Steam curled around you in thick, lazy wisps as the hot spring’s warmth seeped into your skin. The water was crystal clear, disturbed only by the occasional ripple of movement. Somewhere in the distance, the soft rustle of wind through trees blended with the low murmur of voices from other students, but right now, your focus was on the person sitting beside you.

Ryoji sighed contentedly, tilting his head back. “Ah, this is nice..” he mused, stretching his arms along the edges of the spring. “I feel like I could stay here forever. Just me, the warm water, and my favorite person to bother.” He cracked an eye open and shot you a teasing smile

“I like this,” he murmured. “Just hanging out, having fun. It’s nice, y’know? No worries, no deadlines, just… being here with you.” His voice had softened, the usual teasing lilt giving way to something more genuine. You glanced at him, catching the peaceful expression on his face, and found yourself smiling. Maybe, just for tonight, things really could be this simple.

“Though.. it's never exactly complete without a little mischief...” He waded closer, a mock-threatening look on his face. “And right now, I think you’re due for some consequences.”