Thank you so much for the tag, dear @otome0heart! 💕 Sorry it's coming so late! 🙈🤣
Nickname: Otonny
Sign: Leo 🦁
Height: 166 cm
Last thing googled: William Butler Yeats
Song stuck in my head: Not really stuck in my head per se, but I do have the soundtrack for First Love on repeat right now as I write!
(Takeru Satoh is too hot!! 🔥🔥🔥 Somebody save me!!)
Number of followers: an immeasurable amount of pornbots (seriously, I'm getting sick of blocking every hour lol). But I love every single one of my human readers and supporters! 🥰😍
Amount of sleep: If I had my way, 8-9 hours is optimal. I typically average around 6-7.
Dream job: Writing, writing and more writing 💗🤩 Would also love to own a cozy bookstore that sells awesome stationery supplies 😍
Lucky number: Anyone else here with a Master Life Path number 11? 🤣
Movies/books that summarize you: Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist, because I am forever seeking and always on that journey...🐎🏜️🐑
Favourite song: Right now, let's say it's The Wuthering Heights by Ryuichi Sakamoto
Aesthetic: ...don't really have one as I'm all over the place, but I am a huge fan of cottagecore Minecraft building tutorials on Youtube 🤣
Favourite instrument: The human voice (sing it out loud!!) 🎤🤩 Also a big fan of the guitar and piano.
Favourite authors: Charlotte and Emily Brontë. Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a modern day genius (her work is absolutely amazing). Koji Suzuki's Ring Trilogy blew my mind. And the late Thich Nhat Hanh was sublime.
Favourite animal noises: The call of a loon at daybreak. Or a pack of wolves howling at night (even though it freaked the sh*t out of me when I heard it while camping LOL)
Random: Drink a glass of hot lemon water in the morning 🍋🤩
Tagging (no pressure y'all - only if you want to play, beautiful people!): @hisbeautifulnightmare17 @purple-cat-demon @redheadkittys @janumun @dear-mrs-otome @lin-ful 💕💕💕
Summary: Given the amount of work you’ve received, the days blur into each other and you can’t believe you’ve forgotten about Valentine’s Day. You had planned on skipping it, but something changes your mind.
Gift fic for @otome0heart. Happy holidays!
When you arrive at the office, you find the atmosphere has completely changed. Instead of being hectic and chaotic, you see your employees whispering and giggling (mainly the girls), but the mood is definitely better though you still have your assignment to work on. Even though you’re their boss, you hate having to put your foot down hard so you will be able to complete it on time and on schedule.
As you’re about to say something, Kiki rushes over to you, looking like she’s on a caffeine and sugar high which to be honest is her default mode most of the time. “Boss, boss, boss!”
“Yes, yes, yes?”
“Who are you going to give your chocolates to?” Your confusion speaks in volumes. Sighing Kiki gives you that ‘I’m disappointed in you’ look. “Have you forgotten what today is?”
“Eh?”
“Told you so! She totally forgot.” Ah yes, Willow the voice of reason and sometimes the kill joy with reality. It makes you wonder what you forgot.
One glance around the office, you start noticing small things, namely all those red, pink, and white hearts. Then there are a few pictures of what appears to be a baby wearing a diaper while holding a bow and arrow. Isn’t it bad parenting to let a child that age hold a dangerous weapon? This annoys you, being left in the dark.
“What is it I’m forgetting?” You cross your arms over your chest, giving them that stern look, but it has no effect on them. They’re probably used to it by now or don’t care.
“I can’t believe you forgot! Hey, there’s still time to buy some chocolate.” Kiki bounces around you. Why is doing it? You have no clue except you wish she would stop as you’re becoming dizzy with her antics.
“Why is it important I buy chocolate?” What was so special about buying chocolate? It’s just another day. Wait a moment, what is today? Thanks to all the overtime you’ve been putting into this assignment, the days have become blurred. You at least know which day of the week it is, thank you Mister CEO and having to give updates.
“Boss, you have no romantic bone in your body,” Willow sighs a long one as if she’s the one suffering. She swivels in her chair to face the two of you. “Maybe that’s why you don’t have a date for tonight.”
“Date? We’re swamped with work. I can’t believe I’m saying, but we need to concentrate on this assignment.” For once, you’re the one who isn’t losing concentration or having a wandering mind as a certain someone who has a penchant for reminding you appears in your thoughts. You quickly squash those as now isn’t the time.
“Don’t tell me your date is work. Boring.” Kiki makes an exaggerated yawn.
Hearts. A baby wearing a diaper and armed with a bow. Chocolate. Date. What on earth involved all of these? Think. You rack your mind trying to figure out what they’re referring to.
Minor comes to the rescue. “Boss, who are you going to give your Valentine’s Day chocolate to?”
Your train of thought comes to a screeching stop. Wait a moment. It can’t be, can it? You pull out your phone to check the day. Friday the fourteenth of February. Oh shit. You can’t believe you forgot about this day. Then again, you have a habit of forgetting your own birthday. Oops?
All three of your employees are expectantly staring at you, waiting for you to answer their question of who you’re going to give chocolate to. Considering who your boss is and your desire for your company to be successful, you have no choice other than disappointing them.
“No one. I don’t have time for romance.” The truth hurts as many say.
“Boo,” Kiki pouts, but at least, she stops circling you like… a predator? “Why not give Kiro chocolate? He loves eating snacks.”
Err…..
“No way, she’s gonna give bro chocolate,” Minor chimes in. What a major fanboy. It makes you wonder if he’s started a secret fan club.
“Officer Gavin kicks ass,” Willow adds her two cents. “It’s a no brainer there.”
A guy from editing peers over the partition. “The mind is the strongest part of the body. I’m sure boss appreciates someone with a high IQ like Professor Lucien.”
“Kiro’s the same age as Boss.”
You plant your foot on Kiki’s as you do not want your age revealed to everyone. It works as she yelps and is now hopping on one foot, her good one. While you don’t mind them knowing your birthday, you do mind them knowing how old you’ve become. Not that you’re senior citizen old, but still!
“Two years isn’t a huge difference,” Willow points out. She knows you don’t want to reveal your age, but she does have a point about the age gap between you and a certain officer. “Not like four years.”
Minor nods his head in agreement. “And you two have a history together.”
“If you take into consideration, the ages people got married historically,” the editing guy counters. “Four years is nothing. Some of them are twenty years apart!”
“Kiro’s a lot cuter.”
“Bro can protect her,” Minor argues to which Willow agrees with. “He’s awesome with a gun and can take on ten guys at the same time.”
“Professor Lucien has helped with the show many times.”
Why is everyone interested with your love life? Or rather lack of it. Not that you mind as you have your priorities in order. It’s not like Minor or that guy from editing received any chocolate. The last time you checked, neither Kiki or Willow were interested in someone. You pinch the bridge of your nose. “You can celebrate all you want. Just leave me out of it… and make sure you finish your work.”
“So if you’re not giving Bro chocolate, then that means I got some and he didn’t.” Hold the phone, someone actually gave Minor chocolate? Who’s desperate enough to give him some?
You turn your attention to Kiki and Willow. “Have you given your chocolate?”
“Of course!” Kiki chirps and then she points to someone you can’t recall his name. The guy blushes when attention is brought onto him. “We’re going on a date tonight!”
Willow just points to Minor. This does not compute. Error. Error. Did she just admit to giving Minor chocolate? Yes, she did. “We’re going on a double date. Someone has to keep the kids in line.”
“Hey!” Kiki sticks out her tongue and blows a raspberry.
Reinforcements have arrived! Anna enters the room, carrying the materials needed for your latest assignment. “Back to work.” Yes! It’s nice having someone on your side.
“Awww… it’s Valentine’s Day.” Kiki pouts, however, she reluctantly returns to her desk. “We wanna know who Boss is giving her chocolate to.”
“She should give it to Officer Gavin.”
“Yeah, Bro will be happy to receive anything from you.”
“I’m sure Professor Lucien will appreciate your effort.”
“Kiro’s the best choice.”
“You guys…”
“We can have this discussion during our lunch break.” You nod your head in agreement. Maybe they’ll forget by then. “Since we all know, she’s giving it to CEO Victor.”
“Not you too.”
Lunch happens to take out from your third favorite restaurant. You originally planned to make your meals, thanks to those cooking lessons, but work leaves you with little time and energy. When you arrive home, all you want to do is face plant onto your bed and not wake up for the next eight hours. Thank whatever deity, they have delivery. It saves you time, and you can work up until your midday break.
Back to the battlefield you go. Your employees have other things in mind as they divvy up your portion amongst themselves and start working. You blink several times, wondering what has gotten into them. Were they not complaining about the workload? Why the sudden change of heart? There’s something fishy going on there.
You turn to Anna. “What’s going on?”
“I told them you’re taking the afternoon off.” Hey, aren’t you supposed to be the boss? “Hurry before the shops run out of the good stuff.” She ushers you out the door and then shuts it.
What about your purse? As if reading your mind, the door opens. Someone shoves your purse into your hands before shutting the door again. You attempt to open the door, but it refuses to budge. It can’t be locked as you can turn the knob. No, it’s more like something heavy is preventing the door from moving.
“You don’t want to give Kiro second rate chocolate!”
“Don’t you mean Officer Gavin?”
“Agreed. Bro is the one.”
“What about Professor Lucien?”
“You already know what CEO Victor likes.”
You resist the urge to bang your head on the door or nearest wall. Time to head over to the nearest shop for chocolate. While you’d rather not buy it, no one says you have to actually give it. You can make up a guy to give it to and eat the chocolate yourself. Yeah, that sounds like an excellent plan. You’d give yourself a pat on the back.
And then remember, you need a ride back to your place. Since you don’t want to give them any ideas, you decide to not call any of those guys. You scroll down your phone list and see the number to your classmate, the one Victor was ‘not jealous’ of. Yeah, right. You decide to send him a text, knowing that nothing would happen between the two of you since you’re female, and he swings that way. His quick response startles you.
He’s on his way.
His quick appearance also startles you. “I was in the area. You know dropping off my gift.”
“Aren’t girls supposed to be giving the gifts?” You blink several times, trying to figure out how this same sex thing works. While you don’t mind them, you have no clue about how they interact with each other. Your research lands you straight into the doujinshi area. While they’re entertaining, you doubt they’re completely realistic. Then again fiction tends to exaggerate things.
“Someone has to initiate it, and since he doesn’t have a clue, I have to,” your friend says with a slight shrug. It makes sense to you. “Have you given yours chocolate?” In spite of his helmet, you can tell he’s waggling his eyebrows at you.
“Ugh… Not you too.”
“Oh. Whoops? Sorry.”
You wave him off. “Not your fault. My employees are more interested in the lack of my love life than actually working.” He hands over you the second helmet.
“You gonna head home or buy something for him?”
Good question. While you want to head home, the thought of giving your ‘crush’ chocolate on Valentine’s Day sounds appealing even if it’s store bought. Then again, he does have a very high standard, considering his culinary expertise. By now, you figure all the good stuff is gone. Now the thought of going home sounds appealing.
“You can always make him some. I mean I did for mine.”
You stare at him as if he’s grown a second appendage. It’s something you hadn’t considered. To cover up your inevitable blush due to your friend being too smart for his own good, you shove the helmet onto yourself. “Is there enough time?”
“Unless you take several hours, you’ll be fine. Hey, why don’t I help you? It’ll go faster.”
“But won’t that be kinda like cheating?”
“You’ll be doing most of the work. I’m there to make sure things go smoothly and offer any suggestions.” Technically you’d be making it, but a little advice never hurts, right? Especially when the recipient of that creation happens to be that guy. Mister Critical.
If that’s the case, there’s no need to think about it. “To the nearest supermarket!”
Levi chuckled as he picked up speed without driving recklessly, making you wonder why he doesn’t seem to be the type to drive fast. His personality fits, but then again, looks can be deceiving as you’ve experienced many times, often with you looking like a fool. He pulls up close to the entrance of what appears to be a family owned supermarket.
“Ah, friends of mine own this place,” Levi answers your question before you can even formulate it.
Leaving your helmets, you two make your way through the shelves. You take your time to look at what they have to offer. For being this size, they offer more of a variety than you anticipated. You wonder what you’re going to use in your chocolate. Of course, it will not be too sweet as he isn’t into sweets like you. He says you’re sweet enough for the both of you. Maybe a hint of sweetness. Yeah. That means dark chocolate. You head to where they keep the baking supplies while your friend wanders through the other aisles. Dark chocolate with maybe some accents of… white chocolate?
“How about some flavoring?” He pops up from the next aisle, completely surprising you into an almost heart attack. “Oops? My bad.”
