I'd let the world burn for you... || Tokyo Revengers

Encounters

The following days, Chifuyu was relentless in his efforts to convince Keisuke to let him join the Tokyo Manji Gang. He sought out and beat up the guys reputed to be the strongest in the area, hoping to prove his worth. He followed Keisuke around like a shadow, determined to win his approval. Even more amusingly, Chifuyu started showing up at Keisuke's house to help his mother with chores and to give her back massages.

Kaiya watched all of this unfold with a mix of amusement and curiosity. She found it hilarious to see the normally composed and confident Keisuke so visibly annoyed by Chifuyu's persistence. Every time Chifuyu showed up with another act of service or feat of strength, Kaiya couldn't help but chuckle at the look of exasperation on Keisuke's face.

- "That guy just doesn't give up, does he?" Kaiya teased one evening as she and Keisuke sat on the steps outside his house.

Keisuke sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. 

- "He's like a persistent stray that won't go away," he grumbled, though there was a hint of grudging respect in his voice.

- "Maybe he's not so bad. At least your mom likes him." Kaiya laughed, nudging him playfully.

- "That's the worst part. She keeps inviting him over for dinner and calling him 'sweetie.'" Keisuke groaned, rubbing his temples.

Kaiya's laughter echoed through the quiet evening, a light-hearted contrast to the intensity of the days that had passed. Despite his annoyance, Keisuke couldn't deny that Chifuyu's tenacity was starting to grow on him.

But sick of Chifuyu's persistence, Keisuke finally snapped. One day at school, he grabbed Chifuyu by the collar, his patience worn thin.

- "I've had enough of this shit, you know that?" Keisuke growled, his voice low and dangerous. "I told you I can't get you in there. Next time I see you in front of me, you'll be in deep shit."

Chifuyu stared back at Keisuke, unflinching despite the threat. His determination was evident in his eyes, but he knew he had pushed too far.

Kaiya, who was nearby, watched the scene unfold with a mixture of concern and understanding. She knew Keisuke's temper and could see how Chifuyu's relentless pursuit had finally gotten under his skin. She stepped forward, gently placing a hand on Keisuke's arm.

- "Keisuke, calm down," she said softly, her touch and words soothing his anger. "He's just trying to prove himself."

Keisuke's grip loosened slightly, but he didn't let go. His gaze remained fixed on Chifuyu, who stood his ground despite the threat hanging in the air. Kaiya could see the conflict in Keisuke's eyes – a mix of irritation and reluctant admiration for Chifuyu's tenacity.

That day, after school, it was raining heavily. Keisuke and Kaiya shared the same umbrella, its dark canopy shielding them from the downpour. Kaiya had forgotten hers at home, so she held onto Keisuke's arm as they walked, her fingers lightly gripping his sleeve. The rain drummed a steady rhythm on the umbrella, creating a cocoon of intimacy around them.

They were chatting about their plans to visit Kazutora at juvie in the coming days. Keisuke's voice was a comforting rumble, and Kaiya found solace in his presence. She glanced up at him, seeing the familiar determination etched on his face, and felt a wave of affection. Despite the chaos and violence that often surrounded their lives, moments like this made her feel safe.

As they walked, Chifuyu suddenly crossed their path. He stopped in front of them, his eyes locked onto Keisuke with a look of unwavering determination. Kaiya sighed and rolled her eyes, knowing exactly what was coming next.