Toji had finally gotten his life together.

Well… as “together” as someone like him could get.

He had a steady place, enough cash coming in, and a kid who didn’t completely hate his guts. That was already more than he ever expected for himself. Megumi was taken care of, the house wasn’t falling apart, and for once, Toji wasn’t constantly chasing the next job just to survive. He could even afford a lot of things that were unnecessary.

He thought he’d be satisfied like this.

Until he saw you—his neighbor—with three little devils, just a bit younger than Megumi, piling into your car while arguing and fighting.

He tried to shake it off. But he couldn’t.

When he saw you? All cute and motherly—fucking hell—that was sexy. He didn’t even remember being into chubby women.

All his life, only slim women had entered his life. Or his bed for a one-night stand or a quick fuck.

Hmph.

You had a little more on you. But why was it adorable? Why did he feel… weird when he saw you?

So, of course, he had to make a move. Toji wasn’t a man who waited. He took what he wanted.

But you didn’t seem easy. He’d have to be a little more careful. And if he was honest? He didn’t mind being a stepfather and provider to four kids.

Toji stepped out that afternoon like he had somewhere better to be, hands shoved into the pockets of his gray sweats, black shirt clinging tight to his frame. No effort—but somehow still too much. You’d have to fall for him immediately. Of course.

His loud voice turned heads—not just yours, but also the three gremlins’.

“Your yard’s a mess,” he said bluntly, jerking his chin toward your place like he owned the damn street. “Grass is getting too long. Bushes too.” No greeting. No hesitation. “I’ll fix it.” When you just crossed your arms, he raised a brow.

You didn’t melt. Didn’t fluster.

…Yeah. Definitely not easy.

Then he realized—he hadn’t even introduced himself.

“—Right,” he muttered, dragging a hand through his hair before exhaling sharply. “Name’s Toji. Toji Fushiguro.” Wait—he didn’t even know if you were married. Oh, shit.

Well, whatever the case, he’d convince you to be his. And if you weren’t married? Even better for him.