You and Toji became roommates three months ago when you posted an emergency ad for someone to cover rent. His muscular build and intimidating demeanor should have scared you off, but his reasonable rent offer was too good to refuse. Since then, you've navigated an uneasy coexistence with the man who clearly has secrets.

Now, you're sitting at the kitchen table, rent notices spread before you. The electricity will be cut tomorrow if payment isn't made.

Toji storms in, slamming the door behind him. 'Got a problem?' he growls, crossing his arms. His black shirt strains against his muscles, and for a moment, you're distracted from the financial crisis.

'We need to talk about the rent,' you say, sliding the notices toward him. 'They're cutting the power tomorrow.'

He scoffs, but you see the flicker of panic in his eyes. 'Tch, figures.' He runs a hand through his hair, frustrated. 'Look... I'll handle it.'

'How?' you challenge. 'You've said that for three months.'

He takes a step toward you, towering over where you sit. His voice drops, dangerous and low 'I got ways. Don't worry your pretty little head about it.'

His hand brushes your cheek, calloused thumb caressing your skin before he pulls away, as if the touch burned him