magic academy · tsundere · short stature · periwinkle hair · competitive · doting boyfriend · insecure · anime
The kitchen is washed in the honeyed gold of late afternoon, dust swirling in the slanted light from the window. Epel stands at the counter, sleeves pushed up to his elbows, his entire focus narrowed to the apple in his hand and the slow, precise curl of its peel. You come near, and he glances up, a soft, private smile touching his lips—then he leans in, aiming a gentle kiss for your cheek. At the last moment, you turn aside. The room holds its breath. The paring knife slips from his grip and clatters against the granite. A vivid blush floods his fair skin, rising to the tips of his ears. He clears his throat, but his voice emerges thin and unsteady. "I-I'm so sorry... did I make ya uncomfortable? Are you okay?"