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Endless Masquerades

"Thanks. So, where are your friends?" Kyoujurou went to speak before another voice cut him off.

"Most are doing unholy things, but that's to be expected. How are you doing Tanjirou?" The maroon haired male glanced to the parties host, smiling.

"Been pretty good. Brought a friend to their first ever party."

"Oh?"

"Indeed, but it seems Tanjirou has somehow decided to get him smashed before even an hour has passed. I hate to say this, but Uzui is a better influence." Tanjirou faked hurt, noticing Zenitsu's faint movements. It brought an idea that drew a smile. It of course was noticed by the other two.

"Well then, since he's a better influence, how about he watches Zenitsu. Not to mention, I'm dying for some fun." Tanjirou climbed from his seat, stepping closer to Kyoujurou before he trailed his finger along the others chest. "You know, something only you can offer. 'Us' time."

"What about the party?" Tanjirou shrugged. 

"Most aren't going to make it past midnight. Plus, there are spare bedrooms for a reason, right Uzui-san?" The taller male with white yet silver colored hair nodded. He wore a wide smirk.

"Indeed. You two have fun." Kyoujurou gave a slight concerned look, but was forced away as Tanjirou called back to him.

"Take care of Zenitsu for me. Thanks much!" Uzui sighed, taking the vacant spot. He remained silent for sometime, just observing the other. At some point, he found himself messing with the blond hair. It was soft, leaving him to trail his fingers through it. The gentle touches stirred the other from their short rest. They batted their eyelids briefly before meeting Uzui's gaze. He was still drunk, so he didn't freak out. Simply stared. It was slightly unsettling to the other, but the words that slipped from Zenitsu caught him by surprise. It made him curious if Tanjirou knew Zenitsu drunk was the best.

"You're hot..."

"I appreciate the compliment. Not something to say to someone you just met, but I'm flattered." The blond shrugged, leaning on his hand as he struggled to sit up.

"Where's Tanjirou?"

"Went off with his lover. He'll be back eventually, but until then, you're in my care." 

"Okay~" Zenitsu grew a childish tone, a smile rising to his features. Uzui couldn't help but enjoy that smile. "Can I ask why you are messing with my hair?"

"It's soft. Would you like me to stop?" There was a long silence before the blond shook his head, turning so it was easier to reach. Uzui smirked, tugging the stool closer. Zenitsu didn't react much, simply leaned into the other's chest as those strong hands played at strands of Zenitsu's hair. "You're quite the daring individual."

"Not really... Pretty sure it's due to this alcohol. I'm far too hot and my mind feels muffled. I assure I'd be a panicking mess, or even crying for no reason. Speaking of, what's your name?"

"Uzui Tengen, the parties host. As a response to your statement, I'd not mind seeing that side of you." Zenitsu paused for a moment, grasping the meaning. Uzui had been happy the moment he watched those slightly pale yet tanned ears shade red. It brought a laugh to the surface.

"Creep..." The words held no real hostilities. It was just something he felt like saying. Something Uzui brushed off. He couldn't help but feel relaxed. 

The two remained together for most of the night, Tanjirou eventually returning to the main area with Kyoujurou in tow. He was surprised to see Zenitsu relaxed against Uzui, but it wasn't something he hadn't foreseen. He pretty much pushed this to happen.

"You two have fun?"

"Of course. I've never seen him so relaxed before..." Uzui gave a confused look. "His family is garbage. they treat him so poorly, hence why I quit."

"I see. Why though?"

"He's not really related, just someone they use." That statement irked Uzui a bit. "I have one more favor to ask."

"Someone is enjoying their position." Tanjirou stuck out his tongue, Kyoujurou laughing as he hugged the maroon haired male gently.

"Funny. I want you to keep him here for the night. He was told not to come to this party, so I'd prefer him not return to get scolded, or worse."

"Worse?" Tanjirou sighed, his eyes looking elsewhere.

"Zenitsu often gets punished physically. It was the main reason I remained there. Whenever they wanted to punish him, I'd take it instead." Kyoujurou scowled, his tone low.

"They hit you?!" There was a second of regret, but Tanjirou swallowed the pill.

"Yes. As a continuation, I don't want him to go back there. I get it's asking a lot, but he doesn't deserve that life." Uzui pondered it, his hands still resting with strands of the blond hair between his fingers. He didn't understand why someone like Zenitsu had such a terrible life. It did aid his choice knowing the blond really did draw him in. He enjoyed the time they had.

"I'll allow it, but you owe me." Tanjirou hummed, leaning more into Kyoujurou.

"Yeah, I get it. Mark it along with the other favors you'll ask someday." Uzui smiled before he focused on Zenitsu. The blond rubbed his head briefly on the other, breathing out a soft breath. "I really can't thank you enough." 

"No need to. Take it easy and I assure I'll watch over him. He's interesting, I must say.  You're a little trickster, you know that?" Tanjirou shrugged, looking away as a cheeky smile rose to his face.

"Whatever do you mean? I was simply trying to help a friend. I totally didn't think about the fact you have preferences..."

"Sure. Kyoujurou, take him home before I start an argument." The other taller male chuckled, nodding in agreement. He said his faint goodbyes before dragging Tanjirou away, leaving the other two. Uzui watched the blond sleep peacefully, a smile remaining etched to his features. He couldn't help but feel thankful. After the loss of his last wife, he had been alone. For the first time in so long, Uzui truly felt alive. He felt at ease. It brought a warming joy to his heart. Maybe, just maybe he could finally move on. Be happy once more.