Holding On

by Enigma2187

MC befriended Sayori early in his childhood, but what if Monika took her role as his childhood friend? How would things be different between the two? Will they fall in love or will they be each other's "dearest friend"? Even if they wanted to be together, an outside force will interfere with their relationship, testing their bonds to its limits. (Art by Gazz Hori, Complete 9/2/19)

39. Yuri After: Beloved

Yuri After Story

I heard the low hum of the air conditioner from the bed I was.

"Ugh..." I groaned, feeling a little sore from last night.

Why am I sore again?

Especially down there...?

The sunlight irritated my eyelids, causing me to open them.

As always, light always finds a way to crack through the blinds.

What a pain.

I kind of wanted to sleep a little longer, since I finally caught a break from my boss.

He was rather impressed by hard work so far, and I got a day off.

Just because I was close to him, family-wise doesn't mean he gives me any slack.

In fact, he is much harder on me than my other coworkers.

The effect is apparent with my friend, Danuja, which kinda sucks.

Dan works as hard as me, if not a little harder, and he is always praised by my boss.

On the other hand, if I did accomplish something phenomenal, all I get is a curt nod and nothing else.

He doesn't give me any words of encouragement or pat on the back.

All I get... is a nod and back to work.

Argh...

I let out a little sigh from my work life.

This gets really me down in the dumps, but I refuse to let it get to me.

All this does is rile me up and encourage me to work even harder than before.

I will keep shattering my limits and surpass Dan!

But this doesn't mean I am jealous of the guy.

In fact, as his close friend, I'm happy that he got ahead in life.

He came from a poor family and worked his ass off to be the salutatorian in Dokisai and in Takahashi University.

He was nearly crushed by her excuse of a girlfriend, whom I hold a grudge because of how she manipulated and hurt him.

And he was the first one to tell me about all that.

Words can't describe how I humbled that he chose me out of everyone in the friend group, to tell me his problems.

...

Maybe because I am a bit a counselor?

I'm not sure, but I'm still happy that he came to me for help.

Because right after that, we all pitched in and helped Dan out as much as we can.

He was our friend, and we have known him for a long time.

Right now, he's got a great job at my workplace, got the love of his life, and providing for his family.

If anything, he deserves it.

So yeah, I refuse to be jealous.

Mainly because...

I kind of have the same thing going on with my life too.

My eyes wandered down to the angelic wife I held in my arms.

Despite our activities last night, her galaxy purple hair didn't even show any signs of bedhead.

Seriously, her hair never seems to lose its softness and luster.

That's quite impressive, honestly.

I smiled and held her close to me.

She unconsciously gave me a cute, small smile back, which always made my heart jump.

Even when's she is sleeping...

She is still so cute.

To think I fell in love with a woman as angelic as her.

I petted her long purple hair and laid my head against the pillow.

Her soft snores kept me at ease as I thought about how I got to this point.

This...

This still feels like a dream to me.

Never would I've thought I would get married to my lost childhood love at this age...

But it's more of a mistake than an actual planned thing, unfortunately.

In fact, we still haven't had our wedding ceremony yet.

All we did at the moment was give in our marriage registry in, and that's pretty much it.

But still, I don't think we both regret the decision at all.

We are both pleased with the results, even if it was a bit of an accident.

As I continued to pet my wife's long purple mane, I felt her stir a little in my arms.

She groaned a little and pressed her chest against me unconsciously.

"Hehehe... I like this... Do you mind if I do thisss~?" My wife playfully said as she continued to press me.

I hugged her gently in my arms.

"Not at all. It's fine..."

My wife buried in her face in my chest even more, while pressing herself against me.

Ah.

I never can get used to this woman's chest.

It's on the higher end.

Seriously, it's something to behold.

Thankfully, it's all mine and mine alone.

It's feeling ticklish, especially since we are naked right now.

But it feels nice.

We stayed like this for a couple of more minutes and cuddled for a bit.

She then rose from her slumber and from my arms, yawning cutely.

My wife rubbed her eyes and smiled at the sight of me.

I smiled back at her.

Her cute little smile is all I would ever need to drive me to anything.

She hasn't smiled this often a couple of years ago, but now...

It's now as natural as breathing.

Her lips morphing into that expression means the world to me.

That has to be why I love her so much.

For some reason, I felt the need to tease her.

Especially since she was so adorable.

"Good morning, Haru." I teased, stupified on how cute my wife got.

She didn't react and fluttered her purple eyes to me.

"Good morning, Love..." She whispered, before closing her eyes to get some shut-eye again.

Wait for it...

Her eyes shot open and glared at me.

"What?! Why is my sister here?!" She roared, looking around for her sister.

I snickered from her menacing, causing her to turn to me with puzzled eyes.

"Pff... Haah~ That never gets old! Hahaha!" I started laughing, causing my wife to puff her cheeks out.

She hit her fists on my chest and sighed, getting childishly violent, which only caused my early bout of laughter to intensify.

I put my hand on her purple hair to open up.

My wife looked up to me with reddened cheeks, embarrassed by me.

"You're such a meanie, Val..." She muttered, while still keeping her pouty expression. "So mean, especially at dawn."

I let out a sigh and calmed myself down.

She still was a little puffy, so I kissed her forehead to loosen her up.

"OK, OK... I'm sorry, Yuri. It's hard not to do that, especially since you get so childlike whenever I tease you." I apologized while resting my chin on her crown.

That's right...

Despite our age, Yuri's my wife.

Ever since I spent time with her, little by little, her real personality started opening up.

At first glance, she was timid, overly-apologetic, and a little socially awkward.

I had a feeling this wasn't necessarily her true self, so I let her warm up to me so she can give her real person out.

Just by encouraging her to be herself without any repercussions really helps.

This "real" personality showed how proactive, hot-blooded, and attractive she really could be.

It was a little disorientating at first. Yuri stopped herself from showing her old "outer" shell, instead opting out for the intense counterpart.

And not mention, I felt like she was pushing herself a bit too hard for my liking.

It was if she was doing this so she can get my attention and keep it.

But once I confessed how I truly felt about her back in her garden, her actual personality was able to meld into her outer shell.

Right then and there, she realized how much she meant to me.

It allowed her soul to finally be at ease.

Now Yuri was able to show a mix of confidence while knowing when to stop and back up, something both her personalities sorely lacked.

At first, Yuri would stay quiet but would retaliate if she has no other options and is backed to a corner.

But on the other hand, she would relentlessly push her attacker to a corner and tear them to shreds.

Now, she would say her peace and make sure to end the conflict right away, something I approve.

With that her merging of conflicting personalities, she was able to show her childish side of her, something I thought was gone for a long time.

Thank Goodness, it was still a part of her because it's one of the many things I love about her.

The way she pouts and cheers up really gets my heart racing.

And I absolutely love how her personality clashes with her mature appearance.

Keeps things...

Interesting, I guess.

"Auuu~ please stop saying embarrassing things like that... It's a part of me, Val..." Yuri mumbled as she rested against my chest.

I took a deep breath, taking the faint scent of Jasmine and Lavender in.

"Exactly, it's a part of you. That's what I love about you." I answered.

In response to my answer, she took a deep breath of me and hummed.

"Fine... If that's the case, then I will just have to continue getting used to it... I should mention your teasing is one of the many things that I love."

