Closer To The Stars With You [shuji x reader]

15. Sleepover

The week had flown by, and before I knew it, it was Friday evening. I was excited about the sleepover at Kira's. Her parents were gone for the weekend, so it promised to be a fun and carefree night. After the emotional rollercoaster of the past few months, a night with my friends was just what I needed.

I packed my bag with the essentials: pajamas, a toothbrush, my favorite snacks, and a few movies. Shuji texted me as I was getting ready.

**Shuji:** *Have fun tonight! Call me if you need anything.*

**Me:** *Thanks! I will. See you tomorrow.*

With everything packed, I headed out. Kira's house was only a few blocks away, and the evening air was cool and refreshing. I felt a sense of anticipation as I walked, looking forward to a night of laughter and relaxation.

When I arrived at Kira's house, I could hear the sound of music and laughter even before I reached the door. Kira opened the door with a big grin. "Y/N! You're here!"

I smiled back. "Hey! Ready for a fun night?"

"Absolutely," she said, pulling me inside. The living room was decorated with string lights, and a variety of snacks and drinks were spread out on the coffee table. Miranda, Charney, and Stevie were already there, lounging on the couches and chatting.

"Hey, Y/N!" Miranda called out. "Glad you could make it!"

"Wouldn't miss it," I replied, dropping my bag and joining them.

We spent the next few hours talking, playing games, and eating. It felt good to let loose and enjoy myself without any worries. At one point, Kira brought out a stack of old photos, and we laughed ourselves silly looking at our younger, awkward selves.

As the night went on, we settled in for a movie marathon. Kira had picked out a mix of horror and comedy films, ensuring there was something for everyone. We dimmed the lights and huddled together on the couches, the atmosphere cozy and relaxed.

Halfway through the second movie, a particularly scary one, Miranda screamed at a jump scare, causing all of us to jump. We burst into laughter, the tension from the movie breaking instantly.

"Okay, that was terrifying," Stevie said, clutching a pillow. "But also hilarious."

Charney nodded, wiping tears of laughter from her eyes. "I think I just aged ten years from that scare."

We continued watching, the mood light and playful. As the night wore on, we started to get sleepy, our conversations becoming quieter and more relaxed.

"So, how are things with your dad?" Kira asked softly, glancing at me.

I smiled, feeling a warmth in my chest. "Surprisingly good. We've been spending more time together, and it's been really nice. We're planning another family trip soon."

"That's awesome," Miranda said, her eyes sincere. "I'm happy for you, Y/N. You've been through a lot."

"Thanks," I said, feeling a sense of gratitude. "I couldn't have done it without you guys."

We talked a bit more about our lives, sharing our hopes and fears. It felt good to be open and honest with my friends, knowing they supported me no matter what.

Eventually, we got a bit bored, and the girls decided it would be fun to invite some guys over. It wasn't something we did often, but the mood was right for a spontaneous change. Kira sent out a group text inviting Shuji, Evan, Andy, and a few other guys I didn't know too well.

**Kira:** *Hey guys! We're having a little get-together at my place. Come over if you're free!*

The responses were quick and enthusiastic. Within an hour, the doorbell rang, and Kira rushed to open it. Shuji was the first to arrive, followed by Evan, Andy, and the others.

"Hey!" Shuji greeted me with a warm smile and a quick kiss. "Didn't expect to see you here tonight."

"Surprise!" I said with a grin. "Glad you could make it."

Evan and Andy waved as they walked in, carrying bags of snacks and drinks. "Hope you don't mind, we brought reinforcements," Evan said, holding up a bag of chips.

"Perfect timing," Kira said, taking the snacks and adding them to the pile on the coffee table. "The more, the merrier!"

With the addition of the guys, the atmosphere shifted to an even more lively and energetic vibe. We broke out some board games, played a few rounds of charades, and even had an impromptu dance-off in the living room. The string lights gave everything a festive glow, and the music kept the energy high.

At one point, Shuji and I stepped out onto the back porch for some fresh air. The night was clear, and the stars were bright against the dark sky. We sat on the steps, enjoying the quiet moment together.

"This is nice," I said, leaning my head on his shoulder. "I'm glad you came."

"Me too," he replied, wrapping his arm around me. "It's good to see you having fun."

We sat in comfortable silence for a while, just enjoying each other's company. Eventually, we headed back inside to rejoin the party. The living room was a mess of snacks, pillows, and laughter, and it made me happy to see everyone having such a great time.

As the night wore on, we decided to watch another movie. This time, we chose a comedy to keep the mood light. Shuji and I cuddled up on the couch, surrounded by friends. The movie was hilarious, and soon the room was filled with laughter once again.

Around midnight, we started to wind down. Some of the guys left, thanking Kira for the invite, while others crashed on the floor with sleeping bags. Shuji and Evan decided to stay, joining in on the sleepover.

We stayed up a little longer, talking in hushed tones and sharing stories. I felt a deep sense of contentment, surrounded by people I cared about. It had been a long time since I felt so relaxed and happy.

As I drifted off to sleep, I realized how much this night meant to me. It was a reminder that no matter what challenges came my way, I had a strong support system in my friends and family. I knew that with them by my side, I could face anything.

The next morning, we woke up to the smell of pancakes again. Kira was back in the kitchen, whipping up another delicious breakfast. We gathered around the table, bleary-eyed but happy, and dug into the pancakes.

"Last night was awesome," Evan said between bites. "We should do this more often."

"Definitely," Kira agreed, her eyes lingering on Evan for a moment longer than usual. "This was just what we all needed."

As we cleaned up, I noticed Kira and Evan sharing smiles and laughter, a subtle but undeniable connection forming between them. It made me happy to see, knowing how much they both deserved someone special in their lives.

---

Later that day, I met up with Shuji for a walk in the park. We strolled hand in hand, talking about everything and nothing. The events of the past few months had been a rollercoaster, but moments like these reminded me of what truly mattered.

"Thanks for being there last night," I said, looking up at him. "It meant a lot."

"Always," he replied, squeezing my hand. "I'm here for you, no matter what."

As we walked through the park, I felt a sense of peace and contentment. Life might be unpredictable, but with friends like Kira, Shuji, and others, I knew I could handle whatever came my way. And seeing Kira and Evan growing closer added another layer of happiness to my heart. The bonds we were forming and strengthening reminded me of the resilience and joy that friendship and love could bring, no matter the challenges.

One step at a time, I was moving forward, ready to embrace the journey ahead with the people who mattered most by my side.