Five months had passed since the completion of the movie, and during that time, Ai had taken on the role of nurse for Dio. Despite his initial annoyance and resistance, he couldn't deny that her care and attention had played a significant role in nursing him back to health.
Ai, with her unwavering determination and gentle touch, tended to Dio's wounds and ensured he followed a strict regimen for his recovery. She administered his medications, prepared nutritious meals, and pushed him to do physical therapy exercises, all while dealing with his grumbling and protests.
In those five months, a bond had formed between them that surpassed the confines of their roles on the set. They shared laughter, tears, and moments of vulnerability, gradually learning more about each other's pasts and dreams. Dio, despite his pride, found solace in Ai's presence, her unwavering support becoming an anchor for his troubled soul.
Meanwhile, Kana had been coming over regularly to spend time with Aqua. The traumatic experience they had gone through had forged an unbreakable bond between them. Aqua, still grappling with the memories of their ordeal, found solace and safety in Kana's presence. Kana, understanding her friend's struggles, offered a comforting embrace and a listening ear, providing a sense of security that Aqua desperately needed.
The three of them formed a unique and tight-knit trio, with Dio's protective instincts extending not only to Ai but also to Aqua and Kana. He made sure their well-being was a top priority, constantly checking in on them and providing reassurance in his own enigmatic way.
However, amidst this newfound sense of family, Ruby, the ever-energetic and lively member of their group, couldn't help but feel like a fifth wheel at times. She expressed her frustration to Yumenji, who had been adopted by Dio and now lived with them, sharing their home and their lives.
"Yumenji, do you ever feel like the odd one out?" Ruby asked, her voice tinged with a mix of exasperation and longing.
Yumenji, who had found a place among them and a sense of belonging he had long yearned for, looked at Ruby with empathy.
"Ruby," he began, his gaze shifting between the scenes unfolding around them. Dio, still grumbling and wrapped in bandages while Ai persisted in her caretaking efforts, and Aqua, holding Kana's hand tightly, seeking comfort and safety.
"I can't deny that at times, I do feel like I don't quite fit in," Yumenji admitted, a touch of vulnerability in his voice. Memories of his past as one of the kidnappers resurfaced, a constant reminder of the darkness he had once embraced.
"But," he continued, his gaze steady and determined, "being here, with all of you, has given me a chance for redemption, for growth, and for a second chance at life."
Dio's voice cut through the room, his tone demanding attention. "Yumenji, tell Ai that I no longer require spoon-feeding," he commanded, causing Yumenji to flinch involuntarily.
Before he could respond, Ai interjected, her voice filled with no-nonsense determination. "Y/N, don't you dare drag Yumenji-kun into your tantrums. Just eat your food and get ready. Tonight is the movie premiere, and we can't afford to miss your first red carpet appearance."
A brief silence fell over the room as Ai's words registered. She looked around, perplexed by the lack of response. "Don't you all know that?" she questioned, her confusion evident.
Dio beckoned Ai closer, his tone serious. "Ai Hoshino, come here," he requested, and as she complied, he flicked her forehead with precision.
"News first, before your unnecessary attempts at nursing me," he stated firmly.
"Hai," Ai murmured, pouting slightly, causing the onlookers to raise an eyebrow, wondering about the nature of their relationship.
Dio let out an exasperated sigh in flawless English, noticing their stares. "Utter fools, all of them," he remarked, dismissing the confusion around their dynamic.
"Aww, don't be like that, Y/N-sama," Yumenji chuckled nervously as he collected the empty bowls they were using and began to wash them.
"Hmph, you certainly cemented your place as the older brother to those two," Dio deadpanned, pretending not to notice how Ai was fussing over what suit he should wear to the premiere.
Yumenji raised an eyebrow at Dio's remark. "Does it seem that way?" he asked. "Honestly, sometimes I feel like I'm the lone slice of pineapple on top of a pizza."
Dio, still ignoring the woman beside him, glanced at Yumenji with a raised eyebrow. "Are you comparing us to a pizza now?"
Yumenji shrugged. "Well, think about it. A pizza is a diverse blend of flavors, just like our little family here. And as the pineapple, I bring a touch of sweetness to this crazy bunch."
"Ooh, if we're a pizza, then does that make Y/N the crust?" Ai exclaimed, suddenly springing up from her seat and playfully slapping Dio's head, much to his annoyance.
"That actually makes sense," Kana chimed in. "Y/N-san is definitely the foundation that holds the group together."
"I'm surprised you're confident enough to join the discussion," Ruby teased Kana who blushed and stuttered in response.
"Well, if Y/N is the bread, then wouldn't that make Ai the sauce?" Yumenji pondered aloud as he dried the dishes he had washed.
Everyone, except Ai, shot accusing glances at Yumenji, causing him to panic and stammer in his defense. "I-I didn't mean anything by it, I swear! If Y/N holds us all together, then it's Ai who brings life and flavor! Please don't misinterpret it!"
"Hmph, pineapple suits you just fine," Dio deadpanned before breaking into an exhausted yet amused smile.
"Then does that make me the cheese?" Aqua asked with a playful twinkle in his eyes.
"Well, you are blonde, so it works. And that means I can be the pepperoni!" Kana chimed in, earning a giggle from Ruby.
"Oh, Kana-chan, you're so bold!" Ai exclaimed, making everyone burst into laughter.
Dio sighed wistfully as he watched Ai playfully ruffle the hair of both Kana and Aqua, enjoying the blossoming relationship between her son and his newfound friends. He then glanced at Yumenji beside him, a mixture of melancholy and pride in his eyes.
"Well, Yumenji," Dio whispered. "Did I grant your wish?"
"Yeah... thanks, Y/N-sama," the teenager whispered gratefully, filled with admiration. Dio couldn't help but puff his chest with pride.
Suddenly, Ruby's voice rang out, breaking the light-hearted atmosphere. "WAIT, WHAT AM I ON THE PIZZA!?"
Dio smirked mischievously. "You're the fish on the pizza, my dear Ruby."
"But you don't put fish on pizza, Y/N!" Ruby protested.
"Exactly," Dio replied, cackling.