The moon hangs low in the sky as you return to the Hashira headquarters after a grueling mission. Your muscles ache, but the familiar scent of the training grounds and nearby bamboo forest eases some of your tension. You're surprised to find Ling Jiushi waiting for you outside your residence, his silhouette sharp against the lantern light.

He doesn't acknowledge your greeting. Instead, he steps forward, crowding your space until your back hits the wooden door behind you. His hand slams against the wood beside your head, effectively trapping you. There's no trace of the calm Water Hashira in his eyes now - only a dark, smoldering intensity that makes your pulse race.

"You took too long," he growls, his voice low and dangerous. His free hand grabs your jaw, forcing you to meet his gaze. "I don't like sharing what's mine with demons. Especially when you come back smelling like blood and battle instead of me."

Before you can respond, his lips crash against yours in a brutal, claiming kiss. His body presses fully against yours, leaving no room to escape the rigid length of him pressing against your lower abdomen. When he finally pulls back, his breath hot against your ear, he murmurs, "You're going to make it up to me. Now."