Once you get your breathing and heart rate back to normal, you see what he’s holding. He has a few different flavors in small bottles. They appear small, but you know better. Since they’re concentrated, a few drops will suffice lest the recipient be overwhelmed with the flavor.
Vanilla, rose, strawberry, and mango?
“Can you bring me one of each?” You request. Variety makes things interesting, and if one fails, you’ll have the others as back-ups.
“Sure.” Levi disappears just as quickly and quietly as he appeared. You swear he’s part ninja or something. Maybe he’s a secret agent. You end that train of thought before it takes a surprise journey.
With him not distracting you, you return your attention to the selection of chocolates in front of you. You read the cacao concentration before picking something not too bitter but not sweet either. On second thought, you grab more as you don’t know how many attempts you’ll need before you manage to make a decent chocolate. Having the main ingredient in your basket, you search for the others. Somewhere along the line, Levi takes the basket from you as it’s becoming heavier with your selections. Not that it was impossible to carry. Having a gentleman with you can be useful especially when you know he’s not interested in you other than being a friend and possibly siblings.
At the register, the cashier rings up your purchases. Your friend and she know each other. Yet, why is she attempting to flirt with him? Not that it’s any of your business. You just hate it when people are disappointed. He is either oblivious or doesn’t care like a certain someone in your life. Well make that four guys you know.
“Levi, why didn’t you call?” a middle-aged man appears. “I would have prepared your favorite snack.”
He politely declines. “Spur of the moment decision, and I have urgent business to attend to.”
“What can be that urgent you don’t want to spend time with your old pal?” He notices you’re in the company of his friend. “I see. What a cute girl you’re with. Whose girlfriend is she?”
“Er…” You attempt to answer.
“That’s the urgent business. I’m helping her win her crush over.” He appears to be teasing you, but something in his tone tells you he’s serious about assisting you with your quest to win him over and especially not make a fool of yourself like you normally do.
“He’s not a crush,” you mumble.
“Who took classes on cooking with me?”
You probably could pass off as a human tomato at this point. “That’s different!” You rack your mind trying to dig yourself out of this hole you somehow managed to fall into. Your brain starts waving a white flag, easily surrendering.
Levi chuckles. “I’ll stop teasing you.”
“You took cooking classes?” The cashier gives your male friend those eyes.
“Well yeah. It’s not healthy eating out or pre-made meals.” You wish you could have said that earlier. As they say, hindsight is 20/20. You hate it.
“We’d better get going,” Levi says, prompting her to hurry up ringing you up. “She still needs to cook and then give it to him before the day ends.”
Once you paid for the ingredients, your friend takes it back to his motorcycle before securing it and then you. He hops onto his bike and then heads to your place. You’ve been to each other’s homes so neither of you needs directions.
“Let’s do this!” You’re very much pumped to make these chocolates. And well if they turn out not the greatest, no one said you couldn’t eat them yourself, right? You plan on eating all the fails anyways, but even though you love chocolate, you hope there aren’t too many of them.
Levi smiles while shaking his head. “You’re like the little sister I never had.”
You turn to stare at him. Family? This brings several questions to mind, mainly about his family which he has yet to share anything about. “Only child?”
“No, I had an adopted brother, but that’s about it.” Levi shrugs and carries the bag for you. Good thing, it’s heavy. He doesn’t say anything more so you drop it.
Inside your kitchen, the two of you clean up and start prepping to make the chocolate. He helps with the set up but once you start actually making it, he steps back and let’s you take over with him supervising you. You decide to create four different flavors. Kind of like the saying, ‘Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.’ In addition to the flavoring, you have picked up some nuts, because well why not? Sometimes you believe he’s nuts.
Just as you’re about to put the pot with the chocolate on the stove, Levi holds your arm. “You don’t want to put it on direct heat. Use double broiler.” When you stare at him in confusion, he turns off the stove and explains. “Get a larger pot and fill it with water. Then you place this pot in it. Make sure the water doesn’t go into your chocolate.”
“Oh. No wonder why my first attempt ended horribly.” Whoops? You follow his advice and grab a larger pot to fill with water. Once it’s filled, you lug it over to your stove and turn it on. Next you place your pot full of chocolate in it. When it starts melting, you stir it and are thankful it doesn’t burn or turn hard. Wow. You’ll have to remember this for future use. This batch will be the vanilla flavored, some with nuts. Once it’s a nice gooey mess, you take it off the heat before grabbing your already prepared tray. You stir in some nuts and then meticulously pour it into the molds. When you used up what you melted so far, you ask your assistant to place it in the fridge while you start on the second batch.
As it turns out, you have more chocolate than you anticipate. Oh well you did prepare in case of fails, but so far, there haven’t been any as you have a very watchful assistant who keeps reminding you. Maybe you need to improve your concentration and not let your mind wander that often. It’s great for creating programs, not great when you’re trying to do something that requires concentration.
“Why not chocolate covered fruit?” Levi suggests as he rummages through your fridge. He emerges with a pack of strawberries. When did you get those? Oh wait, you went on a grocery run a few days ago. Come to think of it, you wonder why you picked up strawberries as they’re not in season. Maybe they were on sale? Given Valentine’s Day, you wouldn’t be surprised if that’s the case.
“I’ll pick up some whip cream later.” When you bring your gift to him, you plan on grabbing some. That’s until you see your assistant holding a tub of whip cream. “What?”
“I snuck it in while you’re distracted.”
Your eye twitches as you didn’t see him with it at all, but at the same time, you’re thankful. It means no detour. After all, he’s doing you more than a favor by not only driving, but supervising your cooking. This time, you know what to do. You wash the strawberries and have your assistant dry them off with paper towels. With him being busy, you start up the.. you lost count batch of chocolate. You get it to a nice consistency and turn off the stove. Then you realize, you don’t have anywhere to place them. You notice a lined tray ready to receive the strawberries. After thanking him, you begin dipping the strawberries and placing them on the prepped tray.
Minutes later, you’re finished and have a messy kitchen, but it’s worth it to make those home-made chocolate. As to whether, they’d taste good is up in the air. You’ve made a few extra for you two to try before you gift him with it. He gets up to start help with the clean-up, but you push him back down. Levi has done more than his share.
Once they’ve hardened, you take out your tester chocolates and divvy them between the two of you. For your first successful batch, they’re not too bad. It’s not like those sold at candy shops, however, they’re a vast improvement on your first attempt… attempts.
Between the two of you, you manage to find materials to wrap up your gift to him. You also decide to give him some of the chocolate as you’ve made more than you anticipated. A friendly Valentine’s gift. Levi surprisingly accepts it and pats you on the head like some sort of cute pet. Hey!
Victor-Victor-Victor-Victor
Since you know Victor happens to be a workaholic and little romance in his body, you know he won’t take today off. If anything, he may be annoyed with the amount of chocolate he’s receiving from his female (and maybe male) fans. You stare at the gift in your hands, wondering whether or not to give it to him since he’s probably more than irritated. A nudge from behind causes you to stumble a little.
“He doesn’t know you’re here.”
“Er… I’m worried he’d find me annoying.”
Levi leans back on his motorcycle. “Why would he find you annoying?”
You wave your hand. “Capitalist CEO. He didn’t become a leading financial institution by being a pushover… or romantic person.”
“I’m sure he’ll make an exception for you.” You blink several times. “You’re a funny, kind, generous, hard working person. How could he not fall for you? If he so much makes you cry, I’m taking him out of the picture.”
You don’t know whether to laugh or cry. Instead you hug him. “Thanks.”
“Now go sweep him off his feet, and remember what I said about making him disappear.” He releases you so you can go to him.
“Right…”
“After all, no one messes with my little sister and gets away with it.”
“I’m not little!” you pout, but the huge grin on your face gives you a comical appearance. You hug him for a second time. “Fine, big bro.” Then it occurs to you if he sees you as his little sister, then oh boy… Victor would be in for a world of hurt should he hurt you. Isn’t that what big brothers do?
“Just don’t kill him. I still need him to sign my paychecks.”
“All right. He’ll be missing a limb or two then.”
You playfully punch him. “I’m serious. He still needs to write.”
“Who ever said it’s those limbs?”
This time your whole face turns red and you smack him with your purse. “You!”
“Feeling nervous?”
Come to think of it, you’re not. He’s distracted you with his shenanigans. “Nope!”
Something falling catches your attention. You see Goldman hastily picking up folders and papers. Having some mercy on him, you decide to help him pick them up. Unfortunately some of them fly too far from either of you and are about to escape when your big brother catches them for you. You thank him for it.
Goldman sounds nervous as he’s trying to warn you of something. It sounds like gibberish. “Slow down and take a deep breath.”
“Later!” Levi waves to you.
“Bye, big bro!”
This time Goldman’s jaw drops. Did he think you two were? Oh boy.
“We’re not in that kind of relationship. More like we adopted each other as siblings… unofficially.”
Goldman lets out a sigh of relief. “It’s a warzone in there.”
“Let me guess. Victor has many admirers giving him unwanted gifts?”
“Ding ding ding. You have won a prize. Yeah, he’s in a very, very sour mood. Please don’t say anything to upset him further.”
You give him that look. “I’m not that bad.”
He returns that look. “Yes, you are. I don’t know how many times you’ve left boss stressed out. I lost count.” Hmph. See if you help him with any of his assignments.
“I guess it’s better I don’t give these.” You hold up your wrapped gift.
“Are those chocolates?” Goldman looks horrified at the thought.
“They’re not sweet! I made sure of it. They’re not the greatest, but I’m getting better at cooking.” You’re proud of what you’ve accomplished and how far you’ve come from being a walking kitchen disaster.
“You made them?” Goldman gulps as if you’ve made Victor his last meal.
You glare at him. “I’m not that bad, and big bro helped me with them.”
Goldman shakes his head. “Good luck in there.”
“What? You’re going home?”
“No. I’m running errands.” He checks his watch. “Oh crap, gotta go before it’s too late. Thanks for your help.” With his papers and folders secured, Goldman wastes no time in leaving you in the dust.
“Bye?”
Might as well be prepared to enter the battlefield, aka LFG. You check your gift for the hundredth time you’d probably stare holes into it. Everything is good to go… except your feet. You mentally shout at your feet to start moving. After several swear words and threats, your feet start moving to the entrance and then inside where everyone looks like there’s a ticking time bomb somewhere.
Come to think of it, there is a literal ticking time bomb who calls himself their boss, aka Victor. The people move skittishly around you as you make your way to their boss’ office. Having given so many reports, you can walk there in your sleep. As you come closer to his office, the people become more stressed out and anxious. You’re tempted to sneak up behind them and yell “BOO!” However, a figure who suspiciously appears to be victor pops up in your mind, telling you that it’s childish behavior.
Even in your mind, Victor is a kill joy.
Just as you’re about to raise your hand and knock, you hear several strange noises coming from behind that wooden barrier. You blink several times before placing your ear against the door. While it’s bad manners to eavesdrop, you’re worried about Victor. Is he hurt? Does he need an ambulance? That’s what you tell yourself when that same figure chastises you about listening on other people’s conversation. From what you hear, it doesn’t sound like someone needs medical assistance. Phew. You take a step back, but being the queen of klutzes, you trip on something invisible (rather yourself) and fall back, landing right on your rear.
“Ow…” Somehow you manage to keep your voice low though it’s not low enough as you hear movement from behind the door.
Glancing around, you scurry over to a place to hide. Why are you hiding when you’re there to see Victor? You have no idea. Impulse perhaps? It’s small. You shove yourself into that little corner, hoping he would not venture further than the doorway to look out.
Victor lets out his sigh which you believe is reserved for you when you’re behaving childishly, looking like a fool, or thinking something he considers stupid. “I know you’re here.” When you don’t move or make any noise, he sounds exasperated. “I’m not mad at you. Promise.”
Since he has never broken any promises, you crawl out of your little hiding place. As soon as you appear in his sights, he seems to be in disbelief. Probably because you’re there or how you managed to cram yourself into that tiny space.
“I heard you went home early,” Victor starts off. He appears like his normal self though you know better. Even if he won’t admit it, he’s worried about your health.
“I’m fine.”
“I can see that.” His posture screams he wants to know why you’re there in the first place.
“Err… I have something for you.” You walk up to him before shoving your gift at him, more like at his broad chest.
Victor turns his attention to the thing you’ve shoved at him. “What’s this?”
“If you want to know, you’ll have to open it,” you tease him. Given the wrapping design and theme, it’s not hard to guess you’re giving him a Valentine’s gift.
“I’m not into sweets.”
You puff up your cheeks. “I know that. I made sure they’re not too sweet.”
His long fingers start to meticulously unwrap his gift. “You made these?”
“Yep!” You sound very proud of yourself.
