(ryuji was going to respond, say something sentimental, something cool. but between that smile and the way ren pushes himself above ryuji and oh god, this feels like the perfect time to just lean up and kiss him.
he should focus on anything else, anything, the way ren puts so much trust in him, how ryuji was the one he went to. not ann, or makoto, or haru, all of whom would have been much better candidates for fake partners. no, ren went to ryuji because they're best friends and ryuji can't betray that bond by imagining what a good kisser akira is.
there's no controlling the blush this time, a soft pink dusting his cheeks as ryuji awkwardly looks for an out.) W-Well, y'know, best friends 'n all. Should at least be here when you need me, right?
(yeah, that is totally the reason he's going with. he'll pretend to be ren's boyfriend because he's a good friend and ren needs his help. yeah. he can totally do that.
and the only reason ren thought of him first is because they're best friends. it's not because ren was thinking of the person he liked. ryuji isn't allowing himself any room for hope, not when they've just further solidified their relationship and trust in one another. wrecking that with ryuji's more complicated feelings would only strain what they have, and he has no interest in losing the best person in his life.
after his mom, of course.
eventually, he sits up, hoping to get out of a position that will make him want to kiss ren... but that only gets them both on equal eye level, and ryuji is no further away. well. guess he'll die.
he clears his throat for what seems like no reason, just trying to get the embarrassment out of his system.) S-So... what now? We're doing this, so we gotta think up a plan.
[ When Ryuji sits up, it somehow puts them in an even closer proximity, sitting closer on the couch than friends have any right to. Part of Ren's brain tells him to close the gap; a just as sizable portion demands that he put some more space between them. In the end, though, he stays put, sinking back comfortably against the cushions. After all, this is the sort of thing that's about to become normal for them.
Ryuji sounds vaguely flustered by the whole thing, but that's a given, isn't it? It's a strange situation, and how much dating experience do either of them actually have? Ryuji talks a big game, but Ren is close enough to him to know that it's often just that. As for himself, he's always poured more time into things like school and jobs and friendships to pursue anything romantic past a few dates. The easy, natural affection that comes with a long-term relationship would be completely new to Ren.
But if he can do it with anyone, he thinks it would be Ryuji. Being around each other is already second nature. ]
Wow. I never thought you'd be the one telling me we need a plan. [ It's something light and teasing to hopefully dispel some of the nerves between them.
Ryuji is right, though. Ren leans his head back against the couch, eyes drifting thoughtfully to the ceiling. ]
I can make plans with her for us to come visit one weekend. That would give us time to practice. [ He pauses, going back to a previous idea. ] We could stage a few pictures for good measure.
(he's more than vaguely flustered, having ren so close and talking about all they'll need to do to start "dating". ryuji hates himself for it, but he just wants to know when they need to practice kissing. or touching. or what sort of dates they can plan, how to handle birthdays, holidays, if they'll still be doing this by then. ryuji, more than anything, just wants to be with ren.
it's one thing to think about being with a cute girl, it's another thing entirely to start a fake relationship with the hottest guy you know and who you dream about kissing more than any girl on the planet. yeah, ryuji's got it bad and he'll never admit it.
the banter does help settle his nerves, once it does hit him that he has, in fact, been trying to steer this disaster into some sort of plan to help cover all their bases. he chuckles quietly, collapsing back on the couch.) Because for once, you didn't. Looks like the leader lost his cool.
(it's not as big of a deal as ryuji makes it out to be, since it was something bound to happen at one point or another. despite how ren seems, ryuji knows there's only so far his patience can take him. no one can be perfectly cool and collected all the time, they'd snap. like ren did.
really, though, ryuji is a little glad ren was able to snap and make some bad choices. having to constantly know which choice is the best one can be frustrating, and if ryuji can ease a little of that burden, he'll do it no questions.
while ren is looking at the ceiling, ryuji occasionally steals sidelong glances, for no reason other than he just wants to see ren's face.) Okay, that's the thing I got questions about. When you say "stage pictures", do you mean like fake dates? Or us just hanging out in our apartment? Posting anywhere?
[ Ren allows a sidelong look of his own at the questions, leaving his head leaned back as he does so. ]
Either's fine as long as they look natural. [ As for the last part, though... ] We don't have to post them anywhere.
[ It's not like Ren's parents are on social media, after all, and he doesn't want to make things weird for Ryuji by posting pictures that make them look like a couple. Ren doesn't intend for this to leave any lasting impression on Ryuji's love life. It's enough that he's going out of his way to help like this; they don't need to do anything that will raise questions with Ryuji's friends or potential suitors.
There's just... something about that thought that bothers him. Ren pushes it down and continues on. ]
I could send them or we could just show them while we're there. [ It should be easy enough to have what they've been up to surface in conversation, and oh, Ren even has a picture, would they like to see? The months of telling smooth lies as a Phantom Thief prepared him for that much, at least.
Now, they just need some scenarios that would clearly imply dating. ]
Maybe something like a date at Destinyland? We can even get matching headbands... [ Okay, maybe he just wants to see Ryuji in one again. The last memory of it was pretty severely soured, after all. ]
(he lets out a quiet sigh of relief at not having to actually post anything. his mother isn't as avid on social media as ryuji is, but she does occasionally check up on him to make sure she isn't missing anything big. and her seeing their "relationship" would only complicate matters when it would inevitably end. she'd be crushed.
almost as much as ryuji is going to be. but that little part of ryuji... he wants it to be public, to be real. more than anything.
to make conversation easier, he turns on the couch to fully face ren, fist resting against his head while his face scrunches up in thought.) Mmm... sending them sounds kinda like how you said it'd be for introducing me. Y'know, them just thinking you're trying to prove something?
(but all of a sudden, he shoots up to an oddly straight posture, snapping his fingers and waving his hand animatedly as he tries to make a point.) Oh! What if we stage pics and put 'em around the apartment? That way when she visits, she can see the proof without us having to shove it at her.
(broke: tricking ren's mom into buying their relationship
woke: ryuji gets to see pictures of him dating ren every day
he tries not to wince at the suggestion of destinyland, already remembering things he'd rather not. but this time has to be different, right? the phantom thieves are done. there's no risk of mental breakdowns or live television murders.
think happy thoughts. ren wearing one of the headbands. ren picking one out for ryuji.
ren. just ren.) Okay, but if I find out you posted it to the group chat, I'm breaking up with you.
(he wouldn't, he'd never, he can't. his talk is big but his walk is weak shit.) Man, I gotta be honest. I dunno what couples really do. They say sappy shit, kiss a lot, that's kinda the extent of my knowledge. Don't tell anyone.
[ There's a thoughtful hum, a much more mild reaction to the idea than Ryuji's, though Ren's eyes are bright as he agrees. ] That's a better idea.
[ Ryuji is right that it would seem more natural that way. They wouldn't need to overdo it, either. Just a few placed around the apartment would probably be enough to sell it.
That he agrees to go along with the date idea brings out a smile. Even without the pretense of it being a date, Ren knows that he and Ryuji would have a good time going there together. Ride some roller coasters, eat some severely overpriced theme park food, watch the fireworks together before catching a late train home.
... Maybe that does sound like a date, after all. This might be even easier than he thought. ]
Don't worry, I'll only make it my phone wallpaper.
