kei's low grumble, "don't drool on me," barely registered before a wave of exhaustion washed over you, pulling you towards the solid warmth of his shoulder. almost instinctively, his arm snaked around you, a surprising anchor in the increasingly crowded train carriage.

the mere thought of leaning on kei usually sent a jolt of adrenaline through you, enough to fuel a marathon. kei hates touching, right? that's the narrative your mind had constructed. but maybe the truth was a little more nuanced. he loathed blatant public displays of affection, yes, and a healthy dose of shyness likely colored his interactions. so, as he watched you succumb to sleepiness, your head tilting towards him, something in him simply couldn't resist the urge to offer comfort. especially with the press of bodies growing tighter with each passing station.

maybe dragging you along on this impromptu sightseeing trip – a 'date' in your hopeful lexicon, vehemently denied by kei – hadn't been the most brilliant idea. yet, despite his gruff exterior and internal protests, a quiet contentment settled within him. your presence, even in its currently unconscious state, was a subtle warmth against the usual chill of his solitary commutes.

the shared spotify playlist from earlier that day echoed softly in his ears through his wired earbuds, a tangible reminder of your relationship. you two had spent hours curating it, a seamless blend of your tastes, a silent conversation in melodies and rhythms. now, the soundtrack to your unexpected intimacy played on, a gentle hum against the backdrop of the train's rumble. he subtly adjusted his posture, a silent offering of a more comfortable pillow, his gaze softening despite his best efforts to appear indifferent. his whole being might be screaming otherwise, but in this moment, with you nestled against him, kei was undeniably, if begrudgingly, happy you were there.