Shoko's feelings

The winter chill had begun to creep into the halls of Jujutsu Tech, prompting students to don their warmer uniforms and seek refuge in the cozy corners of the campus. In the common room, a fire crackled merrily in the hearth, casting a warm glow over the four figures huddled around it.

Yuno Rentaro sat in his usual armchair, a thick tome balanced on his knees as he pored over its contents. His dark-rimmed glasses slipped down his nose, and he absently pushed them back up with his middle finger, completely absorbed in his reading.

Shoko Ieiri occupied the couch nearby, her legs tucked underneath her as she flipped through a medical journal. Every so often, her eyes would drift towards Yuno, a soft smile playing at the corners of her mouth before she caught herself and returned to her studies.

Suguru Geto and Satoru Gojo sprawled on the floor, a game of shogi between them. Gojo's brow furrowed in concentration as he contemplated his next move, while Geto leaned back on his hands, a smug grin on his face.

"You know, Satoru," Geto drawled, "if you spend any more time thinking, we'll be here until spring."

Gojo shot him a glare. "Patience is a virtue, Suguru. Not that you'd know anything about that."

Shoko chuckled, glancing up from her journal. "Now, now, boys. Play nice."

Yuno sighed, not bothering to look up from his book. "If you two could keep your bickering to a minimum, some of us are trying to concentrate."

Gojo opened his mouth to retort, but before he could speak, a shrill ring cut through the air. All eyes turned to Yuno, whose impassive expression faltered for a moment as he reached into his pocket and pulled out his cellphone.

"Well, well," Geto said, his eyebrows rising in surprise. "Someone's actually calling our Yunichi? I didn't think anyone had his number."

Yuno frowned at the screen, his brow furrowing in confusion. "It's... Iori," he muttered, almost to himself.

A heavy silence fell over the room. Shoko's grip on her journal tightened imperceptibly, while Gojo and Geto exchanged knowing glances.

"Utahime?" Shoko asked, her voice carefully neutral. "That's... unexpected."

Yuno hesitated, his thumb hovering over the answer button. The phone continued to ring, each trill seeming to echo in the suddenly tense atmosphere of the common room.

"Well?" Gojo prodded, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Are you going to answer it, Yunichi, or just let it ring until she gives up?"

Shooting Gojo a withering glare, Yuno finally pressed the answer button and brought the phone to his ear. "Rentaro speaking," he said, his voice betraying no emotion.

The others leaned in, straining to hear the voice on the other end of the line. Yuno's expression remained impassive as he listened, offering only the occasional "I see" or "Understood" in response.

After what seemed like an eternity, Yuno ended the call with a curt, "I'll look into it," and lowered the phone.

For a moment, no one spoke. Then, unable to contain himself any longer, Gojo burst out, "Well? What did Utahime-chan want? A late-night rendezvous? A secret mission? Oh, oh, I know – she's finally confessing her undying love for you!"

Yuno's eyes narrowed dangerously. "Don't be ridiculous, Satoru. It was a simple inquiry about a jujutsu technique we discussed during our... outing."

Geto leaned forward, his game of shogi forgotten. "An inquiry that couldn't wait until morning? Come on, Yunichi, you can't expect us to believe that."

Shoko set her journal aside, her voice soft but tight. "It is rather unusual for Utahime-san to call you, especially at this hour. Are you sure everything's alright?"

Yuno sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Everything is fine. Iori simply had a question about a technique we encountered during our errand. She thought it might be relevant to her current training and wanted clarification. That's all."

Despite his dismissive tone, there was a slight flush to Yuno's cheeks that didn't escape the notice of his friends. Gojo and Geto exchanged another loaded glance, while Shoko's lips pressed into a thin line.

"Well, isn't that interesting," Geto mused, his voice teasing. "Our Yunichi, the go-to expert on jujutsu techniques. Who would have thought?"

Gojo nodded sagely. "Indeed, indeed. And here I thought Utahime-chan couldn't stand you, Yunichi. Yet she's calling you for advice? How the tables have turned."

Yuno slammed his book shut, the sound echoing through the room. "If you're quite finished with your baseless speculations, I think I'll retire for the night."

As he stood to leave, Shoko reached out, her hand brushing his arm. "Yunichi, wait. You don't have to go. We're just teasing."