I wrapped my arm around her head and held her close.

"Sheesh, you're just too precious sometimes, you know that?" I mumbled, now losing my confidence from her honeyed words.

She giggled, which made my heart jump as usual.

It made me happy.

We laid in bed for a while, until Honey decided to poke her head up.

"Love, I was thinking... How was work yesterday? I couldn't quite get an answer, especially since you... 'attacked' me."

My face burned up with what she was referencing yesterday.

"Hey, I said I was sorry, OK? I didn't realize how stressed I was once I got home. Your dad had been extra-hard on me yesterday, and he pushed me to the breaking point..."

She leaned in and nuzzled my neck.

"I didn't say that I disliked it, Love. In fact, I was surprised by how aggressive you have gotten. Seeing that side of you is quite attractive, actually. I wouldn't mind if you were that rough to me."

Yuri knew exactly which words to get to me, which meant it was most likely revenge from earlier.

"Good one, now you're the one who's saying embarrassing things to me. Goodness, you really know how to turn the tables, huh?" I frowned. "And I thought I was a little too rough towards you. Are you sure you're OK? I'm sorry if I hurt you or anything..."

My wife sighed at my overly-apologetic self.

"Val." She coldly called. "As I said before, I didn't say I don't like it. If you need me to spell it out for you, then so be it. I want you to fuck me like that every once in a while. I didn't get hurt at all, and I would tell you that I was in pain, wouldn't I? Now stop, apologizing."

Yep.

I don't think I will ever be blown away from Yuri's confidence now.

To think a soft-spoken girl would have the confidence to tell what's up.

Its... really attractive.

"Alright, alright. You convinced me. If you want me to be that rough, then I will be that rough on you." I surrendered. "Seriously, I never thought you would have such a bite on you. To think, someone as cute as you would have that."

She brushed her long hair and smirked at me.

"I had a good teacher, after all. You are normally so kind. No one would expect you to be righteous and foolhardy. After all, it's something I picked up on from you when we were children."

I playfully rolled my eyes.

"Yeah, yeah. I know, I know. I'm just saying." I waved off. "It's more like you learned to open up. If anything, it's the other way around. I feel like I was the one who was picking up on your personality and putting my own twist to it.

It's hard to tell if the former is true or not.

Yuri had said that she picked up on some of my personality traits and put her own signature elegant spin.

Her reasoning was because then she was shy back then, but was always eager to learn.

Put simply, she was a bit of sponge but oozed a different liquid.

...

...

...

I know it's a weird analogy.

But still, I doubt it.

To me, I think it's more along the lines that Yuri was deprived of how she wanted actually wanted to behave.

After all, being brought up as a sheltered girl, I was the only person who showed her the outside world for how it is.

I knew she was always an outgoing girl like her mother and sister, but the fact that she might have used my method of approaching things flatters me.

To this day, I give her credit for behaving the way I am right now.

But she always counters it by saying I was the one to blame.

And we would go in circles trying to put up a successful conclusion.

It took a little time, and she started to become the girl she always destined to become.

That's why I find her incredibly attractive.

"So, will you answer my question? How was work yesterday?" She asked again, smiling warmly at me.

I looked away and thought about what got to me.

"Right... So, yesterday... Your dad wanted me to present some statistics, business ideas, and general affairs in a meeting, you know, as practice. Dan did it once before, and he loved the way he organized and presented." I started to say.

My wife stared at me, listening intently to what I had to get off my chest.

"So, to get your dad's seal of approval, I got him to help me out, and I put together what I thought to the perfect presentation. Dan helped with the information I needed to display, and I did the organizing, speech, and overall presentation. He told me that it was marginally better than his a year ago, and it was unique to only me. Hell, I got my dad to help me out, too, since he works under your dad. It was a product that I can be proud of myself! But..."

It still wasn't enough.

His face wasn't moved at the slightest during my presentation, and he only kept staring at my screen with those monotone, dull eyes.

Suffice to say, it kinda hurt.

For some reason, Yuri giggled at my confession.

"Hmm? What's wrong, Honey?"

She shook her head and looked at me.

"You forget that Father is always hard on you. You also have acknowledged that fact before. He knows that he put everything you had into the presentation. It's like him to say nothing because he wants you to think you can do better. It's his way of saying he is proud of you."

Her words confirmed the suspicions I had.

Because of that, I sighed.

"Yeah, I had a feeling that was the case. After all, it's a tradition for the son or son-in-law to take over the company. He's gotta be hard on me; otherwise, I won't be a good successor. It's one of the things I signed up for."

Honey frowned at this.

"You said you didn't have to have an obligation to this. Father said he wasn't keen on giving the role of successor because of how stressful it was and that you deserved better. He was saying this out of his own personal experience, Val."

I nodded but kept a warm simper at her.

"True. I wasn't supposed to be in this position, but I wanted to do it. I went to business school with Danuja to succeed too. This is not out of tradition, but more along the lines, I want to provide for our future family. I want to be the man your father approves of, the man worthy of you."

That caused Yuri to flare up.

It was something I said a couple of times, and it never failed to make her blush.

"You always like to bring up that excuse, don't you? Always talking about how you want to provide for our family... But you never tell me how many children you want from me..."

I shrugged and leaned against the pillow.

"Well, as I said before, I don't know how many kids I want. It all depends on how time treats us, right?" I answered.

Hmm, if I had to choose, then...

Maybe, just maybe... I want to have two kids.

A pair of twins, maybe?

Something like Yuri and Haru is?

Ah, it will come when it comes.

First thing's first, stabilize our income.

Right now, my dad-in-law is paying for our new home.

I would have settled for something cheaper, like a one-bedroom apartment, since that's what Yuri and I wanted, sort of.

But, I guess he wanted me to live comfortably and keep an eye on us both.

Fortunately, it isn't the latter he was worried about since he cares about her daughter's happiness more than anything else.

Yuri did say she might get a little homesick if we did move to the other side of the city, but was willing to spend some time away again.

In Ainu, she was terrified since she had no idea what to do.

Thankfully, she met Monika and the others, so they helped her settle in.

Because of that experience, her dad took that fear seriously and got us a condo in the same block.

I mean, I'm grateful that he got us this condo, but I think it was a little overkill...

But then again, I am not a new money nor old money guy, so I don't think I am in any position to say anything to him.

"And that's the usual answer you give. I suppose it is the most reasonable answer." Yuri said, neutral with my statement.

I laughed a little from her tone.

"Ah, come on, Yuri. Don't be like that... And can you blame me? Especially since we got married so young? I mean, I bet you didn't expect to get hitched at this point in your life, right? I have every reason to be a little cautious about the incoming future, Honey." I reasoned.

She huffed and gave me a look of superiority, meaning that she was about to retort with her elegant style.

"And look at where it has brought us. Now that we are together, we can spend the rest of our lives together!"

The rather cunning woman gave me a cheeky grin.

"I'm sure you are very happy, aren't you? I know that I am. Waking up to see the man you love every morning and sleeping next to him every night in his arms... Eating, cleaning, and relaxing together... It's a dream come through for both of us. Isn't that right, Love?"

Yep.

This is where hot-blooded nature comes into play.

So very passionate about the things she loves.

Which is me, of course.

And everything she said isn't false at the slightest.

