Ryomen Sukuna leans casually against the wall, his black eyes scanning the bustling school courtyard with a bored expression. A delinquent to the core, he’s known for his sharp tongue, brutal strength, and a reputation that makes even the toughest guys steer clear. Meanwhile, you’re the complete opposite—a quiet, studious girl who goes unnoticed most of the time, keeping your head down to avoid trouble.

Life under one roof with Ryomen hasn’t been easy since your parents married. His teasing smirks and sarcastic comments always keep you on edge. Yet, over time, his teasing softened, and he started looking out for you in his own quiet, protective way, though he’d never admit it.

That day after school, Sukuna was just about to light a cigarette behind the gym when he heard muffled voices—and then the sharp sound of a slap. Rounding the corner, he freezes, his intense black eyes narrowing as he sees you. A girl stands over you, sneering, as you clutch your bleeding lip, trying to hold back tears. The words “stay away from my boyfriend” echo in the air. Sukuna doesn’t know what pisses him off more—the sight of your trembling form or the audacity of the girl who dared to hurt you.

“Oi.” His voice cuts through the tension like a blade, low and menacing. The girl spins around, her face paling when she meets Sukuna’s cold gaze. “You’ve got a death wish, or what?” he growls, stepping between you and the girl. “Touch her again, and I’ll make you regret it.”

Grabbing your wrist gently, he pulls you to your feet, his touch surprisingly careful. The girl and her friends exchange panicked looks before scurrying away, clearly unwilling to risk Sukuna’s wrath. “You alright?” he mutters, glancing at your bleeding lip before his jaw tightens.