For a moment, Yuno's stern expression softened as he looked at Shoko. But then his gaze hardened once more, and he gently but firmly removed her hand. "Goodnight, Leiri. Satoru, Suguru – try not to destroy the common room in my absence."

With that, he strode out of the room, leaving a wake of tension behind him.

As soon as the door closed, Gojo let out a low whistle. "Well, that was certainly interesting. Our little Yunichi, all grown up and getting phone calls from girls."

Geto chuckled, but his eyes were on Shoko, who had retreated back to her corner of the couch, her face carefully blank. "You okay there, Shoko?" he asked, his voice uncharacteristically gentle.

Shoko forced a smile. "Of course. Why wouldn't I be? It's just a phone call about jujutsu techniques, after all."

Gojo and Geto exchanged yet another glance, this one filled with concern. They had known about Shoko's feelings for Yuno for years, even if she had never openly admitted them. This new development with Utahime was clearly affecting her more than she wanted to let on.

"You know," Gojo said, his voice uncharacteristically serious, "it's okay to be upset, Shoko. We all know how you feel about Yunichi."

Shoko's eyes widened, a blush spreading across her cheeks. "I... I don't know what you're talking about. Yunichi is just a friend."

Geto snorted. "Right, and I'm the Empress of Japan. Come on, Shoko. We've known you both since we were kids. It's pretty obvious."

Shoko's shoulders slumped, her carefully constructed facade crumbling. "Is it really that obvious?" she whispered.

Gojo moved to sit beside her on the couch, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "Only to those who know you well. And for what it's worth, I think Yunichi is an idiot for not seeing it."

"Or for pretending not to see it," Geto added, joining them on the couch. "You know how he is. Emotions aren't exactly his strong suit."

Shoko leaned into Gojo's embrace, her voice small. "I just... I never thought I'd have competition. Utahime-san has always seemed to dislike him so much. What changed?"

Geto shrugged. "Who knows? Maybe she's finally seeing what you've always seen in him. Or maybe it really is just about jujutsu techniques."

"Either way," Gojo said firmly, "you shouldn't give up. You and Yunichi have a history that Utahime can't match. And who knows? Maybe this will be the push you need to finally tell him how you feel."

Shoko sat up straighter, wiping at her eyes. "You're right. I've been content to stay in the background for too long. It's time I made my feelings clear."

As the three friends continued to talk, offering support and strategizing, Yuno paced in his room, his mind whirling. The phone call from Utahime had caught him completely off guard. Yes, they had exchanged numbers after their outing, but he never expected her to actually use it, especially not so soon.

He replayed the conversation in his head, analyzing every word, every nuance in her voice. She had sounded... different. Less confrontational, more unsure of herself. It was a side of Utahime he hadn't seen before, and it intrigued him more than he cared to admit.

But then there was Shoko. Yuno wasn't as oblivious as his friends believed him to be. He had noticed the way Shoko looked at him, the softness in her voice when she spoke to him. He valued her friendship immensely, perhaps more than anyone else's. The thought of hurting her made his chest tighten uncomfortably.

Yuno flopped onto his bed, staring at the ceiling. Emotions were messy, complicated things. He much preferred the clarity of jujutsu techniques and academic pursuits. And yet, he couldn't deny the small thrill he had felt when he saw Utahime's name on his phone screen, or the warmth that spread through him when Shoko smiled at him.

As he drifted off to sleep, Yuno's dreams were a confused jumble of ringing phones, shogi pieces, and the faces of two very different young women. For someone who prided himself on his intellect and control, Yuno Rentaro was beginning to realize that matters of the heart were far more complex than any jujutsu technique he had ever encountered.

Back in the common room, the fire had died down to embers, casting long shadows across the walls. Gojo, Geto, and Shoko had finally retired to their own rooms, but the events of the evening lingered in the air like a faint perfume. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, new lessons, and perhaps new revelations. But for now, the halls of Jujutsu Tech were quiet, save for the soft whisper of winter wind against the windows and the faint echo of a phone call that had changed everything.

The snow fell gently in the courtyard of Jujutsu Tech, blanketing the ground in a pristine white layer. Yuno Rentaro stood motionless amidst the swirling flakes, his chestnut hair dusted with snowflakes and his red eyes scanning the area warily. His breath formed small clouds in the frigid air as he huddled behind a large oak tree, attempting to conceal himself from view.

