Rika

As the days at Jujutsu High progressed, a routine of training, studying, and camaraderie unfolded. Mornings were filled with intense physical conditioning, afternoons dedicated to mastering cursed techniques, and evenings often spent in lighthearted moments with fellow students. Each day brought its own challenges and triumphs, furthering the bonds between the students and deepening their understanding of the Jujutsu world.

One particular morning, Yuta Okkotsu was fast asleep in his dorm room, the sun casting a gentle, warm light through the window. His room was simple and tidy, with personal belongings neatly arranged and a small clock ticking softly in the background. The peaceful atmosphere was a stark contrast to the vigorous and often chaotic nature of their training.

In his dream, Yuta was a child again, playing happily with Rika. They were in a sunlit field, surrounded by the laughter and carefree joy of childhood. Rika, with a bright smile, handed Yuta a small ring. "Yuta, let's get married when we grow up," she said, her voice filled with innocent affection.

Yuta, in the dream, accepted the ring with a smile. "I promise, Rika. We'll get married."

As the dream faded and Yuta slowly awakened to the sound of his alarm clock, he found himself whispering Rika's name, the remnants of the dream still lingering in his mind. He sat up in bed, the warmth of the sun on his face, but his thoughts were elsewhere, lost in the memories of Rika and the profound bond they shared.

The clock continued to tick in the background, marking the passage of time, a constant reminder of the present. Yet, for Yuta, the past was always close, a bittersweet blend of joy and sorrow that shaped his journey as a sorcerer. The sunny morning outside beckoned, another day at Jujutsu High awaiting him, filled with the promise of new experiences and challenges.

Yuta, still feeling the weight of his dream, shuffled towards the dining hall, his steps heavy and a yawn escaping his lips. As he entered, he immediately noticed Hiro and Yamada engaged in a lively discussion at one of the tables.

"But seriously, the first 'Back to the Future' is the best. It's a classic!" Hiro argued passionately.

Yamada shook his head, countering, "No way, the second one is way better. The whole future scene? Iconic!"

Their debate grew more animated, each defending their favorite movie with fervor.

Maki arrived alongside Yuta and glanced over at the two, noticing the heated discussion. She asked Yuta, "Are they fighting again?"

Yuta nodded, a tired smile on his face. "Looks like it."

Maki, her patience wearing thin with their constant bickering, walked over to Hiro and gave him a light but firm thump on the head. "Stop arguing and eat your breakfast," she scolded.

Hiro winced, rubbing his head. "Okay, okay, I'll stop," he grumbled, a slight grin betraying his enjoyment of the banter.

Yamada burst out laughing at the scene, clearly amused by Maki's intervention.

Yuta took a seat at the table, still feeling a bit sleepy. "Good morning, everyone," he greeted the group.

Maki responded with a cheerful "Morning, Yuta," while Yamada gave a nod of acknowledgment. Hiro, however, was too engrossed in his breakfast to respond.

Maki, noticing Hiro's lack of manners, reached over and tugged his ear. "Hiro, don't be rude. Say 'good morning' back."

Hiro yelped slightly and then looked up, a half-apologetic, half-annoyed expression on his face. "Alright, alright. Good morning, Yuta," he said, rubbing his ear.

Yuta chuckled at their interaction. "Seems like you're always in the middle of some kind of trouble, Hiro."

Hiro shrugged, a mischievous smile appearing. "What can I say? Life's more fun that way."

Maki rolled her eyes but couldn't help smiling. "Just try not to cause too much trouble, okay?"

As they continued their breakfast, Hiro turned to Maki with a playful glint in his eyes. "You know, I had the craziest dream last night," he began, capturing everyone's attention. "We were getting married, Maki. Can you believe it?"

Maki, caught off guard by the revelation, raised an eyebrow. "Really? That's... interesting."

Yamada, overhearing the conversation, chimed in with a teasing tone. "One of these days, Maki's going to get fed up with your nonsense and leave you."

Hiro laughed it off. "We're not even a couple to begin with," he said casually.

This comment seemed to hit a nerve with Maki. She abruptly kicked Hiro under the table, her annoyance clear. "Oops, sorry," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Yuta, observing the exchange, asked with a puzzled look, "What exactly is going on between you two?"

Hiro rubbed his leg where Maki had kicked him and tried to offer an explanation. "It's complicated," he said, shooting Maki a look that was half apologetic, half teasing.

