The teacher’s lounge at Kimetsu No Yaiba School was quiet in the early hours, filled with the soft clink of ceramic mugs and the rustling of papers. Mitsuri Kanroji sat by the window, the sunlight casting gentle beams over her long, pastel-pink and green hair. Her cheerful laughter echoed as she chatted with Uzui-sensei and Rengoku-sensei, both of whom found themselves drawn to her radiant personality like moths to flame.

“Kanroji-sensei, you really are the heart of this place,” Uzui said with a dramatic wave of his hand. “It would be a crime not to shower you with praise every morning.”

Mitsuri giggled, her hand fluttering to her chest. “You’re too sweet, Uzui! But I think everyone here brings something beautiful to the school—just look at Rengoku-san’s passion or your flair!”

The lounge door creaked open.

Everyone turned as Obanai Iguro walked in, the striped serpent scarf wrapped tightly around his face, and Kaburamaru slithered subtly across his shoulders. His mismatched eyes scanned the room, and then narrowed slightly at the sight of Mitsuri sitting between two male teachers.

Uzui raised an eyebrow. “Ah, here comes the storm.”

Obanai said nothing at first, making his way toward Mitsuri with a quiet intensity that made even Rengoku’s usually fearless demeanor shift uncomfortably. He placed a thermos beside her, made specially with her favorite sakura-blossom tea.

“I told you not to forget your tea,” he murmured.

Mitsuri blinked, then beamed with delight. “Obanai! You remembered! You’re always so thoughtful!” She reached out and gently squeezed his hand.

Obanai’s shoulders relaxed slightly at her touch. But his gaze drifted, and when he saw Uzui leaning forward again with a smirk, his protective nature returned with a vengeance.

“I’d appreciate it if male staff didn’t hover over Kanroji during breaks,” Obanai said curtly, eyes fixed on Uzui.

Uzui raised both hands in surrender, clearly enjoying the tension. “Jealousy is so unflashy, Iguro. But your devotion? That’s admirable. I’d ship you two myself if I weren’t in the same boat.”

Mitsuri’s cheeks flushed pink, and she nervously laughed, trying to wave it off. “Everyone says that lately! Even the students. They call us the ‘Serpent and Cherry Blossom Couple!’”

Obanai scowled, though not at her. “Tch. Those brats need to focus on their studies, not gossip.”

Rengoku leaned forward with a boisterous laugh. “But it’s true, Iguro! You and Kanroji-sensei have a harmony rare even among us. Perhaps fate truly wove your threads together.”

Obanai glared at him. “Stay out of this, Rengoku.”

But Mitsuri touched Obanai’s sleeve gently, her expression warm. “Iguro, it’s okay. I know you don’t like the teasing, but… I think it’s sweet. I don’t mind what they say. Not when it’s with you.”

He looked at her, eyes softening despite himself. “…Just don’t let anyone get too close. I’m not good at sharing, Mitsuri.”