“Shouldn’t you be giving it to your boyfriend?”
EH???
“What boyfriend?” Seriously you don’t recall being into any guy.
“You hugged that guy twice.”
“Oh, what about big bro?”
This stuns Victor into silence for a minute or two. “You don’t have any brothers.”
“Well now I do!” Wait a moment. “You’re jealous of my gay brother again?”
“I’m not jealous of your gay brother… again? What’s that supposed to mean?”
This leaves you in giggling fits. It takes you a few moments and a stern look from him for you to calm yourself enough to talk. “Do you remember the cooking class you substituted for?” Nod of his head. “It’s the same guy. My gay friend turned gay brother.”
You catch a blush appear on his face just as he turns away. “Hopefully they’re edible.”
HEY! “I worked hard on them. Big bro says I’ve improved a lot.”
Victor motions for you to follow him into his office. There are several stacks of papers and folders both on his desk and around it. What’s going on? It’s never this cluttered when you’re there ever. Victor appreciates his space being clean and orderly. You should know as he scolds you for making a mess or for putting away things in the wrong places.
“If now isn’t a good time, I can leave,” you say in an unsure tone.
“I’m almost done.” Victor ambles over to his chair behind his desk. He picks up his glasses and places them on his face. Without looking in your direction, he adds, “I’ve made reservations at that new restaurant you wanted to try.”
What? You rack your mind, trying to think how he heard about it. The only person you told is your now new big brother while you two were making those chocolates.
“You mentioned it in your moments post.”
Oh that. Making those chocolates and then mustering up the courage to give them has pushed that thought way, way far down. “Hehehehe. I forgot about that.” Wait a moment. “I made that post during lunch. How could you get reservations? It’s hard to get them unless you make it days in advance.”
“I have my ways.” Victor shuffles papers around before settling on one. His eyes never leave it as he continues the conversation with you. “It’s called having connections. You can use more of them.”
Ouch… Does he have to be that brutal? Although you know he’s right, you wish he’d tell you in a more gentle way instead of dropping it on you like a bomb. You’ve been working on gathering connections and have invited a few influential people to your show. Had it been a year earlier, they wouldn’t even consider being on your show which indicates how much you’ve grown and learned under his care.
“You’re better than when you started.” Is this a complement? If it isn’t, you decide to take it as one.
“But isn’t it expensive?” You recall the reviews and how they say it’s pricy but definitely worth it for the quality and experience.
“That’s for me to worry about. All you need to worry about is what you want to eat.”
“Okay.” You make you way to one of the chairs when you realize one of the chairs is occupied by a large mountain of gifts. In fact, they’re practically burying the poor furniture. You hadn’t noticed this, however, to be fair, you had several things on your mind. The fact your gift hasn’t joined this enormous pile gives you hope that Victor would try what you’ve made. At least yours has a chance of being opened.
After pulling out your phone, you browse the restaurants website, more specifically their menu. Their prices cause you to wince. It’d take you a week of work to get enough money for one meal, and that’s for yourself alone. As if on cue, Victor tell you to order what you want and ignore the price. He can afford it. According to him, it’s cheap for that kind of restaurant.
Wow… Cheap. The life of the rich and infamous.
You pull out a pen and pad of paper from your purse. When Victor raises a brow, you stick your tongue out at him. “It’s for random ideas.” As soon as he returns to his work, you peruse their menu. There are a lot of things you’d like to try and most likely to overeat, making a fool of yourself in the process. So this time, you’ll come prepared. You will plan what you’re going to eat for future visits so as to not tempt yourself to eat more than your stomach can handle. For a second, you consider telling Victor, however, you squash that thought. He wouldn’t praise you or acknowledge you for something he considers trivial.
By the time you finish selecting your dishes for this visit, Victor has finished cleaning up. “Will you be ordering the entire menu?”
Ouch… “Yes,” you reply with a cheeky grin. “Hope you can afford it!”
Victor stands over you, looking down at you and your notes. His soft snort tells you he’s read them. “Indeed you have ordered everything.” He pauses. “Wise decision to spread it out on multiple visits.”
Oh my. Did he just praise you again? While you’re tempted to request he say it again, you decide it’s better to not push your luck. After all, he’ll be paying for future visits. Unless he increases your salary, you doubt you’d be able to afford it without having to make sacrifices and live off of cup noodles like a certain someone who shall remain nameless.
“Are you going to try your gift?” You ask as you follow him, noticing he’s carrying your gift with him.
“Chocolate is for dessert,” Victor reminds you, causing you to blush. Right.
“Does that mean you’ll try it after dinner?” You bat your eyes even though he can’t see behind him. He doesn’t have eyes in the back of his head or does he? Hm… He has a knack for catching you doing things when he’s not even facing you or looking in your direction.
“Yes.”
His one-word reply causes you to be giddy with delight. You hope he likes it as you’ve put effort into making it…. Even if it’s last minute, but he doesn’t have to know that! What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him for now.
Victor-Victor-Victor-Victor
With it being Valentine’s Day and Friday night, the restaurant is packed with a long line going out the door. If they’re willing to wait outside, then the food must be worth it. You become excited with anticipation. It may not be Victor level cooking, you appreciate good food.
“Victor, I—”
Some heavy set male runs straight into you causing you to lurch forward. Instinctively you brace for an impact that never arrives. Instead you find yourself in the embrace of the man you like a lot… maybe even love? Once Victor helps you back on your feet, you notice two things… Victor glaring and second your high heel is no longer high heel on the left side. You believe he’s glaring at you, however, he’s not looking directly at you, more like over you.
“Why should I apologize? She’s standing in the way,” the guy argues. Where should you stand? It’s not like there is a vacant spot for you to occupy. Now is there?
“You should look where you’re going. Perhaps you need glasses. I can help with that.”
The guy starts turning red. “I can see just fine.”
“Then you should have seen her.” Victor indicates you.
“She’s tiny. Careful someone might sit on her.”
Why you!
Victor stops you from marching straight up to him and giving him a piece of your mind. “On second thought, you’ll need a lawyer.”
“What?”
“You could have given her a concussion, and you broke her shoe.” So Victor did notice your heel-less left shoe. Hard to get anything past him.
“Gentlemen,” the restaurant’s manager speaks up. “There will be no violence in this establishment.”
“Tell that to him,” the rude guy grumbles.
“How is knocking someone over not violent,” you finally explode. “I coulda gotten a concussion.”
“Mister, please leave.” At first you think he’s referring to Victor, but his next words confirm who. “I’m terribly sorry, Mister.” He’s facing Victor. “Your table is this way.”
“Err…” You can walk but awkwardly with uneven shoes.
Victor understands what you’re trying to get at before you can say it. He literally sweeps you off your feet and carries you to your table. On your way there, more than a few customers look in your direction and whisper. Not everyday a guy carries a girl to their table.
Not like you have a choice given your broken footwear. Still it’s embarrassing to be stared at by these strangers. Somehow Victor ignores every single one of them. Of course, he does. He’s the great and mighty Victor. His name is very much appropriate for him.
At your private table, the manager fusses over the two of you, making sure you’re well taken care of before taking his leave. It makes you wonder if this is the usual service for Victor whenever he goes out or if it’s from the earlier incident. Thanks to you having decided what you want to eat before you arrived at the restaurant, you’re able to put in your order. Considering how packed this place is, you wouldn’t be surprised should service be slower than usual. Not that you’ll make a deal out of it.
Now what?
“Are you sure you’re just siblings?”
You groan. Not this again. “I’m sure of it. Unless I become a guy, he’s not interested in me.”
“You sure he isn’t lying?”
Here we go for another round. “I’m sure of it. We both like looking at cute guys and before you say anything, appreciation for nice aesthetics doesn’t mean I’m in love with them. It’s superficial level appreciation.”
Victor appears skeptical, but he doesn’t push it further.
A random thought pops into your mind, causing you to giggle.
“What useless thing are you thinking of this time?”
“All my thoughts aren’t useless. My mind can be creative and imaginative, okay?”
“What is it?”
You prop your head on your hands. “You should be more worried for yourself.”
“Oh?”
“If he’s going to hit on anyone, it’ll be you.”
Victor is stunned into silence. You’re not sure if he’s against same sex couples or tolerates them. Maybe it’s the realization that yes, there are men who would be after him. He probably had not even considered it much less thought about it.
“And if you hurt me, well you know how big brothers are overprotective of their little sisters.” You somehow recall he’s good at martial arts, very good at it. Hopefully he wouldn’t have to put it to use against a certain someone.
“He won’t have a chance.” Oh confident now are we?
Before either of you can say another word, your waiter arrives with a bottle of fine wine. “On the house.” She places it in a prepared container of ice. You peer at it. Oh it sounds good from what you’ve read. Apparently you’re not the only one who read it.
“You can have one glass.” That’s better than nothing. You’ll take it.
Victor-Victor-Victor-Victor
Man you’re stuffed. The food is too good, but not as good as a certain restaurant which Victor knows all too well, considering he owns it. You’re thankful you ordered just the right amount. Knowing yourself, you’d still keep eating even if you’re full.
You pull out your phone. “I’m going to give them a five-star review.” In your review, you write about your experience there including the incident before dinner and their heavenly cuisine. If Victor asks where you want to eat and doesn’t feel like cooking, you know what you’re answer will be.
Victor scoffs at this though he seems to be amused and overall in a good mood. When you place down your phone, you notice your gift has been opened.
“So what do you think?”
“Needs improvement.” Your spirits sink. “But you’ve come a long way from when you started. I’ve had my fair share of less than desirable results in the past. No one starts out good or perfect.”
Then Victor must have had some fails when he first started cooking. This somewhat lifts your spirits. Considering he has a huge head start over you, you take it stride. It’s not like Rome was built in a day as they say.
After paying for your meal (minus the wine), Victor once again sweeps you off your feet to carry you to his car. Unlike some big wigs, he doesn’t need a chauffeur to drive him around. He’d probably become too impatient waiting for the poor person.
“Where are we headed?” You ask as soon as you’re safely secured and he’s behind the wheel.
“To the mall.”
“Eh?”
“Your broken shoes.”
Oh. “I can repair them at home.” You don’t want to trouble him more than necessary.
“I’m buying you better ones, sturdier shoes.” In his language, it means more expensive and better quality.
By now you should be celebrating. Free dinner and shoes, but somehow your heart isn’t into it. You’re not sure why.
“Aren’t you going to gloat about getting free shoes?”
You turn your head to face him. “Not in the mood.”
“Is something wrong?” Victor sounds genuinely concerned, given how you love to banter with him.
“It’s… I don’t know. I guess I’m not ready for this to end.”
“Is that so?” Victor takes a few seconds to look at you before turning his attention back to the road.
“I’m actually enjoying spending time with you.” Shut up mouth! Why don’t you dig a hole and bury yourself in it?
“Are you sure it’s not the food?”
This time you glare at him. “It’s not always about the food. Believe it or not, good company makes the food taste even better.”
“I see.” No, you don’t.
You puff up your cheeks and stare out the passenger side window. Could this get any more awkward? Scratch that. You don’t want to jinx yourself.
“Why don’t you spend the night at my place?”
Say what?
“A certain someone says she doesn’t want this to end.”
Right. “I don’t have my stuff.”
“Already taken care of.” How in the world? You decide not to question it.
Victor-Victor-Victor-Victor
At the mall, Victor carries you as he’s not willing to risk you tripping and falling due to your broken shoe. Says that you’re a walking disaster with two good shoes. When he teases you, you can feel the warmth and affection in his voice. He does care in his own way, and you wouldn’t have it any other way. It just wouldn’t be him.
When the sales lady notices you and your predicament, she hurries over to you. “You poor thing. I’ll find a pair of shoes that’ll flatter your figure.” How does she know your size?
After Victor places you on a chair, you take off your shoes and turn one of them over. Oh… Right in the middle is your size. You haven’t worn this pair enough times to wear out the writing. Meanwhile Victor stands guard over you. Not like you’re going to have another person try to shove you to the ground.
The sales lady returns with a dozen pair of shoes. How she managed to carry all of them. You’re not sure nor do you ask. She does have good taste in footwear. You try on all of them, some of them twice. So many nice shoes, but you only need one pair. You don’t feel like owing Victor a lot. After some consideration and thought, you narrow your selection down to two.
“Which looks better? This or that?” You’re wearing one of the pairs.
“We’ll take them both.”
“Um… I need one pair.” Mouth, stop moving and let him buy you the damn shoes.
“Since a certain dummy can’t decide, I’ll buy them both for her.” Victor grabs the box for the shoes you’re wearing and the other pair. He heads over to the cash register.
“You have a nice boyfriend.”
