shows his paper to her.

All Shinobu could see are various curly and straight lines, all in different colors. “Looking good Inosuke!” she commends, even if she couldn’t completely picture out who is who in his drawing, at least he didn’t get crayons on the floor.

“This one is you and me” Inosuke then points on the tall black and violet wiggly line along with a short black and blue line.  “then here’s grandmamma and grandpapa with Kanao-neechan.” He points to a black tall lines accompanied with a small black and pink line. “then, grandpa and baka Takosuke.” He points at the other end with a small curly line and a huge circle followed by a small line.

Shinobu smiles at what her son has accomplish and it looks like Inosuke is really happy at what he did. As she looks a little longer, she notices another three small line and curls. “Who’s that?”

“That’s Tomioka-san with Tanjirou and Nezuko.”

“Oh, I didn’t expect them to be there.” She lets out a small chuckle, happy that her son has made a close relationship with their neighbors.

“But were family aren’t we?” Inosuke asks innocently, his face contorting as if he’s done something wrong.

“Why would you think that?” Shinobu gently places the hamper on the ground and carries Inosuke in her arms.

“Himejima-san told us that a family is a group of people who are always together. Aren’t Tomioka-san and Tanjirou and Nezuko family?”

Shinobu is left speechless, technically he’s not wrong but how could she tell her son a family is more complicated than that?

(Fetch)

Both Tanjirou and Nezuko quickly run towards Giyuu as soon as they saw him walking towards the door.

“Dad!” Tanjirou shouts happily.

“Dad!” Nezuko mimics soon after.

“Hello, how’s school?” Giyuu opens his arms wide and his children immediately jump for embrace.

“Great!” Tanjirou responds and Nezuko nods in confirmation.

“It’s good to see you again Tomioka-san.” Gyoumei greets, tears falling off his eyes.

“Same here.”Giyuu nods. “By the way where’s Inosuke?”

“Huh? His grandparents took him a few minutes earlier.”

Then it hit him, he’s been so used at picking up Inosuke whenever Shinobu is busy that he completely forgot Shinobu texting him earlier to not pick him up.

(Restaurant)

It’s not an unusual event for the five of them to share a meal on a local restaurant.

All of them are enjoying their time eating until they heard a couple of waitress whispering at how cute they look like as a family.  

(Vacation)

“their school is on quarantine since it’s flu season, I’ll be back after five days.” Giyuu says and gives a few bags to his father.

“Don’t worry about Nezuko and Tanjirou.” Sakonji comments and lets out a few chuckles every now then as both Tanjirou and Nezuko cling to him like a monkey. “Just enjoy your vacation, you deserve it.”

“Thanks dad. I’ll be in touch.” He says and waves good bye to his family. “Be good to your grandfather kids!”

“We will!”

…

..

.

The vacation was just a lucky lottery he won during their monthly meeting. A five day get-way trip in a private resort near the mountains. As much as Giyuu didn’t want to go, his family and colleagues forced him to claiming that he’s too serious and needs a break.

“Oh…” he may not look like it but he’s actually surprise.

Just as soon as he entered the lounge, he sees someone familiar.

“Oh my, I didn’t expect to see you here Tomioka-san.” Shinobu says before giggling.

Now that he remembers it, Shinobu also left town for some sort of a get-away as well. Who would have thought they’d see each other in such a place?

Chapter 6

(Coincidence?)

“Oh my Tomioka-san, I didn’t expect you to be here.” Shinobu lets out a small laugh soon after.

“Same here.” Giyuu responds with a nod. “I won a trip and here I am. ”

“Oh? I take it you don’t want to go here in your free will?” she adds and the two start to walk towards their assigned room.

“Yeah, my dad and my workmates forced me to go. They said I deserved a break, they even managed to convince Tanjirou and Nezuko in it.” Giyuu lets out a deep sigh and stops at the door in front of him. “Anyway, it was nice talking to you but this is my room.”

“Oh my…” Shinobu gasps.

“What?” Giyuu looks at her with a confused look.

“Who would have thought, we’d be neighbors again.” She laughs and points at the door beside Giyuu’s.

(Unexpected)

The resort is located in Hakone which is a mountainous place that is known for their hot springs and of course it would be totally useless if Giyuu would spend the entirety of his vacation cooped up in his room sleeping and eating.

Giyuu places himself at the furthest side of the hot spring.

He lets out a relaxed sigh and sinks further in the warm water. It’s been a while since he last went to a hot spring.

The hot water feels good.

“You sure look relaxed. I’m glad you’re finally unwinding.” That familiar voice… it makes Giyuu sit properly and sees Shinobu standing at the corner with just a towel covering her body.

Giyuu was certain he entered the male side of the hot springs. There was even a guy ahead of him when he entered.

Shinobu chuckles, “You’re confused aren’t you?” she then slowly dips her feet in the hot spring.

Giyuu looks away.

“My, such a modest man.” She teases and the next time Giyuu stares back at her, she is beside him and the towel she wears before are left on the ground. “Didn’t you know this resort only offers unisex hot spring for their guests?”

(Dinner)

After that awkward meet up in the hot springs. Giyuu is supposed to eat on his room alone but Shinobu convinces him to eat with her in her room and now, they are eating together.

“If I could recall, I thought you were in a conference.” Giyuu points out.

“Ah, yes. I was, it ended a few days ago but then my supervisor gave each one of us travel tickets, claiming that we all deserved a break and so here I am.”

“Oh, I see…” Giyuu retorts with slight amusement.

Then they both begin to talk more about each other.

(Repeat)

As much as unexpected it is. Giyuu unexpectedly invites Shinobu for breakfast in his room the next day.

Even himself is surprised by the sudden words that came out of his mouth, he is just probably interested at the story Shinobu told him last night.

That’s right, Giyuu is really interested at the topic Shinobu talked about rather than enjoying her company.

(What?)

Five days have gone by in a snap, Giyuu couldn’t even believe at how fast time went by.

And to think he had spent most of it with Shinobu.

As he is unpacking and telling his father that he’s on his way back home, he sees Shinobu for the last time in the reception area.

“You’re leaving too?” he asks.

“Yeah, the ticket only granted me a week and besides I’m starting to miss Inosuke already.” She answers and carries her bag with a little difficulty.

“If you want I can—“ Giyuu immediately stops himself from offering help as he recalls all the times Shinobu dissed him for trying to help. Apparently trying to help in her eyes is seen as someone looking down on her or seeing her as someone weak.

“Are you going back to Tokyo, Tomioka-san?” she asks which ultimately snaps Giyuu back to reality.

“Ah, no. I’m still going to go to my dad and pick up Tanjirou and Nezuko.” He explains though in reality he’s reality going back to Tokyo, he just doesn’t know what else to talk to Shinobu considering how they basically talked about themselves in the entire vacation.

“Perfect! If you could spare me a few hours, I could pick us a car.”

“No, it’s really unneccesa—“

“Don’t worry about it Tomioka-san. My family’s estate is nearby, I’m sure my father could spare us a car.”

 “Wh-what?” it’s all he could mutter before Shinobu drags him to the nearest train station towards her hometown.

Notes:

so what do you guys want to see in the next chapter?
> giyuu meeting shinobu's family
or
> giyuu and shinobu's stories on how they adopted their children? (this would take 2 chapters)

Chapter 7

Notes:

it seems that the consensus is that giyuu meets shinobu's parents so here you go~

(Butterfly Estate)

It was no brainer that Shinobu came from a wealthy family. Giyuu knows about it from the very beginning but he never expected her to be this rich.

His eyes is still completely glued at the surroundings. The Butterfly Estate feels like it stretches on miles and miles on end. They even had to walk a few minutes after entering the gate just to go to the main house.

And what surprises him more is when they reach the main door of her house, there’s lines of servants waiting for them and greeting them for their return.

(Meet the Parents)

They just arrived in the Butterfly Estate a few minutes ago and yet Shinobu already disappeared beside Giyuu living him alone with her parents in their living room.

“Tomioka-kun, is the tea warm enough? Do you like the biscuits?” Shinobu’s mother asks with a smile on her face while continuing to shove loads of food towards him. “Don’t be shy, we can always give you more.”

“I heard from Shinobu that you’re a parent too, right? How are your children? Are they friends with Inosuke?” Shinobu’s father adds and also shoves different types of packed sweets towards him. “Give them to Tanjirou-kun and Nezuko-chan, I’m sure they’d want some.”

Well so much for the Kocho family hospitality, Giyuu didn’t expect Shinobu’s parents to be this kind. He doesn’t even have the time to be awkward considering how they basically open him up with too many questions.

Though, there’s one that he’s curious about.

“Where’s Shinobu?” he asks in between smiles when Shinobu’s parents practically filled his hands with various foods.

“Oh, she’s just visiting her sister. It’s what she always does when she goes home.” Her mother replies and her smiling face slowly saddened.

(Kanae)

Shinobu prays silently in her sister’s shrine.

Both Kanao and Inosuke stare at the distance, spying on her until she’s done praying. Even at a young age, the two knew how important it is for Shinobu to have this small time she had with her sister.

“Say, Kanao-neechan.”Inosuke calls out, in a whispering tone.

“What is it, Inosuke?” Kanao looks back at him.

“Do you think Kanae-obaachan will like me if she was alive?” it’s a rare moment for Inosuke to feel uncertain or humbled by himself and Kanao knows about this. She lets out a reassuring smile while holding his hand and responds, “Of course! You make Shinobu-neechan happy after all.”

(Wait…)

As much as Giyuu enjoys spending time with Shinobu’s family it makes him feel a bit uncomfortable knowing how much her parents know about him.

“Umm…” he mutters shyly.

“What is it Tomioka-kun?” both of her parents ask in unison.

“I’m having a fun time spending with you but you guys know so much about me.” He says in his most gentle way of talking not wanting to offend them.

“Of course! Our Shinobu never stops talking about you and your children.” Her mother replies her smile widens as if she’s glad he’s with her.

“I know Shinobu can be a little troublesome at times but I do hope you treat her well. She really does try her best.” Her father adds up.

A moment of realization hit Giyuu, he realized that her parents trust him completely with her. Letting out a smile, he replies, “She’s a good person and I’m glad I met her.”

(Talk)

Shinobu goes back to the living room after sending her prayers to Kanae with both Kanao and Inosuke following behind her like a pair of ducklings.

“Oh my, I’m glad that you all are getting along.” She says happily.

“Of course, Tomioka-kun is such a sweetheart.” Her mother replies. “It would have been better if you invited him here sooner.”

“You know that’s impossible mother, his schedule in the fire department is all over the place. There’s even a time when he wasn’t able to sleep for 54 hours straight all because of an emergency.” She retorts and laughs a little. She could clearly remember it, especially how Giyuu acted more like a robot than usual.

They then continue to talk more in Giyuu’s expense.

(Hokkaido)

“You said you’re going to pick your children up in your father’s house right?” Shinobu’s father inquires.

At this point, Giyuu is contemplating to tell them the truth or should he continue with the lie?

“Yes, they’re in Hokkaido right now.” Shinobu responds in his stead.

“Oh my, that’s so far away.” Her mother mumbles. “I don’t think a car can help you.”

“It’s fine, my father contacted me a while ago that he’ll be the ones to bring the kids in Tokyo.” He says casually.

“Oh, that’s good! Then we can just take the bullet train home.” Shinobu replies.

“Ye-yeah…”

(Before Leaving)

“Excuse me, Mr. and Mrs. Kocho, would it be possible if I’ll send my regards to Kanae-san before we leave?” Giyuu excuses himself when he felt like the conversation is dying out.

Both of Shinobu’s parents look at each other before giving him the go signal.

“Thank you so much.” He says and not just for giving him permission but for everything else.

…

..

.

Giyuu lights a single incense and puts two of his hands together before chanting a small prayer.

Looking at her picture, Giyuu couldn’t believe at how young she died. He already heard so much story about her from Shinobu and her parents, she sounded like a lovely person.

“I know it’s weird for me to approach you like this but please don’t worry. Your parents and sisters are doing well and I hope that you’ll continue to guide them. And I hope that you’ll give me your guidance as well whenever Shinobu becomes too much to handle. I mean, she’s a good person but sometimes I just don’t know what to do or say but one thing’s certain, I promise you I will never hurt her in anyway. That I can assure you.”

Notes:

on the side note: i made a future pic of tanjirou and inosuke here

btw, i really want to make this fic long so i was planning to post the ending in a separate story so that i could just continue to update this, what do you guys think?

Chapter 8

Notes:

i was told it was giyuu's bday, so here you go!

(Surprise)

Shinobu slowly opens the door with a smile on her face, “Oh my, it’s so early in the morning. Good morning Tanjirou-kun! What can I do for you?”

“It’s dad’s birthday!” he announces happily.

