Kyoko was dressing, choosing among stylish, cute pinks and other bright colors. She was happy today; Tsuna was back after weeks in Italy. There had been no emails or calls – she understood that, and that was okay.
She knows that Tsuna-kun (Tsu-kun, now) is in the mafia.
She knows that he is the head of the strongest family there.
But she never knew that it would affect her relationship with him so much (or perhaps she had always known, and naively suppressed that thought).
Like now, for instance. It was sunny, and only mildly hot. Hibird lookalikes chirped cheerfully in the overhead trees that provided a relaxing, cool shade.
They were having a simple date for once, and had stopped for drinks. Tsuna smiled at Kyoko (Ten years had taken away the blushing, stammering Tsu-kun she had known). "The weather's beautiful today."
Kyoko nodded. . "It is." She hesitates slightly before continuing. "How've you been? With your work and all."
Tsuna takes a sip of espresso before answering.
(She couldn't help noticing that the last time they had a date, he had chosen something sweeter).
"Busy, but fine." He laughs (that adorable laugh and smile she had fallen for, year ago). "I never knew I'd get so much paperwork though." A tinge of sadness creeps into his mocha eyes. "I wish I could spend more time with you."
What's left unspoken is that she knows that he wouldn't, because it might put her in more danger.
She smiles convincingly enough, but her response dies at the appearance of a serious looking woman, dressed in blacks and whites. She glances at Tsuna for an explanation, only to find that he looks rather surprised as well.
The woman bows low, speaking rapid fire Italian.
"Sir, there's trouble back at headquarters. We need you back, right away, sir."
She then straightens and apologizes in perfect Japanese to Kyoko. "Please accept our sincerest apologies for interrupting, Sasagawa-san."
Tsuna's emotions conflict and clash with each other. He wants to stay with Kyoko, but his family could be in danger.
And so, with a note of regret in his voice, he says: "I'm sorry, Kyoko – I'll make it up to you, promise." He leaves enough money for both their drinks on the table. A slight frown begins to make its way to Kyoko's lips, but Tsuna is already distracted by thoughts of his family.
A quick kiss, and he was gone. Kyoko watched him go - not even once did he turn back.
The sweetness of the smoothie she had ordered weighs on her tongue and seems sour now. Something pricks at her eyes and blurs her vision.
Would they always be worlds apart?