𝐈𝐤𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐢 | 𝐒. 𝐆𝐨𝐣𝐨 ✔️

Chapter 6

You had completely forgotten about your parents' annual holiday tradition - twice a year, once in May and again in August. While they'd always jet off for a brief respite, this year, their absence would stretch to a full week, a departure from their usual two to four-day escapes. Despite feeling a pang of loneliness at the thought of being home alone, you were glad they could finally unwind after months of hard work.

The realization hit you belatedly on May 6th, just two days before their departure on the 8th. Determined not to spend the week alone, you decided to invite your close friends over to keep you company. Over time, you'd grown exceptionally close to them, and they'd become your confidants, the ones you spent most of your time with.

Since that day at the beach, things with Gojo had settled into a comfortable rhythm, easing the tension that once hung between you. Your crush on Geto had gradually left, replaced instead by a deep respect for him. School life, which had initially seemed daunting, now felt surprisingly fulfilling, affirming your decision to switch schools as one of the best choices you'd ever made.

As you reached for your phone to text Shoko and extend the invitation to the boys, a wave of anticipation washed over you. With a quick call to Shoko, you entrusted her to spread the news to the rest of the group.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

You bid your parents farewell with tight hugs and lingering waves, watching until their car disappeared into the distance. As soon as they were out of sight, you welcomed your friends with warm embraces, grateful for their company during your parents' absence.

"Come inside," you beckoned, leading them into the comfort of your home. "I've stocked up on some essentials," you announced with a mischievous grin, gesturing towards the array of goodies laid out before them. "There's liquor, six packs of cigarettes, and four bags of snacks. I made sure to get your favorites and even labeled the bags with your names."

"You really know how to treat your guests," their shocked expressions elicited a grin from you as you basked in their reactions. "Just trying to make sure everyone feels at home," you replied, matching their playful banter with a wink.

Geto's comment earned a chuckle from you as you watched him kick off his shoes and follow Shoko inside. Sensing Gojo's lingering gaze, you turned to meet his eyes, feeling the weight of his stare like piercing needles against your back. With a warm smile, you encouraged him to join the others. "Hurry, Gojo," you urged gently, your smile reaching your eyes. To your relief, his lips curved into a mirrored smile, and with a nod, he followed suit.

Despite Gojo's confident demeanor and easy rapport with Shoko and Geto, you couldn't help but notice his reserved behavior around you. Unlike his usual clingy and outgoing self, he seemed to retreat into silence in your presence, a stark contrast to the lively energy he exuded with others. It puzzled you, considering he was still the same Gojo you knew, yet somehow, he appeared hesitant to fully engage with you.

However, rather than dwelling on the discrepancy, you chose to accept it, content to let Gojo be himself without pressure or expectation. His quiet demeanor didn't bother you; in fact, it added an intriguing layer to your interactions, sparking curiosity about the thoughts swirling beneath his composed exterior.

As the hours passed, you found yourself engaging in more conversations than usual, surprising both yourself and your friends with the depth and frequency of your interactions. Despite the initial awkwardness between you and Gojo, there was a noticeable shift in your dynamic, with conversations flowing more naturally and effortlessly.

Shoko and Geto couldn't help but notice the change, commenting on how much your friendship had grown over the past few days. They marveled at the progress you'd made, impressed by the newfound ease with which you interacted with each other.