The Soulmate Link | SaneGiyuu

Nine - Saturday Night Fun (Pt1)

Sanemi sighed, running a hand through his hair as he stood in front of the mirror. He wasn't exactly thrilled about going out tonight, but Genya was right—he did cancel plans too often. Still, the idea of being around a bunch of loud, energetic friends after a long week felt more exhausting than fun.

"You're sure you don't mind?" Sanemi asked again, glancing over at Genya, who was setting up the living room for the movie night.

Genya rolled his eyes. "For the last time, Nii-chan, I'm fine. I've got everything under control here. You need to go out and have fun for once. Besides, it's just an arcade and pizza. Even you can't find a way to be grumpy about pizza."

Sanemi snorted, unable to help the small smile that tugged at the corner of his mouth. "Yeah, yeah. I'll try not to sulk too much. Just make sure the kids don't wreck the place while I'm gone."

Genya waved a hand dismissively. "Tanjiro and Nezuko will keep them in line. Plus, I've got snacks, movies, and enough soda to keep everyone happy. We're good."

Sanemi nodded, reassured by Genya's confidence. He did trust his brother, even if he worried more than he'd like to admit. As he slipped on his jacket, he caught his reflection in the mirror again, the scars on his face and arms a stark reminder of why he preferred staying home. He hesitated, fingers brushing over the raised marks on his skin.

"You look fine, Nii-chan," Genya said, his voice softer now, sensing his brother's hesitation. "And don't worry about your scars. Your friends don't care about that stuff. They just want to hang out with you."

Sanemi forced a small smile and gave Genya a quick nod. "Yeah, I know. Thanks, Genya."

With one last check to make sure he had his keys, wallet, and phone, Sanemi headed for the door. He was tempted to send Giyuu a quick text, just to see how he was doing, but he stopped himself. Giyuu had his own plans tonight, dragged out by Sabito and Shinobu for some kind of group hangout. Giyuu hadn't sounded too thrilled about it on the phone, but he'd suggested they both try to enjoy the night with their friends and avoid texting too much.

Sanemi couldn't help but feel a little disappointed, wishing they could just chat like they usually did. He knew it was silly, but the idea of Giyuu spending the evening with someone else—especially someone like Shinobu—left a sour taste in his mouth. Still, he shook off the feeling. It wasn't like he and Giyuu were anything more than friends, and Giyuu had his own life.

"Stop being so dramatic," Sanemi muttered to himself as he locked the door behind him and started down the street. The night air was cool, a slight breeze brushing against his skin. He shoved his hands into his pockets, trying to shake off the lingering unease. He didn't want to dwell on Giyuu or his own insecurities tonight.

By the time Sanemi reached the arcade, he could already hear the familiar sound of laughter and chatter spilling out onto the sidewalk. He spotted Tengen and Kyojuro near the entrance, their animated gestures and loud voices impossible to miss.

"Sanemi! You made it!" Tengen called out, flashing a wide grin as he waved him over.

"Guess I didn't have a choice," Sanemi replied with a smirk, though there was no real bite to his words. He was actually a bit relieved to see them. "Genya practically shoved me out the door."

Kyojuro laughed, clapping Sanemi on the back as they headed inside. "Good! You need a night out, my friend. The world's too full of joy to be missed."

Sanemi rolled his eyes at Kyojuro's enthusiasm but couldn't help but feel a bit lighter. The inside of the arcade was as chaotic as he'd expected, filled with flashing lights, blaring music, and the occasional cheer or groan from someone winning or losing a game. Tengen wasted no time dragging them over to the skee-ball lanes, where Mitsuri and Obanai were already in the midst of a heated competition.