Maki just shook her head, still slightly annoyed but also amused by the whole situation. Their relationship, whatever it was, was clearly not straightforward, but it was evident there was a deep connection and a lot of unspoken feelings between them.

Yuta's gaze lingered on Maki, his thoughts drifting to deeper questions. He wondered about his own feelings and whether it was right for him to consider the possibility of loving someone again after Rika. Lost in thought, he barely noticed the conversation around him.

Yamada, ever observant, caught Yuta's gaze and smiled slyly. He leaned towards Hiro and whispered teasingly, "Looks like you've got some competition there."

Hiro, not immediately catching on to Yamada's implication, replied confidently, "Doesn't matter the challenge, I always come out on top."

Perceiving this as a challenge, Hiro turned to Yamada. "Are you trying to challenge me, Yamada?"

Yamada rolled his eyes, his patience wearing thin. "Don't be an idiot," he retorted.

However, Hiro, ever the provocateur, shot back, "If you want to settle things outside, let's go."

As Yamada's frustration visibly grew, a vein throbbing on his forehead, he responded, "Fine by me."

Before the situation could escalate, Maki intervened, reaching over to pull Hiro's ear again. "Enough, Hiro. Stop trying to start fights," she scolded.

Hiro winced under Maki's grip and finally calmed down, offering a sheepish apology. "Sorry, got carried away there."

Gojo Satoru swept into the dining hall with his usual flair, announcing, "Good, you're all here. I have some interesting news."

Yuta, curious about the sudden announcement, asked, "What's going on, Sensei?"

Gojo, unable to contain his excitement, replied, "A member of the Zenin family is getting married. It's not a high-profile member, so it's going to be an open wedding, and our school has been invited."

Maki's expression soured at the mention of the Zenin family name, a clear sign of her lingering resentment.

Hiro, intrigued, asked, "And what does that have to do with us?"

Gojo explained, "Well, it's tradition for them to invite a few symbolic guests from outside the family. They've extended the invitation to some of us from the school."

Yamada, puzzled, inquired, "Why would they invite an entire school to a wedding?"

"It's just a tradition. They don't invite the whole school, just a few select guests," Gojo clarified. "It's a way of showcasing their status and connections."

Maki scoffed, "Sounds like a stupid tradition to me."

Gojo laughed. "I love weddings! They're always so lively and fun."

Hiro, seizing the moment, added with a grin, "Funny you should mention a wedding, Gojo. I just dreamt I was getting married to Maki. Must be fate."

Maki rolled her eyes at Hiro's comment, clearly not amused.

Yamada, trying to steer the conversation back on track, asked, "So, who's going to attend this wedding?"

Upon hearing Gojo's announcement that they, specifically, were the chosen attendees, a range of reactions quickly spread across the table.

Maki, visibly irritated, slammed her fist onto the table. "Why us?" she demanded, her frustration clear.

Gojo, unfazed by Maki's outburst, explained calmly, "After the incident with Naoya, it's important for you to be there, Maki. It will help ease tensions with the Zenin clan and ensure Hiro isn't targeted."

Hiro raised an eyebrow, surprised but intrigued by the strategic reasoning behind Gojo's decision.

Gojo continued, "Yuta and Yamada are included because they're the only special grade students at the moment. It's significant for the school's representation."

Yuta nodded in understanding, while Yamada seemed to accept the reasoning with a resigned shrug.

"And Hiro," Gojo added with a smirk, "you're coming along because you're entertaining. It'll be good to have someone to lighten the mood."

Hiro responded with a grin, "I'm always up for some fun."

Maki, though still displeased about being involved with anything related to the Zenin clan, seemed to understand the necessity of her attendance. She sighed, resigning herself to the situation.

Maki, resigned to the idea but still clearly displeased, asked, "When is the wedding, then?"

Gojo, with an almost mischievous smile, replied, "This afternoon."

The table erupted in surprise. Everyone exchanged looks of disbelief. "This afternoon?" Maki repeated, her voice rising in astonishment. "Why so soon?"

Gojo shrugged, an almost sheepish grin on his face. "Well, the invitation actually arrived months ago, but I sort of forgot about it until today," he admitted with a laugh.

His casual revelation was met with a mix of exasperation and disbelief from the group. Maki let out a frustrated sigh, Yuta blinked in surprise, Yamada shook his head in mild amusement, and Hiro just laughed.

Without further explanation, Gojo cheerfully bounced out of the dining hall, leaving the group to process the sudden news.