“Oh?” she lets out a curious tone, Giyuu has never told her his birthday was fast approaching but then again Giyuu is the type of guy who is a man of few words though she really wishes for him to be more outspoken. “Do you have any plans for him today?”

Tanjirou nods enthusiastically and then runs back into their place only to come back a few minutes later with Nezuko and a piece of paper.

Shinobu lowers down on their level and looks at the piece of paper. She lets out a smile and notes, “Do you want to plan a surprise party for him?”

The two children smile happily, their eyes sparling with much joy and excitement.

(Tired)

It’s a good thing it’s his day off during his birthday. After cooking and eating breakfast with his children, Giyuu immediately retired himself towards his bedroom while he let his children play in the living room.

He could use the time to rest and maybe tonight bring Tanjirou and Nezuko out on a restaurant to celebrate. His co-workers and family already sent their greetings to him but he’s just too tired.

Maybe he’ll respond to all of them later.

He’s just going to take a nap and rest for a bit.

(Invitation)

Shinobu is not great at planning events but this one’s easy considering how it’s just a surprise party. All the food and decorations are already accounted for, she ordered all the food and the children made the decorations, the only thing that’s difficult is to invite people.

Does he have any friends? She wonders while tapping down her pen on her notepad. Casting her gaze at the children, who are enjoying painting with their fingers in Giyuu’s banner, she asks, “Do you guys want to invite anyone for your dad’s party?”

“Grandpa!” Nezuko answers happily.

Tanjirou nods in agreement, “Also auntie and people in the fire department!”

Shinobu lists down their answers and thinks that it’s impossible to invite Giyuu’s family since they live on the north side of the country, although inviting his co-workers would not be a bad idea.

Now the tough part is just to find their contact number.

(Present)

Fortunately she managed to contact some of Giyuu’s co-workers although the only ones that agreed to come are just a few.

Maybe having a small people in the party could be good, she thinks to herself while looking at her list of invited guest.

Considering it as a success, she now needs to think of another problem. Presents, what should she give to Giyuu?

“Mama, look!” Inosuke exclaims and shows her a card. “All three of us made it.”

It’s just a simple card with a horrible spelling of happy birthday and a cute drawing of all of them at the bottom. Shinobu let’s out a smile and gives her son a head pat, “You did well Inosuke!”

Inosuke smiles happily and immediately runs towards Tanjirou and Nezuko while claiming how much she loved their work. It’s a good thing Giyuu is difficult to wake up during his days off or else they would already have been discovered a long time ago.

(Awake)

Well so much for taking a nap. Giyuu looks at his watch and notices he has fallen asleep for four hours straight. Getting out of bed, he notices that his children are not on their bedroom nor in their living room.

Maybe they went to Kocho’s to play, he thinks while heading his way out. Over the months of being neighbors, both of his and Shinobu’s children have gotten so close that Giyuu won’t even question it whenever Tanjirou and Nezuko would easily just go to Shinobu’s to play.

Knocking on her front door, he says, “Excuse me Kocho, is Tanjirou and Nezuko there?”

To his surprise the door is unlocked and when he opened it, the entire place is dark.

If there was any residual sleep in him when he went to Shinobu’s place, well it all certainly disappeared when the lights suddenly all turn on and the sound of popper surpised him.

“Surprise!” Everyone shouted. “Happy Birthday!”

(Speechless)

Giyuu doesn’t know what to say. He just remained standing there even when the surprise ended a few minutes ago.

Kyoujurou lets out a loud laugh, “Ah! We surprised him real good.”

“Wah~ this is the first time I’ve seen Tomioka-san so awestruck.” Mitsuri comments.

“I now regret coming here.” Gyoumei adds.

Both Tanjirou and Nezuko run towards him and hug each of his legs. “Did we surprise you dad?”

Giyuu lets out a smile, crouches down and hugs both of his children tightly. “Yeah, thank you.” Honestly, he doesn’t know what he did to deserve such loving and thoughtful children.

Both Nezuko and Tanjirou hugs him in return, “We love you dad!”

“Love you too.”

(Gratitude)

After the initials of the surprise party. Everyone is already at eating and talking with each other. The children all tuckered out and is now sleeping in Inosuke’s room while the adults are staying in the living room.

Shinobu takes a peek at Inosuke’s room to see if all of them are sleeping comfortably. As soon as she deemed them fine, she slowly closes the door and to her surprise, Giyuu is standing at her side.

“Thank you.” It’s all he says.

Shinobu lets out a small chuckle. “You truly are a man of few words.”

Giyuu merely looks at her as if there’s something funny on his face.

“Here. It’s not much but I do hope you like it.” She adds and gives him a small box covered in blue wrapper. Giyuu graciously accepts the gift but before he could even open it, she adds, “Come on now! Your friends are probably wondering where you are.” She then drags him to the living room.

Notes:

himejima was invited because giyuu had so little friends (lol)

Chapter 9

(Predicament)

Giyuu is currently standing in front of his closet with his shirt half worn. He’s currently having a predicament. 

Yesterday, they had another maintenance and inventory of materials in the fire department. One of the shelves was accidentally moved when they were moving some of the machines resulting Giyuu to have a broken arm.

He has not yet fully adjusted in having a broken arm so when he tried to change a few seconds earlier, it just hit him how he can’t put his other arm in the shirt without hurting himself.

Surely he can’t ask his children for help. Though, there’s only one person who would be willing to help him at this point and he’s certain her help doesn’t come in cheap.

Letting out a resigned sigh, he says, “Tanjirou! Can you please call Kocho next door?”

(Help)

“I was worried when Tanjirou came knocking on my door so early in the morning.” Shinobu says with a smile on her face. “But it’s a good thing nothing serious happened.” She adds while trying to contain her laughter while looking at Giyuu.

Giyuu merely glares at her.

“Fine, fine. I’m going to help.” She then approaches him and slowly help him wear his clothes with the gentlest touch though she couldn’t help but notice at how muscular Giyuu is.

(Work?)

“Now that I’m done helping you change. Do you need me to help you with anything else?” Shinobu asks while looking around Giyuu’s room. It’s a bit messy but it can be easily cleaned up within a few minutes. Just a few scattered papers and lazily lumped clothes at the corner.

“Yeah, can you help me get my bag?” Giyuu then points at the hanging bag at the side of his work desk.

“You’re not going to work are you?” she raises a brow, seriously how could this guy be so workaholic?

“Well I am. Just because I’m injured doesn’t mean I’m useless. I could still file some paper works and reports.” Giyuu replies and tries to get the bag himself, only for Shinobu to catches his wrist and smiles menacingly at him. “No you’re not. I’m calling your chief and you’ll be staying here until you’re adjusted with an injured arm. You can’t even change for yourself how much more if it’s work?”

“It’s ea—“

“No. you’re staying here and that’s final.”

(No rest)

Shinobu goes back to her apartment with a sigh. It took her a whole hour and a video call with Giyuu’s entire team in the fire department to fully convince him he doesn’t need to work. It’s a good thing he agreed for a sick leave or else she would have drank him a sleeping pill just to get it over.

She really needs to rest. Diving head first in her sofa, Shinobu closes her eyes only for a few seconds only to be startled by the sudden sounds in her kitchen.

Seriously can’t she even take a single break today? 

(Lunch)

Shinobu walks her way to the kitchen only to see Inosuke rummaging around the pantry.

“What are you doing?” she asks, trying to suppress her anger. She knows how much of a glutton her son can be from time to time.

“Mama!” Inosuke exclaims, completely startled by her sudden question.

Shinobu easily scoops him up and places him on top of the counter. “Inosuke, you already know that you should wait for your food. Now, tell me why are you in the kitchen?”

“Well… Tanjirou and Nezuko bought all these delicious foods at school yesterday. I just want to prove to them I can give food as well!”

“Oh my…” Shinobu lets out a small chuckle and finds it amusing how his son’s brain works. Looking at the clock, she notices it’s only a few hours left for lunch. At first she’s just planning to order something but now that she knows Inosuke wants to make something and Giyuu being injured, she thought of an idea. “Alright Inosuke, I’m going to make lunch for the Tomioka family, do you want to help?”

Inosuke nods enthusiastically.

(Get together)

Well since he’s on sick leave and has to rest for a week. Giyuu spends most of it trying to figure out how to hold things with one arm. He didn’t realize how difficult it is to work with one arm, opening the door even seems like a difficult task already.

Taking a break, he’s just standing on their kitchen counter thinking of what to cook for lunch considering now that he only has one working arm at the moment.

He knows Tanjirou is learning to cook and could be his assistant but he doesn’t want to put his child in harm’s way.

As much as he could ponder more into this dilemma, their door bell rings.

“I’ll get it!” Tanjirou happily announces and runs towards the door.

“Me too!” Nezuko adds and chases him.

And as soon as they open the door, they two say in unison, “Kocho-san!”

“Hello there, children. I hope you don’t mind Inosuke and I coming in.” she replies with a smile.

Giyuu walks closer and asks, “Why are you here?”

“Inosuke and I made lunch. I hope you don’t mind.” She then gives him the Tupperware while walking towards their kitchen. Well, she did save him the trouble.

(Eating)

Giyuu had lived most of his adult life alone and ever since he took Nezuko and Tanjirou, he had to adjust in many things. It just so happened they’re the perfect number of a small family, so of course he would only need a small dining table good for four. 

He certainly didn’t expect Shinobu and her son to join them and now they’re a bit crowded in the dining table.

“May be we should just eat in the couch.” Giyuu suggests while trying his best to help out in preparing the table although he’s been continuously bested by his children and Inosuke.

“No it’s fine. We’ll fit, Inosuke doesn’t mind sitting on my lap anyways.” Shinobu replies and places the food they cooked in the table.

When Giyuu looks at the table, he couldn’t help but notice what type of food they cooked. “Finger foods, really?” he asks, not that he’s insulting them but just more out of curiosity. Months of being with her have now made him immune to her snide comments.

 “Well, I’ve thought about it but then again your dominant hand is injured and you don’t want me to spoon feed you right?” she teases which made Giyuu choke as a response.

Notes:

The shelf trampled giyuu, it's a good thing that it was only his arm broken considering how heavy a fire dept's shelves are

Chapter 10

Notes:

belated valentine's everyone!

(The day before Valentine’s)

“Mama, what’s valemtimes?” Inosuke asks all of a sudden, Shinobu stops at her tracks from washing the dishes when she heard the question.

“It’s a special day where you give chocolates to people.” She explains and leaves the pile of dishes in the sink for a while.

As soon as her son heard the word “chocolates” inosuke’s eyes sparkles in excitement. “Does that mean I get to have free chocolates tomorrow?” he asks, practically leaping in joy.

Shinobu nods in response. “But you have to give one as well.” She says and immediately Inosuke pouts, she still has her work cut out for her when it comes to teaching him how to share. Picking him up in the ground and neatly place him on her arms, Shinobu adds, “Don’t be like that. It’ll be fun, we’ll make the chocolates and wrap them in something nice.”

Inosuke reluctantly nods in her idea, “It’ll really be fun?”

“Yeah.” Shinobu replies takes out her left pinky “Pinky promise.”

“Pinky promise.”  Inosuke mimics and wraps his smaller pinky around hers.

(Nezuko)

“This is for you Kocho-san!” both Tanjirou and Nezuko presents Shinobu a box of chocolate early in the morning.

“Oh my, thank you.” She happily accepts the chocolates and gives small head pats on each of them. Tanjirou lets out a small giggle and runs back to their place while Nezuko looks up at Shinobu as she notices something. “Is there something wrong?” Shinobu asks.

“I wanna help!” she answers. “Make choco for dad.”

Shinobu remains silent for a moment; she completely forgot to put Giyuu in the equation. The ingredients she bought were just enough for the children in Himejima’s school and her workmates. Maybe she can buy more later.

“Sure, why don’t you come in?” she then lets Nezuko enter.

(Oops)

“Why didn’t you invite your brother?” Shinobu asks after telling Giyuu that his daughter will be staying with her for a few hours.

“Secret!” Nezuko responds. “he’s helping dad for—ops! I’m not going to tell!”

Shinobu chuckles and couldn’t help but find the uncanny similarity of Giyuu and his daughter when it comes to keeping secrets.

(Mess)

Well having two children to help her make chocolate is certainly a disaster but at least it’s all finish now. They all managed to make chocolates for everyone and even packed it in a small paper bag. Though, there’s still one chocolate she hasn’t finished decorating yet.

And as much as she wants too, she’s dirty with the messes they’ve created. Even with an apron, her clothes have small splotches of chocolate in them but at least she’s not as dirty as Inosuke and Nezuko.

The two seem to be excited and have been talking about who’ll get the biggest chocolate and as much as Shinobu enjoys hearing them talk, she needs to clean the mess. “Alright, before we hand out the chocolates. I’ll prepare the bath for the two of you.” She announces and soon enough the children let out whines of protest.