[ Ren turns into a similar position to face Ryuji, twirling a curl of hair around his finger with a mock-innocent look that melts away with the following admission. ]
I don't know that well either. [ It's not something he's ever experienced himself, but he's read books and seen plenty of romance flicks with Ann, enough that he thinks he can piece something convincing together. ] But we'll figure it out. That's what the practice is for.
(oh, and he's trying not to let the praise make his heart swell too much. he's always weak to that, ren giving him praise for whatever reason, no matter how casual it is. there's a lot to unpack there, and it's certainly not something ryuji can think about when they're concocting schemes to trick ren's mother.
it's a little sad in a way, that ryuji is already mentally planning which pictures should go where. fancy date nights should be in more public areas, like the sitting room, but close and casual ones should be kept in the study, where you only go if you have a purpose.
and now that they're apparently planning a date (a date) to destinyland, ryuji is absolutely dragging ren to a corny photobooth, desiring nothing more than a string of photos to keep inside his wallet at all times.
for the facade, of course. no other reason.
but then ren teases about making it his wallpaper and oh god, that's a perfect thought, ren keeping a personal photo of ryuji on him, something he'd no doubt look at every day. and it gives him ideas.) Y'know... that's not a bad idea. Couples do that shit, right? Wallpapers of each other.
(ryuji says as if he doesn't have a locked photo album on his phone of ren smiling that he looks at whenever life starts to crush him.
a smile grows on his face as ren reassures him that they'll work it out. they've faced the most twisted desires known to man, greed, lust, god complexes, literal gods. how hard can it be to trick a mom?) That actually makes me feel a little better. You're always so... well, cool. If you said you had like ten girlfriends in high school, I'd have believed you.
(but that does make him think... ren is undeniably popular. he managed to create a diehard team of friends who'd risk their lives for each other on a daily basis. half of whom are girls.
very beautiful, successful girls.
any one of them would have been a superior candidate for a fake partner. they're all beautiful, intelligent, strong, capable, already have their lives planned out. or mostly do. but ryuji? he's still treading water, struggling to figure out his place once again.
his face falls slightly as his thoughts run rampant once again. he's gone back and forth on dating ren so many times, ryuji isn't sure if he'll even be able to go through with it at this rate.) But... are you sure you wanna do this with me? You've got friends like Ann and Makoto. They've both got way more going for 'em than I do. Hell, you just gotta say you know Haru and that'll please your parents probably for the rest of your life.
(he rubs the back of his neck, a nervous habit he's never dropped, along with the fast tapping of his foot.) You can always just back out from me. Aim a little higher. That's never been a problem for you. (he laughs, lighthearted and teasing, but he's bracing for heartbreak once ren realizes there's better options for fake partners.)
[ Ryuji's comment is flattering, really. Maybe he was trying to be cool back during his year in Shujin (a new life and a failed first impression—why wouldn't he try to exude a better aura?), but a lot of it was just incidental. Perhaps being a nationally known thief off school hours adds a certain swagger to one's step. Making friends with a bunch of older women and an ex-yakuza member probably helped, too.
But Ren's face falls as Ryuji continues. Well, maybe not falls, but it shifts into the neutral default that he typically wears, the one he allows his emotions to shine through more often with Ryuji. ]
I'm not going back on this. I made up my mind.
[ It once again begs the question, though, of why his mind never considered any of their other friends before it hopped right to Ryuji, without even looking back. And now that their qualifications as partners are being brought up… Ren still doesn't feel like he could've made any other choice that than the one he did. ]
Besides… Ann is the worst actress I've ever met. [ He loves her, but… really. ] Makoto would just tell me to handle it properly. [ Plus they already pretended to date once before to get information on her friend's boyfriend. Asking to reprise that would probably give off the wrong impression. ] And Haru would be even more unbelievable. [ They'd love her, but nabbing the heiress of a fast food fortune would be an even harder sell than dating Ryuji.
But most importantly: ] What's wrong with dating you, anyway? You're honest and hard-working. And I've seen how much you do for your mom. You're a good son. Anyone would be lucky to date you, Ryuji.
[ Ren deflates a little after he wraps up the sentence. It's—a lot more than he usually says in one go, but seeing Ryuji put himself down gets him riled up. Why can't he see himself the way Ren sees him? ]
(there's a conviction in the way ren speaks, one ryuji has only ever heard with joker. the way he talks as if not only was ryuji the best choice, but the only choice ren wanted to go with.
and ryuji really does not want to even think about how excited this gets him. it's not every day he gets praise like this, especially from ren, who's offering it so openly and freely. blood rushes straight to his face, getting him bright red and burning hot within moments and leaving ryuji completely unable to look ren in the eye.
by this point, ryuji can't even care how much his heart will get broken by the end of their "relationship". ren is here, right now, praising ryuji in a way he never has. it's got him completely wrapped around ren's finger, willing to do anything and everything for him.
he keeps his face hidden, turned away as he rubs the back of his neck and tries not to smile too hard. but he is.) J-Jeez, why don't you tell me how you really feel.
(it's all he can say on the matter, too worried that if ren keeps going, ryuji won't be able to hide his feelings anymore. and won't that just make everything awful.
but he figures the least he can do is ease any concerns ren might be having, despite ryuji spending most of their conversation assuring ren he's down with this.
plus, it's just good manners to return a compliment.) You're not a bad catch yourself. I can think of way worse people to fake date, and at least it'll be fun with you.
Ren is still a little wary, under the surface. The fact that he questioned the arrangement a couple of times despite the reassurances and seemed to be showing some of his nervous tics implies that there might still be some hang-up over it there. For now, though, he can take it at face value.
That means allowing a teasing grin to peek through. ] That's so sweet, honey.
[ The endearment falls from his lips easily, playful, maybe because it's something he has no intention of utilizing in their fake dating charade. They don't seem like the type to use such stereotypical pet names with each other, especially in front of other people. ]
It'll be so fun, I'll ruin you for all future fake boyfriends. [ This friendly banter is familiar. Ren settles into it, pushing his glasses up his nose to hide the glint in his eye. ]
(he's still plenty wary, a nagging little voice in his head telling him this can only end badly. but who gives a shit? ren is here, telling ryuji he'd be an amazing boyfriend to anyone, how wonderful of a person he is. why wouldn't he agree to anything ren says after this?
especially when ren is being dumb and calling him honey. it's sickeningly sweet and stupid all at once, and though ryuji tries to keep his laughter bottled up, a few muffled chuckles breaking out, it's only moments before he's clutching his sides, laughter echoing through the room.) D-Dude, did you seriously just call me honey?
(he doesn't mean to laugh as loud and full bodied as he is, but with everything pent up inside him, plus ren delivering that line with his usual monotone voice leaves him in stitches.
ryuji isn't quite sure if he even liked it or not, not sure if that's going to be a thing when they get the actual relationship going. what he knows for sure is ren calling ryuji's own name gets a much stronger reaction from him.
his laughter dies down after a while, his face still flushed, a smile plastered on his face and refusing to go anywhere. shining just for ren. just because of ren.
and it's more than a relief to know despite the weird change in their lives, ren is still willing to banter with ryuji. still tease, make shitty jokes. nothing is really changing. what was he so worried about?) You're going to spoil me, and anytime someone needs me for fake dating, it just won't be the same.