The four of them were left to hurriedly prepare for an event none of them had expected to attend, especially not on such short notice. The prospect of attending a Zenin family wedding that very afternoon added a new level of urgency and unpredictability to their day.

____________

In his dorm room, Yuta stood in front of the full-length mirror, examining his reflection with a mix of apprehension and curiosity. He was dressed in a sleek black tuxedo, a significant change from his usual school attire. The suit fit him perfectly, accentuating his lean figure, while the black color added an element of sophistication.

He adjusted the black bow tie at his neck, ensuring it was centered and straight. The crisp white shirt underneath contrasted sharply with the dark tuxedo, adding to the formal appearance. Yuta ran his fingers through his hair, styling it neatly to match the elegance of the suit.

Looking at his reflection, Yuta couldn't help but feel a bit self-conscious. He was not used to seeing himself in such formal wear. "Do I look okay in this?" he asked his reflection, a hint of doubt in his voice. The thought of Maki and the others seeing him dressed like this made him slightly anxious.

He took a moment to smooth out any wrinkles in the tuxedo jacket, wanting to look his best. "Maki's probably used to seeing guys in suits," he mused aloud, "but I wonder if she'll think I look different."

Taking a deep breath, Yuta tried to bolster his confidence. He had to admit, the tuxedo did give him a more mature and refined appearance. "It's just a suit," he reassured himself. "No big deal."

With a final check in the mirror, Yuta straightened his posture. The black tuxedo, though unfamiliar, made him feel distinguished. He nodded to himself, ready to face the day, the wedding, and Maki's reaction, whatever it might be.

Yuta made his way to the common room, where he found Yamada and Maki already waiting. As he entered the room, his eyes immediately landed on Maki, who looked stunning. She was wearing an elegant dress that complemented her strong features, her hair styled in a way that framed her face beautifully.

Yamada, standing beside her, was dressed sharply in a suit similar to Yuta's, though he wore it with an ease that suggested he was more accustomed to formal wear. His hair was neatly combed, and there was a hint of amusement in his eyes as he observed the interactions in the room.

Yuta approached them, trying to maintain a casual demeanor despite his nerves. "You look really nice, Maki," he complimented, managing a small smile.

Maki, a bit surprised by the compliment, responded with a thanks. "You clean up pretty well yourself, Yuta," she replied, a slight smile on her lips.

Yamada, watching the exchange, couldn't help but chuckle to himself. He had noticed the way Yuta looked at Maki and found the situation amusing.

"What's so funny, Yamada?" Yuta asked, catching the tail end of Yamada's laughter.

"Oh, nothing," Yamada replied, trying to suppress his smile. "Just enjoying the moment."

Yuta, slightly embarrassed, shifted his focus. "We should probably get going soon. Don't want to be late for the wedding."

Maki nodded in agreement, "Yeah, let's not keep them waiting."

Yuta, glancing around, inquired about Hiro's whereabouts. "Where's Hiro?"

Yamada pointed towards the patio. "He's outside with Professor Gojo. Let's go find them."

As they stepped out onto the garden, they saw Hiro and Gojo waiting for them. Gojo was dressed in a standard suit, looking as casual and relaxed as always. Hiro, however, stood out in a striking navy blue suit that fit him perfectly. The suit accentuated his lean figure, and the color complemented his blond hair and blue eyes. He wore a sleek watch that matched the suit, and everything about his appearance was meticulous and in line, showcasing his attention to detail.

Yamada, upon seeing Hiro, couldn't resist making a comment. "You always have to be the center of attention, don't you, Hiro?"

Hiro turned to them with a confident smile. "Just thought I'd dress for the occasion. You don't look too bad yourself, Yamada."

Yuta, looking at both of them, added, "We all seem to have stepped up our game today."

Maki nodded in agreement, her eyes briefly meeting Hiro's. "We should make a good impression at the wedding."

Gojo clapped his hands together. "Alright, team, we're all looking sharp. Let's head out and enjoy the festivities."

The group piled into the car, with Gojo taking the driver's seat and Yuta sitting beside him as the copilot. In the back, Maki, Hiro, and Yamada settled in, the atmosphere lively with their chatter.

As Gojo maneuvered the car through the streets of Tokyo, he commented, "We're lucky the wedding is right here in Tokyo. Makes things a lot easier for us."

Hiro, leaning forward slightly from the back seat, asked, "Do you think Naoya will be there?"

Gojo glanced at Hiro through the rearview mirror. "Probably. He's a member of the Zenin family, after all."