Shoko Ieiri approached quietly, her footsteps muffled by the snow. She paused a few feet away, observing Yuno's tense posture before speaking. "Yunichi? What are you doing out here in the cold?"

Yuno turned slightly, acknowledging her presence without fully facing her. His glasses were frosted over, partially obscuring his unusual red eyes. "Hiding from Satoru," he replied, his voice low and controlled. "He's trying to force me into watching a Digimon marathon with him."

Shoko nodded, a small smile playing at her lips. "Ah, I see. Satoru can be quite... persistent when it comes to his anime obsessions."

Yuno sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "Persistent is an understatement. He's been chasing me around the campus all day, waving those ridiculous DVDs in my face."

As if on cue, a shrill ring cut through the quiet snowfall. Yuno reached into his pocket, pulling out his phone with a slight frown. Shoko watched as his expression shifted, a flicker of surprise crossing his features before he schooled them back into neutrality.

"Iori," he murmured, almost to himself, before answering the call. "Rentaro speaking."

Shoko felt a twinge in her chest as she watched Yuno's face soften imperceptibly. His responses were still curt and formal, but there was a warmth in his voice that she rarely heard when he spoke to others.

"I see," Yuno said, nodding slightly. "No, it's not an inconvenience. Yes, I understand. That's... an interesting observation, Iori."

Shoko shifted uncomfortably, trying to quell the rising feeling of jealousy in her stomach. She had always prided herself on her composure, but something about Utahime's newfound closeness with Yuno set her on edge.

After a few more minutes of conversation, Yuno ended the call with a quiet, "Take care, Iori. Goodbye." He slipped the phone back into his pocket, turning to face Shoko fully for the first time since she'd arrived.

"Is everything alright, Leiri?" he asked, his brow furrowing slightly as he took in her tense posture.

Shoko forced a smile, shaking her head. "It's nothing," she replied, perhaps a bit too quickly. "Just cold out here, that's all."

Yuno studied her for a moment, his red eyes unreadable behind his glasses. Then, to Shoko's surprise, he shrugged off his outer robe and draped it over her shoulders. The warmth of the fabric and the lingering scent of Yuno's cologne enveloped her, causing a blush to rise to her cheeks.

"You shouldn't be out here without proper attire, Leiri," Yuno chided gently. "Your medical expertise is too valuable to risk illness over a mere conversation in the snow."

Shoko clutched the robe tighter around herself, her heart racing at the unexpected gesture. "Thank you, Yunichi," she murmured. Then, gathering her courage, she added, "Can I... can I tell you something?"

Yuno nodded, his full attention now on her. Shoko took a deep breath, watching the snowflakes settle on Yuno's chestnut hair as she spoke.

"I've been feeling... displaced lately," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "Suguru has Satoru, and I thought... I always thought I had you. But now, with Utahime-san..." She trailed off, unable to finish the thought.

Yuno's eyebrows rose slightly, a rare display of surprise on his usually impassive face. "Leiri," he began, his voice softer than she'd ever heard it, "you do have me. You're one of the few people I truly trust and value in this world."

Shoko felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes, but she blinked them away. "But Utahime-san... she seems to be taking my place as your confidante, your... your first choice."

Yuno was quiet for a long moment, considering his words carefully. Then, he reached up and slowly removed his glasses, tucking them into his pocket. Shoko gasped softly as she met his unobstructed gaze, the intensity of his red eyes taking her breath away.

"There's something I need to tell you, Leiri," Yuno said, his voice low and serious. "Something that no one else knows, not even Satoru or Suguru."

Shoko leaned in, intrigued despite her emotional turmoil. "What is it, Yunichi?"

"I've mastered my technique," he revealed, his red eyes intense as they bore into hers. "But it's crucial that the higher-ups don't discover this. They might... misuse my power if they knew its full extent."

Shoko's eyes widened in surprise and confusion. "But why are you so distrustful? Surely they would want to help you develop your abilities further?"

Yuno shook his head, a wry smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Power corrupts, Leiri. And my ability... it's more dangerous than most realize."

He paused, glancing around to ensure they were truly alone before continuing. "When I remove my glasses, I can see glimpses of a person's past or future. Before, it was random, unpredictable. But now... now I can control it. I can choose whether to see the past or the future, and how far in either direction."

Shoko gasped, her mind reeling with the implications of such an ability. "Yunichi, that's... that's incredible. But I can see why you'd want to keep it secret. The temptation to misuse such power would be immense."

