Her Forgotten ~Tomura Shigaraki x OC AU~

Chapter 18: In His Lair Pt 1

Illika

This is grand.

No, this is more than grand. This is extravagant and marvelous and awe-inspiring. And maybe a bit over the top.

Four tall walls – three of which are a deep gray – topped with a high ceiling adorned by a large crystal chandelier draped in the evening's gown. One wall is constructed solely of glass, the fleeting light filtering through the half-drawn sunshades, casting shadows. On another wall, an expansive fireplace with a small seating area furnishing as a large TV hangs above. On the far wall, an oversized king-size bed made up with an overstuffed comforter and pillows and two modern nightstands on each side. And smooth concrete floors throughout, lush area rugs laying in both the seating and bed areas.

The scent of modern décor lingers in the atmosphere, smelling of cold steel and glass and sophistication. And it tastes like mint and ice, itching my teeth with a wave of bitter coldness. I like it.

"Wow. This is impressive," I say, walking deeper into the room. "This room is massive. And here I thought I had a big room."

"It is," he agrees. I turn just in time to watch as he disappears through another door – possibly a closet – and remains gone for several seconds before reemerging, tugging on a dry glove. His eyes meet mine. "Though, I think Re-Destro might have gotten carried away with the design. What did he think I was going to be doing in here?"

All things considered, I understand his mindset. This room is enormous. Not as big as the Hall, but still pretty damn big – bigger than mine and Toga's bedrooms, that's for sure. So, I can understand and respect his thoughts. Still, it's a very nice room.

"I don't know, but I must say, I'm jealous." I turn and start over to the wall of windows. Below, I can see a great stretch of the PLF's property. Rolling hills with tall trees come to manicured grass divided by various walking paths and neatly planted flowers. All is painted by the last of the sunset's haze. "Look at that. I'd say you have the best view in the whole place."

He quietly comes up behind me, snaking his arms around my waist, pulling me closer as he kisses the top of my head. "I'd say you're right."

His lips peck the crown of my head, then moves to my cheek. I smile, melting in his arms. His body feels so warm against me. So warm and comfortable. And safe.

It's funny, really. More comical than I thought possible, but despite what happened earlier, I do still feel comfortable and safe in his presence. Even when he flashed his teeth at me. Even when the ugliness of his anger poked its head through. Even when he pushed my buttons and vice versa. Even when he seethed. During all those times, I still felt safe.

And sure, the way he acted was chaotic and stupid. I didn't like it very much, but what he said in the shower – while it doesn't right his wrongs or excuse them – it struck a chord with me. I could truly feel the sincerity and remorse in his voice. I heard that tremble of regret. I could sense the fear of his own actions weighing on him. I know it was there, and I know he spoke the truth when he voiced that regret.

It still doesn't right his wrongs. It still doesn't correct what he did. It can't repair what has already been done, but I firmly believe there is a shift in him now. One that I can feel in that familiar tenderness of his touch.

It is in the softness of his fingers. In the gentleness of his lips. In the warmth of his arms.

Security and warmth.

He kisses down, brushing my hair gently behind my ear before peppering sweet kisses along my neck. I close my eyes, tilting my head to the side as chills run the length of my spine. They run their course through my body, then settle like simmering embers in my stomach. Nothing but a gentle glow breathing steadily in the darkness.