Closer To The Stars With You [shuji x reader]

17. Issues

I woke up the next day at Kira's house, still thinking about the party. The events from last night replayed in my mind like a broken record. Jess's persistent flirting, Shuji's obliviousness, and the tension that had simmered between us—all of it weighed heavily on me as I tried to shake off the grogginess of sleep.

I stretched and glanced at the clock on the nightstand. It was already late morning. I could hear muffled sounds of activity from downstairs, likely Kira and the others waking up and starting their day.

I slipped out of bed, careful not to wake Kira, who was still sleeping soundly. I pulled on a hoodie and padded downstairs, hoping that a change of scenery would help clear my mind. As I descended, I caught sight of Kira's mom, who had come back early from her trip. She was bustling around the kitchen, preparing breakfast.

"Good morning, Y/N!" she called out cheerfully. "How did you sleep?"

"Morning!" I replied, trying to sound upbeat. "I slept well, thanks. Just a bit tired from last night."

Kira's mom nodded sympathetically. "I can imagine. The party was quite the event."

I nodded, pouring myself a cup of coffee and grabbing a plate of fresh fruit. I needed the energy boost to help me think things through.

Kira joined me soon after, looking equally groggy but with a smile on her face. "Good morning! How are you feeling?"

I forced a smile. "Morning, Kira. I'm okay, just still processing everything from last night."

"Yeah, it was pretty wild," Kira agreed, helping herself to some breakfast. "How's everything with you and Shuji?"

"That's what I wanted to talk to you about," I said, taking a deep breath. "There were some issues at the party. Jess—she was really over the top with Shuji, and I didn't handle it well."

Kira raised an eyebrow. "I noticed she was being pretty forward, but I didn't realize it was bothering you that much."

"It was more than just being forward," I said, frustration creeping into my voice. "She completely ignored me and made it clear she was trying to get Shuji's attention. It felt like she was crossing boundaries, and Shuji didn't seem to notice or understand."

Kira nodded thoughtfully. "That sounds really frustrating. Did you talk to Shuji about it?"

"Yeah, I did," I said, nodding. "He apologized and said he'd be more aware, but I'm still upset. It feels like he should have noticed what was happening."

Kira's expression turned serious. "It's important that he understands how you feel. If this is a recurring issue, it's worth addressing more directly."

"Exactly," I said. "I just don't want this to become a pattern where he's unaware of how his actions affect me."

Kira placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "If you need to talk to him again, I'm here for you. And remember, you have every right to set boundaries and expect respect in your relationship."

"Thanks, Kira," I said, appreciating her support. "I think I need to have another conversation with Shuji about it."

"Yeah, that would be good," Kira said, her tone reassuring.

"He asked me out for tomorrow, so I'm going to talk with him then," I responded.

---

Later that afternoon, after spending some more time with Kira and processing my thoughts, I made my way back home. The drive was quiet, my mind swirling with a mix of anxiety and determination. I was ready to address the issues with Shuji, but I knew I needed to first have a clear and honest conversation with my mom.

When I arrived home, my mom was in the living room, sitting on the couch with a book in her hands. She looked up as I walked in, her eyes filled with warmth and concern.

"Hey, sweetheart," she said, marking her place in the book and setting it aside. "How was your day at Kira's?"

"It was good," I replied, taking a seat next to her. "We talked about last night's party and the issues I'm having with Shuji."

My mom nodded. "I'm glad you had someone to talk to. It sounds like you've been carrying a lot on your shoulders."

"I have," I admitted. "Kira was really supportive, and she thinks I should have another conversation with Shuji to clear things up. He asked me out for tomorrow, so I'm planning to talk with him then."

My mom looked thoughtful. "It's good that you're planning to address things with Shuji. You both must understand each other's feelings and expectations. Have you thought about what you want to say?"

"I have," I said, feeling a mix of nerves and resolve. "I want to let him know how I felt last night and how it's important for me that he acknowledges when someone's being disrespectful. I just hope he listens and understands."

My mom took my hand and squeezed it gently. "It sounds like you have a clear idea of what you want to say, which is great. Just remember to be honest and open about your feelings, and try to approach the conversation with a calm and constructive mindset."

"I will," I said, feeling a bit more reassured. "I want us to work through this and not let it fester."

My mom smiled encouragingly. "I'm proud of you for handling this maturely. Relationships can be challenging, but clear communication is key. I'm here if you need anything or want to talk more before your conversation with Shuji."

"Thanks, Mom," I said, feeling grateful for her support. "I'll keep that in mind."

---

That evening, I took some time to unwind and gather my thoughts. Lying on my bed, I rolled a blunt, hoping it would help calm my nerves and provide some clarity. I reflected on the conversation I wanted to have with Shuji, rehearsing what I would say and how I would approach the discussion. I knew it was important to be direct yet understanding and to express my feelings without placing blame.

As the night wore on, I felt a growing sense of determination. I wanted to resolve the tension between us and make sure that our relationship was built on mutual respect and understanding. With that in mind, I went to bed with a sense of purpose, ready to face the conversation with Shuji the next day.