[ Somehow, with Ryuji cracking up, it's even easier to adopt a deadpan expression, though it eventually cracks as the laughter continues on. The brightness in Ryuji's eyes just confirms that he chose the right person to be his partner in this scheme. It really will be fun, even if it's going to be a serious test of his own patience and restraint. ]
It'll be the fake romance of a lifetime. [ With a soft laugh, he turns, leaning back against the cushions again. Whatever happens, it'll be memorable, won't it?
Ren's gaze flickers over the television, not quite paying attention to what's happening on the screen when his brain is too busy trying to lay out the skeleton of this plan they've entered into together. ]
Really, though... No weird pet names. [ That would give them right away.
And that brings to mind another point, something they should probably discuss before they actually get into any of this: ] Actually... Is there anything you definitely don't want to do or say? We should get that out in the open right now.
[ The last thing he wants to do is make Ryuji uncomfortable by taking it too far at the wrong time. ]
(his laughter eventually begins to die down, jokingly giving ren a shove as he keeps the joke going. it's easy, it's comfortable, it all calms his raging nerves about pretending to date the guy he's in love with. he can always freak out about it later, but for now, ryuji might as well just take it in stride.
ryuji is ignoring the show altogether at this point, his focus solely on ren, giving him another playful nudge.) I'm still calling you Renren. You can't take that away from me.
(ren bringing up the topic of boundaries, however, gets ryuji to stiffen a little bit. there's nothing ryuji can imagine saying 'no' to, welcoming any touch or sweet phrase. even if he's not sure ren is the type to whisper sweet nothings in his ear. is ryuji the type to want those? man, fake dating is hard.
he scratches the back of his neck while his face scrunches up in thought. they aren't really things he wants to bring up, but...) I mean... I guess all I can say is my dad 'n Kamoshida? I know you'd never bring those up on your own, I don't mean it like that. Just that... people always bring it back to my mom, yeah? They can say whatever shit they want about me, but not my mom.
(he hunches over a bit, worried how all of this could affect her in the long run. she's never pressured him to get a partner or anything like that, but he's seen the looks in her eyes whenever he hangs out with the girls.) I wanna avoid getting my mom involved in this, if I can.
[ As if he would ever take away the nickname Ryuji gave him so long ago. It was the first time they really connected over something, wasn't it? Besides, it's the kind of cute but personal thing that might actually help their case.
Ren's expression darkens slightly at the mention of Kamoshida and Ryuji's father. He knows those topics are off limits, but it's the sort of thing that his parents might bring up in conversation, wanting to hear about Ryuji's parents or his perspective on the scandal that went down at Shujin. He knows they wouldn't pursue it in a malicious way, but they have a hard time reading the room, and both topics tend to spark Ryuji's temper and tank his mood.
It's a recipe for disaster, really, but one Ren is prepared to mitigate as needed. ] Alright. If those come up, let me handle it.
[ A little more surprising is Ryuji's preference to keep his mother out of this… completely? She's always been more accepting than the average parent, so Ren can't imagine she would be that bothered by their arrangement if she knew the reasoning behind it. But perhaps Ryuji knows something he doesn't, and Ren will be damned if he's not going to respect his best friend's wishes. ]
We'll keep your mom out of it, too. [ Ren reassures him of that fact with a smile and briefly considers grabbing Ryuji's hand along with it to practice the gesture. Something about it feels like the right moment, but there's a little voice in the back of his head telling him not to cheapen a serious conversation. He crosses his arms over his front to contain the urge. ] Then we're good?
(that's one thing he'll be forever grateful for, ren complying with whatever ryuji needs, no questions or complaints. he's never once poked or prodded ryuji for an answer, or demanded an explanation for why he felt a certain way or did something. ren has always lets ryuji be himself, without any need to change who he is or have to validate his existence in some way. from the start, ryuji felt completely and wholly accepted by ren for everything he is.
he lets out a sigh of relief, unaware of just how emotional he can get just from thinking about his dad and kamoshida. his heart is almost pounding out of his chest, only by memory.
but with ren here, being by his side, and most importantly, understanding with no need for ryuji to even say a word. his head falls against ren's shoulder, trying to hide how boiled he can get from thinking about the two people who did everything they could to ruin ryuji's life. ren has always been a calming presence for him, and now is no different.) Thank you.
(even better is ren deciding to take charge, should the topics ever become a problem. they both know ryuji would never be able to handle either of those discussions rationally, too emotionally involved in both of them to ever really remain calm.
the urge to just curl up next to ren in silence, and just stay that way for the rest of the day is strong. he feels like home. he's always made ryuji feel at home. welcome.) Yeah. We're good.
(he takes a deep breath, to steady himself, stop himself from getting too amped up over something that hasn't even happened yet. no need to get anxious or short tempered about how ren's parents will react when they haven't even met.
he stays where he is, resting against ren and making no move to get up. not that he would ever want to.) If I had to do something like this with anyone... I'm glad it's you. You're not making me change anything about who I am. I feel like if it was anyone else, even the others, they'd... I dunno, want answers or reasons. But not you. I guess it's just... it feels like you look at me and think I'm fine the way I am. That hasn't changed from Shujin, I still feel so free when I'm with you. Even like this.
The tip of Ryuji's head onto his shoulder is a gesture that fills him with soft contentment, the feeling radiating from somewhere in his chest. He's glad that he could put to rest that worry that tightened Ryuji's frame moments ago. And well, he kind of expects that to be it—maybe they'll go back to watching some TV and then figure out how to tackle this tomorrow?
But Ryuji speaks up again, and even if the sentiment is one that he's shared in the past, hearing those words spoken so openly makes Ren freeze up a little.
Shouldn't he be the one saying this? Isn't it Ryuji who's always taken him as he is, no judgments? Even from his first day at Shujin. When he learned about Ren being on probation, he listened and never once doubted his story, never believed any of the gossip going around the halls. That loyalty has never wavered after all this time.
Thankfully, the color tinging his cheeks probably isn't visible from where Ryuji's head is on his shoulder. ]
That's because I do think you're fine the way you are.
[ There's a pause before he lets his head tilt to rest against Ryuji's in turn. Blond hair tickles at his cheek, summoning a smile. ]
Maybe that's why I feel like it has to be you. Because you won't try to be someone else.
(ren's words have always managed to shake ryuji down to his very core, like there's a weight to them only ryuji can understand. just those few simple words, and ryuji's feeling better than he ever has. and that's all it ever takes, a single honest line from ren to make ryuji feel like he's worth the world.
his self esteem has bolstered a bit since high school, but not nearly enough that he can walk around with the confidence ren does. always the butt of a joke, the idiot, a delinquent, someone was always firing a comment about ways ryuji should change.
except ren.
ren saw him at his worst, repeatedly, and yet he never backed away in shame, never made some snide comment about ryuji's grades or temper or attitude. ren always just let ryuji be... himself. and now to hear that ren thinks ryuji should stay exactly as he is...
well, he's not fighting back any tears, but there is a lump of emotion in his throat. it's only let out in a quiet, yet audible enough gasp to be heard by ren, being so close and now resting his head back against ryuji's.
they're veering into territory the boys rarely visit, vulnerable and open, laid completely bare in their trust for each other. literally resting their weight against each other for support and comfort at the same time. ryuji wars internally with himself for what seems like ages, should he be more upfront, more open, take advantage of the moment and steal a kiss or a touch. or would it be best to play it safe, keep things as they are, not disrupt the precious... whatever it is they have now?
fuck it. this fake relationship won't move itself along. mustering what seems to be every ounce of his courage, ryuji reaches over to take ren's hand in his without letting himself second guess the decision. it's not as though they've never held hands before. they've high fived, grabbed each other out of dangerous situations, or just plain running down the street like a couple of kids.
but this is different, so different. it's quiet and intimate and only theirs. ryuji's cheeks are a shade of red to even counter panther's outfit, so he strategically keeps his head down.) ... shit. I was gonna try and, I dunno, say something cool back. But I don't know what to say.