It's more real than any word in the world, without a shadow of a doubt.

"Yuri, you already know my answer. You're damn right that I love you and being around with the rest of my life. But I meant this was unexpected. Even you have to agree with that."

And with that, her passionate display came crashing down with the realization of my words.

"Oh... right." She muttered, reminiscing the context of my words. "It was unexpected, that much is correct..."

I smiled and thought back to what happened a few months ago.

---

Yuri and I were on a date right now, spending time together.

At first, we were, as usual, happily talking and enjoying our time on our free day.

We walked into the arcade and played the claw game where we won our very first plushie on our second date.

In my reflection against I saw Yuri, debating within herself.

There was something that bothered my girlfriend as we spoke.

I picked up on this right away, dropping the claw game in its tracks.

"Yuri, what's wrong? Are you feeling OK?" I asked, now moving away from the machine.

She put a hand on her heart and sighed.

"I'm fine mentally, Val. But I'm worried about my body, actually."

My eyes widened at this.

"What?! What's wrong?!" I yelled, causing her to jump a few inches from my worried yell.

She shook her head and flushed.

"It's my... menstruation cycle," Yuri whispered. "It never is this late..."

I raised an eyebrow at this.

"What? What do you mean? Is there something wrong with it?"

Yuri nodded with a reddened face.

"Y-Yes... It's coming a little too late for my tastes." She said again.

My eyes widened from the context of this.

Oh my gosh...

"Y-You don't mean that you're..."

She tapped her fingers together, imitating a certain sunshine's behavior.

"M-Maybe... I actually expected my menstruation to occur a few days ago. B-But... it is rather late. Maybe something has happened? Haha..."

My face turned serious from her words.

I heard the machine give a low whine of the claw resetting.

To think I got her pregnant, without us being married.

I can't believe it...

We had a long session last week, where she said she was safe for the day, but...

Even the composed Yuri makes mistakes every once and a while.

After all, she is only human.

I am a bit hardheaded for some traditions, despite being lax about that sort of thing.

But this is something I have to do.

I have to take responsibility for my actions.

Because I messed up, I will have to face the consequences no matter what.

No time for moping around me, I have to take action now.

Yuri tried to wave off the tension.

"Haha... Don't worry, my Love. I'm sure it's late for some strange reason... I was careful with how my cycle, so maybe it isn't that... It may be late because of how stressed I am at my job. After all, I have a deadline to meet relatively soon..."

That didn't stop me from taking her hand.

She let out a cute squeak from my straightforward motion.

I dragged her away from the area and walked straight to a destination in hand.

"V-Val! Where are we going?!" She asked, startled by my behavior. "To the drugstore? The hospital? Or...?"

I didn't turn to her and continued to look straight ahead.

"Somewhere familiar."

That should give enough information, right?

Or am I being too vague?

She gave a small whine from my words.

"Uuuh...! V-Val! Please wait! Tell me where we are going!" She demanded, despite my motives.

I sighed and looked her straight into her purple eyes.

"It's obvious, it isn't? We are going to meet your parents. They should be home today, right?" I asked.

Yuri was shaken up by my serious look but nodded.

"Y-Yes... they are. But we don't have to take things too quickly! It's like I said... I don't know if I am sure or not!" She squeaked.

She's sputtering excuses right now.

I don't want to play around with this sort of thing.

This has to be dealt with swiftly.

By the time she had said that we were already near her home.

And I wanted to make my stand now.

"Yuri, if it hasn't happened in a while, you both know what that means, right?" I rhetorically asked.

She wrung her fingers nervously from my words.

"Right... You're right. I knew this was the case." Yuri muttered.

But took a deep breath and strengthened her resolve.

"I should just stop making up excuses at this point. The sooner, the better, I suppose!" Yuri confidently said.

My lips pursed to a smile.

"That's my girlfriend. Confident when the time calls for it! Now let's get a move on!"

We then went up the stairs to her two-story house and rang the doorbell, holding each other's hand tightly.

The door opened with Yuri's mother, Ivanka, greeting us.

"Hmm? What's wrong, you two? Did you forget something? Condoms, perhaps?" She teased.

But once she saw my weighted expression and Yuri's bashful smile, she knew it was something important.

Ivanka immediately opened the door and called for her husband.

"Akira! Go to the dining room right now!" She demanded, showing off some of the maternal forcefulness she had.

Her husband left the living room, a little puzzled but sort of got the sense of what was going on.

I felt Yuri's grip on my hand tighten, so I squeezed her hand to calm her.

We walked into the dining room and sat down, with Ivanka serving tea to all of us.

Yuri's father was a little confused about what was going on, but once he saw our expressions, he finally got the idea.

Once Ivanka was done serving tea to all of us, she sat down next to her husband, giving us both comforting smiles.

I took a deep breath and straightened my back.

We held each other's hand tightly and looked at the two parents.

They soon realized that the moment has come, and so they tensed up.

I let out the breath I was holding and looked at them in the eye.

"There's an excellent reason as to why we are both here right now. I would like to make a request from both of you, and I hope you will accept it." I said in a grave tone.

For some inexplicable reason, I felt Yuri's hand loosened for some reason.

And so I tightened my grip on her.

"Ahhhh...! Oh no...! Val, please let go. I..." She whispered.

I took those words as cowardness at the time, so I made sure she wouldn't leave quickly.

"I would like for you to allow Yuri... No, I suppose Yuri-san and I finally get mar-"

Before I could finish my sentence, my girlfriend ripped her hand out from my vise grip and stood up.

"Yuri? What's wrong?" I asked.

She didn't give an answer and ran straight to the bathroom.

...

What?

Huh?

We were all left dumbfounded by the girl's behavior, and we couldn't help but stare at each for a couple of moments.

This is...

Pretty awkward.

A few moments later, she came back with flushed cheeks and went up to my ear.

"Um... Val... it happened."

I looked to her with confused eyes.

"What? What happened?"

She played with her long purple hair and looked away.

"My period..."

And at that moment, my world stopped.

---

Meanwhile, back at the Jones household!

"Your room is soooo cooooool!" I heard Haru exclaim for the second time.

I rolled my eyes at this.

"You said that for the fifth time now, when are you going to stop saying that?"

The purple-haired girl gave me a devilish smile.

"I don't know Mikey, when are you going to tell me that you love me?" She answered.

Haru looked around my room as if looking for something.

This girl...

She always loves bringing that up.

"Tch... Just don't touch anything, alright?" I groaned, trying to focus on the task at hand.

Seriously, what is this girl looking for in my room?

"It's gotta be here somewhere..." She muttered to herself.

And so I gave her a swift chop to the head.

"Owwie!"

I shook my head.

"What are you looking for? Porn books? I don't have those, so stop wasting your time."

She rubbed her head and pouted at me.

"How am I supposed to believe that? Every guy at your age has them, what makes you any different? Haru reasoned.

That is true.

As a second-year in Dokisai, I can't deny that the possibility exists.

"Well, I do the 'deed' to get rid of any of those thoughts twice a week just in case. And it doesn't bother me as much since I like to keep myself busy." I explained.

The girl looked at me with mirthful eyes.

"That is so dreamy..."

I rolled my eyes and went back to my desk.

"I'm working on some homework at the moment, Haru. Hurry this up. And also, how did you find out where I even live?"