(For You)

Once Nezuko and Inosuke were done taking their bath. Shinobu followed suit while leaving the children a small task of writing a card along with the packed of sweets.

Though to her surprise, when she went out to her room to see how they are doing. Both Inosuke and Nezuko gives her the card and the biggest chocolate they made. “For you mama!” Inosuke says while Nezuko nods in agreement and proudly gives the chocolate to her. “You’re the best!”

“Oh my, thank you.” She smiles and then places a big kiss on her son’s chubby cheeks.

(Improvement)

It’s fun seeing her son give the chocolates they made to his classmates. It’s a great improvement considering how the first day of school, he almost fought everyone and cried when separated with her.

Though it catches her eyes how Inosuke still has one bag left ungiven and the only person who doesn’t have a chocolate is Tanjirou.

“Oi Tanjirou!” Inosuke calls out and runs toward his friend. “This is for you.” He practically shoves the packed goods at Tanjirou’s body.

Tanjirou let out a pained chuckle and says, “Th-thanks. This is for you too!”

Out of the chocolates he received, it is Tanjirou’s gift that makes Inosuke smile the brightest.

(Night)

It’s almost midnight, Shinobu got a great time the entire day. Their office had a little party and everyone practically shared their failed love stories and inspirational ones. She got too caught up in the party that when she went back home, she completely forgot to give the box of chocolate she made that was sitting in her refrigerator the entire day.  

“Kocho?” the familiar voice made her look back at the direction where it came from.

“Good evening Tomioka-san.” She greets. “Or rather, good night.”

“I’m surprised you’re still awake. Still got some papers to finish?” he asks and walks a little bit closer to her.

“No, I’m done with all my work for the week. Though I’m surprised you’re still awake considering how you’re still injured and all.” She teases, though she couldn’t help but notice he had a different scent clinging around him.

“Yeah, I went to the office and everyone gave me gifts.” He replies.

Welp, that explains the different scent on him. It’s probably Mitsuri who hugged him and caused him more broken bones.

“Though…” he trails off and takes something out of his pocket. “I feel bad not giving this to you.”

Her mind goes off a little bit. Shinobu stares at him for a moment. In Giyuu’s functioning arm is a small box of chocolate. Wait, is he giving it to her? “Tomioka-san…”

“I hope it’s enough. Tanjirou helped considering how I can only work with one hand.” He adds sheepishly, as much as she’s shy to admit it, she actually finds Giyuu cute whenever he’s flustered.

Shinobu smiles and kindly accepts the gift. “Thank you… could you wait for a moment?” she quickly runs towards her kitchen and picks up the chocolate she made. “Here! This is for you. I decorated it but Nezuko and Inosuke helped.”

Now it’s Giyuu’s turn to be awestruck, she really thought Giyuu would just accept it and leave but to her surprised, he lets out a small chuckle before accepting the gift.

It is the first time she saw him this happy and to be honest, she finds him more attractive than before.

Chapter 11

Notes:

this is just short and this will prolly be the last chapter where Giyuu broke his arm

(Grocery)

“We’ll be leaving for a while for groceries.” Shinobu explains. “Be good and don’t cause too much trouble.” She adds before placing a small kiss on Inosuke’s forehead.

“I will!” Inosuke replies and immediately sits properly in the couch.

“Tanjirou and Nezuko, be good. I’ll be back shortly.” Giyuu says while trying to put on his scarf but is having difficulty since he’s still injured. 

Shinobu quickly goes into his aid and helps him in putting it around his neck.“And you say you can do groceries on your own.” She teases to which Giyuu just stares at her.

(Rethink)

“Do you really think it’s wise to leave three children unsupervised?” Giyuu asks a few seconds after they reached the supermarket.

“Of course, it’s not like they’re going to burn down your place or something.” Shinobu replies and takes a shopping cart. “Or are you implying that my son will cause trouble?”

Giyuu pauses for a moment and begins to rethink what he just said.

(At home)

The three children are happily playing save the city from a monster, which they built from several blocks and other toys.

(Carry)

The groceries are not that heavy, that’s why Giyuu insisted that he’d carry everything with his one functioning arm and besides supermarket is just a five minute walk away from their apartment.

Shinobu looks back at him, she walks a bit faster than him considering how she doesn’t carry anything despite of some of her groceries are in the bags Giyuu is carrying. “Are you done being a gentleman now—“ before she could finish what she is saying, a man approaches her.

“Excuse miss~” he says in a playful tone. “Do you want to have fun?”

Giyuu’s first instincts is to tell the guy to leave and not bother her but when he spares a glance at her. Shinobu lets out a small laugh, smiles and responds, “Get lost pervert.”

The man is obviously taken aback by what she had just said and leaves with his head hanging low.

Giyuu freezes for a moment. She’s really something. He thinks to himself and snaps back to reality when he realizes Shinobu is now beside him, her hand extending in front of him.

“Do I need to say something else for you to let me help you or not?” 

Giyuu’s certain what she just said is not a suggestion but more of a threat, so without further ado; he gives her one of the small bags to carry.  

Notes:

I also made a continuation of my previous tanjirou/ino doodle last time here

Chapter 12

Notes:

i just found out it's shinobu's birthday today and also i know i said that the previous chapter was going to be the last time Giyuu will have his arms broken but then it would be illogical to have a broken bone healed after just a few days so... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

(Morning Cry)

Giyuu had been always prepared to any incoming danger. It’s what he’s been trained for. Although he didn’t expect an early cry from his neighbor’s kid so early in the morning.

“Good morning Inosuke, what seems to be the problem?” Giyuu asks, his body is still half asleep from the sudden noise Inosuke made.

Inosuke, who is still crying, tries his best to suppress it and sniffles while saying, “Mama… she’s…”

(Sick?)

“Oh my, did he said that?” Shinobu let out a small chuckle but it comes out as a cough.

“yeah, he hasn’t stopped crying until I came in and checked up on you.” Giyuu explains and slowly gives Shinobu a few tablets of medicine and a glass of water. His hand still hasn’t fully recovered but at least he could move them more without hurting.

“I’m so sorry for bothering you Tomioka-san. It’s just a mild fever, I’ll probably just lacked sleep.” Shinobu replies and takes the medicine Giyuu gave her.

“It’s alright. Don’t worry about it.” Giyuu says and slowly guides Shinobu’s body in her bed and tucks her in. “I’ll call your office and say you won’t be able to report.”

“It’s fine. I’m on leave today anyways.” She then slowly buries herself in the blanket. “Though there’s one favor I ask of you.”

(Hush)

“Really?!” Tanjirou and Nezuko’s eyes sparkle in excitement upon hearing from Giyuu that Inosuke will be staying in their place until tomorrow.

“Yes, but you have to lower your voice.” He says as he recalls Shinobu’s favor of letting Inosuke stay in their place fearing that he might get sick because of her. “Kocho-san is sleeping in their place and she’s very tired. So don’t make too much noise okay?” Giyuu adds as he immediately the three children planning to make a very loud celebratory cheer.

Seriously, since when did he begun taking care of three children instead of two?

“Okay!” the three of them agrees in a hushed tone.

(What about work?)

“I’m really sorry for causing this much trouble.” Shinobu mumbles, her face undoubtably red and flushing from the fever. Giyuu has never seen her in such state before, she usually keeps a strong façade in front of him.

“It’s alright. Everyone gets sick.” He reassures and replaces the wet towel on her forehead.

“Thanks. You’re really kind Tomioka-san.” She teases. “What about work? Isn’t it supposed to be your first day back?”

“Don’t worry about it.” he replies and unconsciously brushes her stray hair off her face and tuck them at the back of her ear.

(Birthday)

“Hello? This is the Kocho residence, how may I help you?” Giyuu, at first, reluctantly answers the phone call.

“Ah, it’s Tomioka-kun!” that familiar voice, it’s Shinobu’s mother. “I didn’t expect you to be the one to pick up the phone.”

“It’s been a while Kocho-san. I’m sorry that your daughter can’t pick up the phone right now, she’s sick and Inosuke’s at school as we speak. Is there anything you want me to tell Shinobu?” he says.

“So formal.” Her mother teases. Well, now he at least knows it runs in their blood. “I would like to talk to her but I think it wait until she gets better. Although it’s such a shame she got sick on her own birthday.”

Those last few words rings in Giyuu’s mind. They may talk in a daily basis but he doesn’t even know when her birthday is.

(Gift)

Tanjirou is enjoying his time playing with his other classmates and friends but he pauses from time to time.

Inosuke just settles himself at the corner of the garden near the trees. Ever since this morning, he notices that Inosuke is quitter and sadder than normal. He couldn’t help but feel worried.

“Inosuke, are you alright?” He asks as he approach his friend.

Inosuke nods, “I’m just looking for the perfect acorn for mama.”

“Why?” Tanjirou asks out of curiosity.

“It’s because it’s her special day today.” The other responds and continues to go further in the garden. “I want to give her something that will make her happy.”

“Ah! Let me help you.” Tanjirou exclaims and runs towards his direction. Then the two boys spends the remaining time of their playtime rummaging through Himejima’s garden for the “perfect” acorn.

(Not the norm)

Shinobu curses herself. Of all the time she have to get sick and it’s got to be on her birthday. Oh well, there goes her time to go home and celebrate with her family.

Although…

“Tomioka-san…” she whispers and sees Giyuu walking towards her with a tray of soup. A small glass of flower and a small box wrapped with a cute cover.

“You’ve been asleep for a few hours straight. I was beginning to worry that you might not wake up.” Welp, this is the first time she hears him joke around, or maybe he’s being serious. It’s really hard to tell.

She lets out a small chuckle and slowly sits up. “I’m getting better now. Who knew you’re such a great caretaker.” She teases and pokes him in the arm (the good one, not the one that is still healing) when he decides to put the tray beside her.

Giyuu merely ignores the teasing and quickly cut to the chase, “So your mother called earlier. She told me it was your birthday, so I…” he then takes out the small box from the tray and hands it over to her. “I don’t know it it’s helpful or anything but Kanroji told me it’s what every girl would want.” He sheepishly explains.

Shinobu graciously accepts the gift and lets out a smile. She’s still not feeling well but the feeling and the presence of having Giyuu beside her makes her happy and warm. This is not the usual way she celebrates her birthday but she truly appreciates it.

“Thank you Tomioka-san.” She says and places a small kiss on Giyuu’s cheeks before hiding back in the blankets with Giyuu’s gift in her hand, clutching it tightly towards her chest.

Giyuu still must have been processing what’s happening because she still hears him, “Ummm… I also prepared soup and the kids…” before completely going silent.

(The next day)

“Mama!” Inosuke literally jumps towards her and clings tightly around her body. “I’m glad you’re alright.”

“My, my, did you miss me already Inosuke? I thought you’re a big boy now.” She teases though, enjoys the fact that his son is still her little boy. “I saw the flower you, Tanjirou and Nezuko gave me. It was very beautiful thank you.”

“Himejima-san, helped us find it.” Tanjirou adds and Shinobu gives him a small pat on the head.

“By the way, where’s Tomioka-san?” she asks, wondering why the three kids are allowed to roam around in the living room unsupervised in the morning.

“Sick!” Nezuko replies. “Dad came home with a red face and now he’s hot!”

Shinobu chuckles and couldn’t help but feel sorry for infecting Giyuu. “My, my. I guess you three are going to stay with me for tonight then.”

“Yehey!”

Notes:

i purposely leave the gifts of giyuu and shinobu to each other untold so that you guys can think of whatever it is you want. i might reveal it in the future chapters but who knows

Chapter 13

Notes:

I was planning to post this during valentines day but then i had to put it at hold and i just kinda forgot about it since then, hahaha anyways i hope this is understandable

(The boy in the mountains)

Giyuu Urokodaki grew up in the snowy fields of Hokkaido. His father was an old teacher in the local school and his mother was a well known artisan in their tiny town. He had an older sister who was kind and loving towards him. His parents were affectionate and supportive of him as well.

He had friends and was well liked by everyone.

Everything was good.

Everything was perfect.

And there was nothing in the world he would trade for it.

(Twist)

He really believed his life was perfect as it was. They were happy and contented.

But at a young age, he learnt happiness was something that could easily disappear.

He didn’t understood where it went wrong nor what was the problem. 

All he knew next was that his parents were having a divorce and his perfect little family was now gone in a blink of an eye.

(Tomioka)

From that day on, he wasn’t the same Giyuu Urokodaki but rather he became Giyuu Tomioka, a boy who came from a divorced family who moved away from the comfort of Hokkaido to the bustling streets of Tokyo.

(Fault)

He couldn’t help but feel it was his fault why his parents split up. His mother and sister comforted him and claimed it was not his fault and that his parents simply fell out of love. But deep down he knew he had a part of it, was he not a good son? Did he disappoint his parents in some way?