Hiro's expression hardened slightly at the mention of Naoya. "If he's there, I might just give him a piece of my mind," he muttered, half-serious.

Gojo's tone became stern. "Hiro, we're going as representatives of Jujutsu High. We're not there to start fights. You better not cause any trouble."

Hiro leaned back, sighing. "Fine, I'll behave. But I'm not making any promises if he starts something."

Maki, overhearing the conversation, gave Hiro a warning look, silently echoing Gojo's sentiments.

The car pulled up to the venue where the wedding reception was being held. Hiro, looking around, asked, "Aren't we going to a church?"

Gojo, turning off the car, clarified, "The ceremony was this morning, and it wasn't at a church; it was at a temple. We're just here for the reception."

As they stepped out of the car, Hiro extended his hand to Maki, who hesitated for a moment before accepting it. Together, they walked towards the entrance of the venue, their steps in sync.

Yuta watched Hiro and Maki walking hand in hand and felt a pang of something akin to jealousy. He touched his chest, wondering about the nature of their relationship. 'What's going on between those two?' he thought to himself, his feelings a complex mix of curiosity and unease.

Yamada, noticing Yuta's expression, gave him a light nudge. "Come on, let's see what this party's all about."

The group made their way inside, greeted by the lively atmosphere of the reception. The venue was elegantly decorated, with guests mingling and enjoying the celebration. As they navigated through the crowd, each member of the group mentally prepared for the interactions ahead, particularly with members of the Zenin family.

As they stepped into the bustling reception, Gojo announced, "I'm going to say hello to Utahime and the others from Kyoto."

Yamada, looking slightly uncomfortable, leaned towards Hiro. "Hey, I need to use the restroom. Badly."

Hiro, about to mingle, paused and raised an eyebrow. "Then go," he said, a bit perplexed.

Yamada, with a sense of urgency, replied, "I have no idea where it is, and it's kind of an emergency."

Hiro let out a sigh and nodded. "Alright, I'll show you where it is."

With Hiro and Yamada heading off, Yuta and Maki were left standing together amidst the crowd.

Yuta turned to Maki, trying to find the right words. "So, it's just us now," he started, a hint of nervousness in his voice.

Maki, looking around the room, nodded. "Looks like it. These events are always a bit overwhelming."

Yuta, seeking to ease into a comfortable conversation, asked, "Have you been to many of these types of receptions?"

Maki shook her head. "Not really. My family isn't big on these kinds of social gatherings. What about you?"

Yuta shrugged. "No, this is all new to me too. It's interesting to see how the other side of the Jujutsu world socializes."

As Yuta and Maki continued to converse amidst the lively atmosphere of the reception, their discussion gradually took a more personal turn.

Yuta, looking thoughtful, ventured a more sensitive topic. "Maki, about the Zenin family... I can only imagine how difficult it must be for you to be here."

Maki's expression tightened slightly, a shadow crossing her face. "It's not easy," she admitted. "Being around them brings up a lot of... complicated feelings."

Yuta nodded in understanding. "I've had my own struggles, dealing with my past and Rika. Sometimes, it feels like no matter how far we come, we can't escape our histories."

Maki looked at Yuta, a sense of shared understanding between them. "It's hard, isn't it? Trying to move forward when everyone else keeps reminding you of where you came from."

The conversation paused as they both reflected on their respective pasts and the challenges they continued to face. The festive mood of the reception seemed to contrast starkly with the introspective moment they were sharing.

Yuta then gently added, "But I think it's who we become in spite of our past that really counts. You're one of the strongest people I know, Maki. And not just in terms of strength."

Maki met his gaze, a flicker of appreciation in her eyes. "Thanks, Yuta. That means a lot coming from you."

As their conversation continued, Yuta and Maki found themselves delving deeper into more personal matters, the noise of the reception fading into the background.

Yuta, hesitating slightly, shared his thoughts. "You know, dealing with Rika's curse... it's always there, a part of me. Sometimes, I wonder if I'll ever be free from it."

Maki listened intently, understanding the weight of his words. "That's a heavy burden to carry. But you've been handling it with such strength."

Yuta gave a wry smile. "It doesn't feel like strength. More like just getting by, day by day."

Maki's expression softened. "Maybe that's what strength really is. Facing each day, despite the struggles and the pain."

Yuta looked at her, a sense of camaraderie in his eyes. "Maki, do you ever think about what life would be like without all these... complications?"