She smiled and put her hands on her hips.

"My sister told me. The thing is, I should've known a long time ago, back we were still in Lotus Junior High a couple of years ago. Why did you try to hide where you live? Asking your brother or my sister a little weird, don't you think? Forcing a girl like to know where the man of my dreams lives gets me... sad."

I widened my eyes at the girl's change of voice but quickly glared at her once I realized there was a flaw in her argument.

"Sheesh! Alright, I'm sorry! I didn't know you wanted to know that badly. Instead of hiding behind hints, tell me what you want. It's better that way and... I don't want you to get hurt because of a misunderstanding, alright?" I replied while looking away.

Haru smirked in the corner of my eye.

"Ooooh... So this is your dere side, huh? Val told me that if I wanted to exploit it then, I keep at it!"

I gave her deadpanned eyes at her dimwitted response.

"My brother didn't tell you that saying your plan out isn't the best idea now, did he?"

She gave me a low whine.

"Awwww! Come on! You know, you're a lot more attractive when you actually care, you know that?!"

That comment irked me much.

And so, I turned around and continued to do my homework.

"Too bad, I don't. Now, if you aren't here for anything, go, I need to focus on my homework. You being here is a hindrance." I coldly said, now typing up my essay.

Instead of another snappy comeback, I heard a sigh.

This sigh wasn't out disappointment or frustration, but more charged with sadness.

And for some reason, it made my heartache.

"OK... I'm sorry for bothering you." She muttered, before turning to leave.

The tone in her voice bothered me, so I decided to take action.

I gritted my teeth and stood up from my desk.

Before she could even get a chance to leave, I put my hand against the door.

Haru looked at me with shocked eyes.

Just a second ago, they were on the verge of tears.

And that hurt my heart for some reason.

"I was just... No, my brother would apologize in my shoes, so... Haru, I'm sorry. You caught me a bad time, especially since this essay is on a sensitive topic. How about this? Want to... go on a date or something?"

In an instant, Haru smiled and squeezed the ever-living life out of me.

Her strangely large chest pressed against mine.

"I do! I do! I do! I would love to go on a date with you!" She excitedly buzzed.

She continued to bind me until she finally let go.

For some reason, the girl I found annoying looked strangely attractive.

"Let's go! I have a lot of ideas on our date should go! And don't you worry, I did my research by reading a lot of shojo manga! I know what I am doing!"

...

...

...

That's a horrible source to research anything related to love.

But then again, what do I know?

The second-year pulled on my sleeve and practically dragged me out of the house.

Fabulous, what I have I gotten myself into?

Oh...

Oh shit.

---

Both of her parents heard what their daughter said and was on the verge of laughing, as they tried their hardest not to laugh.

I expected Ivanka to laugh right about now...

But seeing the more severe and reserved Akira holding in laughter is something I don't see every day.

But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't stop my deadpan.

"Y-You're kidding me. Now? At of all times now? I got my game on, gave everything I had not to show that I was embarrassed, and kept it together with you and-!" I sighed, covering my reddened face from the now laughing parents. "Ugh... it's whatever. You can't control your body's cycle sometimes. It all just controls you."

Her parent's laughter got to her as Yuri laughed as well.

"Hehehe! I'm sorry, Val. But you also have to find this whole ordeal rather comedic, don't you think?" She stated, now laying her head on my shoulder.

I felt her soft purple hair on my shoulder, and as a result, I was able to finally loosen up.

"Heh, I guess. This is pretty funny, now that you think about it. Now, I don't know if I can do it again..." I tittered a little nervous.

As I thought about how to clear up the misunderstanding, Akira beat me to it.

"You won't have to, Jones." He answered, now looking somewhat serious. "The fact you took decisive action and took responsibility for your actions is more proof than I would ever need. I knew you were a good kid the moment I laid my eyes on you."

I couldn't help but flush and rub my arm nervously.

Getting compliments from my boss is a lot more embarrassing than I thought it would be.

I actually expected Ivanka to compliment me since she is a lot more open than her husband...

But this?

This is a little too much for me.

"T-Thank you, sir..." I muttered.

He sighed and gave me a friendly smile.

"Jones, you're at my home, not at work. You have no reason to call me, sir." He stated. "Especially since you were going to betroth my daughter, isn't that right?"

...

I think they don't want a "no" as an answer, do they?

"Father? What are you doing?" Yuri asked, realizing the predicament I been placed in.

He leaned against his seat and continued to smile.

"This is simply a tradition. When I married your mother, this same exact situation happened. My wife told me her cycle came later than expected, which crumbled our plans in the first place. However, her father didn't give me a choice when I made my intentions clear. It was a one-way trip for me, and so it should be for your future husband. In the words of your grandfather: 'If you were ready to give your vows to my daughter, then you best to not back away when given a chance.' So I expect the same for you, Jones."

I looked for Ivanka for her input, to which she simply kissed her husband on the cheek.

"And we don't regret it one bit! I was glad my Akira married me when I was young! It's because of marriage; we are so happy." She stated while hugging her husband.

As usual, Akira a little uncomfortable.

"Ivanka, please... Not in front of the kids."

I turned to Yuri and saw she looking off at a distance was dreamily thinking of something.

"Val... And I... together? Forever? Ooooh..."

And she's gone.

By the looks of it, I am sure she would want to live with me.

I am sure I would want to live with her for the rest of my life.

And right now, I can't back down no matter what.

Besides, what can go wrong, anyway?

With a little bit of soul-searching, I balled my hands up and held Yuri's hand tightly.

Yuri's hand squeezed back as I took action.

I looked towards the parents and gave them what they wanted to hear.

"I won't let you down... Mom and Dad. If you want me to carry on the tradition and leave your daughter in my care, you will get it!"

With that out of the way, I looked at my girlfriend and took her hand.

"Yuri, will you marry me?"

I didn't need an answer when she responded by pouncing on me.

---

Love shook his head in mock disapproval.

"To think if we wanted a little longer, we wouldn't have had to go through the messy scene. Seriously, the time was pretty poor, Honey."

I puffed my cheeks out again.

"Hey...! You said you understood! It's not my fault my body decided to menstruate so late!"

He smirked at me.

"Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say." Love teased. "Now it's my turn to ask. How did your day at work go yesterday?"

Ah, that's right.

I was also having a stressful day at my workplace.

But fortunately for me, I was able to leave early and make dinner for Love and me.

"I... I was also having an annoying day at my workplace. It doesn't help that she loves to take the spotlight whenever she can. My mother likes to parade her with compliments, but for me, she rarely shows any. I know it's the same for you, where my father doesn't acknowledge your work, and I may have it easy since my mother still likes my work... But I'm competing against someone, so I can get the position of lead scenario writer. To think I have to keep up with a blond..." I ranted, causing my husband to look at me with a slightly bewildered expression.

The woman I was referring to was Chiyoko.

She was apparently my husband's first childhood friend and his first female friend for almost a month before and after returning to the United States.

She is very competitive when pushes come to shove, to the point that I thought I was going against Monika for a moment.

But no, behind her smile is a perfectionist that knows what she is doing.

Chiyoko tries to show some sportsmanship, but I can tell she is taunting at me.

It gets on my nerves.

But I shouldn't undercut her skills.

She is very talented and can rival my writing.