He didn’t knew anything, his mother and father never talked back to each other after the divorce. He and his sister moved away with his mother and they started to live their lives from the very start.

Yet… inside Giyuu’s mind he still couldn’t help but fathom what he could have done to make his family stay and complete.

(Naivety)

It was when he was a teenager, he fully realized how naïve and ignorant he was of his parents situation.

He was too caught up and contented with his own tiny bubble of happiness that he didn’t bother to notice the small tale tell signs of his parents breaking up.

Perhaps, it was the naivety that caused them to split up, if only he could have been more aware of his surroundings, maybe then he would have been able to convince his parents not to split up.

(Distraction)

He tried not to think about it. His mind would always wonder to the ‘what ifs’ of his family. But it only grew worse when he heard from a distant relative how his dad adopted two children. 

A boy and a girl. 

Each a replacement of him and his sister. 

It was the evidence Giyuu needed to know how much of a failure of a child he was. From what he heard Sabito and Makomo were perfect children and everyone fawned over them.

He didn’t want to think about it. Didn’t want to dwell on the fact his father easily replaced him and sister. He needed distraction and so he drowned himself with school activities, clubs and other extracurricular activities.

(Last Will)

 As time goes by, the wanting to drown himself with anything and everything just so his mind would be in constant preoccupation, had been carried over until he grew up.

He chose the lifestyle of a firefighter because he knew it would fit him best, plus he volunteered to be a part of the Emergency Response Team of their ward just to fill his entire schedule.

He needed to be preoccupied, he can’t allow his thoughts to wonder on and off again. And besides… everyone was living their best life; his sister being married and his mother enjoying her retirement. It’s unfair for him to be the only one not making the best of it.

He worked hard, helped and rescued people. He should have the sense of fulfilment of doing his job, he was making the world better and yet… there was something else missing.

As much as he hated to admit it, knew what it was and it wasn’t until on his mother’s death bed that he had to be terms with it.

His sister was beside him along with her husband, both of them were sobbing as the eminent was fast approaching. His mother had told them her last words and it was now his turn, he tried not to cry. 

He didn’t want to be seen as weak, he didn’t want his mother to be worried about him. He was now an adult and he will be strong.

“Giyuu…” his mother called out, her voice once loving and kind now sounded weak and small. “I know I wasn’t the perfect mother and I’m sorry… I do hope you’ll make amends with your father. It was the only thing I couldn’t do and I don’t want you to suffer like I did…”

Giyuu held her hand close, he didn’t say anything in response. He didn’t want her to know he had no intention of talking back to his father. After all what type of person deserved his forgiveness when he wasn’t even there for them, especially now?

Hate was a strong word and Giyuu didn’t hate his father, he resented him. If his mother truly wanted him to be happy, then she shouldn’t have told him to make amends with his dad. 

He was fine, really.

(Back home)

Weeks after his mother’s funeral, Giyuu couldn’t believe he stepped back again in his tiny hometown. It took him quite a while to fully convince himself to go and he was beginning to think it was a mistake but as he continued to walk, he couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia.

Nothing much had changed, maybe except some new shops and buildings in the corner but anything else seems the same.

Although, he wished everything would be the same as soon as he was spotted by Sabito and Makomo in the train station.

Maybe it was a bad idea coming here, he didn’t even told his dad that he was coming.

(Kamado family)

“I hope this is be fine.” Sabito said as he offered Giyuu a plate of assorted biscuits and a cup of tea. “Dad is still busy at work, but he’ll be home within an hour.” He added though, Giyuu’s mind have already wondered around the area.

It was his old home, full of warm and happy memories of them being a family but then… his mind started to go something deeper and realized that maybe his dad had already replaced their memories with his new children. 

He didn’t want to ponder into it any longer. 

Luckily, sounds of children squealing shifted his attention. He moved his gaze at the origin of the sound and was surprised to see two toddlers tackling him. 

“What the…” he mumbled.

“Gotcha!” the boy giggled.

“Go-cha! Go-cha!” the girl trying her best to mimic.

“I’m so sorry!” Makomo apologized and she and Sabito took each child away from him. “I didn’t expect us to have a guest.”

“He’s not a guest, this is Giyuu-san.” Sabito replied. Makomo made a surprised look before awkwardly smiling at him. He returned the same gesture at her, not knowing what to do next. Did his dad adopted two more children?

Sabito might have sensed both of their awkwardness and shifted the conversation back to the children. “I think you already know Makomo and don’t worry. These children are from our neighbors the Kamado family, the little girl she’s carrying is Nezuko and this little guy here is Tanjirou. She’s babysitting them while their parents are on the hospital.”

“Oh…” he didn’t know why he sounded relieved when Sabito told him that. Was he really going to be offended when his dad adopted more children? 

(Reconciliation)

It wasn’t easy when he met his father again after years of being separated.  He was just standing there, with his eyes wide open, mouth agape—unable to speak, and completely frozen.

What’s worse was that Sabito, Makomo and the Kamado children were there.

“Ummm… I think we’ll take Nezuko and Tanjirou at the park.” Sabito suggested.

“Ye-yeah…we’ll come back before dinner starts.” Makomo added and they immediately left.

Giyuu stared at them immediately walking out. He still didn’t know what to do. Sure, he always dreamt of his family being complete again but it was when he was just a child and now that he’s an adult… he didn’t know what to do. 

What was his plan when he went here anyway?

Should he be happy? Sad? Angry?

A pariah of emotions started to fill his chest, he was still completely frozen but it didn’t matter because as soon as his father hugged him, his walls started to break down.

(Road to recovery)

Despite of him breaking down when his father hugged him. Giyuu still had his reservations, he would visit him from time to time, sometimes along with his sister, they would talk and catch up. It was fine, he was starting to resent his dad less and miraculously even his relationship with Sabito and Makomo were getting better. 

Weirder though, he had gotten close to the Kamado family as well.

“Giyuu, both Sabito and Makomo will have some additional school work today and Kie wondered if you could babysit for Tanjirou and Nezuko while she and Tanjurou will go to the hospital for her pre-natal exam.” Sakonji said.

“Sure, I don’t mind.” Giyuu replied and in all honesty, it surprised him at how well he managed to keep two toddlers under the age of three well taken care of and here he thought he would be horrible with children just as his co-worker teased him. 

“That’s good, she told me the children were really enjoying your company and even looked forward when you visited.” His dad added with a smile on his face.

“Same here.” He agreed, he knew they were trying their best to put the past behind them but his mind still couldn’t let go over the fact that his dad easily let them go even without trying to get them back. He knew it was childish to bring it up but he needed closure, he needed to hear it from his dad’s mouth that he loved them and that he still cared for them, “Dad…” he gulped. “Why did you and mom divorced?”

The look on his father’s face was something he didn’t expect. Instead of surprised, his father looked sad, no, he looked a little unfazed by it. 

“I know you’re not a kid anymore and there’s no use of sugar coating it but in this world, sometimes things that you thought are eternal are actually not.”

“So you’re saying that you and mom…”

“Yes, we fell out of love.” 

“Then why didn’t you fight for us? Why was it so easy for you to leave us like that?”

“I know that you already know the reason for that.” It was the only response he got.

(Realization)

Back when he was a kid, when their family was still complete. Giyuu always wondered why his sister would always put him to sleep whenever their mom and dad would talk in the kitchen.

Giyuu always thought she was just doing her job as a good sister but then he realized when he grew up it wasn’t the case. 

The more he thought back about it, the more he realized his father was right. 

It wasn’t some petty squabbles or immaturity that caused them to be apart.

His mother never spoke ill about him. 

In fact, it sounded like they ended it good terms. 

Even still… why didn’t he tried to visit them? Why did he adopted two children instead? Why didn’t he took him or his sister, or both of them? There were so many questions riddling his mind but in the end he realized something else… something more important and that was,

His father loved his mother more than anything in the world that he would give up everything just so she would be happy.

And it scared him.

What if he would end up in the same fate as him? Or worse, the same fate as his mother—falling out of love from your significant other and wanting to change your life.

He didn’t want that. He didn’t want to hurt nor to hurt others.

Maybe it was a good thing to put up all of these walls. At least then, he won’t be hurt by others and others won’t be hurt by him.

(Alert)

Apparently, Nezuko threw a tantrum and wanted to stay with her mother even when they went to the hospital. So meaning, Tanjirou was the only one Giyuu was going to babysit at that time. 

It was just a typical day, Sabito and Makomo left for school, just as his dad told him earlier, his dad was tending at some local meeting at a shop down the street, the Kamados were on their way to the hospital and he and Tanjirou were just lazily watching some kid cartoons on the TV.

Giyuu was staring blankly at the TV when Tanjirou looked at him and gave him his favorite toy, it was a big green and black checkered bunny. “Are you sleepy? Mr. Bunny helps me fall asleep.” He explained and placed the toy at Giyuu’s hand.

In return, Giyuu let out a small smile. It was really unexpected on how these children easily made his heart move. “Thank you but I’m alright and I’m sure Mr. Bunny wants to be with you.” He returned the toy back to Tanjirou.

Tanjirou happily accepted the toy, his attention now focused on it instead on the TV.

Giyuu happily watch the child as Tanjirou talked to the toy at how excited he was being a big brother to another sibling, although he had to take his attention away to the boy when he received an alert from his phone.

Despite of it being his day off, when an alert was given to him. He had to be there, the alerts were sent to rescuers who were near the area meaning something bad had happened in this small town. Taking his phone with him, he quickly explained, “Tanjirou, I want you to stay here until dad is back. I need to leave for work, okay?” as soon as he opened the door, his father was there. “Emergency, need to leave.” He said and quickly ran.

(The accident)

Lucky for him, the rescue team of their town hadn’t move their office and he quickly joined in the rescue team. Apparently it was a car accident and when they went to the location, dread filled his entire being as he was fully aware at who the owners of the car was.

The car was in completely horrible state, the front portion of it was completely crushed at the side of the road.

Please be alright! He prayed silently as he rushed to see the state of the people inside. His heart hammered rapidly as the more he approached the car, the more horrible the state it was in. 

He heard a weak cry, a tinge of hope flickered inside of him and saw Nezuko sobbing. There were some cuts and bruises on her but other than that she was fine. 

But looking at her parents…

He focused on trying to open the door while the others were checking if the Kamados were still alive. “It’s alright Nezuko, you’re going to be fine.” He said and tried to focus her attention on him instead on her unconscious parents.

“Gi..uu…” she hiccupped and had her hands reaching out as if she was asking to be picked up.

“I’m here.” He reassured her and managed to open the side of the car despite his mind was hyperfocused on Nezuko he could still hear the other rescuers stating how both Tanjurou and Kie were unconscious and severely injured. 

“Mama, papa.” Nezuko cried in between hiccups.

“Don’t worry, help is already on the way.” He said, his heart unable to tell her the truth. What’s worse, he didn’t even know how to tell Tanjirou about it.

(Aftermath) 

Tanjurou died upon arrival while Kie died a few hours later. 

The news hit him hard, he was supposed to be used at this. He knew there’s a possibility every person he rescued will die short after and he had experienced it before, but now, it was different. 

Especially how Kie’s last words to him was; 

“please… take care of them…” 

(Adoption)

Both Nezuko and Tanjirou were obviously traumatized by it. Sabito and Makomo were trying their best to keep them occupied as best as they could.

Although it was difficult especially during the funeral. 

People were talking at who will take the two orphaned children. Apparently they didn’t have other relatives but luckily the Kamados were well liked in the town that several families wanted to take care of them but legally can’t and the closest relative they had was his father but he knew his father can’t shelter two more children. He was already old and retired, he might not have the enough energy to really take care of them and both Sabito and Makomo were not even in high school yet.

He needed to do something, he knew the townspeople will help his father in taking care of Tanjirou and Nezuko but it won’t be the same. 

The scars and traumas they’ve endured, they needed someone who will help them get over it and move it. He knew it was an impulse decision and the legal process was going to be hectic but technically speaking he was still his dad’s son so, “I’ll take them!” he volunteered which caused obvious confusion to everyone.

(Fatherhood)

He expected it to be difficult but the first few days of taking Nezuko and Tanjirou was good. They were staying in his dad’s house for a while and they were doing what they would usually do. It wasn’t a few weeks later when Tanjirou popped the question, “When will mom and dad come back?”

Giyuu didn’t know what to tell him. The two only believed that their parents were still in the hospital and that they will have a new baby sibling soon but how could he tell them about it? He didn’t know.

Just as he was about to open his mouth, his father walked and answered Tanjirou’s question, “Your mom and dad went on a very deep sleep. They won’t be waking up for a long time.”

“But we’ll see them again, right?” Tanjirou added, his eyes looking up with much hope.