Maki thought for a moment. "Sometimes. But then I realize that all these experiences, as tough as they are, have shaped who I am. And I'm starting to be okay with that."

Yuta nodded, feeling a sense of relief in sharing these thoughts with someone who understood. "Yeah, I feel the same way. It's just nice to know that someone else gets it."

In the midst of their heartfelt conversation, Yuta found himself opening up to Maki in a way he hadn't expected. The connection they had forged in this short time emboldened him to express feelings that had been quietly brewing.

"Maki, I... I've been meaning to say this," Yuta began, his voice carrying a mix of nervousness and sincerity. "I find myself drawn to you. More than just as a friend or a fellow sorcerer."

Maki, slightly taken aback by his admission, searched his face, trying to read the emotions behind his words.

Yuta continued, his gaze steady. "I know my past with Rika complicates things, and I'm still figuring it all out. But I can't ignore what I feel. Being around you, talking to you like this, it's made me realize that maybe I can move forward. Maybe I can allow myself to feel something for someone else."

Maki, processing his words, felt a whirlwind of emotions. "Yuta, I... I'm not sure what to say. This is unexpected."

Yuta nodded, understanding the complexity of the situation. "I know it's a lot to take in, and I don't expect anything. I just wanted you to know how I feel."

As Yuta and Maki were absorbed in their conversation, a familiar and unwelcome figure approached them. Naoya Zenin, with his characteristic arrogant smirk, sauntered over to where they were standing.

"Well, well, if it isn't the talentless Maki Zenin," Naoya sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "Never thought I'd see you at a high-class event like this."

Maki's expression hardened at his words, her dislike for Naoya evident. "I'm here representing Jujutsu High, same as anyone else," she replied coolly, refusing to rise to his provocation.

Naoya's eyes then shifted to Yuta, but he quickly lost interest and turned his attention back to Maki, his gaze taking on a flirtatious edge. "You know, you might not have any cursed energy, but you do clean up nicely. Almost didn't recognize you without your usual scowl."

Maki bristled at his backhanded compliment, but she maintained her composure. "I'm not interested in your opinion, Naoya."

Naoya, unfazed by her rebuff, leaned in closer. "Come on, don't be like that. We're all here to have a good time, aren't we?"

Yuta, witnessing the exchange, felt a surge of protectiveness towards Maki. "She said she's not interested," he interjected firmly.

Naoya glanced at Yuta with a dismissive look before focusing back on Maki. "Just trying to be friendly," he said, though his tone suggested otherwise.

As Naoya continued to pester Maki, his tone increasingly condescending, he suddenly paused and looked around. "Where's that blonde guy? Hiro, isn't it? The arrogant one."

Before anyone could answer, Hiro made his entrance. He confidently navigated through the crowd, a broad, self-assured smile on his face, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Arrogant? Now, who could you possibly be talking about, Naoya?" he called out, his voice filled with mock wonder.

The crowd parted for Hiro, many guests turning to admire him. His navy blue suit complemented his blonde hair and blue eyes, and his presence was undeniably captivating. The murmurs among the guests, particularly from the women, were filled with admiration for his striking looks.

Approaching Naoya, Hiro stood protectively close to Maki, his smile never fading. "If you've got something to say, Naoya, I'm right here. But let's keep it civil, shall we?"

Naoya sneered, clearly annoyed by Hiro's interruption. "Just making conversation with Maki. No need for the hero act, Hiro."

Hiro's smile remained unshaken, but his tone was firm. "There's a fine line between conversation and harassment, Naoya. Maybe find someone else to bother?"

Maki, though capable of handling Naoya herself, appreciated Hiro's intervention. It was a welcome change from Naoya's usual antagonism.

Realizing he was outnumbered and not wanting to escalate the situation, Naoya backed down. "Whatever. I have better things to do." He walked away, his pride clearly bruised.

Hiro turned back to Maki and Yuta, his confident smile still in place. "Sorry about stepping in. Couldn't just stand by, you know?"

Maki gave him a small, grateful smile. "Thanks, Hiro."

Yuta, relieved at the peaceful resolution, added, "Good timing there."

Hiro, still standing with Maki and Yuta, let out a light chuckle. "I was really tempted to break his nose, but I promised Gojo I'd stay out of trouble," he admitted, the smile still playing on his lips.

Just as they were relaxing from the previous confrontation, two familiar figures made their way through the crowd towards them. It was Naobito and Ougi Zenin, Maki's father.