(he laughs, quietly, almost to himself.) I never hear anyone say that about me.
A hand slips into his, palm warm against his own. Well then, it seems like Ryuji is committed to taking their fake relationship to the next level already. There's a joke on the tip of his tongue about moving fast, but it doesn't suit the moment, would only be a deflection from the honest emotions being laid out. Ren saves it for another time and simply clasps his hand against Ryuji's in return, trying not to dwell on how nothing about it feels fake. ]
Doesn't make it any less true. [ If people can't see him for who he is, that's their loss.
Although, if the praise draws out those soft little gasps and laughs, Ren does wish Ryuji would be on the receiving end of such appreciation more often. ]
... Thanks, by the way. For helping me out with this. [ He forgot to say it before, but it seems even more appropriate now. Fingers lace through Ryuji's, and he finally feels like his facial situation is under enough control that he can lift his head and glance over. ]
(everything about the moment just feels so right. resting against each other, hand in hand, a sense of tranquility for them to both open their hearts. ryuji would give anything for this all to be real, something concrete and structured. but he knows better than to push his luck, and even being able to be this close to ren is more than he ever thought he could have.) Shit, I must've done something real good to have you in my life.
(it's like it all just comes so naturally to ren, the way he can make ryuji feel on top of the world, how he can reaffirm ryuji's importance in his life without batting an eye.
meanwhile, it took all of ryuji's courage just to tell ren he's the best friend he could ask for.
feeling his own blush has died down enough, ryuji pulls away, but only just enough to raise his head and smile at ren. still needing to be close, for that comfort.) Dude, I'm your best friend. Of course I'll fake it as your boyfriend.
(not that normal best friends do things even remotely close to that, but ryuji doesn't want to think too hard on the implications of that.) I'm gonna make this so much fun for you, it'll make our time as the Phantom Thieves feel like a school afternoon.
[ Their faces are close enough that Ren has to consciously try to make himself less aware of that fact. He can pick up on Ryuji's scent, identify the different colored flecks in his irises, feel the warmth of his skin still radiating out. It's all a little intoxicating, in a way that draws out a smile a little more goofy than he's prone to.
He should really release Ryuji's hand and put some space between them, but this is his fake boyfriend now, and Ren will be damned if he isn't going to let himself bask in that for a moment. ]
That's big talk, Ryuji. I'm expecting the best date of my life now.
[ Truthfully, it wouldn't come as a surprise if Ryuji managed to nab that title. They never have anything less than a great time going out together. He's had some good dates, but slap the label on one of those and it will probably take the cake. And that's without Ryuji even trying to impress.
But a date is a while off, something to do when they have a mutually free day. There are other things they can hammer out right now. ]
Before we worry about that, though... We should get our story straight.
(ryuji tries to maintain a one track mind, focus on what ren is saying, how they should work on planning it out, but whenever he tries to think about anything else, his thoughts just come racing back to how much he wants to pin ren to the couch and kiss him until they're both breathless. those thoughts are even harder to ignore when ren puts actual expectations on ryuji. it's perfectly likely that ren is simply joking around with him again. it's not as though they haven't been joking since this all started.
he doesn't want to, god he doesn't want to break away from ren, but if he doesn't put at least some distance between them, he'll cross a line. and that's one thing he refuses to do during their "relationship". ryuji releases his hand from ren's, and he could cry at the loss of contact, even more so when he leans back on the couch, away from ren with his arms crossed and a smirk on his face.) You know me, man, I'd never let you down like that.
(and he doesn't plan to. even if this is all fake, if it all comes crashing down someday, ryuji wants to give ren something to remember. he at least hopes ren can look back on his time with ryuji and smile, because of ryuji.
at the notion of needing a cover story, ryuji rests his head in one hand, while the other taps idly on his knee. he's only slightly nervous, hoping his personal feelings won't somehow get in the way and cause him to slip up.) Right, right... did you already have anything in mind? Like how long we been dating 'n shit?
[ Realistically, this part should be difficult—coming up with a convincing story and laying out all of the details so that they can corroborate it on the spot, should they need to. But when Ryuji poses the question, Ren finds that he doesn't have to dig all that deep to find an answer. ]
How about… four months? [ It's long enough that it's not just a silly fling, short enough that it's realistic for Ren's parents to only be learning about it now. ] But we can say that we've liked each other since high school.
[ Maybe that's a bit too on the nose for him, personally. It's still all too easy to recall that time at the ramen shop in Ogikubo, the way his heart rate sped up for what wasn't the first time around Ryuji but first time that he knew he was seeing his best friend as something more than a best friend. Ryuji's speech about how free he felt with Ren resonated in just the right way to open his eyes to his own feelings. ]
We just didn't realize it's mutual until recently. [ Wouldn't that be nice? Ren couldn't have anticipated the way his heart gives a little squeeze as he voices a desire that he wouldn't be able to under any other circumstances. There's no way he could go and make this uncomfortable for Ryuji like that. ] We should probably decide how we figured it out…
(while ryuji had a feeling a lot of thought would be necessary for their story, it doesn't strike him just how much until ren starts laying it all out there. it's already evident he's been planning this out longer than ryuji, though that's no surprise. and part of him wants to just leave the whole thing to ren, not have to bother helping out with the lie.
but he also knows if they don't have their stories straight from the start, it'll only cause more trouble down the line.) Uh... yeah, four months since crushin' since high school sounds good. Normal, I guess, too.
(at least it won't all be a lie that way. those days of sitting elbow to elbow at their favorite ramen shop, talking about anything and everything, still get ryuji's heart to skip a beat. sure, it's nothing compared to now, seeing ren every morning, making breakfast together, ren fresh out of the shower--
his less than innocent thoughts are certainly going to get worse now.
realizing that this involves much more planning and lying than ryuji originally anticipated, there's a groan of exhaustion on his end. it's like homework. can't he just say he loves ren and have that be enough? it's partly out of annoyance, but also knowing none of it is really how they got together, if they ever would. so ryuji instead opts to do what he does best.
snap.) Damn, I can't take this.
(it's grumbled, almost quietly to himself, before turning to face ren, with the same severity as when he spoke about what's off limits.) I love you. I have since high school. You're the only person who's been with me through every shitty thing, and never turned your back on me. I love you, and I'm not goin' around pretendin' I don't anymore.
(he pauses, long enough to let it all linger, waiting to see how it all settles. then, ryuji nods, confident and sure, his arms crossed behind him as he casually lays back.) Yeah, I think that should do it. I've snapped for less, that should be enough for your parents. We'll just tell 'em that happened.