“Yes but not now.” Sakonji replied with a sad look on his eyes. Of course he would be, it was a difficult topic to talk about to a child.

It was never easy until then, he had to reassure the two about them being not abandoned and that they were loved by their family. Death was a difficult concept to explain but with a few weeks of trying to slowly explain it to them, they somehow managed to grasp the concept of it.

If only it was the only underlying problem he had. Moving to them to Tokyo with them and trying to juggle work and being a dad was not easy. Luckily his sister and brother-in-law would help from time to time and even his dad would allow them to stay with him when things were getting too overwhelming for him.

His co-workers found it shocking how he got to children but they were supportive and would even play with them when he brought them with him.

Tanjirou was specifically fond of Kyoujirou while Nezuko was enamoured by Mitsuri.

“Tanjirou, my boy, who do you love the most?” Kyoujirou asked one day while he was (dangerously) throwing Tanjirou up.

Although Tanjirou seemed to enjoy it and even giggled every time he was thrown.“Dad!’ he replied happily.

“And where’s your dad?” 

“There!” he pointed at Giyuu, it was the first time Tanjirou ever referred to him as such and it completely caught him off guard to the point that he almost forgot he was guiding a fire truck to park.

So this was what fatherhood is.

(Family)

“Maybe that’s the reason why he wanted to take them.” Shinobu says as she looks at Giyuu who was being tackled by Sabito, Tanjirou and Inosuke while Makomo and Nezuko are giggling on the sideline.

Sakonji looks at her with a lifted brow. “What do you mean?”

“I mean, Giyuu-san is a man who didn’t knew stability. But at least for these children, he wanted them to have someone to call as family and didn’t want to feel what he felt when he was young.” Shinobu explains.

Sakonji smiles, “I know I wasn’t the best father but I’m glad he grew up as a good man.”

“I know and that’s why, I have a request for you Urokodaki-san.” 

Chapter 14

Notes:

i didn't edit this, so i hope this is readable ^^;;

(The girl in the Butterfly Estate)

Shinobu grew up in a very comfortable life. Her family was old money rich dating back in the Meiji era where they were one of the pioneers of mixing western and traditional medicine together. So it was fair to say she lived a privileged life.

She and her sister were educated in the best schools in the country and had a bright, clear future ahead of them.

It wasn’t like she was spoiled—well she was— but not to the point of being entitled and she knew how to be kind to others and not to rely on her family’s power and influence. In fact she was more tomboyish and was not afraid of speaking out of her mind.

Her parents and sister didn’t mind it. After all they raised her as someone to be firm and not be afraid of anything.

(Sisterly bond)

Kanae was the complete opposite of Shinobu. She was kind, gentle and very soft spoken.

People would often gravitate around her merely because she gave off the kind and nurturing energy around her.

Shinobu always looked up to her.

 She was her everything.

They did everything together and even did embarrassing stuffs like talking about boys, make-ups, outfits and weddings.

Shinobu wasn’t interested in those things and yet, seeing how her sister’s eyes gleam talking about the future made her feel a little less reluctant.

(The Future)

Shinobu always wanted to be like her parents, she wanted to help people and change lives that’s why she took up pharmacology in college and wanted to make a name for herself in the field.

The future looked bright not only for her but for her sister as well, who just managed to get her dream job as a teacher and had a (surprisingly) loving and doting boyfriend.

(Bad Choices)

Her brash and rough actions have made some bad choices in life like entertaining a former ‘potential’ boyfriend of Kanae when he was rejected by her.

In all honesty, Shinobu didn’t even knew how Douma’s attention was shifted to her just a few days after Kanae painfully rejected him.

And truth be told, she didn’t even gave him any chances to fully court her.

It was a mistake sparing him a small ounce of her attention.

(Kanao)

Shinobu was in her last year in college then when Kanao joined their family. She was shy, quiet and reserved. Shinobu didn’t understood why her parents would take someone as her but apparently it was because of Kanae.

Kanao was one of her students at the local school she was part-timing, apparently her parents were abusing her at home and out of concern she contacted the police. One thing led to another and now Kanao was part of their family.

Shinobu still had her reservations about it. The idea of having another sister didn’t sit well at all. She did try her best to bond with her but it was almost impossible.

The girl won’t move until she was told to, she won’t even speak or eat despite of her stomach grumbling. It was infuriating, but Kanae had patience and so did her parents.

“I know it not easy but give her time. She’s been through a lot and we’re the only ones she has left. Don’t you think it’s better to give someone a second chance to live life?” Kanae said, her voice always sounded like a gentle lull as she gently brush through Kanao’s hair.

Well, she wasn’t wrong.

“Argh, fine! But I’m going to teach her how to think for herself. The Kochos are known for their independence and wit. Our parents raised us better.” Shinobu pointed out.

“That’s the spirit, Shinobu! Though I don’t like how you’re making it sound like mother and father are dead.”

(Good Eyes)

Shinobu stared from far away as Kanae and Sanemi were talking in the garden. Apparently, Sanemi was planning to ask permission from their parents if he could take Kanae’s hand for marriage, they were just outside to help him calm his composure.

Shinobu couldn’t be happier for them. Really, it’s just…

Everything felt too sudden.

Kanae marrying would mean…

“Shinobu-neesan?” Kanao asked, her voice sounded more like a whisper.

Shinobu gave her a weak smile, she was glad that her younger sister finally managed to begin speaking for herself. It appears that months of therapy and gentle support helped a lot.

“Why do you look sad?” she added.

Did she? She wasn’t frowning, so how could Kanao know?

It was the first time Shinobu realized Kanao had good eyes at reading people.

(Butterfly)

Just as they are beautiful. Butterflies were also known as the harbingers of death.

Shinobu was less superstitious and didn’t mind the meaning behind their family name growing up but it was another story when her sister unexpectedly collapsed one day.

(Death)

It all happened so quickly, she couldn’t even fully comprehend what happened why it was happening.

Even now, when she was standing in front of their family grave with Kanae joining their ancestors.

The feeling of having someone so close, and so dear to her vanished so quickly as to without her even blinking an eye was frightening.

(Questions)

Kanae died of a disease just a few months of getting it.

How?

Why her?

She had plans and aspirations for the future. She loved and liked by everyone.

So why?

She had a family and a fiancée.

Why did she have to die so young?

(Wander and Wonder)

It was never easy. Her parents and Kanao tried comforting her, she knew they were there for her after all she wasn’t the only one who lost a loved one.

But she needed to get out.

To be away from all of this.

Just to forget, she thought to herself.

She took a job at a high profile pharmaceutical company and insisted to do field work. She couldn’t bear to be stuck in a room on her own, leaving her with her own thoughts and wallow in sadness.

And besides wandering around the various wilderness helped her forget, made her busy— preoccupied.

But then, she couldn’t help to wonder if it was the right thing to do.

(Unusual Encounter)

She was around in Nagoya that time. Listing all the native plants and observing the ecosystem. When she stumbled upon a young toddler crawling on the ground like an animal.

She paused for a moment. This can’t be real. She thought to herself.

The toddler was dirty, he had dirt and grime almost everywhere but those bright emerald eyes sparkle in such ferocity.

It made her curious.

“Oi, Inosuke you damn brat! Don’t just run after gramps fed you!” a voice roared through the bushes causing the toddler to let out a high shrill and hid behind her legs. “Inosuke you—“ a young adult emerged from the forest, paused and immediately stared at Shinobu.

“Hello.” She greeted with a slightly strained voice.

Well, this certaintly had taken a weird turn.

(An old man, a young adult and a toddler)

So it turned out the young man’s name was Takaharu and he was living with his grandfather in the less populated area of the city just because no one in their family would take care of his aging grandfather.

“I’m sorry for the mess, we rarely have any visitors but I do hope this is fine.” Takaharu offered a few crackers and tea.

“It’s fine and thank you.” She replied and took the tea. Although her attention was shifted at the small child struggling to move around at the small fort Takaharu trapped him in.

“Oh you must be wondering about the brat huh?” Takaharu said. She found it a bit unsettled by how calm he was with a small child under his care. “In all honesty, I didn’t know where he came from. All I know was that I came back home from a long shift after work and saw him eating at my grandpa’s lap.”

“There’s no way someone would just abandon him right?” she wondered, although seeing how dirty and strange acting Inosuke was, it might be the case.

“I thought the same thing. That’s why the next day, I roamed the entire area asking our neighbors if they lost one of their stupid children but no one knew him. The only clue we had was the name printed on his clothes and that’s it.” he explained.

Shinobu hummed in return, her attention continued to shift back at Inosuke as the toddler tried biting his way out of the make shift fort. “So what are you going to do?” she asked out of curiosity and judging from Takaharu’s indifferent attitude towards Inosuke made her worry.

“I dunno. Grandpa is lonely when I work so I guess Inosuke is a good company for him but then… I don’t know if it’s even legal.” Takaharu let out a deep sigh before rubbing his bald head. “One way or another, I have to report him. There’s no way I can raise him on my own, I’m still young dammit! I don’t even have a girlfriend yet!”

(Inosuke)

After their encounter, Shinobu had a hard time sleeping.

All she could think was about the child.

She knew Takaharu and his grandpa were doing their best to take care of him but the way Inosuke is acting and moving, he needed more than what they could give him and Takaharu did have a point, as soon as Inosuke grows up, it would be more difficult and judging by their way of living Takaharu might have his hands full by just taking care of his grandpa alone.

It was not her problem. Why was she even thinking about it?

Brushing her hair out of frustration, Shinobu rolled over her bed and forcefully closed her eyes. She just needed to finish her work here and go to a different city and conduct another one.

That’s all she needed to do, she didn’t need to think about anyone or anything else.

So why did she came back?

She didn’t know.

(Smile)

Despite of her research being over for this city, she somehow stayed longer which was weird since she would usually leave the moment she took all the necessary data and yet, now she was hanging around at an old house with an old man and a toddler.

Inosuke seemed to be smitten by her, he would often bring her things that caught his interest and in return, Shinobu would explain to him what it was which was silly since she’s certain the boy didn’t understand anything and she was not even sure if he knew how to speak. Though there were times when Inosuke would cross the line like chasing an animal or trying to eat leaves, she would immediately catch him and reprimand him for his actions—she didn’t even realize she could do such feat.

“I found him in the woods. There were boars gathering around him and I figured they took him as their own.” The old man said as he sipped some of his tea.

“So his family did abandon him.” She replied with a frown and the old man merely nodded.

Inosuke, who was not interested with their conversation, tried climbing on Shinobu’s lap. Shinobu at first tried to make him sit still on the floor but soon enough got tired of his antics and allowed him to sit.

“-nobu…Shinobu!” he mumbled with a bright smile on his face like he did something amazing.

“D—did you just call me?” she was surprised.

Inosuke nodded enthusiastically. “Shinobu! Shinobu!” he repeated to the point Shinobu laughed.

“You should smile more.” The old man commented looking contented at the two.

In her life, she heard plenty of people tell her that. Along with the lines of, ’a lady shouldn’t scowl’, ‘a girl frowning is not pretty’, ‘smiling makes you more attractive’, and every time she would tell them to mind their own business but hearing the old man say it, there was no evil intention in them. In fact, the way he said those words reminded her of his sister.

(Talk)

She continued on her field work but on the very chance she could get, she would go and visit Inosuke.

“-nobu!” Inosuke mumbled and ran towards her.

Shinobu chuckled and carried him in her arms. There was no use in telling him to add –san after her name and it turned out he learned quite a few words when she was gone. Words that are inappropriate for a child to say, no doubt he mimicked them from Takaharu.

In a weird way, they became her new family.

“I know this is a weird request but could you take Inosuke with you?” the old man muttered while enjoying the mountain-view through his window.

“Why?” it was a bit unexpected.

“I don’t have much time.” the old man stated. “My memory is already failing me and I know that Takaharu won’t stay here after I’m gone. I don’t have anyone else to entrust him to. I know it’s a bit selfish but please, Inosuke needs someone more than me.”

She merely looked at him, she wanted to ask, “why me?” but instead she kept her mouth shut. She didn’t want to hurt the old man’s feelings but as she stared at Inosuke’s sleeping figure at the old man’s lap, she recalled one conversation she had with Kanae;

‘Don’t you think it’s better to give someone a second chance to live life?’

(Decision)

Shinobu had been pondering on what the old man had told her back then. Taking on a child is such a serious task and she was only 22 for Pete’s sake! Surely that old man didn’t mean her to take him.

But the next time she visited, the old man already died of old age. She couldn’t believe it but before she could fully try to comprehend what she was feeling, a small tug on her skirt made her lose in her thoughts, “Nee, where’s gramps?” Inosuke stared at her. There was an obvious confusion and fear in his eyes, he must have been looking for the old man for a while now.

Forcing herself to smile, Shinobu crouched down and said, “He went to a very faraway place.”

