"… You can't treat me like a criminal in my own home." His words were cold, biting and accompanied with a frigid glare and clenched fists.
"I can because, technically, you are a criminal." Her response was aloof, matter-of-fact and delivered with such assurance that he faltered for a heartbeat because it was true. "Or has being with your blushing bride-to-be caused your memory to wane?"
"You-! If you laid a singer finger on Hisako-!"
"Calm yourself, We are sworn to protect the people in this town… We would never intentionally harm one of our citizens."
"… And you expect me to believe whatever comes out of your mouth?!"
"I 'expect' you to remember just whom you are speaking to. Or have you conveniently forgotten that my Clan does not harm civilians?"
"I-"
"-I'm going to have to cut this conversation short; but, before I leave, I would like to quickly remind you of something: We may have allowed you to settle down here, but, I would suggest that you take care of any loose ends before they become a nuisance to this quiet, little town. If any sort of trouble occurs because of an oversight on your part, We will be holding you responsible."
Hibari Masaki stood swiftly and bared her teeth in a parody of a smile.
"Now then, have a good evening, Yamamoto-san."
.
.
.
That exchange had occurred over eight years ago and – despite their differing beliefs and ideologies, Hibari Masaki proved herself to be trustworthy and just and, to this day, remained one of Yamamoto Tsuyoshi's most trusted confidants and friends.
"Good evening, Yamamoto-san. Is now a good time to talk?"
"Hibari-san? Yes, I'm free right now…"
"Excellent. Tell me, what do you know about the Tachibana Clan?"
"Not much, unfortunately… the… people I used to work for tended to stay away from the Tachibanas. Why do you ask?"
"I have the… unfortunate pleasure of being acquainted with the current Head of the Tachibana Clan and he's concocted a plan that I'm sure you'll be in agreement with."
"Oh? What exactly is this 'plan' of his?"
Hibari Masaki always told the truth – no matter how unwarranted and hurtful it could be.
Tsuyoshi trusted that honesty.
And because he trusted that honesty, he would listen to what she had to say.
Short update is short.
I actually forgot I had this written a month ago and am only now posting it? I plead Life as my excuse!
But, seriously, this chapter - if it could even be called that - is super short compared to previous chapters and only really gives you guys a quick glimpse into the relationship between Masaki and Tsuyoshi.
And don't worry, the next update will be longer - though I have no idea when that'll come out.
As always, please let me know what your all thought via PM or Review!