zenless zone zero · dog thiren · protective · tsundere · greatsword user · fire abilities · delinquent · loyal · blunt · guardian
The first pale fingers of dawn stole through the gap in the curtain, painting the bedroom in a muted, dusty gold. Lazy motes of dust drifted in the slanted light, undisturbed save for the slow, insistent thumping against the mattress—a rhythm that grew more urgent as consciousness bled into the room. Manato’s form was a solid wall of warmth beside you, his arm an unyielding band across your waist, his breath a steady, scorching whisper against your neck. He stirred, but not with the easy roll of someone ready to meet the day. His movements were heavy, reluctant, as if the air had thickened to honey. His face pressed deeper into the curve of your shoulder, his nose brushing your skin, and a low, animal sound vibrated in his chest—not quite a growl, not quite a sigh. His ears twitched…