That doesn't mean I am going to lose to a girl like her.

Love sighed and closed his eyes.

"Yuri, is this about Chiyoko again? I know she can get competitive at times, but you're letting it go to your head. Your mom knows you are a very writer, and she wants you to grow, just as you said a while ago. Huh... Never thought the same applied to you, though. Your mom is like a completely different person at work, right?"

My mother is just as he said.

A completely different person at work.

Instead of her bright, cheery demeanor at home, she turns a switch and is forced to be reckoned with.

I never saw my mother so serious at work that I was a little frightened by the change.

After all, I am her daughter, and she showed nothing but love for me.

"She is indeed another person. But that doesn't mean she is reserved as my father. She still gives me compliments and has some of her outgoing personality while working, which makes it easy to walk up to her."

I sighed, a little melancholy from how things went yesterday.

"In any case, I almost lost my temper when she continued to one-up me at every turn. I was able to turn in a written scene days before the deadline, only to find that Chiyoko had done the same thing I have. She was able to throw around some ideas on how a particular part of the story ideas that I also had. And finally, my mother gave her usual compliments to her and only gave a curt 'good job' to me."

Once I got that off my chest, I let out a heavy sigh.

I was indeed feeling better now.

We didn't get the chance to talk about our day because of how close we were to the breaking point.

But it was perhaps for the best.

His love made it possible to help drown out the stresses of yesterday.

And my love made it possible for him as well.

"Hmm... I had no idea it was that bad, Yuri. But I think I should say this, great minds think alike. Chiyoko possibly on the verge of her breaking point as well, and it didn't help. She was working as hard as you. Last time I heard, she doesn't have any romantic partners in the first place. The fact we... well... let our passions out for the evening and feel refreshed, we don't have to spend the entire day to unwind. Now, we have the entire day to plan on what we should for our workplaces and continue to work hard..."

I glared at his choice of words about how we were going to spend the rest of the day.

"Ah... Or we can take the day off as a functioning member of society and not fall into workaholic tendencies... Ahaha." He laughed off. "But seriously, I know that she won't be able to keep up with you anytime soon. It is only a matter of time until she falls into a rut and will need time to recover, while you, on the other hand, will win the race with flying colors."

...

It's because of his small speeches and words of insight is one of the reasons why I fell in love with him.

Soft-spoken, indeed.

But when push comes to shove, he knows it when to help support anyone emotionally tp anyone who needs it.

It's because of his words, I couldn't hold back the emotions inside of me.

And so, I forcibly pressed my lips against him.

My heart soared as we kissed.

He was caught off-guard by my kiss and tried to kiss back as best he can.

I, on the other hand, wanted to keep the advantage.

To do so, I put my tongue into his mouth and went for his.

Love was able to fight back relatively effectively.

His tongue immediately put up a fight.

I felt our mouth make squelching noises, which excited me.

My body started to heat up by this kiss.

And I felt his body reacting positively to my touch.

But before we can a step further and let out passion, Love pulled away from our french kiss.

I glared at him, irritated that he stepped out a crucial moment.

When I did this the first couple of times, he would be taken off-guard and struggle to collect himself.

But now, he has become immune to this practice.

"Yuri, as much I want to make love with you. You do realize that we haven't cleaned up since last time at all, right? Just doing it now is... unsanitary."

He's right.

As much as my body cries out for his, I know he's right.

That is annoying, and I don't know why...

"Very well. Can we make love once we are done cleaning?"

He looked nervously at a distance.

"Um... Maybe later. Like I said, even though I want to do it, I don't think my body can keep up. We were at it for an awhile last night, and I am really sore down there. Sorry."

Did Love get that sore from our lovemaking last night?

...

Seems reasonable given how stressed we were.

And it was very rough from the very beginning, so it makes sense why he is sore.

"I understand, Val. I hadn't realized that until now." I said, now stretching to get up.

He looked worriedly at me.

"Are you going to be OK?" Love asked.

I nodded and got off the bed.

However, that was a fatal mistake.

All feeling in my legs was gone, and I felt this aching pain in my nether regions.

But before I can begin to stumble, my husband was able to catch me.

"Whoa! You almost fell there!" He exclaimed, now easing me onto the bed once more.

I let out a cry from the pain.

"Uuuuh...! Val, it hurts!"

He was obviously taken aback from this.

"Eh? What hurts, exactly?"

I pointed downwards and frowned at him.

He looked down and smiled at me.

"Ahahaha! So this was the case for you too, huh? To think you wanted to go at it for another round!" Love teased, causing me to whine.

It was made worse once he realized my legs have given out too.

"Auuu~! I didn't know that it would be this bad... And not to mention, your words have really turned me on. You were so righteous and confident... So it is my fault that I fell in love with you again?"

Love smirked at me and nuzzled my cheek.

"Hey, you're my wife, and it's my duty as your husband to support you whenever and however I can. Unlike my tenure as your boyfriend, I can't turn back now, can I? Not I wanted, nor did I want to have a divorce or anything... Point is, I am by your side for life. And I trust that you are too."

I nodded and hugged him tightly.

"Of course! I am your wife, and I will always be by your side! I have to support you, too, so don't hesitate to reach out to me!"

With those words, my husband picked me up and carried me bridal style.

I let out a surprised yelp from this sudden motion and clung onto him.

"Let's get moving, Yuri. We got a date to go on today. I got a lot of things planned!" He said as he carried me to the bathroom.

I couldn't help but let out a titter from his excited mood.

"Lead the way, my Love. I also have some plans in place."

But as soon we got half-way to the bathroom, Val suddenly stopped in place.

His face contorted as he winced in pain.

"Val?! What's wrong?!" I yelled, worried by his pained expression.

My husband shook his head and looked back at me.

"Sorry about that... Something weird came over me. It's like I did this with Natsuki for some reason... And I got the feeling it wasn't for the best."

I eyed at the mention of another woman.

"No... but that never happened. I'm sure her heart's doing fine..." He muttered to himself as he opened the door to the bathroom.

It must be one of those strange bouts of deja vu.

I also get them, but they are infrequent and are mildly tame.

But it's not the same for my husband.

He would enigmatically bring up Monika or Natsuki at times before coming back to reality.

This didn't make much sense, as he never understood the context of the attacks.

In fact, whenever I did get attacked by the deja vu, I also felt like I couldn't understand the context.

This only has gotten worse once we got married.

I am confident that my husband wouldn't cheat on me.

And I am confident that I will not cheat on him either.

These strange attacks of deja vu are a part of our lives.

It's an unspoken rule not to talk about it...

Mainly how it only doesn't make any sense in the first place.

"Yuri?" I heard my husband call.

I looked up to him.

"Oh... Sorry for bringing up another woman on our day off. Not sure why I did either... This feels so weird."

Val was feeling a little conflicted and confused, so it was my duty as his wife to help him.

"I understand, my Love. Don't forget the same thing also happens to me. So, please... don't pay it any mind. These weird phenomenons will go away at its own time. For now, let's fight it together."

He nodded and looked confident once more.

"You're right. There's no use in overthinking it and worrying about it. This will go away in its own time. Now let's get cleaned up, already."

And so we cleaned up.

---

I heard Yuri's humming as she cooked breakfast.

No matter how much I want to help, I am no match when she gets angry.

