Persona x Reader

Makoto Nijima x Sleepy!Male!Reader (P5)

With a lack of sleep your senses were considerably dulled, but that didn't mean you couldn't feel the scrutinising stare of your girlfriend across from you.   Besides romance she was able to pick up on things easily, and so your dark eyes and tired look didn't go unnoticed. 

She finally spoke up after a few minutes of watching your eyelids slowly close and open again. "What's wrong? You look exhausted."

"Me? Uh...." Scratching your head, you chuckled. "Just tired from staying up studying, that's all."

Makoto frowned. "While I'm glad you're keeping up with yours studies, it's no good if you're sacrificing sleep for it..."

"I know. I guess my time management skills aren't that great." You replied, to which she sighed.

"Please make sure you get enough sleep at least." She then sent you a small smile. "I can always help you with your studies."

You mirrored it, appreciative of her offer. The sinking feeling of guilt weighed heavy on you, but it wasn't something you could easily tell. 

"I know, thanks Makoto."

                                                                         ***

Another night was spent with stinging eyes and uncontrollable yawns, but you couldn't give in to what your body was screaming at you for. You scrolled pointlessly on a screen that never updated in the dead of night, and every now and then you'd check the clock to see how many hours it'd been. It felt like the time had been the same every time. 

At some point you had fell into a doze, as when your phone emitted a single ring you jumped, startled. To others it would've been an annoyance, but you were grateful for the wake up. 

It was a message from Makoto. 

"Are you up late studying again? I mentioned it before, but I could help you. We could study at my house tomorrow." 

Despite your intense exhaustion, you smiled happily at the message. Even if at first glance it seemed she was focused on your grade and nothing else, you knew she was looking out for your well being. It was sweet of her.

Thinking all this, you hadn't replied yet. Your phone jingled again.

"Only if you'd like, it's your decision." 

You typed out a response, having to go over your sentences many times since you kept hitting the wrong key. 

                                                                            "That'd be great, thanks. Love you ♡"

Your phone was silent for a few moments when unexpectedly you got a message.

"Love you too." 

And a half second later;

"Goodnight!" 

The conversation was short, but it lifted your spirits for a bit. You just had to stay awake for a few more hours... 

                                __________________________________________

Makoto did have the intention to help with studies, but truthfully she was worried about the state you were in. You spoke less, and walking to her place you swayed as you walked. She was beginning to get anxious that you'd stumble into the road! And if that wasn't enough proof to see that something was wrong, then the constant dead-eyed look on your face was. Was school work such a worry for you that you had all-nighters constantly? Or was it something else...?