“Is baka Takosuke going there too?”

“No and neither you and I.”

“Why?” there was a hint of annoyance in his tone. He must have really loved him.

“That’s because it’s very far.” She replied, there’s no way she could abandon him. He needed her and so casting away all her doubts, she reached out her hand and added, “Come on, let’s go.”

(Determination)

She couldn’t believe it, she really did took a toddler under her care. What’s worse, what she did could be considered as kidnapping but she already asked the police about Inosuke’s case.

No missing child report case and so adopting him was a bit easier with the help of a good lawyer.

Looking at Inosuke’s family history, it made her realize how happy she was for adopting him. He didn’t deserve to be abandoned, her sister was right, everyone deserved a second chance and Shinobu was determined to make his and her life better.

(Return)

The last time she stepped foot on this place was a few days after Kanae’s funeral. Ever since then, she never had the guts to return, even thinking about the Butterfly Estate made her chest ache but now, she needed to face her fears.

“Shinobu, you okay?” Inosuke tugged her shirt as he was being carried in her arms.

Shinobu smiled at him, “Of course! Don’t worry, they’re family.”

It didn’t even took a few steps when her family welcomed them with open arms.

(Tearful Reunion)

She never cried this much in her life before. She didn’t expect her family to welcome her so openly even though she just walked out and left.

She was truly grateful to have a loving family.

(Eternal)

It was the first time after her sister’s funeral did Shinobu visited the family grave. She knew she had a lot of explaining to do, even by just staring at her sister’s shrine at home was painful.

She didn’t want to run anymore. She has so many things to tell Kanae and hopefully, then she’ll be able to finally be at peace with her passing.

“Shinazugawa-san?” she called out as she was surprised to see Sanemi at their family grave. “I didn’t expect you to be here.”

“Hey, just because Kanae is dead doesn’t mean she’s gone. I still miss her.” He retorted, the way he looked at the gravestone with such longing eyes. “I loved her and will always be. She was my everything but just because she’s gone, it doesn’t mean my world stopped. I know she would hate it if I’ll wallow in sadness, that’s why… I’m trying to live life not only just for my sake but for hers as well.”

It made Shinobu realize just how much Sanemi loved Kanae that their love for one another was on another level.

(Fever)

Shinobu was still adjusting the life of a single mother. Her parents were there to help her in every step of the way and Kanao seemed to like the idea of having someone that was close to her age and luckily Inosuke adjusted well in the Butterfly Estate as well.

Though it concerned her how Inosuke still didn’t call her as his mother. He already started calling her parents has grandmamma and grandpapa and the same goes to Kanao, he calls her as his big sister instead of an aunt while she was still called as “Shinobu”. It made her wonder if she did something wrong.

Her confidence was at all time low when Inosuke got a fever. Her parents told her it was fine that it was natural for children for his age to often get sick and that as long as he takes the prescribed medicine he will be fine but Shinobu couldn’t help to worry.

Inosuke was sobbing non-stop and she didn’t leave his side for most of the time.

She knew she was not ready for this. She should have just let her parents adopt him instead of her, what was she even thinking? Inosuke was in pain and it was all her fault.

If only she was a better mother.

She didn’t know what to do anymore, taking Inosuke’s small hand, she wraps her pinky finger around his and muttered, “I promise I’ll take care of you. Pinky promise.”

“Ma..ma…” Inosuke mumbled and grabbed onto her pinky.

Shinobu didn’t realized she started to cry and swore that she will never doubt her abilities again.

(Important)

“Maybe that’s the reason why she moved to Tokyo.” Giyuu says.

Shinobu’s father looks at him for a moment before shifting his eyes back in the road.

He is currently driving and Giyuu is on the passenger seat while on the back, is Shinobu’s mother with Tanjirou and Kanao while Shinobu, Inosuke and Nezuko seated at the furthest part of the van. He and Shinobu’s father were talking about how he wished for Shinobu and Inosuke to go back living with them in the Butterfly Estate.  

Talking about it made Giyuu remember Shinobu’s story and he knows he’s not the perfect guy at deciphering emotions but he’s getting better at understand her. “Shinobu loved her sister whole heartedly and got lost when she died. Maybe it wasn’t Inosuke who made her change her life but rather perspective of it.” he adds as his eyes taking a quick look at Shinobu through the side mirror.

Shinobu’s father chuckles a little, “You’re one of a kind aren’t you Tomioka-kun.”

“Or so I’ve been told.”

Chapter 15

(Touchdown)

Finally after hours of travelling they’ve reached their destination.

“It looks like all the kids are tuckered out.” Shinobu chuckles upon seeing the four children still asleep at the van. “Tomioka-san and I will take care of the luggages, why don’t you and mom bring the children in the hotel and rest?” she suggests while slowly waking Kanao and the rest from their sleep.

“Are you sure? I could help.” Her dad replies.

“It’s fine.” She insists and so her parents and the kids go in the hotel while she and Giyuu are unloading all their things from the van.

“You didn’t have to do it you know.” Giyuu blurts out while taking out the last piece of bag from the van.

“Did what?” she asks innocently,

“Ask permission from my dad if my children and I can go with you and your parents on this trip. I’m a grown up, you should have asked me first.” It almost sounds like he’s pouting but with his monotonous tone, it’s a bit hard to tell.

Shinobu snickers. “Well if I do that, then you would have refused. That’s why I told your dad first just so you can’t reject the offer.”

(Vacation)

The city of Nara is known for multiple tourist spots most specifically historical places such as temples, shrines and ruins.

It’s a big place with plenty to go around with and they had a full itinerary planned out for the entire vacation.

“I haven’t been back here ever since I was in high school.” Giyuu mumbles lowly as his eyes wanders at each inch of the place. Well, to be honest, this is the first time he truly appreciate the beauty of the temple.   

“Shinobu-neesan, ca-can you take a picture of me in this shrine?” Kanao asks shyly as she finds the exterior of the shrine beautiful and nice.

“Wow~ look at those statues Tomioka-san, that one looks exactly like you.” Shinobu teases while looking at the several stone statues at the side.

“Look mama! There’s so many animals there!” Inosuke points out, practically jumping out of joy seeing the animals in the zoo.

“I-inosuke, no! Don’t enter the cage!” Shinobu reprimands when she sees her son trying to climb on one of the animal cages.

“Nezuko! Don’t follow him!” Giyuu soon follows suit as he also sees Nezuko imitating Inosuke’s actions and when he looks back at his other child, he sees Tanjirou trying to stop Inosuke but ended up getting dragged by him, “Tanjirou!”

(First day, end)

Well, it was bound to happened. Having several children on a trip surely drains energy and what’s more, they got plenty of attention from other people when both Shinobu and Giyuu try to pry their children away from the cage.

It was exhausting but at least the day is already over. They’re now on a park, both of them sitting on a bench.

Giyuu had his hands full with Nezuko sleeping on his arms and Tanjirou on his side, trying to fight off the sleepiness. Shinobu on the other hand is chuckling at the pictures they took the entire day with Inosuke on her side, busy eating some snacks.

“Oh, it looks like mom and dad have made reservations on a local restaurant near the hotel.” Shinobu says as she reads the text she received from her parents. “Inosuke, can you please call Kanao?”

“No!” Inosuke pouts.

“Come on now, she’s just on that food stall.” She points out on a seemingly popular ice cream food stall just a few feet away from them.

Kanao was interested in buying since they had a waffle cone that shaped like a butterfly. “If you won’t, you don’t get dessert later.” She adds at which Inosuke immediately runs towards Kanao.

“Is it really alright to have him get her?” Giyuu asks.

“Why are you making it sound like my son is incapable of even doing the simplest thing?” Shinobu retorts and a menacing aura starts creeping out of her.

(Stranger)

“Kanao-neechan!” Inosuke shouts and immediately runs towards Kanao who is just giving the vendor her payment and her taking the ice cream.

“Inosuke, be careful. I could have dropped the ice cream.” Kanao reprimands with a gentle tone. “Is there something wrong?”

“Mama said we should come back.” He replies.

“Alright, then.” She nods and takes his hand with her free hand. She couldn’t help but notice how he is basically staring at her ice cream. “Do you want to taste it?”

Inosuke immediately grabs onto the cone but then stops momentarily before remembering something, “Yes please!” he says. Kanao smiles and is glad that he’s easier to deal with unlike back then when he would just basically grab anything that is in front of him.

She lowers her hand and allows Inosuke to munch a small part of it before Kanao tastes it as well, “Delicious isn’t it?”

Inosuke nods in agreement as they continue to walk only to be bumped by someone.

“Oh my…” a voice says.

“Owww…” Inosuke mumbles while Kanao only remains silent. She could sense the stranger they bumped into is not a normal person.

(Familiar)

“I’m so sorry,” she immediately apologizes, not minding her ice cream falling on the ground. The only thing on her mind right now is to go back to where her sister is.

“It’s alright. Oh no, I dropped your ice cream. Would you like me to buy you a new one?” the stranger replies, his rainbow colored eyes and light colored hair makes Kanao wary especially how they stare intensely at Inosuke. “Have we met before? You look familiar.” he crouches down and asks Inosuke, there is no hint of malice in his tone in fact, he is well-mannered and formal when speaking.

Inosuke just hides at the side of Kanao, no doubt he also could feel something odd from the man.

“I’m sorry mister but my sister is already looking for us. We should be going.” Kanao immediately grabs Inosuke and decides to run.

“Inosuke…you’re Inosuke…aren’t you?” the man adds.

Kanao could see how Inosuke is going to retort but whispers, “it’s not good to talk to strangers. Lets go.”

(Relief)

“Kanao, Inosuke?” a familiar voice appears and to their relief Shinobu is there. “I was worried why you two took so long. So I came to see if you’re alright.”

“Neesan…” Kanao lets out a sigh of relief and immediately runs towards her.

“Oh my, and here I thought I will only see a familiar face today.” The man says. “It been a while Shinobu.”

“Likewise, Douma.” Her smile hides something vicious in them.

“Mama, that man knows my name!” Inosuke points out while scowling at Douma.

“It’s not good to talk to strangers. Let’s go.” Shinobu hastily grabs both Kanao and Inosuke.

“Mama?” Douma cocks his head. “Oh my, I didn’t expect you to be a parent so soon and for you to take on my son.”

Shinobu pauses briefly but she knows Douma is a smartass who likes to play tricks on people. So instead of trying to fall on his trap, she quickens her pace and hope Douma won’t follow them.

Chapter 16

Notes:

hello!!!! i'm so sorry this is late, i had this chapter ever since last month but since my internet access is limited and i've been busy with my research paper, i just managed to post this now. i hope you guys will like this.

btw kanao here is around 8 but you can imagine her around any age as long as it's below 10 and she's the same age with kaigaku, genya and aoi (they'll appear in a future chapter, i swear!)

and akaza appears! :)

(Unusual)

Shinobu stares blankly at her sleeping son’s face. The recent event with Douma had left her shaking, it’s a good thing that bastard didn’t follow them or else she would have called the police.

“Hey, you still awake?” Giyuu knocks softly but the door slowly opens with a creak. “I’m sorry, just want to let you know your door’s unlock—” he pauses. “Are you alright? You look…um…unusual…”

“Huh?” Shinobu raises a brow.

“I mean, you don’t look like your normal self. Did something happened?” Giyuu wonders. “I mean if you don’t want to talk about it, then I should—“

“Wait, I could actually use an ear.” She replies with a soft, pleading look in her eyes.

(Small Hiccup)

“I see, so one of your old flames lives here?” Giyuu clarifies.

“He’s not an old flame and I don’t know why he’s here.” Shinobu immediately denies with a disgusted look on her face. “It’s more like our families know each other and he was one of the first candidates to be Kanae’s fiancée. It became complicated just because I gave him a handkerchief when Kanae rejected him and completely misinterpreted my action as something else.”

“Oh, that must be tough.” Giyuu replies. “But how does he know Inosuke?”

“I don’t know. But I’m certain he called him as his son.” Shinobu bites her lower lip thinking of the possibility that Inosuke might be taken away from her. She knows it’s impossible, Inosuke’s adoption is legal and iron clad but still… she recalls the moment when Tengen told her about a small hiccup in the adoption process;

‘There was someone who filed a missing report for Inosuke.’ He clarified before giving her the final outcome of Inosuke’s background check.

Could Douma be that person?

But why?

What’s their connection?

“I…I honestly don’t know.” Shinobu confesses while ruffling her already tousled hair.

(Picture)

The second day of their vacation is more or less fine. Shinobu’s parents stayed in the hotel talking with old friends which means it’s only Giyuu and Shinobu with the children. Giyuu constantly looks at Shinobu—trying to steal a glance when he thinks she’s not looking, he knows how their conversation didn’t went anywhere yesterday and he feels uneasy about it.

