Efflorescence

Chapter Twenty One: The Envelope

by Autumn Win-Dow

"Now that you've assumed principality of the school, I expect you to be on your best behaviour." Natsume's father sighed as he leaned back in his armchair, cigar in hand.

His son didn't like feeling as if he were a child being reprimanded by his parent, but he accepted nonetheless. "Of course, Father."

The stern expression on Ioran's face turned soft, and his gaze shifted towards his new daughter-in-law—of whom was standing a few steps behind her husband silently.

"And I expect you to take care of your wife, as well."

Natsume was more unpleased by this second order—his father seemed completely oblivious to the fact that Hotaru Imai wasn't the kind, patient woman she came off to be. Her bluntness wasn't a secret to anyone, but her hidden sadistic nature and her picky tendencies seemed to be reserved for him alone.

He could feel his wife's eyes boring into his scalp as he replied, "Yes, Father."

The sound of the doors opening broke the tension in the room, as one of the house maids passed Ioran a thin manila folder.

"Well, I have some business to attend to. You may leave now." He ordered, as his fingers hovered over the flap of the envelope. Natsume could tell immediately that his father did not intend to take out the contents in his presence.

That only made him more curious.

"Father, seeing that it's a matter relating to the school, I think that I should be able to look at it as well." He immediately spoke, catching his father off-guard. "I am the new principal, after all."

"Balderdash," Ioran sputtered as he set the envelope down on the coffee table, "I can take care of this on my own. You don't have to pressure yourself with this unimportant business."

The suspicion Natsume had for his father was only increasing after ever exchange.

"You could always leave it for one of the employees to take care of, if it's that unimportant. But I insist," He walked forward and snatched the envelope from the table, as soon as it was unguarded, "I will take care of it."

"Natsume," Hotaru finally spoke up clearly, as she approached her husband without a hint of intimidation in her eyes. "You seem weary. You should rest while I take care of this."

He could only scoff at his wife's words. While his father could only hear the kindness of a new wife in her tone, Natsume could easily detect the challenging tone of voice she was using.

Damn it. I can't scold her in front of Father. This is bullshit.

He felt the envelope being pried out of his hands as he clicked his tongue in annoyance at both his suspicious father and his daring wife, but he didn't have the energy to argue with either of them anymore. Natsume turned on his heel to depart, leaving the folder in Hotaru's possession.

I need to see what Father's hiding. But first, I need a nap.

A/N: Don't worry, everything will connect soon. I promise.

And yes, I updated again. I really want to finish this story soon. :)

And I don't think I got to thank everyone who's favorited, followed, and/or reviewed my story yet. So yes, I thank you guys with all my heart, for bearing with me. I wouldn't be able to continue this story if it weren't for you guys. :)