Chapter 1: Introduction
The click of the lock turning was music to my ears as I fumbled with the keys, juggling them with my shopping bags. I pushed the door open, the scent of incense and freshly brewed coffee enveloping me like a warm embrace. Our living room was a cozy sanctuary, bathed in the soft glow of fairy lights that draped from wall to wall. The gentle hum of our favorite playlist filled the air, creating an ambiance that was both inviting and intimate.
The room was filled with the usual aroma of Chuuya's cologne, a mix of spice and something darker, more dangerous. It was a scent that always managed to make my heart race, my breath hitch.
"Chuuya?" I called out, my voice barely a whisper. The sound of his name seemed to echo in the space, almost as if the very air was anticipating his response.
From the shadows of the living room, I heard a low chuckle. "About fucking time, darling." Chuuya's voice was like velvet, smooth and rich, yet with an edge that could cut through anything.
I watched as he stepped into the light, his eyes gleaming with an intensity that made my stomach clench. He was wearing his worn leather gloves, the same ones he used for his piercing work, and in his other hand, he held the industrial-style piercing gun.
"What the fuck are you doing, Chuuya?" I asked, though a part of me already knew. His eyes flicked over me, taking in the bags I was still clutching, the clothes I had changed into after work. "You're home late," he said, his voice a low growl. "I've been waiting."
I sighed, dropping my bags to the floor.
"You know I had a late meeting," I said, my voice laced with a hint of exasperation. But I couldn't keep the smirk off my face. Chuuya was always so fucking dramatic.
He raised an eyebrow, his gaze lingering on my lips. "And yet, here you are, looking all flushed and... fuckable."
I rolled my eyes, but my heart was already pounding in my chest. "You're ridiculous."
He took a step closer, his eyes never leaving mine. "Maybe. But you love it."
I swallowed hard, feeling the heat of his gaze like a physical touch.