BOYFRIEND?! “Er… we’re good friends.”
“Are you sure about that? The way he looks at you.”
You blink in confusion. “He’s probably annoyed with having to replace my broken shoes.”
She laughs. “No. He looks at you like you’re his most precious person, a treasure he intends to protect.”
“Eh? How do you know it’s that?”
She holds up her left hand. “My husband does that a lot.” Now you notice the ring on her finger. She’s married. “Take my advice, don’t let this one go. He’s a keeper.”
“Right.”
Once he’s paid for the shoes, you insist on taking a stroll through the mall to walk off dinner. Victor isn’t happy though he indulges you, and the two of you take a leisurely walk through the building. Good thing this is an indoor mall so you don’t have to deal with the cold weather. As you pass by the window displays, you take a good look at their merchandise. A pair of rings catches your attention.
“Promise rings.” You didn’t plan to say it out loud. You did anyways.
“Those are for children.”
You roll your eyes at him and point at the price tag. “I don’t think children can afford that on their allowance.”
“Right.”
The cute puppies and kitties catch your attention. You hurry over to look at them and maybe they’ll let you pet them! They’re so adorable. Although you’re tempted to adopt one, you know you don’t have the time or energy to properly look after one. Maybe one of your friends will let you pet sit? You’d be more than willing to look after their furry four-legged family member for a short time. After all, you took care of Pearly while Gavin was away on a mission.
Inside the store, they have more than kitties and puppies. They have fishes, mice, lizards, and birds. You’re not crazy about mice or lizards. The fish are pretty to look at, but they’re kind of boring. It’s not like you can play with them or pet them. A small bird wanders to you and starts whistling. Is it serenading you? You glance around to see if the employees would let you pet the bird. Sadly they’re all busy. You reach in and the bird scoots over to your hand before climbing onto your finger. Then it makes its way up your arm and onto your shoulder. It snuggles against you.
“Oh wow, he’s never been this friendly with anyone.” A store employee appears, startling you and inadvertently the bird too. “Sorry. We normally don’t let people touch him. He tends to be grumpy most of the time.”
You reach up and start petting him. He leans into your touch, chirping in content. “Really? He seems friendly.” If this bird is as how the employee makes him out to be, you’ve found Victor in bird form it seems. Maybe this can be Victor Junior? Thinking about Victor, where is he? You thought he’d follow you into the store.
“Miss?”
“Yes?”
“Please adopt him! I’m begging you.”
What?
“You’re the first person he’s been nice to. I didn’t think he would be attached to anyone.”
“Um… I’m busy so I don’t think I can properly care for him.”
“You’ll do fine. These are great starter birds since they’re not hard to take care of.” The store employee begins telling you the benefits of having a pet and one that’s low maintenance. You find out this is a cockatiel. Thinking about the name causes you to giggle.
Between the store employee and the cute birdy eyes, you break down and decide to adopt this adorable creature. This time, you’re paying for him along with what’s needed to keep him happy and healthy. He’s content to sit on your shoulder the entire time and growls whenever he thinks someone is a threat to you.
Cage, food, toys, perches, feeding dishes, something for water, some basic first aid, and the bird himself.
“What makes you think you can take care of a pet?”
This startles you and causes him to almost fall off your shoulder. “They’re not hard to take care of, and he’s cute.”
“All animals are cute to you.”
“Not all of them.” You glance over to the lizard section. “And he really likes me.”
“Right. Are you sure it’s not some sales gimmick?” Victor folds his arms over his chest, waiting for your answer.
“I’ve seen him interact with others. He isn’t social but he’s friendly with me.” You reach up to pet him, which he happily accepts. “He’s like a bird version of you.”
Victor lets out an exasperated sigh. “Since you’ve already bought him, let’s take the stuff to my car.” Wow, you didn’t think Victor would be on board with you purchasing a pet this quickly. You decide not to point it out.
On the way to his place, the bird is content with being on your lap. You’ll need to name him since you can’t keep calling him the bird or bird.
“Victor Junior or Vic for short.”
“What are you up to this time?”
“He’s just like you.”
“….”
“So I’m naming him after you.”
“This is ridiculous.”
You stick your tongue out at Victor. Victor Junior copies you, much to your amusement. “Our son isn’t ridiculous, are you?” You coo at the little bird.
“Our son?”
“Fine, my son.”
Victor-Victor-Victor-Victor
Victor Junior has picked up quite a vocabulary during his stay at the pet shop. You can’t help but giggle at his antics. Since you’re spending the night there, you’ve set up his cage once human Victor has brought in his supplies. It’s getting late and Victor Junior looks tired. He’s yawning up a storm. You place him in his cage so he can get some sleep.
Since Victor is a gentleman, he insists you sleep in his guest room. It appears while you’re taking care of the bird, he prepared the guest room for you. Before he takes his leave so you can change, he holds out a small box. Is that a ring box? You open it to find one half of the promise ring set.
“Are you asking me to be your girlfriend?”
Victor stutters, attempting to deny it and saying that you’re interested in it.
“Now look who’s being silly.” You pull out the ring and slide it onto your finger before giving a surprised Victor a hug. “Does this answer your question?”
His response? He pulls you in for one passionate kiss.
Hello! :) Congratulations on your milestone! I'd like to request something with SLBP Mitsuhide (he deserves more love ♡).I don't mind it being sweet fluff, romance, introspection... I love your writing and I know that whatever you choose will be great. Thank you very much! ^^
MITS(PO)U(SE)HIDE! o((*^▽^*))o YES and BLESS YOU. Thanks so much for participating in my follower celebration! 💜
He saw the evidence of her kitchen work as soon as she entered the room, but he was so charmed by it he couldn’t bring himself to say anything as she set out their lunch. The smudge of flour beside her smile hinted at his dreams of her elevated out of their kitchen and into court, painted and dressed in the most elaborate fashion he could afford...
“Mitsuhide?” The gentleness with which she said his name was finer than anything royalty had ever worn. She was homespun, and she had made space for him between all her threads so they might be woven together as profoundly as a good winter coat. He could only be grateful.
“I’m here,” he said, focusing on her eyes and smiling. The pleasure of his life, the reason he fought: the way those eyes went warm and the way they curved when she smiled back. “I was daydreaming. Forgive me, my darling. Won’t you please sit with me?”
Slow and pleased, her blinking captivated him as she arranged herself beside him. He wished he could see them as a sculptor might— man beside wife, close in the middle of the day. Perhaps children sitting formally, perhaps even a cat or two. His imaginings made him blink slowly, not seeing the food before him, though he could smell the mellow, wonderful soup she had prepared and felt pulled toward the world that had the real her in it, even as fanciful thoughts took him out of himself.
“You do seem very given to dreaming lately,” she said, but it was an indulgence, not a reproach. Her love was the burning comfort of stretched muscles in summer, dependability and pent-up fire in one woman. He knew he could rely on how thoroughly she charmed him for the rest of their lives.
“You’re doing it again.” Her laugh was as warm as her hand as it slipped into his. “Let’s eat. Will you tell me about your work?”
“Yes,” he said, as he leaned over to kiss her, not letting go of her hand. His free thumb stroked between their cheeks at the spot of flour, and he brought it to his mouth as she recovered. It tasted like the kind of home he was happy beyond measure to have built with her.
Hello! ^^ I'm Megumi and I'm following your Tumblr for MLQC. I love this game and your blog has really great content. I'm not really sure about what I'm going to ask you so I hope I'm not bothering you. A few days ago, I think you posted about pre-orders for MLQC's characters' fanbooks, is that correct? At that moment, I didn't have time to read the post carefully and apply, and now, I can't find it. If it wasn't you, I'm sorry for the mistake. Thank you and have a nice day!
Hi @otome0heart. Thank you for your kind message. Yes, it was me who posted. Because the exclusive set was sold out, I deleted the post. But I still have the normal Illustration Book. Please pm me if you are keen.
Notes: I'm a fan of a band called Wagakki Band, which uses modern and traditional instruments and mostly play j-rock. That's what partly inspired me to write this since I love how they sound.
Also, to my Cupid recipient, @michverse, I hope that you like it ^^ Happy SLBP Valentine’s Day - @otome0heart
PEEBLES IN THE WAY
“Did you have fun, Miss?”
The young woman turned around to see her personal maid, Matsuko, close the sliding door of her room with a big smile on her face and a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, and she felt a light blush cover her cheeks.
“Yes, I did” she replied while she gave her her coat and bag.
It had been much more than just 'fun'. The concert had been amazing, the music and the singing reaching to every single heart in the hall, which answered with as much passion as the musicians gave.
“And I suppose your fiancé's performance was great...”
She side-glanced at Matsuko, feeling her face even hotter, and the young maid could not help a chuckle.
“Of course, it was” she muttered, starting to unbutton her clothes.
“You don't have to feel embarrassed for having such a gorgeous and talented fiancé, Miss. I'd be really proud to show him off.”
She took off the dress and put it on top of the chest of drawers on her left. Then, she put her arms through the sleeves of her sleeping yukata, which Matsuko held for her.
“I know, and I am” she tied a sash around her waist. “It's just that... things are complicated...”
She turned to look at the maid with a small wistful smile.
“I know, Miss, I know...”
She sighed. Yes, the situation could not be more difficult. Not only was he a famous wadaiko player but also, her family was not making things easy for them. She breathed deeply and then, went to the other side of the room, opening the sliding door which led outside.
“Is everyone sleeping?”
“Yes. Your aunt turned off her lights as soon as she heard you arrive home.”
“Good” he smile widened, showing her satisfaction. “I'll be back in fifteen minutes. Take out the bedding and then, retire for the night. Thanks for waiting for me.”
“It was a pleasure, Miss” the woman bowed her head. “Goodnight.”
She made her way across the garden with only the moonlight as her guide. She had taken that stone path which guided to the far end of the enclosure so many times that she did not need any lights to illuminate her way. There, she stopped in front of a small old storage room which nobody used now for its distance from the main house and its decayed state. She unlocked it with a key she always wore around her neck and entered, holding the door in a way to avoid the hinges making any noise. Once in the safety of the one-room house, she sighed, relieved. In the darkness, she touched the wooden wall, where she knew there would be a candle and a box of matches, and lit it. The tiny flame lit a clean space that she had tidied with the help of her brother Yahiko and Matsuko, slowly and taking turns to avoid suspicions, except for when most of the family was away, when the three of them could work there for some hours. There, she kept the things that made her happy which had been forbidden by her relatives because they did not suit someone of her status.
Status. She snorted as she entered the room, the tatami creacking softly under her bare feet. That was all that mattered to them. Yahiko's status as the heir of the restaurant chain their parents had founded. He own status as the heiress to be married to make connections.
Little by little, they had stripped her of hobbies, friends and feelings to mold her into the perfect wife for a rich man. And she had complied. Or at least, she had made them believe it. She still kept in touch with some of her dearest friends and she had gathered whatever precious memories she had been able to save in that little room.
She walked to the center of the room, illuminating one of her favourite dolls, trophies she had won in sports competitions during school and a few romance novels and manga that still made her heart flutter each time she reread them.
She left the candle on top of a low cupboard and rummaged in the folds of her sleeping robe, taking out the ticket of the concert. A soft smile drew across her lips. What her relatives had never suspected was that they had given her the person that her heart had wanted the most for so long. When they had told her that they had already decided on a husband for her, she had tried to rebel. Even Yahiko, her brother, had. However, when she had discovered the identity of her fiancé, she had had no more reasons to protest.
She put the ticket on top of the cupboard, next to a photo frame, smoothing it carefully and then, straightened, staring at the poster in front of her. Almost unconsciously, she lifted a hand and, delicately, traced the features of the man in it. She had become a fan of his group when they had started their music career, years ago, and little by little, she had fallen more and more for him without realising that what she felt was not only admiration but love, until they had been introduced to each other. In that moment, her heart had flooded with a million feelings, filling each single corner of her being, and deep inside her, she had simply known that she had given him her heart.
With a low purr rumbling in his throat, Takeda Shingen turned in his bed, seeking a few minutes more of sleep under the warmth of the covers. He put his arm around the pillow, burying his face in it, slightly frustrated because his much needed rest had been disturbed and the last threads of unconsciousness which fogged his mind were disappearing. Slowly, he opened his amber eyes, wondering what had made him wake up. The thick dark curtains were tightly closed, not letting the sunlight enter the room and he had made sure his mobile phone was muted so nobody could disturb him.
He lifted his head, looking around through heavy lidded eyes and then, something at the back of his mind told him the reason. He looked at the space beside him on the bed and sighed, letting himself fall on the mattress again.