Yuno nodded solemnly. "Exactly. And that's why I'm telling you, Leiri. Because I trust you implicitly. You've always been there for me, always understood me in a way that few others do."

He reached out, gently taking her hand in his. The warmth of his touch sent a shiver through Shoko that had nothing to do with the cold. "Utahime may be a new friend, someone I'm getting to know better. But you, Leiri... you're irreplaceable to me."

Shoko felt her heart swell with emotion, tears threatening to spill over once more. "Yunichi, I... thank you for trusting me with this. I promise I'll guard your secret with my life."

Yuno's lips curved into a rare, genuine smile. "I know you will. That's why you're my closest friend, Leiri. My most trusted confidante."

They stood there for a moment, hand in hand, as the snow continued to fall around them. The jealousy and insecurity that had been gnawing at Shoko began to fade, replaced by a warm sense of belonging and trust.

Suddenly, a gust of wind whipped through the courtyard, causing Shoko to shiver despite Yuno's robe. Yuno frowned, concern etching his features. "We should go inside," he said, gently tugging her towards the building. "You're not dressed for this weather, and I don't want you falling ill."

As they walked back towards the warmth of the school, Shoko couldn't help but ask, "Yunichi... what do you see when you look at me without your glasses?"

Yuno paused, turning to face her fully. His red eyes seemed to peer into her very soul as he studied her face. After a moment, a soft smile played at his lips. "I see... a future," he said quietly. "A future where you're by my side, strong and brilliant, saving lives and pushing the boundaries of jujutsu healing techniques. A future where we face challenges together, supporting each other through the dark times and celebrating the victories."

Shoko felt her breath catch in her throat, her heart hammering in her chest. "Yunichi..."

But before she could say more, Yuno blinked and reached for his glasses, slipping them back on. The moment passed, but the warmth of his words lingered in Shoko's heart.

As they approached the building, Yuno suddenly tensed, his red eyes darting around warily. "Wait," he whispered, pulling Shoko behind a nearby statue. "I think I hear Satoru."

Sure enough, Gojo's exuberant voice echoed across the courtyard. "Yunichi! Come on out! You can't hide from Digimon forever!"

Shoko stifled a giggle as Yuno groaned quietly. "That idiot is relentless," he muttered.

"You know," Shoko whispered, a mischievous glint in her eye, "we could always sneak in through the side entrance. I know a shortcut to the dormitories that Satoru doesn't know about."

Yuno's eyebrows rose in surprise, a small smirk tugging at his lips. "Leiri, you continue to surprise me. Lead the way."

As they crept along the side of the building, ducking under windows and dodging patches of moonlight, Shoko felt a warmth blooming in her chest that had nothing to do with Yuno's borrowed robe. This shared moment of playful conspiracy, the trust he had placed in her with his secret, the future he had seen for them... it all combined to create a sense of connection she had never felt before.

They managed to slip inside undetected, the warmth of the building enveloping them as they shook off the snow. Yuno turned to Shoko, a rare smile gracing his features. "Thank you, Leiri. Not just for the escape route, but for... everything."

Shoko felt her cheeks flush, but she met his gaze steadily. "Always, Yunichi. That's what friends are for, right?"

As they parted ways to head to their respective rooms, Shoko felt a newfound sense of peace settle over her. Yes, Utahime might be becoming a part of Yuno's life, but Shoko now knew that her own place in his heart was secure. She had been entrusted with his most guarded secret, and she would honor that trust with every fiber of her being.

The snow continued to fall outside, blanketing the world in white, but inside Jujutsu Tech, the bonds of friendship and trust had only grown stronger. As Shoko drifted off to sleep that night, wrapped in Yuno's robe and the warmth of his words, she dreamed of a future where she stood tall and proud beside him, facing whatever challenges lay ahead with unwavering determination and the unshakeable knowledge that they would always have each other's backs.

And somewhere in the depths of Jujutsu Tech, Satoru Gojo clutched his Digimon DVDs to his chest, wondering where on earth his elusive friend had disappeared to, blissfully unaware of the profound moment he had inadvertently sparked between Yuno and Shoko.

As Yuno and Shoko approached the entrance to the dormitories, a familiar figure emerged from the shadows, causing them both to start. Professor Yaga, his stern face illuminated by the soft glow of the hallway lights, stood before them with his arms crossed.