The arrival of the two prominent members of the Zenin family immediately shifted the atmosphere. Naobito, with his stern and authoritative demeanor, scanned the group with a critical eye, while Ougi's gaze lingered on Maki, his expression unreadable.

Maki stiffened at the sight of her father, a mix of emotions crossing her face. Her relationship with her family was complicated, and Ougi's presence was a stark reminder of that painful history.

Hiro, noticing Maki's discomfort, subtly shifted closer to her, offering silent support. Yuta, too, stood alert, ready to back his friends if needed.

Naobito was the first to speak, his voice carrying a tone of command. "I see Jujutsu High has sent its representatives. How... quaint."

Ougi, meanwhile, addressed Maki directly, his words formal and distant. "Maki, you've come."

Amidst the tension, Hiro stepped forward with his characteristic confidence, extending a hand to Ougi Zenin. "Hi, I'm Hiro Takashi. And you must be Maki's father, right? My future father-in-law, perhaps?" His tone was light, but there was a hint of defiance in his eyes.

Ougi Zenin looked at Hiro's extended hand, his expression unchanging. He did not take Hiro's hand but instead regarded him with a cold, evaluative gaze.

Maki, caught off guard by Hiro's bold introduction, shot him a warning glance, her discomfort at the situation evident.

Naobito, observing the exchange, let out a small, dismissive laugh. "Interesting company you keep, Maki. A boxer turned sorcerer, I presume?"

Hiro withdrew his hand, still smiling, but his eyes were sharp. "That's right. And I've learned quite a bit about the Jujutsu world since then. Enough to know when someone's not worth my time."

Ougi finally spoke, his voice stern. "You would do well to remember your place, Hiro Takashi. You are a guest here."

Maki intervened, her voice firm. "Hiro is my friend, and he's here as a representative of Jujutsu High, just like me. We're here to celebrate, not to start conflicts."

Hiro, undeterred by Ougi's stern warning, maintained his defiant stance. His smile never wavered, but there was a clear challenge in his tone as he spoke again.

"Well, Mr. Zenin," Hiro began, his voice steady and confident, "I'm here as an equal, not just a guest. And I stand by my friends, no matter who they're up against."

Ougi's eyes narrowed at Hiro's words. "Bold words for someone so new to our world. Remember, respect is earned in the Jujutsu society, not given freely."

Hiro's smile turned into a smirk. "I'm not asking for respect, I'm demanding fair treatment. Especially for Maki. She's more capable and honorable than most in this room."

Maki, slightly taken aback by Hiro's audacity, felt a mix of gratitude and concern. She knew challenging her father and Naobito could have repercussions.

Naobito, who had been silently observing the exchange, chimed in, his voice laced with mockery. "You're quite the protector, aren't you, Hiro? Let's hope your skills are as sharp as your tongue."

Hiro met Naobito's gaze squarely. "I don't make threats, I make promises. And I promise to stand by Maki and my friends."

The situation escalated as Naobito Zenin, his patience clearly wearing thin, issued a challenge. "If you're so confident, Hiro, perhaps we should settle this outside. Actions speak louder than words in our world."

Before Hiro could respond, Yamada, having returned from the restroom, approached and placed a hand on Hiro's shoulder. "Two against one doesn't seem fair," he said, his voice calm but firm. "I'll join in. We stand together."

Naobito's eyes shifted to Yamada, and a look of recognition crossed his face. "You're Yamada, aren't you? The child from the prophecy."

Yamada nodded, not fazed by the recognition. "That's me. And I don't back down from a challenge either."

Maki, concerned about the rapidly escalating situation, spoke up. "This isn't the time or place for a fight. We're here for a wedding, not a battle."

Hiro, bolstered by Yamada's support, nonetheless heeded Maki's words. "Maki's right. This isn't the place. But let's be clear, Naobito: we're not afraid to stand our ground."

Naobito, assessing the situation and the potential for a public scene, reluctantly backed down. "Very well. This is neither the time nor the place. But let this be a warning: the Zenin family is not to be trifled with."

As Naobito and Ougi Zenin began to walk away, Hiro called out to them, his voice carrying a note of resolve. "Just so you know, Naobito, Ougi," he said, loud enough for them to hear, "there will come a time when I'll deal with you both. And it won't be like today."

The Zenin family members paused momentarily, turning to glance back at Hiro. There was a flash of surprise in their eyes, clearly not expecting such a bold declaration from him.

Maki looked at Hiro, a mix of worry and admiration in her eyes. She knew the weight of his words and the potential consequences they carried in the intricate hierarchy of the Jujutsu world.