[ As calm and collected of a person as Ren is, the sudden outburst almost bowls him over with its intensity. Confusion and worry flood in as his eyebrows knit together. Did he take it a step too far? Was Ryuji only trying to humor him in the name of being a good friend? Before, the possibility that Ryuji is helping out of friendly obligation seemed unrealistic, unlike him—but could that really be the case?
He can't anticipate what follows.
I love you.
The words ring in his head so loud that it's a miracle he picks up on the rest of what's being said. Luckily for Ren, his shock is so overwhelming that it almost doesn't manifest on his face. His lips part as the air leaves him, and he stares blankly as he tries to process what's coming out of Ryuji's mouth.
A confession. It's a confession, and the conviction behind it is almost tangible, so intense that Ren could never imagine this being a ruse.
I love you, too.
The words are rising up his throat when Ryuji's demeanor suddenly changes, sending them plummeting back down, a heavy and uncomfortable weight in the pit of his stomach. Oh. When did Ryuji become such a good actor? Ren thought he's been paying attention to all of Ryuji's personal growth, but he guesses he overlooked that part.
Ren's jaw snaps shut, lips pressing into a thin line as he pushes his glasses up the bridge of his nose, an excuse for his hand to obscure his expression. ]
Pretty convincing. [ It was enough to fool him, and he was the one to suggest the plan. ] That should definitely work.
[ Why did he let his mind go there so easily? His actual feelings for Ryuji shouldn't even be a factor in this. ]
(that was easily the most terrifying thing ryuji sakamoto has ever done.
fighting shadows and trying to change the hearts of corrupt adults has nothing on telling his best friend he's been massively in love with him for years, even if it's just an act.
but it's not an act. it never has been and it never will. he'll tell himself over and over that all of this is just for show, it's fake, it means nothing. but it means everything to ryuji. his confession isn't even as long as he would have liked it to be, so much more he wants to tell ren and thank him for.
managing to get that confession out, laying himself bare for ren, gives ryuji a sense of accomplishment for it all. now he knows he'll be able to do it, and not just for purposes of lying to ren's parents. ryuji doesn't allow himself to be hopeful, dreaming that ren could possibly return the feelings, but the desire to be honest, to give his heart to ren is always going to be there.
seeing ren push his glasses up, the way he does when he's being clever, plotting something, only reassures ryuji that he's on the right track. and not that he just broke ren's heart.
there's a smile on his face when he speaks again, listing off every point with his fingers.) So... we've been in love with each other since high school. I confessed 'cause I didn't wanna lie anymore, and now we've been datin' for four months. Anything we're missing?
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he should focus on anything else, anything, the way ren puts so much trust in him, how ryuji was the one he went to. not ann, or makoto, or haru, all of whom would have been much better candidates for fake partners. no, ren went to ryuji because they're best friends and ryuji can't betray that bond by imagining what a good kisser akira is.
there's no controlling the blush this time, a soft pink dusting his cheeks as ryuji awkwardly looks for an out.) W-Well, y'know, best friends 'n all. Should at least be here when you need me, right?
(yeah, that is totally the reason he's going with. he'll pretend to be ren's boyfriend because he's a good friend and ren needs his help. yeah. he can totally do that.
and the only reason ren thought of him first is because they're best friends. it's not because ren was thinking of the person he liked. ryuji isn't allowing himself any room for hope, not when they've just further solidified their relationship and trust in one another. wrecking that with ryuji's more complicated feelings would only strain what they have, and he has no interest in losing the best person in his life.
after his mom, of course.
eventually, he sits up, hoping to get out of a position that will make him want to kiss ren... but that only gets them both on equal eye level, and ryuji is no further away. well. guess he'll die.
he clears his throat for what seems like no reason, just trying to get the embarrassment out of his system.) S-So... what now? We're doing this, so we gotta think up a plan.
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Ryuji sounds vaguely flustered by the whole thing, but that's a given, isn't it? It's a strange situation, and how much dating experience do either of them actually have? Ryuji talks a big game, but Ren is close enough to him to know that it's often just that. As for himself, he's always poured more time into things like school and jobs and friendships to pursue anything romantic past a few dates. The easy, natural affection that comes with a long-term relationship would be completely new to Ren.
But if he can do it with anyone, he thinks it would be Ryuji. Being around each other is already second nature. ]
Wow. I never thought you'd be the one telling me we need a plan. [ It's something light and teasing to hopefully dispel some of the nerves between them.
Ryuji is right, though. Ren leans his head back against the couch, eyes drifting thoughtfully to the ceiling. ]
I can make plans with her for us to come visit one weekend. That would give us time to practice. [ He pauses, going back to a previous idea. ] We could stage a few pictures for good measure.
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it's one thing to think about being with a cute girl, it's another thing entirely to start a fake relationship with the hottest guy you know and who you dream about kissing more than any girl on the planet. yeah, ryuji's got it bad and he'll never admit it.
the banter does help settle his nerves, once it does hit him that he has, in fact, been trying to steer this disaster into some sort of plan to help cover all their bases. he chuckles quietly, collapsing back on the couch.) Because for once, you didn't. Looks like the leader lost his cool.
(it's not as big of a deal as ryuji makes it out to be, since it was something bound to happen at one point or another. despite how ren seems, ryuji knows there's only so far his patience can take him. no one can be perfectly cool and collected all the time, they'd snap. like ren did.
really, though, ryuji is a little glad ren was able to snap and make some bad choices. having to constantly know which choice is the best one can be frustrating, and if ryuji can ease a little of that burden, he'll do it no questions.
while ren is looking at the ceiling, ryuji occasionally steals sidelong glances, for no reason other than he just wants to see ren's face.) Okay, that's the thing I got questions about. When you say "stage pictures", do you mean like fake dates? Or us just hanging out in our apartment? Posting anywhere?
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Either's fine as long as they look natural. [ As for the last part, though... ] We don't have to post them anywhere.
[ It's not like Ren's parents are on social media, after all, and he doesn't want to make things weird for Ryuji by posting pictures that make them look like a couple. Ren doesn't intend for this to leave any lasting impression on Ryuji's love life. It's enough that he's going out of his way to help like this; they don't need to do anything that will raise questions with Ryuji's friends or potential suitors.
There's just... something about that thought that bothers him. Ren pushes it down and continues on. ]
I could send them or we could just show them while we're there. [ It should be easy enough to have what they've been up to surface in conversation, and oh, Ren even has a picture, would they like to see? The months of telling smooth lies as a Phantom Thief prepared him for that much, at least.
Now, they just need some scenarios that would clearly imply dating. ]
Maybe something like a date at Destinyland? We can even get matching headbands... [ Okay, maybe he just wants to see Ryuji in one again. The last memory of it was pretty severely soured, after all. ]
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almost as much as ryuji is going to be. but that little part of ryuji... he wants it to be public, to be real. more than anything.
to make conversation easier, he turns on the couch to fully face ren, fist resting against his head while his face scrunches up in thought.) Mmm... sending them sounds kinda like how you said it'd be for introducing me. Y'know, them just thinking you're trying to prove something?
(but all of a sudden, he shoots up to an oddly straight posture, snapping his fingers and waving his hand animatedly as he tries to make a point.) Oh! What if we stage pics and put 'em around the apartment? That way when she visits, she can see the proof without us having to shove it at her.