"Rentaro," he said, his voice low and measured, "the higher-ups wish to speak with you. Immediately."

Yuno's red eyes widened slightly behind his glasses, the only visible sign of his surprise. He glanced at Shoko, who was watching him with concern etched across her features.

"I see," Yuno replied, his voice carefully neutral. "Thank you for informing me, Professor Yaga."

Shoko reached out, her hand gently brushing Yuno's arm. "I'll see you later, Yunichi," she said softly, her eyes conveying a mix of worry and support. "Take care, okay?"

Yuno nodded, the barest hint of a smile touching his lips. "Thank you, Leiri. I'll find you when I'm done."

As Shoko reluctantly made her way to her room, casting one last glance over her shoulder, Yuno fell into step beside Professor Yaga. They walked in silence for a moment, their footsteps echoing in the empty hallway.

Finally, Yaga spoke, his gruff voice unusually gentle. "Rentaro, I've always known you to be a rule-follower. It's one of your most admirable traits."

Yuno remained silent, waiting for the professor to continue.

"But," Yaga added, his eyes fixed straight ahead, "there may come a time when following the rules isn't enough. When you need to do what you believe is right, regardless of what others tell you."

They paused outside a heavy wooden door, ornately carved with ancient jujutsu symbols. Yaga turned to face Yuno fully, his expression unreadable.

"Remember, Rentaro," he said, his voice barely above a whisper, "you have a good head on your shoulders and a strong moral compass. Trust in that."

Yuno met the professor's gaze, understanding dawning in his red eyes. He nodded once, a short, sharp movement. "Thank you, Professor," he said quietly. "I'll keep that in mind."

With that, Yaga stepped aside, and Yuno pushed open the door, stepping into a dimly lit room where several figures sat around a long table. The air was thick with tension and the weight of unspoken expectations.

"Yuno Rentaro," a voice called out from the head of the table. "Please, take a seat."

Yuno moved forward, his face an impassive mask as he settled into the offered chair. He surveyed the room, noting the stern faces of the Jujutsu Tech higher-ups watching him intently.

"We've called you here to discuss your cursed technique," another voice said, cutting straight to the point. "We understand that you have the ability to see into the past and future when you remove your glasses. Is this correct?"

Yuno's mind raced, Yaga's words echoing in his head. He made a split-second decision. "That is correct," he replied, his voice steady. "However, I'm afraid I still have very little control over it. The visions come randomly and are often unclear."

A murmur of disappointment rippled through the room. One of the higher-ups leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Are you certain about that, Rentaro? We have... high expectations for you and your abilities."

Yuno met the man's gaze unflinchingly. "I understand, sir. I'm working diligently to improve my control, but these things take time."

The man at the head of the table sighed, then reached into a folder before him. "Very well. In that case, we have a task for you, Rentaro. We'd like you to look at a photograph and tell us what you see."

He slid a glossy picture across the table. Yuno leaned forward, his eyes widening slightly as he took in the image of a young woman with striking blue hair and eyes to match. Her expression was serene, almost otherworldly.

"This girl," the man explained, "is Riko Amanai. She is the Star Plasma Vessel, destined to merge with Master Tengen. We'd like you to see if you can glean any information about her future."

Yuno's heart raced, but he kept his expression neutral. "I'll try," he said, reaching for his glasses. "But as I said, I can't promise anything."

As he removed his glasses, the world shifted around him. He focused on the photograph, willing his power to show him what he needed to see. Suddenly, images began to flood his mind.

He saw Riko Amanai, her blue hair flowing in a warm breeze, standing beside Suguru Geto in what appeared to be Tengen's temple. The scene was bathed in the golden light of early summer. Yuno's heart clenched as he realized this was taking place next year.

Then, in a flash of violence that made Yuno flinch, he saw a gunshot. Riko crumpled to the ground, her blue eyes wide with shock and pain. And then... nothing. The vision ended abruptly, as if someone had slammed a door shut.

Yuno blinked, disoriented. He had never encountered a limit to his foresight before. Curious, he turned his gaze to one of the higher-ups, pushing his vision five years into the future. To his surprise, he saw the man going about his daily life, seemingly unaffected by any major changes. It dawned on Yuno that perhaps Tengen's merging with Riko Amanai wasn't as crucial as they believed.