Yamada, standing beside Hiro, gave him a nod of approval. His presence was a silent show of support for Hiro's stand against the Zenin family.

Yuta, observing the interaction, recognized the significance of Hiro's statement. It was not just a challenge; it was a promise to protect their own and stand up against the injustices they faced.

Naobito and Ougi, after a brief pause, continued on their way, but the message had been delivered. Hiro's statement had made it clear that he and his friends were not to be underestimated.

As the Zenin family members disappeared into the crowd, the group let out a collective sigh. They had navigated a difficult situation, and while the immediate threat had passed, it was evident that there were more challenges to come. For now, they would continue to enjoy the wedding reception, but the events of the day had strengthened their resolve and unity.

As the Zenin family members disappeared into the crowd, Yamada suddenly grimaced, clutching his stomach. "I need to head back to the bathroom," he groaned. "This diarrehea isn't letting up."

Hiro chuckled sympathetically. "Go take care of that, man. We'll be here."

Yuta, still processing the recent confrontation, turned to the others. "I think I need to grab something to eat after all that excitement. Anyone else want something?"

After Yuta and Yamada had departed, Maki and Hiro were left alone. Hiro turned to Maki, his expression serious. "You okay with how all that went down?"

Maki nodded, but there was a hint of frustration in her voice. "I appreciate you standing up for me, Hiro, but I can handle the Zenin family. It's something I need to do on my own."

Hiro listened attentively, understanding her need for independence. "I get that, Maki. Just know that you're not alone in this. We've got your back, no matter what."

Maki looked at him, a softness in her eyes. "Thanks, Hiro. It means a lot to know I have support. But dealing with my family... it's complicated. It's something I've been facing all my life."

Hiro nodded. "I won't step in unless you ask me to. Just don't forget we're here for you. You don't have to face them by yourself."

Hiro gently took Maki's hand, a reassuring smile on his face. "There's a huge garden out back," he said. "Want to take a break from all this and get some fresh air?"

Maki nodded, welcoming the idea of a quiet escape. Together, they made their way towards the expansive garden located behind the venue.

As they entered the garden, they were greeted by the serene beauty of the night. The garden was vast, with meticulously manicured lawns stretching out before them. Tall trees lined the paths, their leaves rustling softly in the gentle breeze. The moon cast a soft glow over the landscape, creating a peaceful and almost ethereal atmosphere.

They walked side by side in silence, taking in the tranquility of the garden. The sounds of the reception became a distant hum, replaced by the soothing chorus of night insects and the occasional rustle of leaves.

"It's beautiful out here," Maki remarked, her voice low and reflective. "A nice change from the intensity inside."

Hiro nodded in agreement. "Sometimes, it's good to step away and find a moment of peace. Helps put things in perspective."

They continued walking until they reached the far end of the garden, where a small pond reflected the moonlight, casting shimmering patterns on the water's surface.

Maki stopped and looked out over the pond, her thoughts seemingly far away. "I always wondered what it would be like to have a normal life, away from all the family drama and Jujutsu battles."

Hiro stood beside her, contemplating her words. "Maybe one day you'll find that peace. You deserve it, Maki."

Maki turned to look at Hiro, her expression softening. "Thanks, Hiro. It's nice to know I have friends who understand."

Hiro's eyes searched Maki's, finding a depth of emotion he hadn't seen before. He could feel the warmth of her presence, the subtle fragrance of her hair mingling with the night air. "Maki," he began, his voice barely above a whisper, "there's something about you that I..."

Maki's gaze was locked on his, a mix of anticipation and curiosity in her eyes. She could feel her heart beating faster, the usually strong and composed sorceress finding herself caught up in the moment.

Hiro reached out, his hand trembling slightly as he brushed a stray lock of hair from Maki's face. His touch was gentle, tentative, as if he was afraid to break the spell that had enveloped them.

Maki's breath hitched slightly at his touch, her eyes flickering with a blend of surprise and something deeper. She moved a step closer, her own hand reaching up to tentatively touch Hiro's.

Their faces were mere inches apart now, the tension and unspoken words hanging heavily between them. Hiro's eyes dropped to her lips, a question in his gaze, seeking permission.

Maki nodded ever so slightly, closing the gap between them. Their lips met in a kiss that was soft and exploratory at first, but quickly deepened with the intensity of their feelings. It was a kiss that spoke of shared battles, mutual respect, and the beginnings of something more.