(broke: tricking ren's mom into buying their relationship
woke: ryuji gets to see pictures of him dating ren every day
he tries not to wince at the suggestion of destinyland, already remembering things he'd rather not. but this time has to be different, right? the phantom thieves are done. there's no risk of mental breakdowns or live television murders.
think happy thoughts. ren wearing one of the headbands. ren picking one out for ryuji.
ren. just ren.) Okay, but if I find out you posted it to the group chat, I'm breaking up with you.
(he wouldn't, he'd never, he can't. his talk is big but his walk is weak shit.) Man, I gotta be honest. I dunno what couples really do. They say sappy shit, kiss a lot, that's kinda the extent of my knowledge. Don't tell anyone.
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[ Ryuji is right that it would seem more natural that way. They wouldn't need to overdo it, either. Just a few placed around the apartment would probably be enough to sell it.
That he agrees to go along with the date idea brings out a smile. Even without the pretense of it being a date, Ren knows that he and Ryuji would have a good time going there together. Ride some roller coasters, eat some severely overpriced theme park food, watch the fireworks together before catching a late train home.
... Maybe that does sound like a date, after all. This might be even easier than he thought. ]
Don't worry, I'll only make it my phone wallpaper.
[ Ren turns into a similar position to face Ryuji, twirling a curl of hair around his finger with a mock-innocent look that melts away with the following admission. ]
I don't know that well either. [ It's not something he's ever experienced himself, but he's read books and seen plenty of romance flicks with Ann, enough that he thinks he can piece something convincing together. ] But we'll figure it out. That's what the practice is for.
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it's a little sad in a way, that ryuji is already mentally planning which pictures should go where. fancy date nights should be in more public areas, like the sitting room, but close and casual ones should be kept in the study, where you only go if you have a purpose.
and now that they're apparently planning a date (a date) to destinyland, ryuji is absolutely dragging ren to a corny photobooth, desiring nothing more than a string of photos to keep inside his wallet at all times.
for the facade, of course. no other reason.
but then ren teases about making it his wallpaper and oh god, that's a perfect thought, ren keeping a personal photo of ryuji on him, something he'd no doubt look at every day. and it gives him ideas.) Y'know... that's not a bad idea. Couples do that shit, right? Wallpapers of each other.
(ryuji says as if he doesn't have a locked photo album on his phone of ren smiling that he looks at whenever life starts to crush him.
a smile grows on his face as ren reassures him that they'll work it out. they've faced the most twisted desires known to man, greed, lust, god complexes, literal gods. how hard can it be to trick a mom?) That actually makes me feel a little better. You're always so... well, cool. If you said you had like ten girlfriends in high school, I'd have believed you.
(but that does make him think... ren is undeniably popular. he managed to create a diehard team of friends who'd risk their lives for each other on a daily basis. half of whom are girls.
very beautiful, successful girls.
any one of them would have been a superior candidate for a fake partner. they're all beautiful, intelligent, strong, capable, already have their lives planned out. or mostly do. but ryuji? he's still treading water, struggling to figure out his place once again.
his face falls slightly as his thoughts run rampant once again. he's gone back and forth on dating ren so many times, ryuji isn't sure if he'll even be able to go through with it at this rate.) But... are you sure you wanna do this with me? You've got friends like Ann and Makoto. They've both got way more going for 'em than I do. Hell, you just gotta say you know Haru and that'll please your parents probably for the rest of your life.
(he rubs the back of his neck, a nervous habit he's never dropped, along with the fast tapping of his foot.) You can always just back out from me. Aim a little higher. That's never been a problem for you. (he laughs, lighthearted and teasing, but he's bracing for heartbreak once ren realizes there's better options for fake partners.)
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But Ren's face falls as Ryuji continues. Well, maybe not falls, but it shifts into the neutral default that he typically wears, the one he allows his emotions to shine through more often with Ryuji. ]
I'm not going back on this. I made up my mind.
[ It once again begs the question, though, of why his mind never considered any of their other friends before it hopped right to Ryuji, without even looking back. And now that their qualifications as partners are being brought up… Ren still doesn't feel like he could've made any other choice that than the one he did. ]
Besides… Ann is the worst actress I've ever met. [ He loves her, but… really. ] Makoto would just tell me to handle it properly. [ Plus they already pretended to date once before to get information on her friend's boyfriend. Asking to reprise that would probably give off the wrong impression. ] And Haru would be even more unbelievable. [ They'd love her, but nabbing the heiress of a fast food fortune would be an even harder sell than dating Ryuji.
But most importantly: ] What's wrong with dating you, anyway? You're honest and hard-working. And I've seen how much you do for your mom. You're a good son. Anyone would be lucky to date you, Ryuji.
[ Ren deflates a little after he wraps up the sentence. It's—a lot more than he usually says in one go, but seeing Ryuji put himself down gets him riled up. Why can't he see himself the way Ren sees him? ]
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and ryuji really does not want to even think about how excited this gets him. it's not every day he gets praise like this, especially from ren, who's offering it so openly and freely. blood rushes straight to his face, getting him bright red and burning hot within moments and leaving ryuji completely unable to look ren in the eye.
by this point, ryuji can't even care how much his heart will get broken by the end of their "relationship". ren is here, right now, praising ryuji in a way he never has. it's got him completely wrapped around ren's finger, willing to do anything and everything for him.
he keeps his face hidden, turned away as he rubs the back of his neck and tries not to smile too hard. but he is.) J-Jeez, why don't you tell me how you really feel.
(it's all he can say on the matter, too worried that if ren keeps going, ryuji won't be able to hide his feelings anymore. and won't that just make everything awful.
but he figures the least he can do is ease any concerns ren might be having, despite ryuji spending most of their conversation assuring ren he's down with this.
plus, it's just good manners to return a compliment.) You're not a bad catch yourself. I can think of way worse people to fake date, and at least it'll be fun with you.
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Ren is still a little wary, under the surface. The fact that he questioned the arrangement a couple of times despite the reassurances and seemed to be showing some of his nervous tics implies that there might still be some hang-up over it there. For now, though, he can take it at face value.
That means allowing a teasing grin to peek through. ] That's so sweet, honey.
[ The endearment falls from his lips easily, playful, maybe because it's something he has no intention of utilizing in their fake dating charade. They don't seem like the type to use such stereotypical pet names with each other, especially in front of other people. ]
It'll be so fun, I'll ruin you for all future fake boyfriends. [ This friendly banter is familiar. Ren settles into it, pushing his glasses up his nose to hide the glint in his eye. ]
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especially when ren is being dumb and calling him honey. it's sickeningly sweet and stupid all at once, and though ryuji tries to keep his laughter bottled up, a few muffled chuckles breaking out, it's only moments before he's clutching his sides, laughter echoing through the room.) D-Dude, did you seriously just call me honey?
(he doesn't mean to laugh as loud and full bodied as he is, but with everything pent up inside him, plus ren delivering that line with his usual monotone voice leaves him in stitches.
ryuji isn't quite sure if he even liked it or not, not sure if that's going to be a thing when they get the actual relationship going. what he knows for sure is ren calling ryuji's own name gets a much stronger reaction from him.
his laughter dies down after a while, his face still flushed, a smile plastered on his face and refusing to go anywhere. shining just for ren. just because of ren.
and it's more than a relief to know despite the weird change in their lives, ren is still willing to banter with ryuji. still tease, make shitty jokes. nothing is really changing. what was he so worried about?) You're going to spoil me, and anytime someone needs me for fake dating, it just won't be the same.