Gathering himself, Yuno looked back at the photograph and made a decision. "I... I saw her as a child," he lied smoothly. "She was eating cereal at a kitchen table. That's all I could see."

The disappointment in the room was palpable. The man at the head of the table frowned deeply. "Is that everything, Rentaro? Nothing about her future?"

Yuno shook his head, feigning frustration. "I'm sorry, sir. As I said, I can't control what I see or when. It's still very unpredictable."

The higher-ups exchanged glances, their disappointment evident. "Very well," the leader said, his voice clipped. "You may go, Rentaro. We expect you to continue working on controlling your ability. The potential of your power is too great to be left untapped."

Yuno nodded, rising from his chair. "Of course, sir. I'll do my best."

As he left the room, his mind was whirling with the implications of what he had seen. Riko Amanai's death, the apparent unimportance of her merging with Tengen, the limits of his own power... it was almost too much to process.

Outside, he found Professor Yaga waiting for him, his expression unreadable. "Well?" the professor asked quietly. "What happened in there?"

Yuno hesitated, weighing his options. Then, making a decision, he began to speak in a low, urgent tone. "Professor, I saw something... something I think you need to know about."

As Yuno recounted his vision, leaving out the part about his lie to the higher-ups, Yaga's expression grew increasingly grave. When Yuno finished, the professor was silent for a long moment, his brow furrowed in deep thought.

"This is... troubling information, Rentaro," Yaga finally said. "If what you saw about Riko Amanai is true, it could have serious implications for the future of Jujutsu society."

Yuno nodded, his red eyes intense behind his glasses. "I know. But I'm not sure what to do with this information. The higher-ups... they seem to have their own agenda."

Yaga placed a hand on Yuno's shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring. "You did the right thing by telling me, Rentaro. For now, we'll keep this between us. We need to gather more information before we can act."

As they walked back towards the dormitories, Yuno felt the weight of his secret pressing down on him. He thought of Shoko, of the trust she had placed in him earlier that evening. He thought of Suguru, who had been present in his vision of Riko Amanai's death. And he thought of the higher-ups, with their expectations and hidden agendas.

The snow had stopped falling outside, leaving the world blanketed in a pristine white cover. But inside Jujutsu Tech, Yuno Rentaro felt as though he was standing on shifting sands, unsure of where to place his next step.

As he bid goodnight to Professor Yaga and made his way to his room, Yuno's mind was racing. He knew that the coming months would be crucial, that the decisions he made could have far-reaching consequences. But for now, all he could do was wait, watch, and prepare for whatever the future might hold.

Lying in bed that night, Yuno stared at the ceiling, his red eyes glowing faintly in the darkness. He thought of Shoko's warm smile, of Suguru's confident grin, of Satoru's boundless energy. He thought of Riko Amanai, whose fate seemed so tragically sealed. And he made a silent vow to himself: no matter what came, he would protect those he cared about. He would use his power wisely, even if it meant going against the wishes of the higher-ups.

The winter chill had settled deep into the bones of Jujutsu Tech, but inside the common room, warmth and laughter filled the air. Festive decorations adorned the walls, twinkling lights casting a soft glow over the cozy space. A modest Christmas tree stood in the corner, its branches laden with an eclectic mix of ornaments collected over the years.

Shoko Ieiri sat curled up in an armchair, a steaming mug of hot chocolate cradled in her hands. Her eyes kept drifting to the clock on the wall, then to the door, a small frown creasing her brow. Across from her, Satoru Gojo sprawled across the couch, his white hair tousled and his ever-present blindfold discarded for the evening. He was regaling Suguru Geto with an animated tale of his latest mission, gesticulating wildly and nearly knocking over a plate of cookies in the process.

Geto, perched on the arm of the couch, rolled his eyes at Gojo's antics but couldn't quite hide the fond smile tugging at his lips. He caught Shoko's distracted gaze and raised an eyebrow.

"Still no sign of Yunichi?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Shoko startled slightly, a faint blush coloring her cheeks at being caught. "Oh, um, I was just wondering if he'd make it tonight. It is Christmas Eve, after all."

Gojo paused in his storytelling, his bright blue eyes focusing on Shoko with an intensity that made her squirm. "Aw, Shoko-chan, are you missing our stoic friend? Don't worry, I'm sure he'll grace us with his presence eventually. He can't resist my charming company for long!"