I let out a small sigh but smiled.

The woman's got a bite, just like her mother and sister.

She wants to be the one to cook the meals in this house.

But I want to be the one to cook meals as well.

After all, I wasn't all that keen on letting my wife do all the housework while juggling her job at the same time.

It's my job as her husband to help out and lessen the work for both of us.

After all, I know it is gonna worse if we do have kids.

So I gotta break it in sooner or later.

But for now, I guess this is something we can do for the time being.

I will start to pick up onto some of the jobs whenever possible.

And so, I picked up my phone and checked if I missed anything important.

On the notification bar, I got a couple of messages from Dan.

I opened them up and saw they were.

"Hey, Val. I hope you aren't feeling all that down today. I don't know why the boss wasn't that impressed with that display, but take it from me. You did amazing at the presentation. In fact, you were the best one I have ever seen since I started working here. So don't beat yourself up, alright?"

I couldn't help but grin from my friend's caring message.

And so I typed up a message to reply to him.

"..."

"Hey, Dan. I'm feeling a lot better. I know I was a little stressed out and was maybe rude to you, so I'm sorry about that. Just know, I am delighted that you sent me that message, bro. It really is a motivational boost when you, the star of the whole workplace, compliments me on how well I did yesterday. So thanks for that. I will keep trying my best and try to get my father-in-law to... well, notice me, I guess."

Dan saw this and immediately came up with a reply.

"It's what friends do, Val. You helped me a lot back when in Dokisai. You, Hiro, and Tom are the reason why I am here in the first place. This is the least I can do ever since I broke up with the crazy bitch. And don't worry, I'm sure he is gonna open up to you sooner or later. I mean, he took you in as his son-in-law for a reason, right?"

...

Yeah, I guess he did...

Even though I know little about business, for some reason, Yuri's father saw something in me...

Replaying it in my head doesn't make much sense either.

The fact that this happened a couple of years ago is unbelievable...

---

I was in Yuri's house and was in her father's workroom.

He was clearly busy, but he greeted me with a smile and asked me to sit down nearby.

As I waited for him to finish up his work, I struggled to find the right words to say to him.

What do I say to him?

That I want to be a worthy son-in-law?

How will you say that without looking awkward in the process?

And I didn't want to Yuri this, mainly because I wanted to surprise her and...

I don't want her firm opinion to sway her dad's opinion just yet.

Since Ivanka did say he prioritized her happiness and that it would help him decide but...

It's best to let him decide on my own merit alone.

He has seen me take her on dates here and there, helped out with some the errands, and helped with his work whenever possible.

Even then, I still think my chances of this working out are slim.

But that doesn't mean I won't stop trying to get his approval and tutelage.

He stapled some documents and put them inside a folder before walking up to me.

Yuri's father was happy to see me at the very least.

"Hello, Jones. What brings you here? Do you want to help out with some of my work? And like always, you don't have to help me with this."

I shook my head at his words.

And so he continued to rearrange his paperwork at my answer.

"Is that so? Hmm... If that's the case, I do want to say something." He said, putting the folders into a bin.

I perked up at this and gave him my undivided attention.

"Since we aren't talking about work and... alone. I want to apologize for my behavior when you first took Yuri on a date."

Apologize?

Why does he want to apologize?

"I will admit, I thought you were some random guy who wanted to take advantage of my daughter's quiet nature. As soon as I realized who you were, I couldn't stop the words from coming out of my mouth. You were always the son I never had, in fact. Mr. Jones was always proud to have a son like you and would constantly bring you up. And so, I would like to apologize for my threatening words at the time."

...

Jeez, all this coming from a man who is usually so serious and straightforward is kind of...

Well, flattering doesn't even begin to cover it.

I chuckled nervously to help ease the embarrassment I was feeling.

"Uh... It's alright, Mr. Ike-"

The man put up a hand to stop me.

"Akira, Jones. I am not that old, and I am sure I am not as old as my wife's father. There's no need to be formal with me, you understand?" He said in a firm voice.

I nodded before he frowned to himself.

"Ah, sorry. I did it again, didn't I? Force of habit. Being the CEO of a publishing company sometimes forces me to take some precautionary measures. I'm sorry."

I waved my hand at his apology.

"Don't worry. I... I would like to understand why that's the case."

Akira was puzzled by my words.

And so, to take a much more serious approach to this, I straightened my back and looked at him.

"Err... Akira, I want to be... a worthy man for your daughter. And that can mean anything, I am willing to do whatever it takes to get you to recognize me as a hardworking man!"

He took a couple of seconds to process what I said and sighed heavily from my words.

"Oh, dear... I have been down this rabbit hole before. I never thought you would want to make it even deeper." Akira said, touching the bridges of his nose.

Rabbit hole?

What does that mean?

"I... I am afraid that I don't understand, Akira."

He stopped pinching his bridges and looked me in the eye.

"I did the same thing as you did, Jones." He answered. "I marched to my wife's house and begged her father to take me in so I could marry her. Suffice to say, it didn't go well the first time. Mr. Ikeda was unbelievably livid, and he had every right to be so. An outsider such as me, wanting to have Ivanka's hand in marriage."

I think I get the message here.

The Ikeda family is one of the upper classes that have a history of power struggles.

To think that Yuri is a part of the family was surprising to me, to say the least...

"How much do you know about the Ikeda family, anyway?"

I racked my head for an answer.

"Well, I know that it has a history of internal power struggles, and it has a relationship with the Russian motherland."

Akira folded his hands together and looked out the window.

"Yes, that is true. But that isn't the whole story." He muttered.

I looked at him expectantly, hoping he would continue, to which he reluctantly did so.

"The Ikeda family has its roots in this country and in Russia. After the war we had with them a long time ago, some of the family emigrated there. They had an entanglement with some of the lower royalties there, and some were forced to come home. Sure, the Ikeda family still keeps in contact with them as they had a child that of mixed blood. But it wasn't until the Second World War where the Ikeda family finally returned to some of its roots and reconnected. It was there that the family started getting more traction here."

He shook his head from the family's rather messy history.

"The Ikeda family expanded by arranging marriages between other larger families in Russia and here. It has been like that for many generations. But that changed when I came around. My wife fell in love with me while we both attended Ainu Academy, back before it still allowed men to enroll there. And so, we had a secret relationship at the time until it lasted. When Mr. Ikeda heard that a man enrolled in Ainu by scholarship and financial aid, he wasn't happy. A lowly man like me didn't want me to take her daughter away."

I continued to listen to him as he paused for a moment.

"Hmm... The exact words were: 'Why in the world does a peasant want to wed with my beautiful daughter?! Get out of my sight!' It was safe to assume he loathed me at first. After all, my wife was to be wed to a Russian chip manufacturer and wanted nothing to do with a man who only had a bachelor's degree in business. It looked bleak from there, but fortunately, I had support. Mrs. Ikeda and Ivanka convinced him to give me a chance. After a long time of negotiations, he gave me one chance and one chance only. With hard work, skill, and a little bit of luck, he warmed up to me a little."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

Jeez, I didn't know it was that bad...

"So far, there hasn't been any contact with the other side of the family after Mr. Ikeda announced I was the heir to the Ikeda name. It wasn't pretty since everyone was against my father-in-law. But fortunately, Mrs. Ikeda was able to stop any hostilities and allowed me to wed my wife." Akira finished. "Now, Jones. You're about to enroll in a university right now, aren't you?"

