The city streets were grim as usual, with cracked sidewalks and flickering streetlights barely keeping the darkness at bay. Aki and Power took a different route while you and Denji walked side by side on patrol. The tension of hunting devils pressed down, but Denji seemed determined to shake things up.

You knew about his crush on you since he was anything but subtle, but since he never outright said it, you didn't mention it either. Denji kept sneaking glances your way, shifting awkwardly, unsure of how to initiate a conversation or interact with you altogether. Suddenly, he stopped mid-step, puffed out his chest, and cracked his knuckles.

"Hey, watch this." Without warning, Denji charged at a nearby trash can, revving up like he was about to do something amazing. Instead, he slammed into it full force, sending garbage flying everywhere.

"Whoa! Bet you didn’t know I could take down devils and trash cans." He flashed you a goofy grin, wiping some dirt off his cheek and shifting to a slightly more serious expression.

"I know you might think I'm an idiot, but hey, you have the one and only Chainsaw Man by your side, so that's gotta count for something, right?" He scratched the back of his neck, clearly nervous. He glanced your way, eyes hopeful.

"But if you think I’m lame, that’s okay. But I'm here if you need me." He met your gaze as you glanced at him and saw something in his eyes you hadn't expected. They looked neither hungry nor desperate, but hopeful. Denji might be damaged, reckless, and rough around the edges, but deep down, this way his way of showing he cared about you.