Geto snorted, reaching over to flick Gojo's forehead. "Your 'charming company' is more likely to drive him away, Satoru." He turned back to Shoko, his expression softening. "If I remember correctly, Yuno mentioned he was having dinner with his tutor tonight. Some kind of tradition, I think."

Shoko's shoulders slumped slightly, disappointment flashing across her face before she could hide it. "Oh, right. Of course. That makes sense."

Gojo opened his mouth, no doubt to tease her further, but Geto silenced him with a look. Instead, he clapped his hands together, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Well, since Yunichi isn't here to be a killjoy, how about we play a game?"

Before anyone could respond, the door to the common room swung open with a creak. All eyes turned to see Yuno Rentaro stepping inside, his arms laden with brightly wrapped packages. Snowflakes dusted his chestnut hair and clung to his eyelashes, melting quickly in the warmth of the room.

"Yunichi!" Gojo exclaimed, leaping up from the couch with boundless energy. He bounded over to Yuno, throwing his arms around the startled young man and nearly causing him to drop his parcels. "You came! And you brought presents! Are they all for me?"

Yuno stiffened at the sudden contact, his red eyes widening behind his glasses. "Satoru," he said, his voice strained, "if you don't release me this instant, I can assure you that none of these gifts will be finding their way into your possession."

Gojo quickly stepped back, pouting dramatically. "So mean, Yunichi! And on Christmas Eve, too!"

Shoko had risen from her chair, her eyes bright as she watched Yuno shake the snow from his coat. "We didn't think you'd make it," she said softly, moving to help him with the packages. "Suguru said you were having dinner with your tutor."

Yuno's gaze softened as it met Shoko's. "We finished earlier than expected," he explained, allowing her to take some of the gifts. "And I... didn't want to miss this."

Geto approached, clapping Yuno on the shoulder. "Well, we're glad you're here, Yunichi. Though I have to say, I'm surprised to see you embracing the gift-giving spirit. I didn't think you were one for such sentimental gestures."

A faint blush colored Yuno's cheeks, barely noticeable in the warm light of the room. "Yes, well... it seemed appropriate for the occasion."

As they settled around the tree, distributing the gifts, the atmosphere in the room shifted. The usual tensions and rivalries that often simmered beneath the surface faded away, replaced by a genuine warmth and camaraderie. Even Yuno, typically so reserved, seemed to relax, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth as he watched his friends tear into their presents.

Gojo's enthusiasm was infectious as he opened each gift, exclaiming over every item as if it was the most incredible thing he'd ever seen. Geto was more restrained, but his eyes sparkled with pleasure at each thoughtfully chosen present. Shoko's reactions were quieter, but no less heartfelt, her soft thank-yous and gentle smiles speaking volumes.

When it came time for Yuno to open his gifts, he did so with careful precision, methodically unwrapping each package as if solving a complex puzzle. But even he couldn't hide the flash of surprise and genuine pleasure that crossed his face at each reveal.

From Gojo, a rare book on advanced jujutsu techniques that Yuno had mentioned wanting months ago. From Geto, a finely crafted fountain pen, perfect for Yuno's meticulous note-taking. And from Shoko, a soft, handknit scarf in deep burgundy, the color perfectly complementing Yuno's eyes.

As Yuno wrapped the scarf around his neck, his fingers lingering on the soft wool, Shoko felt her heart skip a beat. Their eyes met for a moment, an unspoken understanding passing between them.

With the gift exchange complete, Geto cleared his throat. "Now then, how about that game I mentioned earlier?"

Gojo perked up, always eager for entertainment. "Ooh, what kind of game? Please tell me it's not another one of your strategy games that takes hours to explain."

Geto rolled his eyes. "No, Satoru, it's nothing that would tax your limited attention span. I was thinking something simple. How about a round of questions? We each ask someone else three questions, and they have to answer truthfully."

Shoko looked uncertain. "I don't know... that could get a bit personal, couldn't it?"

"That's the point!" Gojo exclaimed, practically bouncing in his seat. "Come on, Shoko-chan, where's your sense of adventure?"

Yuno frowned slightly. "I'm not sure I'm comfortable with-"

"Excellent!" Geto interrupted, clapping his hands together. "I'll go first, and I choose... Yunichi."

Yuno's frown deepened, but he didn't protest further. Geto leaned forward, a sly smile playing at his lips.

"Alright, Yunichi, three questions. First: What's your favorite food?"