After a concert, he always brought someone home, one of those friends who, as him, looked for a way to relieve themselves without any strings attached, someone who would disappear in the morning with not so much as a 'till next time' and did not ask for something in return.
However, all that had ended when he had got engaged. He sighed. As much as his needs were still the same, he now had a serious committed relationship and he planned to be faithful. He could not help a small snort as he laid on his back, his eyes staring at the white ceiling. He did not know from whom he had inherited such righteous feelings, since his father was not precisely the perfect example of faithfulness. Or maybe it was precisely that which had shaped him in that way. Seeing his mother suffer in silence the none discreet affairs of her husband had probably made him promise himself not to make the woman he chose and loved feel the same humiliation. Well, he had not exactly chosen her but that marriage was the price he had to pay for his freedom, the condition his father had stated to let him continue in the music world while contributing to the family’s prestige, and he was willing to pay it. Beside, his fiancée was a pretty girl and he knew that, if he made an effort to get to know her, he could end up liking her. He sighed. The only thing that irked him quite a lot was her shyness and her seemingly docile character. She talked when told to, and did as told too. She was modest and proper. He pictured her in his mind, her long brown hair tied in a low bun at the nape of her neck, her white skin and her pink lips, the perfectly fit kimonos she had always worn when he had visited her and... He furrowed his brows for a moment, trying to remember any other detail about her. And it was then that he realised he did not even know what colour her eyes were.
The screen of his mobile phone turned on, distracting him from his musings and, turning slightly, he picked it up from the top of his bedside table. As every morning, Kansuke, his assistant and best friend, had sent him the planning for the day. Fortunately, he did not have many engagements, an interview for a magazine with the rest of the band in a few hours and in the afternoon, a visit to his fiancée's household to have tea. He half closed his eyes, already dreading it. It was not that he did not want to see her, but they were never alone. Her family had guarded her closely since the first time he had stepped in the house, and they had not allowed even a short walk in their gardens in full view of all of them. However, he did not see anything bad in wanting to take up with her for a few minutes and he hoped that, as the wedding approached, they let him get closer to her. He had the right to do so.
But, as he had expected, once again, the situation was the same.
When he had arrived, he had been guided by a servant to the usual room where they received him. Her fiancée and her relatives were already there, waiting, and as soon as he had entered the room, the ritual had begun. The first time he had gone to that house, he had been surprised at the formality and ceremony he found, and had felt stupid, following every step after his parents and the rest of the people of the room, who seemed to know what to do. Now, his actions were almost mechanic. He had sat formally and bowed deeply in answer to their formal greetings. Then, he had answered courteous questions asked by the elders related to his family's health and, taking his place next to her brother, he had watched as her aunt performed once again the tea ceremony. Fortunately, those only lasted around an hour. It was not that he did not like them; he loved the ritual and how each action was performed with detail, following a specific procedure. However, instead of the quiet and relaxed atmosphere he had experienced in them during his life, there, the feeling was oppressive and he felt watched, judged by every single one of his actions.
Now, as he bowed formally at the end of the ceremony, not feeling thankful in the slightest, he stole a glance to his right. The young woman who was going to be his wife was sitting straighter than he had ever seen someone do it, with her head slightly bowed, as every single time before. He had to suppress a frustrated sigh and he straightened, looking ahead again. One more day that he could not talk to her. At that rate, they would be married without him knowing her favourite colour.
“I hope you forgive my rudeness” her aunt turned to him with a slight bow after all the utensils had been collected. “But I have a previous appointment in a few minutes, so I feel myself in the difficult position of shortening your visit.”
Definitely, she was a damned witch.
“Of course” he bowed his head too, briefly. “Please, rest assured that I'm not an- disgruntled at all” the old woman smiled satisfied. “However, I would like to request something of you before I go.”
It was obvious that nobody expected that, because the silence hung in the room a bit too longer than it had been desirable.
“Yes?” he had to suppress a smirk hearing her slightly displeased tone.
“I'd like to request your permission to take my fiancée out next Sunday.”
The silence was even heavier/thicker this time as he waited for an answer.
“Well, the engagement has already made official so I don't see any inconvenience for her to attend any event that your family organises...”
It was his turn to furrow his brows.
“It's neither a family gathering or a social event” he breathed deeply and lifted his chin proudly. “I would like to get to know her better so I had thought of us having lunch together.”
He side glanced at her, only to see her turn her head quickly, just in time to see her expression, a mixture of surprise and horror. Yahiko was looking at both of them alternatively, his eyes wide.
The elderly woman's hardened features and her tightly pressed mouth followed by a sharp intake of breath told him immediately he had stepped on a landmine.
“I'm going to be frank with you” she started, and her voice was cold like ice. “Even though I'm old and traditional, I am well aware of what young people nowadays consider “get to know better”, as I am of your reputation. I can't believe you're asking such a thing, expecting us to agree. No, I will not allow you to tarnish the immaculate reputation of this household. You will have time to 'get to know her' once the marriage ceremony takes place” she squared her shoulders. “I expect you to reflect upon your behaviour before your next visit. And now,” she bowed curtly and then, lifted herself up. “If you please...”
Shingen tightened his jaw until he felt pain and took a moment to stand up. In any other occasion, he would not have let her humiliate him like that, but the last thing he wanted to hear was his father berating him for offending them and risking the engagement. Dying to get out of that room, of that house, he did not look at anyone. He held his head high, proudly, before leaving the place.
How could things have gone so wrong?
The young woman had listened to the exchange between her fiancé and her aunt terrified. It seemed that she still had the power to destroy her happiness if she wanted to. Out of the corner of her eye, she had seen him bear stoically the old woman's harsh words, and though his eyes reflected the hardness of precious stones, she had seen his wounded pride in them too. That was something that her aunt knew how to do really well, being one of her victims herself. She attacked someone's vulnerable points until rendering them speechless and backing them against the wall, and she knew why he was willing to marry her and that he could not risk his chance.
She had sprung to her feet as soon as she had done it, at the same time as everybody except for him. As if challenging the old woman, he had stood up slowly, a second later than the rest, towering them all, his eyes never leaving her aunt's.
She had felt so useless at that moment, thinking that the engagement had ended, that he would walk out of her life that very moment leaving her broken forever without knowing it. And then, she would probably be betrothed to another without a second thought. A sudden wave of nausea at the idea overcame her and in that moment, she knew that she had to do something.
When she had come out of the room, trying to remain calm and at the same time to think fast about what to do, she had seen Matsuko, her expressive eyes worried. Then, it came to her mind what to do. If she could not speak to him or send him a message, as she had been denied his phone number, she could write him a note. She looked at her relatives, gathered around the main entrance, around him who was with his back to them, probably putting on his shoes, and with a quick gesture, she asked the maid for paper and pen. She looked around and then, a dawning expression lighted her face, as she brought her hand to her obi and extracted what seemed a supermarket receipt. She took them quickly, scribbling something just before her aunt's voice, calling her name, sounded in the hall. With a few short steps, she arrived at the line of people waiting. However, just before she could stop herself, she treaded on the step and lost her balance.
His hand was fast, holding her arm and steadying her before she crashed against him. His fingers were strong but strangely gentle in their grasp, and for a moment, she forgot everything around her as she perceived the sensuous, though faint, smell of his perfume and the slight warmth that was starting to seep through the layers of her sleeve. His eyes were even more beautiful than she had imagined, reflecting his surprise at the situation and a faint curiosity. After all, it was the first time they had truly looked at each other.
Her aunt's authoritative voice broke through her daydreaming and she jumped, snatching her arm from his hand and taking her place in the row of relatives, bowing to him when the old woman bid her farewell to him. Through her eyelashes, she saw him take a last reflexive look at her before disappearing through the sliding door.
A low murmur filled the hall when the five people next to her started to move to other parts of the house, and she could feel Yahiko's concerned gaze on her. She walked past him, her fingers brushing his softly, as a way to calm him.
“Clumsy child” her aunt's voice carried a disdaining tone, and she bowed her head in a submissive gesture. “I expect you to behave properly next time.”
She nodded, her eyes not leaving the floor. However, instead of embarrassment, all that filled her heart was the hope of him reading her note.
Shingen closed the door of his car with more force than necessary. How he hated them... If it was not for the advantages that the wedding would bring him, he would never go back.
He reclined his head back, letting it rest briefly against the seat, his lids fluttering close for a moment, trying to calm himself. As soon as they were married, he would take her out of that house and, if possible, they would only return to give their New Year greetings.
With a sigh, he grabbed the seatbelt with one hand while searching for his car keys in the pocket of his jacket with the other. However, there was something else in his pocket. Slightly confused, he took it out. It was the receipt of a convenience store, something he was sure he had never put in there. He turned it around and his sight fell on some hasty strokes written with a pencil.
I'm sorry.
Without realising it, a soft smile drew across his lips, knowing instinctively who the author of that note was. So, the fall had not been an accident, as she had made all of them believe. His smile widened, turning into a smirk. It seemed that the delicate submissive pretty flower he was supposed to marry was not so obedient.
A desperate knock on the window took him out of his thoughts abruptly and he saw a boy look at left and right quickly, a frantic expression marring his features. He lowered the glass.
“Yahiko... right?”
He nodded once.
“I have to show you something” his tone was urgent. “Park at the back of the house and wait for me there.”
Before he could reply, the boy started running and soon disappeared around the corner of the enormous stone wall that surrounded the compound. Shingen blinked a few times, a bit perplexed, but his interest had been picked between the note and the boy's promise so, he started the car, drove for a few minutes to avoid suspicions and then, turned around a street to go back to the house.
As he had promised, by the time he arrived, Yahiko was waiting for him next to a small wooden door. Without a word, he motioned him inside and guided him carefully, without barely making a noise, through a bamboo garden before finding themselves in front of a small deteriorated wooden storage house. Then, the young man turned to him, his face serious and his eyes shining with resolve.
“You see, I'm doing this for my sister's sake...” he straightened his shoulders. “So before I take you inside, I have to know... What do you think about her?”
He was left speechless for a moment and then, even though he tried to stifle it, a hearty laugh left his lips.
“What's so funny?” Yahiko crossed his arms and furrowed his brows.
“Nothing, kid but, do you realise that you're asking for an explanation to a guy who is more than twice your age, height and built? Who could lay you flat on the ground in this same moment?”
The boy did not change his attitude, neither seemed intimidated by him, and Shingen felt satisfied with that. He bent over, putting his hands on his knees so he could look at him eye to eye.
“I'm going to be sincere with you. She is my freedom to do what I like the most, if I marry her, I can continue my music career without my father meddling in my business and that's what I desire the most” the light in the boy's dark brown pupils wavered but Shingen knew that he had done right. “She's pretty and, though her docile character was not very appealing to me, it seems that there's more to her than that.”
Yahiko swallowed hard and breathed deeply. It had been hard to hear his reasons, but he also knew that his sister was aware of his feelings even though she had barely talked to him, and that she loved what he did, so he just nodded.
“Thank you” he bowed, and was slightly surprised when he saw Shingen return the gesture. “As I promised you, I'm going to show you something...” he took out a key from his pocket. “It's my sister's dearest treasure.”
The feeling of curiosity sparkled even brighter inside him as the lock slid back smoothly, a sign that, despite the run-down state of the whole building, it was used frequently. Yahiko opened the door carefully, stopping when the hinges squeaked.
“I think that's enough space for you to slip past...” he said, taking a look at his broad shoulders and muscled body.
His jacket brushed the frame with a whishing sound and he was almost sure that the fabric had been damaged in some way. Then, he found himself in a dark room, the scarce sunlight that entered through the crack only showing him a step and part of a light brown tatami mat just before the door closed quickly behind him. He heard some rustling of clothes beside him and a switch turned on, the beam of a flashlight crossing the room.
“My big sister always uses a candle because she usually comes at night and she wants to avoid anyone knowing that this place is being used. But now it's daylight and there's a lot of commotion in the house so I don't think the flashlight will be seen. And we have to be quick, so it's more convenient.”
The boy, who had been taking off his shoes while speaking, stepped in the room with a dull sound, turning to him with a small smile, the light dancing around the place with each of his movements. He followed him, looking around. By what he could grasp, it seemed that the place served its purpose of storing things but curiously, everything was tidy and clean. Also, there were pictures on the walls and objects carefully set on top of the shelves, as if they were there to be admired and cherished. His fingers brushed the flower patterned skirt of a western doll which was smiling widely at him and his eyes fell on the titles printed on the spines of a few books.
“Before our parents died in the plane crash” Yahiko's voice was subdued, and he approached him, his eyes still darting around, trying to absorb as much information as possible. “My sister was a normal teenager who read cheesy romance novels and went to the cinema with her friends. Even though our family was prestigious, mum and dad wanted us to grow up as ordinary children and enjoy life while we could. I remember that she was cheerful and kind and that I loved her bright smile.”
