In Which Takao Ruined his Reputation
@zvoruna this was supposed to be longer and Himiko was supposed to be in this but I didn’t feel confident in her portrayal so I cut that out. Here’s some angry protective sass from Takao when a wealthy client badmouths Himiko.
The courtesan looked closely at the plainly elegant comb, smiling fondly as he replayed memories of a loved one.
“Takaaao-samaa, I bought you more gifts!”
His smile faded into a frown at the sound of his client’s voice. His most insufferable one. He quickly forced a smile as the young woman slid aside the screen, bags of gifts in tow. While she was pretty, Ayumi’s appearance was the only positive aspect about her. She had a god awful personality. She would complain to Takao about her servants and her wealthy, generous parents for not giving her (more) money whenever she wanted. She was a demanding, whiny brat.
“You shouldn’t have. Thank you.” Takao said, his smile frozen in place. You really shouldn’t have. He stared at the fancy jewelry and trinkets that the woman brought, wondering where to put them all. His room would end up like a pirate’s treasure horde at this rate...
“Huh? Did one of your customers give you this? I can definitely find a better comb than this ugly--”
The courtesan snatched Himiko’s comb from Ayumi’’s perfumed hand, his glare towards the woman comparable to that of a demon’s.
“I don’t need another one. I’d appreciate it if you did not take my things, Ayumi.” An icy voice escaped him, one of authority that was reserved for misbehaving apprentices and subordinates, not clients.
Takao’s glare remained as the woman hotly protested in return. “...But you deserve so much better! Did the girl spend all her loose change to buy you that plain comb? I wonder how she could afford your price! Does she work at another bro--”
The courtesan grabbed Ayumi’s jaw roughly before she finished her question. His glare burned through her as he leaned closer. “I agree with you, Ayumi-san. I deserve so much better. You look down on my ‘poor’ client, but she’s so much better than you; you don’t even compare. She’s hardworking and kind. Unlike you, she’s not a whiny, little selfish bitch who complains incessantly about her family,” Takao smirked victoriously as Ayumi’s expression changed from one of surprise to disgust. “Gather your worthless gifts and get out of here. You aren’t worth my time.”
The brunet let go of the woman only to have her jeweled hand slap his cheek hard.
“...Y-you aren’t worth my money. You’ve just lost a wealthy client to Kagura-sama, I’m sure he’ll do better than you. Have fun sleeping with peasant girls! I’m going to report this to Iroha-san.”
Takao still wore a smirk even though his cheek throbbed in pain.“Feel free, Ayumi-san. Send my apologies to Kagura for burdening him with you. How unfortunate he is!”
~~~