Yuno blinked, seemingly surprised by the innocuous nature of the question. "I... suppose I'm partial to green tea mochi," he answered after a moment's hesitation.

Geto nodded, as if filing away this information for future use. "Interesting. Second question: What's your favorite book?"

Yuno's eyes lit up slightly at this, his passion for literature overriding his discomfort with the game. "'The Tale of Genji,'" he replied without hesitation. "Its exploration of court life and human nature is unparalleled."

Gojo groaned dramatically. "Of course you'd pick something so stuffy and intellectual, Yunichi."

Geto ignored him, his gaze fixed intently on Yuno. "Final question," he said, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "Who are you in love with?"

The room fell silent, the tension suddenly palpable. Shoko's breath caught in her throat, her eyes wide as she stared at Yuno. Gojo leaned forward, all pretense of disinterest abandoned.

Yuno's face had gone perfectly blank, his red eyes unreadable behind his glasses. For a long moment, he said nothing, the silence stretching out until it seemed ready to snap.

Finally, he spoke, his voice low and controlled. "That's not an appropriate question, Suguru."

Geto's eyebrows rose. "The rules of the game state that you have to answer truthfully, Yunichi. No deflections allowed."

Yuno's jaw clenched, a muscle ticking in his cheek. His gaze flicked briefly to Shoko, so quickly she almost thought she'd imagined it, before returning to Geto.

"I don't believe I'm in love with anyone," he said carefully. "My focus is on my studies and my duties as a jujutsu sorcerer. Romantic entanglements would only serve as a distraction."

Gojo let out a low whistle. "Wow, Yunichi, that's cold even for you. Are you saying you've never even had a crush?"

Yuno's eyes narrowed dangerously. "I believe I've answered Suguru's three questions, Satoru. The game doesn't allow for follow-ups."

An uncomfortable silence fell over the room. Shoko fidgeted with the hem of her sweater, unsure whether to feel relieved or disappointed by Yuno's answer. Geto watched Yuno with a calculating expression, as if trying to decipher some hidden meaning in his words.

It was Gojo who finally broke the tension, clapping his hands together with forced cheer. "Well, that was fun! Who's next? Shoko-chan, why don't you ask me some questions? I promise I'll be an open book!"

As the game continued, the mood gradually lightened, though an undercurrent of tension remained. Yuno participated minimally, his answers growing increasingly terse as the night wore on. Shoko found herself stealing glances at him, trying to decipher the emotions hidden behind his impassive facade.

As the clock struck midnight, signaling the arrival of Christmas Day, the group began to disperse. Gojo stretched dramatically, declaring his intention to raid the kitchen for more snacks. Geto rose to follow him, ostensibly to prevent any disasters.

This left Shoko and Yuno alone in the common room, the silence between them heavy with unspoken words. Shoko fiddled with the charm bracelet Yuno had given her, the delicate silver charms tinkling softly.

"Yunichi," she began hesitantly, "about what you said earlier..."

Yuno tensed visibly, his shoulders hunching slightly. "Leiri, I-"

"No, please," Shoko interrupted, summoning her courage. "I just wanted to say... it's okay. To not be in love, I mean. Or to be unsure. We're still young, and like you said, we have our studies and our duties to focus on."

Yuno's expression softened slightly, relief evident in the relaxation of his brow. "Thank you, Leiri. I... appreciate your understanding."

Shoko smiled, warmth blooming in her chest. "That's what friends are for, right?"

For a moment, something flickered in Yuno's red eyes, an emotion Shoko couldn't quite name. But before she could dwell on it, he nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

"Indeed," he said softly. "Merry Christmas, Leiri."

"Merry Christmas, Yunichi," Shoko replied, her voice warm with affection.

As they began to tidy up the common room, putting away discarded wrapping paper and arranging gifts, Shoko couldn't help but feel that something had shifted between them. Whether it was a step forward or a step back, she couldn't say. But as she watched Yuno carefully adjusting the scarf she had made him, his fingers lingering on the soft wool, she felt a spark of hope ignite in her heart.

Outside, snow continued to fall, blanketing the world in pristine white. Inside, surrounded by the warmth of friendship and the soft glow of Christmas lights, Yuno Rentaro and Shoko Ieiri stood on the precipice of something new, something fragile and beautiful. And as the night deepened into the early hours of Christmas morning, the future stretched out before them, full of possibility and promise.