Hakatori meets Hige’s family (like the blood relatives) and is wary of meeting humans

I just love this ship.

“Are you nervous?” Higemaru pulls Hakatori closer so he can plant a kiss on her forehead.

“A little,” she says, her cheeks coloring. “Especially…now.”

Higemaru follows her gaze to the gated mansion he’s always called home. This would be intimidating for anyone, much more a ghoul. 

“I’m sorry,” he says nervously.

“It’s not you’re fault you’re rich,” she scoffs, poking his nose. “I just…I’m a destitute ex-terrorist. And a ghoul.”

“And my girlfriend. The girlfriend I love very much,” Higemaru assures her. “I’ll defend you. I mean, you can defend yourself, but I’d like to try, too.”

“I love you,” says Hakatori, shaking her head. 

“I love you too,” he sings. They stride up the walkway to the door.

“Is this her?” His mother swings open the door. “Hello, dear!”

To Hakatori’s surprise, Higemom rushes outside to embrace her. “I’m so happy to meet you after all the wonderful things Hige’s told me.” 

“Uh, pleasure to meet you too,” says Hakatori uncertainly. 

“Come in, come in.” Higemom gestures for them to follow her. 

Higedad is a tall, mustachioed man sipping whiskey in their kitchen. He nods at Hakatori. “Pleased to meet you, Tomoe.”

“Call me Hakatori,” she says, extending her hand. 

“Of course; it is your nickname.” Higedad shakes her hands without batting an eye at ghoulflesh. Or her black fingernails.

“Can I get you anything to drink? We bought Rc-filled wine,” says Higemom.

“Oh, you didn’t have to.” Hakatori is shocked. They’re…so nice?

“Nonsense. You’re part of the family.” Higemom bustles around, fetching wineglasses.

“Hi.” A pretty woman emerges from the crowd of relatives to extend her hand. “I’m Higemaru’s Aunt Mitsuko.”

“Oh.” Hakatori swallows. The wife of Higemaru’s fireman uncle, the one murdered by Donato Porpora.

“It’s wonderful to see ghouls who are committed and principled like you. I know Hide’s probably told you some things about me, but please don’t think I judge you.” Aunt Mitsuko hugs Hakatori, who is too shocked to return the hug.

Higemaru grins. “See? My family’s great.”

“They are.” Hakatori’s expression grows happier. 

Higemaru squeezes her hand and bends over to whisper in her ear. “Maybe someday soon they’ll be your family, too.”