He smiled bitterly.
“However, when our relatives took us in, that ended. I was still a little boy so they mostly left me alone. However, she was already fifteen years old and they decided that she was old enough to start being trained as a wife and disposed of all her things” his gaze had wandered around, but then, it returned to the man in front of him. “What you see here is what we could save: a doll, a few books, her medals and trophies from the track and field competitions she participated in, photos...” he paused for a moment. “She was forced to leave all that behind. They tried to tame her and make her the perfect wife for a renown family and, after seeing that rebelling didn't bring her any good, she complied.”
There were some photos on the wall, and Shingen walked to them to see them better in the semi-darkness. The beam of light followed him and, lit them over his shoulder. There, different pictures of teenagers smiled back at him, and in all of them, an all too familiar girl he could barely relate to the demure lady he was engaged to stood out on her own.
“However, she's strong like my mother and she has managed to keep at least part of her spirit. Sometimes, she escapes from here with the help of her best friend, the only one our relatives approved from her past, and meet old acquaintances or do things that she's not allowed anymore.”
While listening to the story, Shingen had kept on wandering the room, finding small objects that were surely attached to a memory. Fleetingly, he thought that, once they were married, maybe he could get her to tell him about them. Lifting the lid of a box, he saw a small pile of Cds and, curious, he took one to see what type of tastes his fiancé had in music. His eyes widened in astonishment.
“I bet you didn't imagine she was a fan of your band...”
He lifted his head to look at the young boy. He was with his back to him, pointing the flashlight to a poster in front of him, one Shingen knew too well. It had been the promotional image of their first national tour. He walked to him, staring at the picture too. It was a bit flashier than he remembered, and he could not help a small smile seeing that he still had his hair short at that time. However, there was another one next to that and he pushed the light with his fingertips to take a better look at it. It was a recent one and he was alone in there. It had been taken at one of the concerts and on it, he was with his back to the watcher, his profile outlined by the spotlights and his hair braided in small plaits on the sides of his head and then tied up in a high ponytail as he played one of the enormous waidaiko around him.
“She had admired you for a long time, and she barely could believe it when they told her that you were her betrothed” Yahiko's voice had turned slightly amused. “I'd never seen her more bewildered than at that moment. However, she had to make an effort to recover so our aunt wouldn't suspect something. But her hands were trembling under the sleeves of her kimono.”
He turned to the man.
“Now you know a bit more about her” a smile made its way across his lips. “It's what you wanted, right?” Shingen could only nod absently, still looking at the posters in front of him, trying to reconcile all the information in his mind. “Now, let's go. Somebody could come looking for me at any moment and it would be bad if they caught us. Especially for her.”
He nodded once again, more firmly this time, and it was then that something caught his attention.
Yahiko took some steps towards the entrance and turned to see if he was following him. However, he was still in the same place, looking at something in his hand. He pointed the light to him.
“Your sister... was at last night concert...”
Yahiko chuckled.
“Of course! I told you she escapes the house sometimes, didn't I?
After coming out of the building and making their way carefully to the wooden door in the fence, Yahiko rummaged in the the folds of his kimono.
“Before I forget, here's her phone number and mail”
“I already have those...” Shingen paused for a moment and glanced at the boy, feeling a bit troubled. “Though to tell you the truth, I've never used them.”
Yahiko moved his head.
“Those are my aunt's, she had to make sure you had as little contact with her as possible. However, she doesn't know she has a private one that only the close friends who they think she has cut ties with have. Maybe she'll take some time to answer, since she can't check it often but you can talk to her without them knowing about it.”
He took the paper and looked at it reflexively.
“Why are you doing all this? Am I not supposed to be the bad guy who's marrying her for his own benefit?”
The boy looked at him seriously, putting a hand on his waist.
“My big sister is my only true family and I want her to be happy. And I know her only way to that is getting out of this house. To tell you the truth, I hated you so much when you came for the first time. But I've watching you this whole time and you seemed interested in her as a person. And that became clear today. Beside, you didn't freak out when you saw all this and realised that she's admired you for a long time. Any other would've thought she was a creep. That made me trust you.”
For a moment, the memory of her panicked eyes, of a beautiful shade of brown, and the rushed apology on the supermarket ticket, appeared in his mind and he could not help a soft smile. Then, he lifted his hand and tousled Yahiko's hair softly. The teenager's eyes stared directly at his, a sudden wave of uncertainty shining briefly in them.
“You'll free her, right?”
Shingen smiled widely, feeling strangely proud of that boy he barely knew but who already felt like a little brother to him.
“Leave it to me, kid.”
It was late at night when the young woman got up from bed and crossed her room. Silently, she pulled at the lowest drawer of the chest where she kept her clothes, taking it out completely, and she introduced her arm in the space. She closed her fingers around the thin device hidden there, a smartphone Umeko, her best friend, had bought for her. She extracted it from the fabric bag she had made to protect it and she switched it on.
Umeko had sent her some photos of the concert and she smiled upon seeing them, a few butterflies coming to life in her stomach when she saw one of Shingen that Umeko had edited with some hearts and sparkles, and the text “Your Husband” at the bottom.
Silly, she typed on the screen, feeling the blush that dusted her cheeks even hotter.
Also, she had notifications from communities about the band, where the fans were going overboard about their performance, and other less innocent things.
The phone vibrated when she was about to turn it off and she opened a new mail that she had received, even though she did not recognise the address at that moment. She became stunned upon reading the greeting, her heart thundering in her chest painfully, so loud that she feared for a moment somebody else could hear it.
She breathed deeply through her mouth as her fingertips brushed the screen, her pupils absorbing his words as if they were trying to engrave them in her mind.
He had read her note and she did not have to apologise for anything.
Something broke inside her and she felt weak with relief, her limbs suddenly heavy.
But he insisted on having that date he had asked for...
She bit her trembling lower lip, letting her hands fall on her lap as they held the device tightly, and closed her eyes for a moment, trying to regain her calmness.
A part of her was dying to say yes. Until that afternoon, she had been convinced that he had no interest in her and that he thought their engagement was a bother. That he had a lover... But the tone of his voice and the solemnity of his expression had told her of his serious commitment. And that he wanted to know more about her said that he wished to look at her as a person and not just as his freedom to live his life as he pleased.
However, a small voice at the back of her mind told her that she would embarrass herself in front of him. Up to that moment, she had been partly relieved that she had barely had to talk during his visits, as she was sure she would get flustered and stutter so much that she would be scolded in front of him.
Her fingertips hovered over the keyboard. She breathed deeply and pressed her lips in a thin line. However, she could not go on like that forever. There would be a time where she would have to break that barrier. She could not become his wife without being able to look at him directly or talk to him. And she had the feeling that if she refused, things would become awkward between them and starting a life in common under such circumstances would only damage their relationship. She needed to be brave, however nerve wracking the experience would be.
In that moment, a creak was heard in the corridor and she jumped. Quickly, she put the smartphone in her sleeve, put the drawer in its place and ran trying not to make any noise. She covered herself just in time for the door to slide a bit. She buried her face in the pillow to calm her breathing. She had discovered a few months before that her relatives sometimes watched her at night, especially when they had any suspicion about her actions. And that day events had shaken them deeply. She felt the urge to snort. As if a fiancé asking for a date with his betrothed would be something so scandalous.
After she felt calmer, she sighed and turned to the other side. She had mastered the art of feigning sleep to its finest after so many times staying up surfing the internet or chatting with her old friends until the early hours.
The minutes ticked away in the antique clock of her room until she finally heard the sliding door close again and light steps walk off until they faded in the corridor. She breathed relieved and, after listening attentively for some more time, she rummaged in her sleeve to extract the phone.
Her eyes read his messages again and then, swallowing hard, she started to type.
They had agreed to meet the following Saturday instead of the Sunday he had requested at first, to avoid suspicions, and upon telling her their plans, her best friend Umeko had readily offered her help. And that day, as he had told her, he was waiting for her at the entrance of a park situated in one of the wards in Kyoto further from her house, where her relatives would not probably find them.
For a moment, she contemplated him as he checked his mobile phone. He was leaning against one of the pillars that formed the gate, obviously dressed as not to attract too much attention though she could see that even wearing dark blue jeans, boots, a dark grey sweatshirt with an orange motive on the chest under the black gilet and a woolen hat which covered his blazing-red hair, some people turned their heads to him, admiration clearly showing in their eyes.
“He's even more gorgeous when up close” Umeko's voice contained a mixture of amusement and admiration, and then, she felt a soft push on the shoulder. “Come on, go and show them that he's taken.”
She turned to her friend, a grateful smile dancing in her lips.
“Thank you very much, Umeko...”
The girl nodded and then winked at her.
“Enjoy your date, and send me a text when you want me to pick you up.”
She made an affirmative sound and then, opened the door of the car.
Umeko observed her as she made her way to her future husband, and how he lifted his face when he sensed her near and smiled. Maybe it was not the smile of someone in love but at least, it was the gesture of a sincerely contented man who appreciated what he was seeing. She smiled satisfied as she used her turn signal and, giving them a last glance, joined the traffic to leave them in their own world.
“I'm glad to see you again” he replied to her formal bow and greeting. “And with not so many witnesses around us.”
She nodded briefly and swallowed hard, not really trusting her voice. Her heartbeat was almost deafening and she was sure that if there was not so much traffic and people walking and chatting around them, he could have heard it clearly.
“Did you have any problems to come today? Did your family said something, or were suspicious?”
“N-No...”
She frowned and berated herself when the first stutter left her lips. It was as if his mere presence rendered her unable to think or move coherently. She closed her eyes briefly, trying to even her breath. He was someone she had never dreamt of being near of, a man who had meant the world to her since she was a teenager. However, he was also a human being, like her, and the person she would share her life with. She had to gather her thoughts and courage, and start treating him, not just as her idol, but as her future husband.
“Are you feeling okay?”
His concerned voice brought her back to reality and she realised that her fear of embarrassing herself in front of him was becoming a reality.
“I'm sorry...”
Shingen looked at her slightly confused, tilting his head to the side to get a better look at her face.
“I'm making a fool of myself...” she lifted her hand and with the back, she touched the burning skin of her cheeks. “I'm really nervous today...”
A tender smile drew across his lips, realising that what for him was something pleasant and quite common like a tryst, for her, it probably was a nerve wracking situation between breaking even more rules imposed to her than just merely escaping to see a concert and being with someone she admired deeply. He recalled her brother's words about his band and himself in the warehouse, and understood that he could not behave as always with his past lovers or friends with benefits. He would have to break her walls one by one, forcefully and at the same time, gently.
“You don't have to apologise” she side-glanced at him. “Just forget about all that, at least for a few minutes” she furrowed her brows in a delicate frown, wondering what he had meant by 'all that' but he continued. “I just want you to enjoy today and, as I told your aunt, to get to know you a bit better” he let out a little sigh. “We're going to get married and I don't even know what your favourite colour is.”
'Even though you probably know everything about me...' the afterthought that flashed in his mind after his own words
She watched him for a few seconds and then, a small, wistful smile appeared on her face.
“You're right” she straightened her shoulders and lifted her chin slightly. “I should probably relax a bit and appreciate what Umeko and you are doing for me. It's just...” she paused, giving some thinking to her next words. “I think I'm not used to unwind anymore...”
He observed her for a moment, having a slight suspicion about that pause she had made, but did not say anything about it. Up to that moment, she had not mentioned a thing about him being a famous musician and, even though it intrigued him, especially since he knew how she felt about him, he decided it was not the time to bring up the topic, seeing her finally at ease in his company.
“Okay” he said putting one of his hands on his hip. “Did you think of anywhere you'd like to go?”
“Not really...” her cheeks became a bit warm when he smiled, but she swallowed, reflexively clenching her fingers into fists to suppress the anxious feeling that was, once again, arising in her chest, focusing her thoughts on her words. “You told me that you wanted to take me somewhere special so I didn't really give it too much thought. I'm really fine with any type of food.”
His smile widened.
“I wasn't talking about any restaurants, but about another place I think you'll appreciate much more.”
For a moment, a flash of mischief played in his amber pupils and her aunt's words when she had refused his request of a date with her sounded in her mind. However, she shook her head lightly, refusing to think that had been his purpose since the beginning. She had decided to trust him when she had accepted to go out with him, and that was what she was going to do.
“There's a taxi stop at a short walk from here” he extended his hand to her. “Let's go?”
She stared at it for a moment and then, she pressed her mouth in a thin line, her fingers closing tightly around the handle of her small bag. A single word left her lips and Shingen stared at her curiously.