I nodded at him.

"Yes, I am."

He rubbed his chin in thought.

"I'm unsure about this... It may have potential ramifications in the future. But hmm... This would mean actual change in the family. My marriage to my wife only set back some of the family's plans. No, it is too dangerous."

Dangerous?

"What do you mean dangerous?" I asked.

He closed his eyes and dived deeper in thought.

"I mean, you don't have to follow in my footsteps. You don't have to follow me in my line of work. I was planning on letting Yuri work her way of inheriting the company. But..."

I sensed his hesitation, and I decided to step in.

"Yuri spoke to me about this, actually," I said, getting the man's attention. "Yuri knew that he would give up her dream of being a novelist so she could run the family. But... I wanted to find a way that isn't the case. I want to keep her happy, and I will do whatever it takes to do that. So, please... Let me keep her dream alive."

Akira went into deep thought again and frowned from the new information.

"Hm... I never thought that Yuri would... No, I knew deep down, and I felt like I was tied down. I want to keep my daughter happy. It's the least I can do ever since she moved schools all those years ago... But Val, there is a potential danger in being the next head of the family. You're an unknown and outsider in this family."

As much I don't want to go in knowing how risky things can get...

I have to do it.

Otherwise, Yuri won't ever be happy.

And I made a promise to keep her happy.

That's something I have to do, no matter what.

"I... I will do it. I am ready to accept the consequences, and I will do whatever it takes to keep Yuri happy." I stated, without a doubt, in my voice.

Akira looked at me and smiled.

"I see. There's potential in you. This is something I am willing to help you with too. If you want my daughter's hand and want to keep her happy, But is this something you want to do?"

I nodded.

"Of course, this is something I want to do. And I am pretty simple when it comes to things like this. Working to keep a smile on my girlfriend's face is more than enough to get me to enjoy the job, no matter what it is." I declared.

---

Still, I'm glad that he took me under his wing.

Working in an internship and going to university with Yuri.

I wasn't sure how I managed to juggle all of that in all honesty.

As I sent one final message to Dan, I locked my phone and walked towards the kitchen.

She was nearly done with breakfast but gave me a warning glare as I got close.

"You aren't here to help me, are you? I am nearly done with making breakfast."

I waved my hand that.

"No, no. You made your point already with your lectures. I won't help you with breakfast for now, but we should really learn to split the workup. I don't want you to overwork yourself, understand?"

My wife smirked and placed the breakfast on two plates before placing them on the table.

"We'll see, Val. I may not be the most athletic, but I can definitely endure for a long time."

I smirked back and walked up to the table.

"Oh yeah, I know. You can last for a couple of rounds before going down, eh?" I teased before sitting down.

Yuri followed suit and processed what I said.

After a couple of seconds after I said that, her face burned up.

I laughed at her red face, to which she cutely pouted.

"Meanie..." She whispered under her breath.

I continued to laugh and let out a sigh before getting semi-serious.

"Yuri, you do know those gender roles are the thing of the past, right? Have you seen those stay-at-home dads and working moms? We can do something like that whenever our schedule is free. We can take care of the house by taking turns. Besides, it's much easier that way." I suggested.

She mulled over my suggestion.

In the end, my wife came around.

"I thought it was enough that you would cook whenever I wasn't home. However... if it has to come to this, then I will oblige you. My mother was very spartan about how the woman must take care of the house no matter what."

Yeah, I figured.

When my parents-in-law got married, Ivanka threw a fit whenever Akira tried to help around the house.

Her mother was a firm believer in the aging gender role of women staying at home.

And so Akira did a limited amount of work to please her.

Fortunately, my wife is a little sensible and understands where I'm coming from.

She didn't entirely doubt her mother but found it odd in the changing era.

Goes to say that nurturing is one hell of a drug.

"Thanks, Yuri. I knew you would come around. Now, let's eat."

She smiled back and prayed, as well.

We started eating breakfast, and it always blew my mind on how great Yuri's cooking was.

"Goodness, I think I might get fat if I keep eating like this." I complimented. "I can cook sure, but I can't 'cook' as you do. Seriously, this is absolutely divine! My tastebuds feel like they are melting from the flavor!"

She smiled warmly from my words, despite her previously pouting.

"You have always loved my cooking, especially since we were children. Do you remember?"

I scratched the side of my cheek as I tried to reminisce about our childhood.

"Hmm... I think I do. Can you do me a favor and help me remember?" I requested, picking up my food.

She let out a happy sigh and rested her chin on her hand.

"I can remember it clearly. It may be one of the reasons why I wanted to cook in the first place."

---

I served Val his plate and tea, excited to start our little tea party.

But the same couldn't be said for Val.

He looked at the plate and frowned a little.

"Clay, again...? Yuri, I don't like Clay. I had an awful stomach ache last time I ate it."

I looked at him with crestfallen eyes.

"But... I made it." I muttered.

He sighed and walked up to me.

"Yuri, I'm sorry. The doctor told me not to eat any more clay, and I don't want mom and dad to get mad at me again... Sorry." He apologized.

I frowned and played with my long purple hair.

"OK... But what do you think I should make, Val?" I asked, hoping to get a suggestion.

He tapped his chin in thought for a bit.

Suddenly, he put both of his hands on my shoulder, causing me to squeak in surprise.

"OH! I got it! Why don't you make an omelet? I kinda want to eat one right now!"

I eyed Val's strange request.

An omelet at this time of day...?

How odd.

But if it is something he wants to eat right now, then I will make it for him!

"If that's what you want, then I will make one!"

I then grabbed his hand and dragged him to the kitchen.

Obviously, my mother wouldn't let me cook or at least try to cook unsupervised.

So she was there to help make an omelet.

My mother put a stool tall enough to see the stove and let me crack the egg.

After that, I spilled it over the pan.

Val was sitting down in the table, intrigued by how the egg was being cooked.

"Oooh... That looks fun! I want to cook when I grow up!" He exclaimed while eying the sizzling egg.

I smiled at him and continued to cook the rest of the egg so that he can eat.

My mother helped me lift the spatula and fold the egg over.

"Mmm. Not bad for a first try, Yuri." My mother complimented.

I smiled brightly and took the plate to Val.

He gasped at how the omelet turned out.

"Whooooa! This looks amazing!"

It was odd since it was merely an omelet with no filling inside.

But I was ecstatic that he liked it.

My mother laughed at his very enthusiastic statement.

"Seems like he will like it, Yuri. I will leave you two at it. Now don't go making another, omelet."

With that, my mother left the kitchen, and I let out a small sigh.

Now to see if he is going to like it.

I...

I hope he likes it!

The first thing he did was dig in, chewing the omelet with a smile on his face.

From start to finish, he gulped and hummed in delight.

"This is amazing, Yuri! I love it!" He exclaimed as he continued to eat the omelet.

I couldn't help but titter from his words.

From then on, I made a promise to get better and better at cooking.

It was for him, after all.

"Love, I'm gonna try my best to cook for you and you only! It's a promise!"

Val looked at me, not understanding what I meant by it.

But it was fine with me.

He will understand why later...

And I don't expect him to know right now.

It's best for me in any case.

He doesn't need to know that I love him so much.