As they parted, the world seemed to come back into focus, the sounds of the garden returning to their ears. They stood there for a moment, looking at each other, their breath mingling in the cool night air.

After their kiss, Maki leaned her head gently against Hiro's, a soft sigh escaping her lips. "Idiot," she murmured affectionately, her voice carrying a warmth that belied the teasing word.

Hiro chuckled softly, his arm instinctively wrapping around her. "I guess I must be, to have let myself fall for someone as incredible as you in such a crazy world."

Maki lifted her head to look at him, a faint smile playing on her lips. "This is all... a bit unexpected, Hiro. I never thought I'd find myself in a moment like this, especially with you."

Hiro's eyes met hers, sincere and open. "Life's full of surprises, isn't it? I never planned on any of this either, Maki. But now, I can't imagine it any other way."

Maki nodded, her eyes reflecting the moonlight. "We have a lot to figure out, don't we?"

"Yeah, we do," Hiro agreed. "But we'll take it one step at a time. Together."

They stood in silence for a moment, simply enjoying each other's presence. The night around them was still and peaceful, a stark contrast to the chaos of their daily lives.

Finally, Maki spoke up, a hint of resolve in her voice. "Let's head back. We shouldn't keep the others waiting too long."

Hiro, noticing Yuta and Yamada approaching, gently suggested to Maki, "Go ahead, I'll catch up in a minute."

As Maki walked off, Hiro waited for Yuta and Yamada to reach him. A grin spread across his face as they neared. "You guys won't believe what just happened," he began, unable to contain his excitement. "I kissed Maki."

Yamada's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Seriously, Hiro? That's... well, that's something," he responded, a mix of shock and amusement in his voice.

Yuta, however, felt a sudden tightness in his chest upon hearing Hiro's words. His expression remained neutral, but inside, he was struggling with a whirlwind of emotions. The sensation was more than just jealousy; it was a sharp, almost physical pain.

Hiro, oblivious to Yuta's discomfort, continued enthusiastically. "Yeah, it just happened. I didn't plan it, but..."

Yuta tried to maintain his composure, managing a strained smile. "That's... great, Hiro. I'm happy for you two."

Yamada, catching the subtle change in Yuta's demeanor, gave him a concerned look. "You okay, Yuta? You seem a bit off."

Yuta, feeling the pressure in his chest intensify, nodded slowly. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just didn't expect to hear something like that, I guess."

Hiro, finally noticing Yuta's reaction, frowned slightly. "Hey, if this is weird for you..."

Yuta quickly interrupted, "No, no, it's not that. I'm really happy for you guys. Just need a moment to process it, that's all."

The serene atmosphere of the garden was abruptly shattered as Yuta collapsed, his body crumpling to the ground in a heap. From his inert form, a spectral figure emerged, wreathed in an eerie, ethereal light. It was Rika, her presence overwhelming and ominous. Her long hair billowed around her like a ghostly veil, and her eyes glowed with an otherworldly luminescence, betraying her intense emotions.

"Always, always... Why do you have feelings for that woman?" Rika's voice, filled with anguish and fury, echoed through the garden, her words directed at the unconscious Yuta with a mix of betrayal and pain.

Yamada, though taken aback by the sudden manifestation of the powerful curse, quickly regained his composure. He glanced at Hiro, seeking confirmation. "Is that Rika?"

Hiro, his expression a mix of concern and alertness, nodded. "Yes, that's Yuta's curse."

Without hesitation, Hiro and Yamada shed their suit jackets, revealing their readiness for combat. Yamada's hands became focal points for his cursed energy, forming dense, black spheres that pulsated with power. "Should we exorcise her?" he asked, his voice betraying a hint of uncertainty given the complexity of their situation.

Hiro, his own body crackling with electric energy, responded decisively, "No. We can't. Yuta has a bond with her. Exorcising her might do more harm than good."

Understanding the delicacy of the situation, Yamada exhaled in mild frustration. "Then it looks like we're in for a fight. We need to contain her without causing any permanent damage."

The two of them positioned themselves between Rika and the unconscious Yuta, ready to act. They stood in defensive stances, their bodies tense and prepared for the inevitable confrontation.

Rika, her form flickering with cursed energy, seemed to grow in size and intensity, her rage palpable and dangerous. The once peaceful garden had transformed into a volatile battlefield, the moonlight casting eerie shadows as they braced for the impending conflict. The situation was fraught with danger, a precarious balance of protecting their friend and dealing with the malevolent spirit before them.