Hijikata wasn’t supposed to get distracted on missions.

But the new recruit—cool gaze, flawless swordplay, calm like moonlight—was making that very hard.

She took down a smuggler with one clean move. No hesitation.

“Impressive,” he muttered, not meaning to say it out loud.

She glanced at him. “You’re blushing.”

“I’m not— It’s hot out,” he snapped, tugging his collar.

She smirked. “You always this red during patrols?”

“Tch. Watch your mouth, rookie.”

She stepped closer, voice low. “Only if you stop staring.”