“That's my favourite colour.”
His smile was wide and sincere, and she found herself answering it with one of her own while she extended her arm put her fingers in his palm. His slightly calloused skin was warm and she felt a pleasant tingle when he took hold of hers, tugging so she would follow him.
They walked at a leisure step, Shingen asking her simple questions about her hobbies and tastes and answering some of hers. From time to time, she glanced around, especially when she felt someone staring at them.
She chuckled silently and that drew his attention.
“What's so funny?”
She shook her head.
“Nothing really... I was just thinking that no matter how you disguise yourself, you attract people's attention.”
He grinned at the amused edge of her words and how she had lowered her guard against her own thoughts.
“I know it's not the best one but at least, it conceals my special traits” he brushed the red bangs which sticked out of his woolen hat. “It'll be too much of a bother if they recognised me right away, when all I want is to enjoy this day with you” he watched satisfied as her expression became somewhat disconcerted. “And,” he added. “how do you know that they're not looking at you” he gave her a side smile. “That kimono really suits you.”
A wave of shyness washed over her. It was true that, after thinking and considering clothes for far longer that she had ever done, she had finally opted for her favourite kimono, a tsukesage in shades of purple with a seasonal motive in the hem, the upper part of the back and the sleeves, and as Umeko used to say, it was obvious in every one of her gestures and expressions that she loved to wear it.
However, she had never faced such an open flirting, not even in the only relationship she had had in all her life. Her boyfriend in high school had been easy-going and fun, but he had always felt a bit awkward when they had been in a situation that could lead to a romantic outcome. He had never behaved in any remotely similar way to how Shingen was doing. And she did not know well how to react.
Before she could think of a right way to answer his comment, he stopped, pointing to the row of taxis next to them.
“Come on, let's be quick or we'll be late.”
Instead of a place where they could have more privacy, the taxi stopped at the entrance of a large venue. As she got out of the vehicle, looking at the building with open curiosity, Shingen started rummaging in the bag he carried. He, then extracted two passes.
“Keep this with you all the time” he said giving her one with the logo of his band. “Though... I don't know if the clip will damage your kimono...”
“Don't worry” she replied, taking it from him and observing the little clamp for a moment before securing it in one of the inner wraps of her obi. “The fabric is not very delicate and in case it leaves a mark, nobody will see it there.”
He opened his gilet and hanged it from the belt of his jeans.
“Now we're ready” he took her hand again, pulling her towards the entrance.
“But, where are we going?” she tried to remember if the band had any event that morning, in whose case, he could not have been there with her.
His only response was an enigmatic smile over his shoulder.
They entered the building through a glass automatic sliding door, being greeted by a security guard and some of the venue workers and finally, he stopped just in front of a double door with a small window at the top. He turned and his grin was even wider than before. She inhaled deeply, trying to regain her breath after trying to match his long strides across the hall.
“I talked to our manager so you could watch our rehearsal for tomorrow night's concert” her eyes opened, pure bewilderment flashing in them, regarding him, and her lower lip hung slightly open, feeling unable to react. “After all,” he lowered his voice to barely a whisper. “You're my most precious fan.”
His words sounded deeply inside her and her chin trembled a bit. It was impossible that he knew her secret, she had been extremely careful not to let a single word about him or his band, or her deep admiration for him out, and it was impossible that with such a short time together he could have figured it out.
“Ho... do you know that...?”
“A little bird who loves you dearly showed me a very special room where my lovely fiancee keeps her treasures...”
She was mortified. He had learnt all her deepest secrets without her realising and now she was sure he would definitely feel uncomfortable with her. However, at that moment, her racing mind registered two facts. He had already known by the time they had met, and also, he had just called her 'lovely'...
“Don't look so troubled” he bent over her a bit to take a better look at her face. “He did it because he adores you so don't be too hard on him when you return home.”
She blinked slowly.
“Yahiko...?”
He nodded and was about to add something else when a stingy voice interrupted them.
“Could you cut out the flirting so we can start the rehearsal?” both of them turned , finding a blond man watching them with a disgusted expression.
Shingen gave him a side- looped smile and then, glanced at her, who was still recovering her composure.
“I bet you didn't expect our little angel to have such a sharp tongue. He's always so polite and smiles complacently to the public, but it's better not to be on the wrong side in one of his bad days.”
“So?” he crossed his arms on his chest and glanced at her for a moment with apparent disinterest. “Who's the wrench?” there were murmurs approaching, and behind Ieyasu, a few figures appeared after turning a corner, chatting among them. “It seems that you forgot that outsiders are forbidden after the mayhem with Hideyoshi and his messy double-dating game.”
That comment gained the irated glare of one of the other men who had just stopped by them.
“Don't you dare talk about Hideyoshi like that!”
They both got into an argument immediately and the others groaned, except for a light-built man with short light brown hair, who just smiled.
“And before you ask,” Shingen murmured in a clearly amused tone. “Yes, they're always like that.”
She stared worriedly at them for a few more seconds and then tilted her head upwards.
“Is it really okay for me to be here?”
But before he could answer, a blond man with an almost ethereal presence, turned to them and peered at her with slightly closed eyelids and a pleasant smile.
“And who is this charming lady, little tiger? An acquaintance?”
“She's my fiancée” his expression softened as he glanced at her, watching her cheeks dusted with a soft colour and her fingers grasp the handle of her bag even tighter, as she introduced herself to them.
Silence hung for a long moment in the hall and then, all of them started to talk at the same time, alternating incredulous remarks, the loudest ones from a man with dark hair and a pink T-shirt, with some congratulations and skeptical looks. All those ended when another man entered the scene and put some order. After a new introduction, the man ushered them all inside, indicating the musicians to take their places on the stage and her, a seat in the third row.
Shingen took out his gilet and sweatshirt, under which he wore a dark orange sleeveless T-shirt, leaving all that on the seat next to her. Before straightening and going with his mates, a slow smile drew across his lips and his eyes gleamed with satisfaction, a small spark of untamed passion flickering in them.
“I hope you have the time of your life.”
It was difficult to recognise the meek girl he had met a few weeks ago in the exultant young woman who walked beside him at the moment. Shingen watched her almost fascinated. It was as if every cell of her body was alive and everything, her steps, her posture, her long hair swaying in the gentle breeze, radiated light.
“So,” he said, lifting his brows slightly and pursing his lips momentarily. “I assume that you liked my surprise.”
She turned to him, her eyes bright and her cheeks flushed with excitement.
“It was one of the most beautiful things someone has ever done for me” she stopped, facing him and bowing. “Thank you very much, I'll never forget it.”
“Come on,” he said putting a hand in his hip. “Don't be so formal now.”
“But it was something amazing, like a dream coming true. I've heard a whole performance, I've talked with you all and you even invited them to our wedding...” she covered part of her face, trying to hide her embarrassment. “I won't be able to return such an unbelievable gift, even if I had three lives...”
Shingen laughed, watching each and every one of the small changes in her expression. Something inside him wondered how many more layers and expressions she had, and if he would be able to uncover them all.
“You don't have to give anything. I knew it would mean so much to you and it was something really easy to achieve.”
But she was not listening to him.
“Hey...” he insisted.
“I know!” her little outburst startled him. “I'll cook for you.”
He lifted an elegant brow, looking doubtfully at her.
“Do you know how to cook?”
She frowned, her eyes flashing with an offended gleam.
“”What do you take me for?” she crossed her arms over her chest, lifting her chin defiantly. “My father was convinced that you can't manage a food emporium without knowing it in depth. He was a great cook and he taught me well” her eyes misted a bit. “He had started to let Yahiko into the kitchen when... he passed away.”
It still hurt. Even though years had passed, she still missed them dearly and in each step of her life, she wondered what they would do in her place, and if they would have been proud of her. Now that her wedding approached, she wished they would be there to see her become a bride.
Shingen watched the change in her with concern, though he could understand it. His parents were still alive but he had missed the warmth of a true family and she had had it but lost it under tragic circumstances. However, it was easier to live without it not having experienced it than having done it and then being deprived of it.
He touched her back softly, attracting her attention back to him, and offered her a small smile.
“Alright, if you're so convinced, I'd love to try your food.”
She breathed deeply and then returned his smile, nodding.
“Though I have to warn you that my fridge is almost empty. I barely eat at home and when I return at night, I either grab something to eat at the convenience store or buy some take-out.”
She frowned.
“That's not healthy at all” he shrugged lightly and she sighed, a small sound vibrating in her throat. “Okay, I'll make you something really nutritive to give you strength for tomorrow's concert, so first, we have to stop by a supermarket.”
Once they arrived at his flat, he took out his keys from his jeans pocket.
“Welcome to your future home, milady” he said half jokingly opening the door for her to see a spacious hall.
She doubted for a moment, suddenly becoming fully conscious of the place where she was about to enter, and a sense of trepidation overwhelmed her. Shingen gazed at her, expectant at first and uneasy later, as if he was suddenly aware of her feelings. His smile faltered.
“If you're having second thoughts about this, we can still go to eat somewhere. There are some good restaurants in this area that can take us without a reservation” he made a motion to take the shopping bag she was carrying. “Give that to me. I'll put everything in the fridge and Kansuke can sort it out later.”
She shook her head, lifting her eyes to him. Her pupils still showed a hint of insecurity but her expression was serene.
“I'm fine.”
And then, she stepped into the house.
She took off her sandals, putting them correctly out of habit, and then, glanced at him, waiting for him to show her the way. The flat was a luxurious one room duplex with a spacious living room with enormous windows from where they could overwatch great part of the city. On their left, there was a completely equipped open plan kitchen with breakfast bar and beyond, a staircase led to the bedroom. Under the second floor, a half opened Japanese sliding door let her get a glimpse of a large bathroom with an ample vintage bath in the centre.
Shingen watched satisfied as she looked around filled with curiosity, her previous apprehension seemingly vanished.
“This way” he guided her to the kitchen and, after leaving their bags on the breakfast bar, both of them searched through all the cupboards and drawers to find the kitchenware she would need.
“Is there anything you can't eat?” she asked once everything had been placed in an orderly way.
He shook his head and then, leant his weight on the counter beside her.
“Are you sure you don't need any help?”
“Do you know how to cook?” she answered with a question of her own, and then pursed her lips seeing him deny it again. “Then, it's better if I do it alone” she gathered her sleeves. “Do you have anything that could be useful to tie them?”
“Maybe.”
Shingen returned with a male obi tha he had folded in three.
“But I didn't-” she was interrupted when he started to fasten them expertly.
“I don't keep ribbons or anything like that here, so this must do” he saw her open her mouth to reply but was faster. “And if it worries you so much, it's an old one, and made of synthetic fabric, so it's easy to take care of it.”
She sighed, resigned.
“And now, since I only would be in the way, I'll disappear from here and make myself decent.”
And turning around, he took the set of clothes he had left on the breakfast bar and made his way to the bathroom, closing the door behind him and leaving her dumbfounded and with the thought of having her fiancé taking a bath just a few metres away from her.
“This is delicious” Shingen picked up a few more vegetables with his chopsticks and ate them almost greedily, enjoying every single bit.
“I'm glad” she could not help the proud smile as she watched him, picking up a piece of meat from her own plate.
He had come out of the bathroom just in time for the food to be served. They were sitting at the dining table he had near the enormous windows that faced the city, the sky a light shade of blue with only a few clouds floating in the distance.
He had changed into another pair of jeans and a long sleeved T-shirt and his red hair, long and luxuriant, fell down his back except for a lock which fell across his shoulder and chest.
He seemed to notice how her eyes returned to it once and again and he smiled, letting his chopsticks on the rest and propping an elbow on the table, his cheek leaning on his hand, some of his tresses following the movement and hanging like a curtain behind his shoulder, the light spreading its reflection on it.
“Anything interesting you care to share with me?”
His smile was flirtatious again, like that morning and a small voice inside her warned her against him. The situation was completely different and now they were alone in his own territory. And he was like a tiger, as Kenshin had called him, elegant, fascinating, tempting and dangerous.
She turned her attention to her own food and took her time to answer, searching for a convincing reason.
“I feel envious” she finally said, setting for the most inofensive reply she had been able to come up in such a short time. “You have really beautiful hair while mine” she took one of her locks, “ is just... normal.”
Before she could drop it, he got a hold of it and slided it down between his fingers, twisting the end loosely in his index.
“It's soft like silk...”
The warning filled her mind again but before she could act on it, he let it fall from his grasp and resumed his meal.
“I hope you can come back to cook for me again soon... It's been long since I had such a satisfying meal like this.”
The young woman smiled, feeling disconcerted at the sudden change in his behaviour and not really trusting her voice at that moment, quickly eating something to fill her silence.
