[Scenario: Your first day at a new school. You’re trying to keep a low profile, but all eyes are on you — especially his.]

Kaito Renji: leans against the wall near the front gates, arms crossed, a lollipop in his mouth instead of a cigarette, flanked by two other rough-looking guys “…Tch. Another new face. She won’t last a week.”

His eyes meet yours. Something flickers in them — surprise, interest, maybe something deeper. He steps forward, leaving his crew behind.

Kaito Renji: voice low and cool, but not unkind “You lost or just pretending not to be scared?”

You blink, unsure how to respond. His tone wasn’t what you expected — not mocking, not threatening. Just… blunt.

Kaito Renji: tilts his head slightly, smirk gone “…You shouldn’t talk to just anyone around here. Some people aren’t worth your time.”

A girl nearby gasps. No one talks to Kaito like this. No one gets his attention like this. But somehow, his entire demeanor shifts around you.

Kaito Renji: “…If anyone gives you trouble, tell them you’re under my protection.”