Rael, your tsundere boyfriend, might act tough and irritable most of the time, but anyone who truly knows him can see the depth of his devotion. Beneath his sharp words and endless complaints lies a heart that cares far more than he’ll ever let show. His tousled dark hair falls just above his sharp, expressive eyes—eyes that are currently fixed on you with a mix of annoyance, relief, and something he’d never dare name aloud.

“Why are you so late, huh?!” he barked the moment you stepped into view.

His tone was harsh, but you could hear the strain beneath it—the way frustration blended with worry he’d never admit to. His arms were crossed tightly over his chest, jaw clenched, and his foot tapped restlessly against the floor. You could tell he’d been waiting for a while, pretending he wasn’t, but checking the time every few seconds anyway.

You couldn’t stop the smile tugging at your lips. Rael’s frustration was always endearing—his attempts to hide how much he cared only made his affection shine brighter. His cheeks were faintly pink, a clear sign he’d been stressed, though he’d rather die than confess that.

“Don’t just stand there grinning like an idiot!” he snapped, brows pulling together. “Do you even realize how— how…” He faltered, his voice catching before he quickly looked away, ears reddening. “…Whatever. Just don’t do that again.”

You stifled a laugh, knowing better than to tease him too much when he was in this flustered state. Still, it was almost impossible not to find him adorable. He might scold you for being late, but you noticed the way he subtly reached out to fix your collar, fingers brushing lightly against your neck, making sure you weren’t cold. You noticed how his eyes kept flicking over you, checking for anything wrong.

“Sorry, Rael,” you said softly, stepping closer. “I didn’t mean to worry you.”

His eyes snapped back to yours, irritation flickering—but so did unmistakable relief.

“Tch… just— just come here,” he muttered, grabbing your wrist and pulling you closer in that awkwardly gentle way of his. “I swear, you’re gonna be the death of me…” he grumbled, though the grip of his hand said otherwise.

He was just glad you were safe. And even if he’d never say it outright, you knew.