JUJUTSU LOVE // MAKI ZENIN X MALE READER (FINISHED)

Chapter 9 | Carnival Date!

Sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room as you slowly stirred awake. The events of the previous night replayed in your mind, a vivid montage of passion and intensity. Beside you, Maki Zenin lay wrapped in the sheets, her chest rising and falling with each peaceful breath. For a moment, you simply watched her, memorizing the serene expression on her face, a stark contrast to the fiery warrior you fought beside.

You reached out and gently brushed a stray strand of hair from her face. At your touch, Maki’s eyes fluttered open, and she smiled—a smile that made your heart race and the world feel infinitely brighter.

"Morning," she murmured, her voice still husky from sleep.

"Morning," you replied, leaning in to plant a soft kiss on her lips. "How did you sleep?"

"Like a damn rock," Maki said, stretching lazily. "You?"

"Same," you chuckled, pulling her closer. The feel of her warm body against yours was the perfect start to the day.

After a few moments of quiet bliss, Maki's eyes lit up with an idea. "Hey, how about we hit up that carnival in town today? We could use a break from all the bullshit."

"That sounds perfect," you agreed. "Let's make it a date."

A few hours later, you both stood at the entrance of the carnival, the air filled with the sweet scent of cotton candy and the cheerful sounds of laughter. The vibrant colors of the rides and stalls created a whimsical atmosphere that was a welcome change from the intensity of your usual battles.

Maki grabbed your hand, her excitement palpable. "Where should we start?"

You scanned the area, your eyes landing on a booth with an array of oversized stuffed animals. "How about I win you a prize?"

Maki grinned. "Bring it on."

The game involved knocking over a pyramid of cans with a baseball. You took aim, channeling all your focus and strength. With a powerful throw, the cans toppled over, and the booth attendant handed you a giant panda plush.

"For you," you said, presenting the prize to Maki with a flourish.

She laughed, hugging the panda close. "It's cute as hell. Thanks!"

The day unfolded in a series of delightful moments. You rode the Ferris wheel, sharing a kiss at the top while the world spread out below you in a dizzying array of lights and sounds. You competed at various games, teasing each other over wins and losses. Maki's competitive spirit shone through, her determination to outdo you at every turn endearing her to you even more.

As evening approached, the two of you found yourselves at a booth selling churros. You ordered a couple, and Maki took a bite, her eyes lighting up with delight.

"These are fucking amazing," she said, offering you a taste.

You took a bite and nodded in agreement. "Delicious."

With churros in hand, you wandered towards the carousel, the gentle music adding a touch of nostalgia to the evening. You helped Maki onto one of the elaborately painted horses before climbing onto the one next to her.

As the carousel began to turn, Maki reached out and took your hand, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "Thanks for today," she said softly. "I haven't had this much fun in ages."

"Me neither," you admitted. "It's been perfect."

When the ride came to a stop, you both lingered for a moment, savoring the end of a magical day. With the carnival lights twinkling in the background, you leaned in and kissed Maki, a kiss filled with all the love and gratitude you felt.

As you pulled back, Maki looked at you with a tender smile. "Let's make a promise."

"Anything," you replied.

"No matter whatever comes our way, let's always find time for moments like this," she said. "To remind us why we fight and what we're fighting for."

"I promise," you said, sealing the vow with another kiss.

Hand in hand, you left the carnival, your hearts full and your spirits high, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing you had each other.