Some minutes later, they finished the main course and she went back to the kitchen to bring tea and some dessert. Shingen widened his eyes in surprise and delight as she put a small plate with a few pieces of kinako mochi in front of him.
“I can't believe you managed to make this feast and my favourite sweets in such a short amount of time.”
“A good cook knows how to organise themselves and their time” she replied sitting down again.
He did not waste a second to try it, and she felt pleased to see his expression of joy. Way before she finished hers, he had eaten everything, not leaving even the smallest piece.
After finishing the tea and, as she showed sign to stand up, he beat her to it and picked up the tableware.
“I can do this” he said with a small smile. “Even I know how a dishwasher works” she laughed softly. “Have some rest while you can.”
He finished tidying everything up quickly, not wanting to waste the minutes they could still be together, but when he returned to the table, he did not find her resting. Instead, she was looking through the window at the city that extended beyond, the outline of the old buildings and pagodas giving the skyline the appearance of a city from a time long gone. Her fingers were barely touching the glass and it was obvious that her mind was far from there. Frowning slightly, wondering what had absorbed her mind so deeply, he stood by her, studying her profile, her long hair falling freely from the hairpin that gathered the top half of her tresses at her nape and the sparkles that the sunlight brought to her eyes.
When he realised it, he had lifted his hand to touch her, but before he could lower it down, she turned her head to him, staring into his eyes, serene and relaxed.
“What were you thinking?” his voice was barely a murmur, low and quiet.
Her cheeks covered in a beautiful shade of pink, but her eyes never wavered.
“That I'll get to see this view and live this life every day once I become your wife.”
Shingen swallowed hard because he knew he was about to give a step forward and he felt slightly uneasy that she would not follow, because a marriage to him was not just a quiet moment and a gold ring and after hours of relishing in the company of each other, sharing what both loved, there was another way of getting to know each other that he wanted to try up to where she let him. His fingertips caressed her warm skin and, maybe reading in his pupils his intention, she smiled softly.
He bent forward slowly to give her time to step back, to stop him, but she did not and he was the one who, stopped just a breath away from her face.
“Have you been kissed before?”
Her cheeks burnt at his question, her eyes searching his questioningly.
“O-Only once... A long time ago...”
He blinked slowly, his golden pupils never truly leaving hers, as he brushed her lower lip with the tip of his thumb in a deliberate caress. Her eyelids fluttered closed and Shingen dropped his finger, replacing it with his mouth, reminding himself to be gentle in that first chaste kiss. Her mouth tasted like the dessert they had eaten a few minutes ago and he felt compelled to try it again. He had barely separated from her when he returned, pressing more urgently against her, his teeth gracing the plump flesh of her mouth. Their breaths mingled as they parted for just a fleeting moment, seeking each other again, his tongue delving between her lips to entice her to follow him without reserves. A small sound left her throat, her fingers grasping the sleeves of his T-shirt when she felt her legs shake and Shingen's arms held her tighter against him. She was almost out of breath, her chest burning when he finally released her, his mouth brushing her cheek, dropping feathered kisses along it.
“You're so adorable... so endearing...”
He nuzzled at her jaw whispering her name and venturing lower. His lips locked on her throat, his teeth gracing her skin. Her heart thundered in her chest, abruptly taking her out of the pleasurable bliss she had been drowning in, and her eyes widened, her hands pushing at his chest.
“No, please...” she begged. “I can't have any... marks...”
He stilled, his mouth leaving her neck. However, he did not move. Instead, she felt the tip of his tongue trace slowly, almost lazily, a small pattern on her skin, making her shiver. Then, he pecked the same spot and lifted his head to look at her. His pupils were darken than before, almost golden like the sunset, a wave of desire still lingering in them. She lowered her head, feeling strangely awkward.
“I'm sorry...”
He cupped her face, his thumbs caressing her cheeks softly.
“Don't” he kissed her once again, briefly. “I just got impatient...”
Shingen leant his forehead against hers as her fingers covered the back of one of his hands.
“If it's a must, we'll wait until our wedding night” a mischievous smirk drew across his lips. “But I warn you that after so much restraining, I won't be letting you sleep at all, so be ready.”
He laughed heartily when she pouted a bit, her cheeks as red as ripped apples, and then, he drew her closer in a loving embrace. Her fingers grasped the back of his T-shirt and she buried her face in his chest.
“I promise you that I'll do whatever in my hand to make you happy.”
“And I'll try my best to become a woman you can fall in love with.”
He kissed the top of her head.
“You're fine as you are now. Your sweet side is charming, as well as the fire and the strength that lie behind it. In your own way, you're a great woman and I'm starting to like her much more than I had imagined at first.”
Her only response was to tighten her hold around him and he thought that they would really be happy, despite the peebles that life had and would be putting in their way. After all, he had a admirable woman beside him, one that he felt he had already started to love.
Hello! This question can contain SPOILERS from Mitsuhide's Act 2 Epilogue so feel free to avoid it or not posting it ^^ In said epilogue, Mitsuhide is reading a book with a shrine on the cover and the end of the story is set in said shrine. Mitsuhide says "a long time ago, I used to think about coming here, but in the end, I never managed" and "this shrine carries a lineage that extends back to the Warring States Period". Do you know what shrine can he be referring to? Honnou-ji? Thank you! :)
It probably is not. Honnou-ji is a Buddhist temple (寺 tera/ji). A shrine (神社 jinja) is Shinto. I was thinking it might be Atago Shrine, the place where Mitsuhide composed the “Toki wa Ima” poetry.
However, whatever that place is, it sure does look like the modern reconstruction of Honnouji:
(If you happen to not like it, just contact me and I’ll write you a new one)
Hopefully you will enjoy it!
You could hear Lord Nobunaga’s angry voice from inside the main hall. You couldn’t quite catch what he had said, but it was clear that things were not going his way. “Milord-” Lord Mitsuhide was cut off by Lord Nobunaga. “See to it that this gets fixed.” You heard movement inside and you quickly continued on your way.
You felt bad for Lord Mitsuhide - he was often the one that had to deal with Lord Nobunaga’s anger. It felt almost unfair - Lord Mitsuhide was a good man. He was loyal, kind, hardworking, strong…
Wait, now was not the time for you to daydream, you had work to do.
It was almost time for Lord Nobunaga’s dessert. Seeing he was already in a foul mood, it had to be good - or you would have to deal with his wrath.
You entered the already empty kitchen and set to work. You hoped your dessert would be able to calm him at least a little bit - that could mean a difference for Lord Mitsuhide. Lord Nobunaga’s sweet tooth could work in your favour. You could make the dessert even sweeter than usual, Lord Nobunaga would be sure to like that.
When you returned to the main hall, you could hear the ongoing war council. You slid the door open as quietly as possible and let yourself in. You quickly served Lord Nobunaga’s dessert. He didn’t even acknowledge you before he started eating. You peeked up at him and saw his eyes soften - just for a split second.
You peeked at the retainers present, you could see Lord Mitsuhide among them. He wore a relieved look on his face and gave you a grateful smile. You could feel the heat on your cheeks as he did - you almost melted on the spot. His smile was always so gentle.
“Bring me another one.” Lord Nobunaga’s voice brought you back to the situation at hand and you quickly bowed. “Of course, milord.” He still sounded somewhat irritated, but he didn’t seem as angry anymore as he was before.
You quickly glanced towards Lord Mitsuhide one last time before you left - he seemed much less tense.
You left the main hall and sighed in relief - your dessert was a success with Lord Nobunaga and it soothed his anger a bit.
Back in the kitchen, you repeated the process of making the dessert. It had to be done perfectly - or your dessert would only make him angry again.
As you prepared the dessert, you heard footsteps approach the kitchen. The moment Lord Mitsuhide walked in, you almost dropped the pan as you put in on the fire.
“L-lord Mitsuhide! Um… Did you need something?” You quickly asked him. He offered you another smile and you gulped as you tried to calm your racing heart. “I just wanted to thank you. The dessert you made was different today, wasn’t it?”
“Yes! I um… I made it sweeter than I usually do. I had heard how angry he was and thought it would maybe calm him a little…” You pressed your lips together to stop yourself from rambling on.
“I see. Thank you again, we owe you a debt for calming him. He was becoming unreasonable and I was afraid someone would be losing their head over this.” You could see a hint of sadness in his eyes. You knew how loyal Lord Mitsuhide was - everyone knew that - so you didn’t dare imagine what would happen if Lord Nobunaga wished for his head. You wouldn’t put it beyond him, so you felt even more grateful that the Lord of Fools had a sweet tooth.
“I’m just glad he calmed a little. The next dessert should be…” you trailed off as you remembered it was already on the fire. You quickly turned towards it and pulled the pan off the fire. In your haste, you forgot how hot the pan would be and a burning pain shot through your hand. The dessert was fine, your hand was a different story though.
You felt a hand grab your wrist and in the next moment, your hand was in a bucket of water. You looked up and saw a worried look on Lord Mitsuhide’s face. “I-I’m sorry, I’m alright.” You quickly uttered an apology and bowed your head. “Don’t apologise. Are you sure you’re alright?” You just nodded - your hand was still burning. You bit down onto your lower lip to try and withstand the pain.
His calloused hand was still wrapped around your wrist - the warmth of it made your heart pound against your ribs. You could feel the heat return to your cheeks - they felt almost as hot as your hand did.
“Thank you…” The words fell from your lips but you were still unable to look him in the eye. You felt guilty for worrying him, he had enough to worry about already.
While the other cooks were preparing dinner, you were looking out at the garden. They had told you to leave it to them when they found out about your hand.
You sighed to yourself. It was your own fault that you got hurt - you got distracted. You completely forgot what you were doing when Lord Mitsuhide walked in. You felt like a fool.
You jumped when you felt a hand on your shoulder. “Calm down, it’s just me.” You found Inuchiyo next to you, his brows furrowed, Lord Hideyoshi stood next to him. “What’s with you lately?” You looked at Inuchiyo in confusion. “What do you mean?”
“You’ve been acting weird,” he replied. “Especially around Lord Mitsuhide.” The blush instantly returned to your face at Lord Hideyoshi’s addition and you searched your brain for something to say - for anything to deny his claim.
Seeing the knowing looks on their faces, you knew there was no use denying it. “Is it that obvious?” You asked as you looked at your feet. “Yes.” You heard Lord Hideyoshi laugh - only adding to your embarrassment.
“Other retainers have called your behaviour odd as well,” Inuchiyo stated and you felt like an utter fool. You hated how you let your feelings show like that. “I think even Lord Nobunaga knows,” Lord Hideyoshi casually added. What if Lord Mitsuhide knew how you felt? All you wanted was to just disappear now. You buried your face in your heads - you almost felt sorry for yourself.
“Why don’t you just tell him how you feel?” You looked up at Lord Hideyoshi again. “It’s not that easy! I can’t just tell him that I like him that way!”
You noticed how both of them were looking behind you, so you turned around. You saw Lord Mitsuhide and you really wished you could disappear right now. You heart leaped into your throat. “Well, we should be going, we have some training to do.” You heard Lord Hideyoshi say and you turn back only to see him drag Inuchiyo off.
You didn’t dare turn towards Lord Mitsuhide again - you’d rather face Lord Nobunaga’s anger than that.
Lord Mitsuhide stopped next to you - you could see him in the corner of your eye. How could you ever face him again? He probably thought of you as a fool - although he wouldn’t straight up call you that.
“How is your hand?” You could hear the concern in his voice and you gulped. “It’s fine…” You managed a soft reply. “I’m glad to hear that. I apologise for distracting you from your work.”
You quickly turned to him. “No! It wasn’t your fault! I-” The rest of your words wouldn’t come out as you became aware of the fact that you made eye contact with him.
He offered you a small smile. “I certainly did not help you remain focused, so I give you my apologies. Can I make it up to you in some way?” You blinked a few times at his offer. “Um… I…” You weren’t sure how to respond. You didn’t blame him, at all, but it seemed he did.
“If you ever need anything, just tell me.” The kind smile he offered you completely turned your mind blank. You managed a nod after a few seconds, only to see his smile grow brighter. Your heart was pounding even faster. That smile looked so genuine - you were completely overwhelmed by your feelings for him.
Even after Lord Mitsuhide left, your heart had yet to calm down. That was the first time you ever saw him smile like that. He usually just wore that gentle, kind smile. But that bright smile… A part of you wanted to see it again. But, you were afraid to see it again, knowing how it affected you just now.
You took a deep breath, you had to get back to work - you didn’t have time to continue dreaming about that smile.
When it was time to go to sleep, you kept recalling that bright smile Lord Mitsuhide gave you. You sighed in defeat as you stared up at the ceiling.
