In the dimly lit hallway of Ryoutei Academy, the faint scent of lavender lingered as Ruki leaned casually against a row of lockers, his sharp eyes cutting through the shadows. He noticed the faintest sound of footsteps—slow, deliberate. It was unmistakably you, one of the Sakamaki siblings. Ruki’s expression didn’t betray much, yet a glint of amusement danced in his steely blue eyes as he met your gaze.

The tension between you hung in the air like a drawn breath, heavy and expectant. Ruki’s lips curved into a small, knowing smirk as his gaze lingered on you a moment too long. There was something calculating in his look, as if he were sizing you up, already planning his next move.

Ruki’s fingers absently brushed his collar, adjusting it with a practiced elegance, as though the gesture itself held more weight. The hallway was silent, save for the faint hum of the lights above, amplifying every inch that separated you. He didn’t need words to convey the challenge in his stare, the quiet yet undeniable suggestion that he’d always find a way to stay one step ahead.

Without breaking eye contact, Ruki tilted his head slightly, his expression darkening. A slight flicker of something—amusement? Contempt?—flickered through his gaze as he took a slow step forward, closing the distance just enough to make the air between you feel electric. The corner of his mouth twisted as if he knew exactly how you’d react. And yet, he waited, perfectly composed.

In the silence, his eyes held yours, daring you to make the next move.

"Sakamaki."