“Dad!” Tanjirou calls out with a big smile on his face.

“Picture!” Nezuko adds and Giyuu easily agrees with a nod.

He takes out his cellphone and crouches down to take a picture of his two children near a koi pond only to see them frowning.

“What’s wrong?” he asks.

“With us!” Nezuko practically demands while Tanjirou tugs his sleeve. Giyuu chuckles and places himself between the two and says, “Say cheese!”

(Stay Close)

“Mama look—“before Inosuke could run any further, Shinobu easily holds onto his wrist.

“Don’t go too far!” she chides which causes both Kanao and Inosuke to look at her with wide eyes. Normally, she would allow Inosuke to roam as far as he wants as long as she sees him but ever since the incident yesterday, she’s scared that it might happened again.

“I’m sorry, just stay close to me alright?” she tries her best to say it in her usual tone. “You too Kanao, don’t get too far.”

(Audacity)

They’re currently at a shrine. Fortunately they come just in time to see a reenactment of the place’s history, there are plenty of people watching which makes it more difficult since the place is small.

Giyuu easily juggles two of his children to see the play with ease. Nezuko on his shoulders and Tanjirou on his arms while Shinobu struggles to keep Inosuke on her arms as he wants to be on ground with Kanao, who manages to worm her way in front.

“I wanna be with Kanao-neechan!” Inosuke says and manages to escape Shinobu’s grasps and wiggles his way towards Kanao.

“Inosuke wait—“as Shinobu tries to chase her son, she pauses upon seeing a familiar face she doesn’t want to see. “Douma…”she growls.

“Oh, Shinobu! I didn’t expect to see you so soon.” His stupid smile makes her want to slap him.

Why is he even here?

“I can see that you’re not happy to see me. But don’t worry I’m not here to bother you and to be perfectly honest, I’m surprise to see you here.” Douma says while he fanning himself with his usual golden fan.

She continues to glares at him, knowing him it’s probably some lie to get her defenses down. Well too bad for him, she won’t be fooled by his charm and flowery words. She just wants to know what his objectives are.

“Don’t glare at me like that Shi-no-bu-chan~ that’s very unlady-like.” Douma teases in a sing-song matter. “I know you have plenty of questions for me and I will be happy to answer all of them if you’d agree to let me meet with Inosuke.”

Wait.

What?

What did that he just say?

How dare he…

The loud and lively beats of the music around her begins to beat slower and slower, it’s as if time slowly stopped itself until the sounds basically becomes dull and completely nonexistent.

Did… did Douma just blackmailed her?

The audacity of that man.

(Suddenly)

Shinobu would never… She balls her fists, wanting to chastise the person in front of her, “As if I’d do such thing—“before she could finish what she’s saying, Giyuu appears all of a sudden with his children in tow.

“Kocho?” Giyuu weakly calls out and walks his way besides her. He looks at her, then at Douma and then back at her, “I got curious as to why Inosuke was with Kanao, knowing your current situation, I got worried and looked for you.”

Shinobu lets out a sigh of relief, she couldn’t fully explain it but seeing Giyuu makes her calmer.

“Oh, and who might you be?” Douma lifts a brow, his tone playful yet curious at the same time.

“I’m her neighbor.”

“Oh?” Douma looks at her then back at Giyuu.

Letting out a last smile, Douma left without another word.

“Thank you for helping me back there.” Shinobu says shyly, she really wasn’t sure what would have happened if Giyuu didn’t came to her rescue. .

“Any time.” Giyuu quips. “Do you want to rest for a while? You seemed shaken.”

“I’m fine, we didn’t talk much anyways. It’s just…” she contemplates for a moment thinking if should bother Giyuu with her personal problems, after all they’re just neighbors.

“Kocho-san…” Tanjirou approaches her with a worried look on his face. She lets out a smile for him, the little boy always seem to have a talent for knowing when people are sad and know how to make them feel better.

(Over)

They notice the sound of the festival fading.

“It must be over.” Giyuu notes while looking at the tourists starts to move away from the site.

“Oh no, where’s Inosuke and Kanao?” Shinobu gets up and tries to look around, it’s difficult considering how most people are scattered all over the small area, some are going home while the rest are taking pictures.

“Inosuke! Kanao! Where are you?” she shouts worriedly.

(Lost)

When the festival ended, Kanao tries to look back to see if her sister is around, surprised to see her not there, Kanao takes Inosuke’s hand and walks at the edge of the shrine, near the well.

At least if they stay at one spot, they’d be easier to find rather than wandering around and getting lost even further.

“Mama…” Inosuke sniffles as more than a few minutes had passed by. Kanao holds on to his hand tighter and try not to cry herself. She wants to be strong for him and she’s certain Shinobu won’t abandon them.

“Oh my, are you two lost?” a gentle voice asks.

Looking up, they both see a pretty high school girl with flower shaped pupils. “Did you two got separated from your parents?” she crouches down and offer Inosuke a handkerchief.

Kanao nods.

“It’s alright, I’m sure they’re still around here somewhere.” She reassures with a smile on her face.

“Koyuki! What are you doing?” a boy around her age appears with a worried look on his face.

“Oh Hakuji! Look, these two children are lost.” She points out and holds on to Kanao’s hand.

“Tch, who cares? We need to go back home before your dad will get worried.” He says, not hiding the fact he’s annoyed by the sudden predicament.

“Don’t be like that! It’ll be quick, the shrine is small and the play is over. I’m sure whoever is still here is bound to be their parent.” Koyuki replies with much optimism.

Hakuji clicks his tongue and rubs his neck out of frustration before saying, “Fine.”

(Children)

It didn’t take for the two high schoolers to search for the two children’s family. It looks like their parent was also looking for them and when the family is reunited again, their mother practically leaps towards the two.

“Mama!” Inosuke shouts and clings into Shinobu almost immediately.

“Neesan!” Kanao adds and hugs her.

Shinobu stares at the two students and shows her gratitude, “Thank you so much!”

Koyuki lets out a smile in return, “No problem! Glad we could help.” She replies before waving goodbye to the family.

As both Koyuki and Hakuji are walking their way towards home.

“I didn’t expect you to be good with children.” She teases.

“Sh-shut up!” Hakuji stutters. “I just don’t get why their parents would let two small girls on their own and did you see their dad? He barely reacted when they reunited.”

Koyuki giggles. “It looks like your paternal instincts is kicking in.”

“Wh-what?! Don’t say stuff like that Koyuki! We’re still in high school!”

“Oh? What are implying Hakuji?” she teases even further and it only made him blush redder.

Chapter 17

Notes:

I was planning to post the story about 15 yr old ino here but then it would basically spoil much of the story and i made this one instead, I'm glad that the ending somewhat came in correlation to the story so yeah, happy bday ino!

(Birthday)

The concept of birthday had been a new experience with Inosuke. He didn’t understood how it works but he knows that birthdays are spent with family, cake and gifts.

That’s why when he hears his mother telling him it’s going to be his birthday tomorrow, he couldn’t help but feel happy. “There’ll be a cake right? And many gifts?” Inosuke hops out of excitement, his eyes not leaving Shinobu’s just to be sure she’s not lying.

“Yes.” Shinobu nods with a smile on her face. “Everyone will be there too, so you have to behave, alright?”

The notion of just having cake and gifts made him all giddy and excited that he didn’t even bother listening to what his mother just said and just nods in agreement.

(Curiosity)

“Since you only adopted Inosuke last year, does that mean he only celebrated his birthday once with you?” Giyuu asks as he stares blankly at Shinobu wrapping Inosuke’s gift.

“Actually no, by the time I found out about his birthday it already passed. So this will be the first time I will be officially celebrating his birthday.” She replies and places a ribbon on the newly wrapped present. “I want to make it into something memorable.” She adds, almost sounding like a soft whisper.

Giyuu could see the glee and excitement twinkling in her eyes.

It’s almost midnight and all their children are already asleep. Shinobu came over to his place to ask for help but it almost felt like she was the one doing all the work and he’s just there for supervision or something.

“I’m sure it will go well.” He reassures. “Inosuke would love whatever you’ll give him, he loves you that much to hate anything you give him.”

Shinobu chuckles, “I hope so too…”

Giyuu is caught off guard by this, normally when he says something like that Shinobu would come up with a retort almost immediately. This isn’t the usual Shinobu he’s used to. Is she really feeling nervous? Over her son’s birthday? Okay, he needs to help her somehow, so he changes the topic, “How did you even know it’s his birthday, anyway?” he blurts out the first thing he could ever think of.

It been pondering on his mind for a while now consider how he never had any problems knowing the complete information about Tanjirou and Nezuko. 

“It’s the 21 st century, everything is recorded. I just so happened to have a very good lawyer who dug up all Inosuke’s history and whatnot.” Shinobu replies, her tone shifts into somewhat solemn.

Then Giyuu recalls her telling him how Inosuke got “possibly” abandoned and didn’t pushed any further. He shouldn’t have let his curiosity got the best of him. 

The air around them got heavier. 

(Celebration)

The birthday celebration is held at a small function room near their apartment. There’s not much decoration, just simple streamers and pictures of cute animals, in the middle there’s a mountain of tempura and cake. At the corner, there are gifts neatly stacked together and if Shinobu is not holding on to her son, Inosuke would have jumped and opened the gifts already.

“Mama, you have to let me down! I want to go around.” Inosuke pouts but doesn’t do anything that would place Shinobu in discomfort. Although she could sense him getting excited over being reunited with Kanao and his grandparents aside from the food and gifts.

“Okay, I’ll let you go but promise me you’ll behave. Remember what I told.” She says sternly.

Inosuke nods, “I’ll behave.”

“Pinky promise?” Shinobu pulls out her pinky finger.

“Pinky promise.” Inosuke, out of instinct, wraps his smaller pinky around hers.

She then lets go of him and sees her son immediately being crowded by his classmates, wishing him their greetings and posing for a few pictures.  

Shinobu lets out a small chuckle and is happy how all of her son’s classmates are present along with their parents and even Gyoumei is there. 

(Overwhelmed)

The party is not as bad as she imagined it would be. Everything is going well, no body is throwing a fit, all the children as laughing and no one has yet to cry.

She’s glad that despite of her son’s impulsive and reckless tendencies, he’s gotten better at getting along with others and trying his best to behave. The Tomioka siblings really do have a good effect on him although, it only takes Inosuke around a few minutes before hiding behind Kanao and getting overwhelmed by the amount of attention he’s getting.

(Tokitou-san)

Giyuu sits at the corner as he watches his children play with the other kids. Most of them are just from the same class as them but there’s a few he didn’t recognize, perhaps they’re the children of Shinobu’s co-workers? 

He really didn’t mind, his kids are highly sociable and he’s not and that’s why he’s just sitting alone instead of trying to widen his social circle.

“You must be Shinobu’s neighbor.” A voice says and when he looks to see who it is. The first thing he notice is how those red eyes look eerily similar to his son’s, even the way he smiles looks gentle. “She talks about—“

“Tokitou-san! Iguro-san has been looking for you.” Shinobu interjects.

“He’s getting uncomfortable with the crowd, huh?” Tokitou jokes before placing a hand on Giyuu’s shoulder. “It was nice to talk to you Shinobu’s neighbor!”

Giyuu simply waves at him as a respond and looks at Shinobu for some sort of explanation.

“That was Tokitou-san, he’s my supervisor at work. He’s probably just as worried as you are with your kids.” She says and her eyes look at the group of children playing with each other.

“What do you mean?”

“Do you see those twins? They’re his kids.” She points at the two bored/shy looking children. They don’t look anything like their father, even the air around them somewhat feels reserved as compared to Tokitou who is outgoing and friendly based from their very brief talk.

“Oh. Well, they look—”

“Different?”

“Not the word I was looking for but yeah, sure.”

“Although, they do look friendly with Nezuko-chan.”

Giyuu sighs, he knows what she’s trying to imply. “My children can make everyone their friend.”

Shinobu doesn’t say anymore and just sits beside him while looking at the children.

(Happy Birthday)

The party officially ended. 

Everyone is starting to go home, waving their goodbyes and greetings again before leaving. Shinobu is finalizing some things while Inosuke slowly starts dozing off. 

She couldn’t blame him. After all, he did behaved himself and played with all his friends to his heart’s content and it’s all Shinobu could ever hope for. Scooping her dozing son, “Did you have fun today?” Shinobu asks.

Inosuke wipes the drowsiness off his face and smiles widely at her. “Yes! Thank you mama.” He then places a big kiss on Shinobu’s cheeks. 

Shinobu giggles and returns the kiss, “Don’t mention it Inosuke. I’m glad you enjoyed your birthday.”

Just as she’s going to walk their way back to the apartment. She receives a notification from an unknown number.