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[ Somehow, with Ryuji cracking up, it's even easier to adopt a deadpan expression, though it eventually cracks as the laughter continues on. The brightness in Ryuji's eyes just confirms that he chose the right person to be his partner in this scheme. It really will be fun, even if it's going to be a serious test of his own patience and restraint. ]
It'll be the fake romance of a lifetime. [ With a soft laugh, he turns, leaning back against the cushions again. Whatever happens, it'll be memorable, won't it?
Ren's gaze flickers over the television, not quite paying attention to what's happening on the screen when his brain is too busy trying to lay out the skeleton of this plan they've entered into together. ]
Really, though... No weird pet names. [ That would give them right away.
And that brings to mind another point, something they should probably discuss before they actually get into any of this: ] Actually... Is there anything you definitely don't want to do or say? We should get that out in the open right now.
[ The last thing he wants to do is make Ryuji uncomfortable by taking it too far at the wrong time. ]
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ryuji is ignoring the show altogether at this point, his focus solely on ren, giving him another playful nudge.) I'm still calling you Renren. You can't take that away from me.
(ren bringing up the topic of boundaries, however, gets ryuji to stiffen a little bit. there's nothing ryuji can imagine saying 'no' to, welcoming any touch or sweet phrase. even if he's not sure ren is the type to whisper sweet nothings in his ear. is ryuji the type to want those? man, fake dating is hard.
he scratches the back of his neck while his face scrunches up in thought. they aren't really things he wants to bring up, but...) I mean... I guess all I can say is my dad 'n Kamoshida? I know you'd never bring those up on your own, I don't mean it like that. Just that... people always bring it back to my mom, yeah? They can say whatever shit they want about me, but not my mom.
(he hunches over a bit, worried how all of this could affect her in the long run. she's never pressured him to get a partner or anything like that, but he's seen the looks in her eyes whenever he hangs out with the girls.) I wanna avoid getting my mom involved in this, if I can.
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Ren's expression darkens slightly at the mention of Kamoshida and Ryuji's father. He knows those topics are off limits, but it's the sort of thing that his parents might bring up in conversation, wanting to hear about Ryuji's parents or his perspective on the scandal that went down at Shujin. He knows they wouldn't pursue it in a malicious way, but they have a hard time reading the room, and both topics tend to spark Ryuji's temper and tank his mood.
It's a recipe for disaster, really, but one Ren is prepared to mitigate as needed. ] Alright. If those come up, let me handle it.
[ A little more surprising is Ryuji's preference to keep his mother out of this… completely? She's always been more accepting than the average parent, so Ren can't imagine she would be that bothered by their arrangement if she knew the reasoning behind it. But perhaps Ryuji knows something he doesn't, and Ren will be damned if he's not going to respect his best friend's wishes. ]
We'll keep your mom out of it, too. [ Ren reassures him of that fact with a smile and briefly considers grabbing Ryuji's hand along with it to practice the gesture. Something about it feels like the right moment, but there's a little voice in the back of his head telling him not to cheapen a serious conversation. He crosses his arms over his front to contain the urge. ] Then we're good?
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he lets out a sigh of relief, unaware of just how emotional he can get just from thinking about his dad and kamoshida. his heart is almost pounding out of his chest, only by memory.
but with ren here, being by his side, and most importantly, understanding with no need for ryuji to even say a word. his head falls against ren's shoulder, trying to hide how boiled he can get from thinking about the two people who did everything they could to ruin ryuji's life. ren has always been a calming presence for him, and now is no different.) Thank you.
(even better is ren deciding to take charge, should the topics ever become a problem. they both know ryuji would never be able to handle either of those discussions rationally, too emotionally involved in both of them to ever really remain calm.
the urge to just curl up next to ren in silence, and just stay that way for the rest of the day is strong. he feels like home. he's always made ryuji feel at home. welcome.) Yeah. We're good.
(he takes a deep breath, to steady himself, stop himself from getting too amped up over something that hasn't even happened yet. no need to get anxious or short tempered about how ren's parents will react when they haven't even met.
he stays where he is, resting against ren and making no move to get up. not that he would ever want to.) If I had to do something like this with anyone... I'm glad it's you. You're not making me change anything about who I am. I feel like if it was anyone else, even the others, they'd... I dunno, want answers or reasons. But not you. I guess it's just... it feels like you look at me and think I'm fine the way I am. That hasn't changed from Shujin, I still feel so free when I'm with you. Even like this.
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The tip of Ryuji's head onto his shoulder is a gesture that fills him with soft contentment, the feeling radiating from somewhere in his chest. He's glad that he could put to rest that worry that tightened Ryuji's frame moments ago. And well, he kind of expects that to be it—maybe they'll go back to watching some TV and then figure out how to tackle this tomorrow?
But Ryuji speaks up again, and even if the sentiment is one that he's shared in the past, hearing those words spoken so openly makes Ren freeze up a little.
Shouldn't he be the one saying this? Isn't it Ryuji who's always taken him as he is, no judgments? Even from his first day at Shujin. When he learned about Ren being on probation, he listened and never once doubted his story, never believed any of the gossip going around the halls. That loyalty has never wavered after all this time.
Thankfully, the color tinging his cheeks probably isn't visible from where Ryuji's head is on his shoulder. ]
That's because I do think you're fine the way you are.
[ There's a pause before he lets his head tilt to rest against Ryuji's in turn. Blond hair tickles at his cheek, summoning a smile. ]
Maybe that's why I feel like it has to be you. Because you won't try to be someone else.
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his self esteem has bolstered a bit since high school, but not nearly enough that he can walk around with the confidence ren does. always the butt of a joke, the idiot, a delinquent, someone was always firing a comment about ways ryuji should change.
except ren.
ren saw him at his worst, repeatedly, and yet he never backed away in shame, never made some snide comment about ryuji's grades or temper or attitude. ren always just let ryuji be... himself. and now to hear that ren thinks ryuji should stay exactly as he is...
well, he's not fighting back any tears, but there is a lump of emotion in his throat. it's only let out in a quiet, yet audible enough gasp to be heard by ren, being so close and now resting his head back against ryuji's.
they're veering into territory the boys rarely visit, vulnerable and open, laid completely bare in their trust for each other. literally resting their weight against each other for support and comfort at the same time. ryuji wars internally with himself for what seems like ages, should he be more upfront, more open, take advantage of the moment and steal a kiss or a touch. or would it be best to play it safe, keep things as they are, not disrupt the precious... whatever it is they have now?
fuck it. this fake relationship won't move itself along. mustering what seems to be every ounce of his courage, ryuji reaches over to take ren's hand in his without letting himself second guess the decision. it's not as though they've never held hands before. they've high fived, grabbed each other out of dangerous situations, or just plain running down the street like a couple of kids.
but this is different, so different. it's quiet and intimate and only theirs. ryuji's cheeks are a shade of red to even counter panther's outfit, so he strategically keeps his head down.) ... shit. I was gonna try and, I dunno, say something cool back. But I don't know what to say.
