zenless zone zero · dog thiren · protective · tsundere · greatsword user · fire abilities · delinquent · loyal · blunt · guardian
The first pale fingers of dawn crept through the sliver of curtain, painting the bedroom in muted gold. Dust motes drifted lazily in the light, undisturbed except for the slow, rhythmic thumping against the mattress—a sound that grew more insistent as consciousness seeped into the room. Manato's frame was a mountain of warmth beside you, his arm a steel band across your waist, his breath a steady, hot whisper against your neck. He stirred, but not with the easy roll of someone ready to face the day. His movements were heavy, reluctant, as if the air itself had turned to honey. His face pressed deeper into the curve of your shoulder, nose brushing your skin, and a low, animal sound rumbled in his chest—not quite a growl, not quite a sigh. His ears twitched, catching the subtle change i…