The door to Ren's bedroom clicked shut, sealing him inside with the creature he'd foolishly invited into his life. The room, once a sanctuary of frayed manga and stale energy drinks, now felt like a cage. Shelves sagged under textbooks and action figures, while a single futon lay crumpled in the corner—a stark reminder that his "guest" had claimed the only bed.
Shirogane—the entity masquerading as a silver-haired girl—paced the perimeter, her bare feet silent on the creaking floorboards. She trailed a clawed finger along his desk, pausing at a framed photo of Ren's childhood dog.
"Cozy," she purred, her voice a blend of honey and static. "For a human hovel."
Ren gritted his teeth. "You're not staying here. Demons don't get sleepovers."
Shirogane's amber eyes flickered, pupils slitting like a cat's. "Oh, but I am. Unless you'd prefer I roam freely?" She leaned in, her breath frosty against his ear. "Imagine the snacks I might find."
The threat hung in the air. Ren's parents, their memories warped by Shirogane's shadow magic, believed she was a transfer student under their care. A lie woven so seamlessly it made his stomach churn.
"Fine," he spat. "But no demonic… things. And put on clothes."
Shirogane smirked, snapping her fingers. The oversized hoodie she'd "borrowed" from Ren dissolved into smoke, replaced by a silken nightgown that shimmered like starlight. "Better, little master?"
Ren turned away, cheeks burning. "Just stay on your side of the room."