(he laughs, quietly, almost to himself.) I never hear anyone say that about me.
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A hand slips into his, palm warm against his own. Well then, it seems like Ryuji is committed to taking their fake relationship to the next level already. There's a joke on the tip of his tongue about moving fast, but it doesn't suit the moment, would only be a deflection from the honest emotions being laid out. Ren saves it for another time and simply clasps his hand against Ryuji's in return, trying not to dwell on how nothing about it feels fake. ]
Doesn't make it any less true. [ If people can't see him for who he is, that's their loss.
Although, if the praise draws out those soft little gasps and laughs, Ren does wish Ryuji would be on the receiving end of such appreciation more often. ]
... Thanks, by the way. For helping me out with this. [ He forgot to say it before, but it seems even more appropriate now. Fingers lace through Ryuji's, and he finally feels like his facial situation is under enough control that he can lift his head and glance over. ]
Let's have fun with it, okay?
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(it's like it all just comes so naturally to ren, the way he can make ryuji feel on top of the world, how he can reaffirm ryuji's importance in his life without batting an eye.
meanwhile, it took all of ryuji's courage just to tell ren he's the best friend he could ask for.
feeling his own blush has died down enough, ryuji pulls away, but only just enough to raise his head and smile at ren. still needing to be close, for that comfort.) Dude, I'm your best friend. Of course I'll fake it as your boyfriend.
(not that normal best friends do things even remotely close to that, but ryuji doesn't want to think too hard on the implications of that.) I'm gonna make this so much fun for you, it'll make our time as the Phantom Thieves feel like a school afternoon.
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He should really release Ryuji's hand and put some space between them, but this is his fake boyfriend now, and Ren will be damned if he isn't going to let himself bask in that for a moment. ]
That's big talk, Ryuji. I'm expecting the best date of my life now.
[ Truthfully, it wouldn't come as a surprise if Ryuji managed to nab that title. They never have anything less than a great time going out together. He's had some good dates, but slap the label on one of those and it will probably take the cake. And that's without Ryuji even trying to impress.
But a date is a while off, something to do when they have a mutually free day. There are other things they can hammer out right now. ]
Before we worry about that, though... We should get our story straight.
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he doesn't want to, god he doesn't want to break away from ren, but if he doesn't put at least some distance between them, he'll cross a line. and that's one thing he refuses to do during their "relationship". ryuji releases his hand from ren's, and he could cry at the loss of contact, even more so when he leans back on the couch, away from ren with his arms crossed and a smirk on his face.) You know me, man, I'd never let you down like that.
(and he doesn't plan to. even if this is all fake, if it all comes crashing down someday, ryuji wants to give ren something to remember. he at least hopes ren can look back on his time with ryuji and smile, because of ryuji.
at the notion of needing a cover story, ryuji rests his head in one hand, while the other taps idly on his knee. he's only slightly nervous, hoping his personal feelings won't somehow get in the way and cause him to slip up.) Right, right... did you already have anything in mind? Like how long we been dating 'n shit?
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How about… four months? [ It's long enough that it's not just a silly fling, short enough that it's realistic for Ren's parents to only be learning about it now. ] But we can say that we've liked each other since high school.
[ Maybe that's a bit too on the nose for him, personally. It's still all too easy to recall that time at the ramen shop in Ogikubo, the way his heart rate sped up for what wasn't the first time around Ryuji but first time that he knew he was seeing his best friend as something more than a best friend. Ryuji's speech about how free he felt with Ren resonated in just the right way to open his eyes to his own feelings. ]
We just didn't realize it's mutual until recently. [ Wouldn't that be nice? Ren couldn't have anticipated the way his heart gives a little squeeze as he voices a desire that he wouldn't be able to under any other circumstances. There's no way he could go and make this uncomfortable for Ryuji like that. ] We should probably decide how we figured it out…
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but he also knows if they don't have their stories straight from the start, it'll only cause more trouble down the line.) Uh... yeah, four months since crushin' since high school sounds good. Normal, I guess, too.
(at least it won't all be a lie that way. those days of sitting elbow to elbow at their favorite ramen shop, talking about anything and everything, still get ryuji's heart to skip a beat. sure, it's nothing compared to now, seeing ren every morning, making breakfast together, ren fresh out of the shower--
his less than innocent thoughts are certainly going to get worse now.
realizing that this involves much more planning and lying than ryuji originally anticipated, there's a groan of exhaustion on his end. it's like homework. can't he just say he loves ren and have that be enough? it's partly out of annoyance, but also knowing none of it is really how they got together, if they ever would. so ryuji instead opts to do what he does best.
snap.) Damn, I can't take this.
(it's grumbled, almost quietly to himself, before turning to face ren, with the same severity as when he spoke about what's off limits.) I love you. I have since high school. You're the only person who's been with me through every shitty thing, and never turned your back on me. I love you, and I'm not goin' around pretendin' I don't anymore.
(he pauses, long enough to let it all linger, waiting to see how it all settles. then, ryuji nods, confident and sure, his arms crossed behind him as he casually lays back.) Yeah, I think that should do it. I've snapped for less, that should be enough for your parents. We'll just tell 'em that happened.
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He can't anticipate what follows.
I love you.
The words ring in his head so loud that it's a miracle he picks up on the rest of what's being said. Luckily for Ren, his shock is so overwhelming that it almost doesn't manifest on his face. His lips part as the air leaves him, and he stares blankly as he tries to process what's coming out of Ryuji's mouth.
A confession. It's a confession, and the conviction behind it is almost tangible, so intense that Ren could never imagine this being a ruse.
I love you, too.
The words are rising up his throat when Ryuji's demeanor suddenly changes, sending them plummeting back down, a heavy and uncomfortable weight in the pit of his stomach. Oh. When did Ryuji become such a good actor? Ren thought he's been paying attention to all of Ryuji's personal growth, but he guesses he overlooked that part.
Ren's jaw snaps shut, lips pressing into a thin line as he pushes his glasses up the bridge of his nose, an excuse for his hand to obscure his expression. ]
Pretty convincing. [ It was enough to fool him, and he was the one to suggest the plan. ] That should definitely work.
[ Why did he let his mind go there so easily? His actual feelings for Ryuji shouldn't even be a factor in this. ]
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fighting shadows and trying to change the hearts of corrupt adults has nothing on telling his best friend he's been massively in love with him for years, even if it's just an act.
but it's not an act. it never has been and it never will. he'll tell himself over and over that all of this is just for show, it's fake, it means nothing. but it means everything to ryuji. his confession isn't even as long as he would have liked it to be, so much more he wants to tell ren and thank him for.
managing to get that confession out, laying himself bare for ren, gives ryuji a sense of accomplishment for it all. now he knows he'll be able to do it, and not just for purposes of lying to ren's parents. ryuji doesn't allow himself to be hopeful, dreaming that ren could possibly return the feelings, but the desire to be honest, to give his heart to ren is always going to be there.
seeing ren push his glasses up, the way he does when he's being clever, plotting something, only reassures ryuji that he's on the right track. and not that he just broke ren's heart.
there's a smile on his face when he speaks again, listing off every point with his fingers.) So... we've been in love with each other since high school. I confessed 'cause I didn't wanna lie anymore, and now we've been datin' for four months. Anything we're missing?
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