‘ I don’t know if you still use your old number but please show this to Inosuke and give him my regards. –Douma’

Shinobu is on the verge of pressing the delete button when he video starts to play and it catches her surprise to see a woman, who looks exactly like her son, no way, she thinks to herself, she only saw a picture of Inosuke’s real mother— Kotoha and no doubt it’s her. In her hand was a younger Inosuke, he looks like a baby in it. 

“ Happy birthday Inosuke! You’re getting big now and I know it’s only a matter of time before you’ll be able to protect yourself but until then, mommy is here for you and I love you more than anything in the world.” 

She looked so smitten and happy, her hand wrapping tightly around the much younger Inosuke. 

Shinobu begins to wonder how Douma has this video, no, better yet, what’s his relationship with Kotoha? Is he really…That would actually explain why he recognized him and if he called Inosuke ‘ his son’ then that would mean…

Chapter 18

Notes:

I'm so sorry if this took so long. I already had a draft for this chap but i lost it and now i had to write everything again ;D

(Love Problems)

Giyuu stares blankly at his cup of coffee. Not knowing what to do. It’s unusual for his friends to come knocking at his door so early in the morning with tears in their eyes.

Mitsuri is still continuing to sob despite of being welcomed in the Tomioka household for an hour ago. She apologizes in between her sobs claiming that once she could gather herself she’ll be out of Giyuu’s place.

Giyuu doesn’t mind her crashing and it’s a good thing that his kids are at his sister’s right now or else there’ll be three people he’ll trying to console instead of one. His children are particularly close with all of his workmates—especially with Mitsuri since she’s volunteered to babysit them once a while.

“I just…” Misturi hiccups and tries to take a sip of her tea but she stops mid-way to cry. “I don’t understand why Iguro-san is so…” 

“There, there.” Giyuu pats her back in a gentle way with nothing else in mind. From what he understood, Mitsuri and her boyfriend had a small fight during their date and she then walked out on him and made her way here. Giyuu doesn’t get why she went her of all places, he’s not an expert in the love department and he’s not even good at dealing with human emotions. 

(Interruption)

“Tomioka-san, sorry to barge in on you but is my food—“ Shinobu casually walks-inside the Tomioka apartment knowing full well it’s Giyuu’s day off. Though, she’s surprised to see Mitsuri with him, especially so when Mitsuri is sniffling and crying. “Oh my, what happened?”

Mitsuri is about to answer but Giyuu stops her as he gets up from the couch and asks, “What can I help you with Koucho-san?”

Shinobu stares at him momentarily and then replies, “I’m just wondering if my food container—you know the crystal one— is here. I think I left it here when we had that potluck two days ago.”

“Oh yeah, I was meaning to return it to you.” He responds and they both walk in the kitchen and return the food container. “If you need anything else, just tell me through text.” 

“Got it, I didn’t mean to interrupt you and Mitsuri-san.” She replies casually and walks out of the place.

(Second Home)

“Wow, I didn’t expect Shinobu to casually waltz in.” Mitsuri teases with a sheepish smile. “I wish I am that close with my neighbour.”

Giyuu pauses on his tracks and realizes how right Mitsuri is. As far as he could recall, Shinobu would just walk into his place like she lives here and take what she wants and vice versa. It never really occurred to him that it was weird. For him it was just normal to have that sort of relationship with his neighbour especially since they almost always see each other in a daily basis. Now that he thinks about it, some of Shinobu’s things are in his place like her ceramics, a pair of blankets and a pillow and if he can recall correctly, he left some of his plates, his kid’s toys and a bag at her place. He never really considered that Shinobu’s place is his second home.

(Sorry)

“I apologize if I took so long Iguro-san.” Shinobu says and places the food container on the kitchen isle.

“It’s fine. I should have been the one to apologize, I didn’t mean to barge in on you like this.” Obanai replies, his eyes looking away from her as if he’s ashamed. 

“Don’t be like that, you’re my friend and I would be happy to help you.” To be honest, at first she finds it surreal that Obanai contacted her asking if he could stay at her place for a while. She has no idea what happened but then when she saw his devastated face, she didn’t try to press about it.

“Thanks. I’m not intruding or anything right?”

“No, Inosuke is with my parents right now and I’m already done with my share of the monthly reports.” Shinobu then proceeds to whip out some food and beverage for the two of them. “Why? Do you intend on staying long?”

“I…” Obanai looks at her and then looks at the ground. “I don’t know. To be honest, I wasn’t even sure if contacting you was the right thing… “

Shinobu pauses momentarily and stares at him. Obanai now, looks completely different from the one she’s used to at work. The man in front of her doesn’t look uninterested and stoic with his face almost always covered with a face mask but now, she could completely see him, no mask, no façade, just a man looking completely lost and defeated.

“…I figured you’d be the right person to call since…” he continues on and pauses again.

“It’s alright, just take your time.” She gently reassures and gives him a warm cup of tea.

(In a relationship)

“I see, so you and your girlfriend had a fight and she stormed out and now you’re trying to figure out what you did wrong.” Shinobu summarizes what she’s heard from Obanai and Obanai in return simply nods in confirmation. “Hmmm… that seems a bit difficult but I really didn’t expect you to have a girlfriend. I always assumed you’re still not interested in those things.”

“Wh-what? Just because I don’t talk about those things doesn’t mean I’m not interested. I’m just a private guy and I figured you’re the right person to talk to since you’re in a relationship as well.“

Just as Shinobu’s going to point that out, there’s a gentle knock on the door, followed by it opening and, “Hey Kocho, Mitsuri says she wants to ask some advice from you.” Giyuu barges in with Mitsuri in tow.

“Kanroji-san?!”

“Iguro-san?!”

The both Shinobu and Giyuu stare at Mitsuri and Obanai just as Obanai and Mitsuri stare at each other. 

“Well… this is awkward.” Giyuu mumbles and Shinobu nods in agreement.

(Huh)

Both Giyuu and Shinobu stand outside Shinobu’s apartment as Obanai and Mitsuri cry it out and maybe squabbled a little after they snapped out from their surprise.

“You know, you can wait for them to finish crying at my place.” Giyuu offers and tries his best to ignore the loud crying and “I’m sorry”s from the inside.

“It’s fine. I’ll stay here to make sure that they don’t do something stupid or break something.” She declines and leans her head on the door. By doing so, she could see Giyuu’s face. Of all the things that could happened today, she’s actually surprise to know that Mitsuri and Obanai are together and the fact that they come to their place just to confide makes it more interesting. “You know, Iguro-san told me that the only reason he contacted me was because he thought I was in a relationship.”

“Huh, Mitsuri told me the same thing.” He replies and the two share another stare with each other before laughing it off. 

 

Chapter 19

Notes:

sorry this took so long but dont worry! i will finish this fic no matter what <3

(Family Event)

The sky is clear and the weather is beautiful for a picnic today. Giyuu looks up in the sky appreciating the beautiful of it all. He could hear his children squeal in delight as they play at the green grass.

Today is the Fire Department’s annual family gathering, the event is really not necessary but their chief believes it’s one way to build a better rapport and to ensure that everyone gets a quality time with their family.

It’s not like Giyuu hasn’t brought Tanjirou and Nezuko before but this time—

“Inosuke! Don’t run too fast.” Shinobu warns, her eyes stick closely at her son.

Giyuu’s not sure whether or not he should be happy about her being here. It’s not like he really has a say in it since Mitsuri was the one who insisted for her and Inosuke to join them.

(Thank You)

Shinobu’s feeling a bit awkward, it’s not like everyone made her feel unwelcome but rather, she feels out of place.

Everyone she sees is either Giyuu’s co-workers or their family and she’s not even sure how she’ll respond to others asking who in her family the firefighter is. Although, getting to know some of them have been a treat. She didn’t expect for their chief to be accommodating plus, it’s good to go out and relax after a tiring month.

“Shinobu! Are you enjoying the party?” Mitsuri approaches her with a big smile on her face.

Shinobu just smiles and replies, “Yes, thank you for inviting me.”

Mitsuri then holds her hand, “I should be thanking you.”

“Oh my, why?”

Mitsuri blushes and squeezes her hand tighter, “Ever since our fight, Iguro-san and I have talked a lot and now our relationship is stronger than ever!” At the corner of her eyes, Shinobu could see Obanai at the corner, smiling at her—she could tell even with his mask on. “And we only have you and Tomioka-san to be grateful for.”

“I’m glad that you and Iguro-san are doing well.”

“Don’t worry! I’ll repay the favor.” Mitsuri says with much enthusiasm.

“What?!”

(Well…)

Giyuu and Shinobu are sitting beside each other, all thanks to Mitsuri—who also happens to gather the attention of their children as well.

Giyuu has already reached his limit in terms of interacting with other people and he could tell Shinobu is too.

The air around them is a bit heavy and awkward. Giyuu looks at his kids, then back to Shinobu, “You know if you want to leave, you can.” He says after being silent for a long time.

“It’s fine…” Shinobu breathes out and Giyuu could sense something is off about her. Well, he noticed it ever since her ex appeared during their vacation but it feels like it became much worse as time goes by. How should he address it? Does he even know how to help her? Just as he opens his mouth, Shinobu says, “It’s been a year.”

“Huh?”

“Time flies by doesn’t it?” she remarks. She’s not staring at him, but rather she’s still staring at their children playing with Mitsuri and Obanai. “I can’t believe it’s been a year since we’ve met.”

Huh, has it been? Giyuu felt like it’s longer.

“Well…”

“I know it’s not much, but I really do enjoy your company Tomioka-san.” She adds and this time, she stares at him, her purple eyes looking with genuine appreciation. Giyuu might have realized this before but he’s really starting to notice how pretty Shinobu is.

“Me too…” he replies and focuses on his attention on his children so that he won’t be seen blushing.

(Favor)

As from what she’s told, occasions like the family gathering would be a whole day event with it ending in a local bar with karaoke but since she and Giyuu have young children to attend to, they withdrew themselves earlier.

Inosuke is completely tuckered out. Shinobu carries her son in her arms and notices how Inosuke is getting bigger and heavier. She can’t help but sadden by the fact that she won’t be able to continue carrying her son like this much sooner. Inosuke’s going to elementary soon and she know’s she’s not the only one feeling like this.

She stares back at Giyuu and sees the paternal contentment on his look as he listens to Tanjirou talking about his day while Nezuko nods off while slowly getting sleepy.

As they reach back to their building, Shinobu stares at Giyuu while the other slowly guides his children in to their room.

“Good night Kocho-san.” Just as Giyuu is about to close his door, Shinobu blurts out,

“Tomioka-san… wait!”

“What is it?”

“There’s a favor I want to ask of you.”

Chapter 20

Notes:

sorry if this is short, i just want to write something light before the story goes deeper T^T

(Meeting)

Uzui Tengen is normally a busy man, he has meetings left and right that he would sometimes forget to eat but that’s alright! After all he never forgot about being flamboyant, so he got no complains.

Though his surprise to get a message from his former client— Shinobu Koucho about her son’s adoption. Tengen pinches the bridge of his nose, adoption cases normally don’t have complications but he expected this.

So without another word, he agreed to meet up with her and this time, he will bring all the necessary documents in regards of Inosuke.

(Shady)

“You don’t seem well.” Giyuu comments, both him and Shinobu had decided to meet up with her lawyer at some local café a few blocks away from their apartment complex.

Shinobu let out a small chuckle, for Giyuu it doesn’t sound like her usual laugh, it felt more forced. “I’m fine, Tomioka-san, I’m just a bit nervous.”

Giyuu understands, well he’s trying anyway. Shinobu had told him about Inosuke’s past and his adoption and from what he knows, Shinobu doesn’t need to worry about anything, unless her lawyer is shady.

When they arrive at the said location, Giyuu looks around to see where to sit down.

“Tomioka-san, there.” Shinobu says and points at the shady looking man sitting at the corner.

That man looks shady, he comments internally and follows her. He’ll give the man a benefit of doubt since Shinobu speaks highly of him and as far as everyone knows, lawyers are smarter than the average person.

“Good morning Uzui-san.” Shinobu greets and takes a sit.

“Yo, Shinobu, long time no see. I see you still have that flare in you!” her lawyer, Uzui, comments.

Yep, definitely shady, Giyuu comments with finality as he seats beside Shinobu.

(Lame)

Uzui Tengen is a man of many talents. That’s why he is a successful lawyer at a young age. He would attribute half of his success with his attitude and good work ethic but he would also give props to his flamboyance, with it, he would be just a normal joe, floating among the rest.

His flamboyance made him stand out among everyone and make him much noticeable to the public and thus, he would be recommended by others more.

He also met his fair share of people and sometime he would try to encourage them to be as flamboyant as him and of course, there are others that have their own unique style. One of them is sitting in front of him right now, Shinobu, although he can’t say the same as her boyfriend.

That man looks so lame.

Notes:

comments, kudos and bookmarks are greatly appreciated!