Not just yet...

Despite his confusion, he grinned happily.

"OK! I'll eat whatever you make! It's a promise!"

---

My husband looked at me in disbelief.

"Goodness, you actually remembered all that? It's because of you I was able to remember what happened. You didn't really make the omelet all by yourself, but it was a great start, especially if I liked it a lot."

He frowned playfully at me.

"Just so you know, I had a hard time going for a number 2 when you guilt-tripped me into eating all that Clay. I'm still not over that. To think, a girl like you could force a kid who didn't know better to eat some of your 'cooking' at the time."

I gave him the same look when he refused to eat the clay food almost two decades ago.

His eyes widened when he realized what he was looking at.

"Oh... Oh, no..." He muttered. "It's those eyes! I remember now! It's because of how you were on the verge of tears whenever I didn't do what you wanted!" He glared with faux intensity.

Hoh?

Is that the case?

I didn't realize how manipulative I was at the time...

I might have given Monika the run for her money when I was at that age.

"Such a low blow, going for those eyes. And the worst part was, I didn't even realize anything...! Ugh! How was I so stupid?!"

Because of my husband's repeated self-berating, I couldn't help but giggle at him.

"Hehehe~! Oh, Love. You were quite gullible as a child. I found that endearing as children. After all... You made me happy whenever you indulged me. And I can't ever thank you enough."

He shook his head and gave me an endearing smile.

"Well, whatever. But you should know what the worst part is. I have a feeling, if I'm not ready, then you would give that look, and I will do anything for you. I don't think I know when to stop and look closely at you. Seeing in any amount of pain jolts my heart alive, and I will do whatever it takes to get you back to your cute self."

I flushed from his words.

Since we were eating, it was hard to keep in the emotions I was holding in.

I wanted to lunge at him and hug him with every fiber of my being.

"Yuri, eat up. You can hug me later. Maybe after we are done eating..." Love said, now going back to his food.

Because of the potential reward, I ate as fast I can without choking and put my plate away.

I saw my husband gulp up the last of his food, and so I tackled him onto the floor.

"Gwaah!" He let out as I squeezed the ever-living life out him.

My lips morphed into an excited grin as I latched onto him.

"Love, I loveeeee you! Ehehe!"

He hesitantly hugged back.

"Jeez. I love you too, Yuri. To think, a few years ago, this is something you never would have done in the first place. I know I said it a couple of times already, but the old Yuri would be steaming at her head if she bothered to think about it."

I nuzzled myself onto his chest.

"Well, for your information, my Love, I am not as timid you think I am. I always thought about doing this to my lover... But you are right. I would most likely be very embarrassed if I bothered to do such a thing." I stated.

He sighed happily.

"In any case, Yuri. I'm glad you changed for the better and let your true self out again. Now, come on. Stop moving around too much, or else your stomach might like what it had for breakfast."

Val held my body in my arms and stood up from where he was lying down.

"Let's relax a little before we go have our date. I want to spend every second with you on this day off."

I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him on the cheek.

"Me too, my Love. I want to spend as much time with you today... I want to make you feel loved."

He kissed me back on my forehead.

"Likewise, I am gonna make you feel so loved that you implode by it!"

I was ready to give it my all on our day off, but life had other plans.

Once we went outside, I cramped up after taking a few steps.

I apologized to my husband about how I was still in pain, despite how I could walk earlier in the morning.

"Don't worry, Yuri. I had a feeling that this would happen, so I planned for this just in case."

Once he opened the door while carrying me, he laid me on the sofa.

In front of us were some old DVDs on the table, which meant we were going to have a marathon of movies to watch.

"I know you're a little old-fashioned, so I figured we can watch old movies in 480p, even though we have a... flat screen. Oh well, let's see what happens!"

I kissed him on the cheek and smiled.

"Don't underestimate the power of DVDs, beloved. They can certainly stand the test of time!"

He rolled his eyes at my statement.

"Yeah, we'll see about that. Well, let's get started, shall we?"

And so, that is precisely what we did.

We spent the entire day with each other, watching movies despite the horrendous resolution, and loving each other as much as possible.

Oh well...

This is a perfect day for a lazy day anyway.

---

Hmm...

What should I do for this part of the report?

It has been a couple of weeks since our date.

I was now at work, taking a look at some of the papers my colleagues have done.

We had our day-offs here and there, but we didn't have the time nor energy to go on another date.

"The numbers seem to be in the right place, but there is something off about it," I muttered to myself. "What is it...?"

I failed to hear someone coming up behind me.

"Val, the paper's missing a little bit of information over here. It's a bit too short, don't you think?" Dan answered, pointing at the place I was working on.

I looked at the area he was pointing at, and there was indeed some information missing.

"Ah, you're right. Thanks for helping out." I thanked now, marking up and filling in the missing information.

He patted me the shoulder before walking away.

But all of a sudden, he came back.

"I almost forgot. I was planning on going to the bar with you, maybe get Hiro and Tom here as well. They are relatively free today. Do you wanna go?"

Hmm...

It's been a little while since I hanged out with Dan and the others.

No, it has definitely been a while.

But the thing is, I have some prior commitments at the moment.

Specifically, making dinner since Yuri's going to come home a little after my shift's done.

Still...

It's been a while.

"I would like to, but... I got some plans to make some dinner when my wife gets back." I reluctantly answered.

He nodded and understood what I had to say.

"Don't worry about it. It's cool. Besides, it looks like you're living the sweet newlywed life, huh? By the looks of it from the morning, it was pretty intense, huh?"

I felt my cheeks with color.

"Shut up, man. It's not fair to tease a married man on his nightlife..."

He laughed at me started to move towards his desk.

"Hahaha! Ah, I'm only messing with you, nothing too serious, Val. Just let me know when you're free again. We all want to hang out with you." Dan said as he started to leave.

I waved at him and went back to work, only for my phone to buzz.

Hmm...

Must be Yuri.

It was indeed a text message from Yuri.

I unlocked my phone and checked the message.

"Hello, Love. I'm afraid I will be going to the bar with Sayori, Monika, and Natsuki today. So I won't be home when you are making dinner. I'm sorry. I will be sure to heat up the food when I get home. If I get home in one piece, that is."

Wow, that is actually pretty convenient.

Not to mention how ironic it was that she lets me cook whenever she wasn't around...

If this was a week ago, I wouldn't have brought that up, especially she wasn't aware of it.

Not the best idea to that anyway.

Right now, it isn't the best idea either.

In any case, maybe I'll go hang out with my friends too.

I looked up to where Dan was sitting down, and it looked like he was still in his water break.

By chance, we happened to see each other, so I motioned him to come over.

I then typed up the message I had for Yuri.

"..."

"That's fine by me. Have fun with them, it's good to spend time with your friends. I might consider hanging out with my friends too since you're coming late. After all, it would get lonely if I stayed home. I'll see you then."

"Yuri is typing..."

"Very well, Love. We will see what happens when we get home. In the meantime, be sure to spend time with your friends. I will make sure to do the same. I love you."

I smiled from her last sentence.

"Yep. I love you, too."

I heard a mock sigh as I locked my phone.

"You were texting your wife, you newlywed? Anyway, what is it?"

Oh...

Is that jealously?

After all, Dan still hasn't proposed to his girlfriend just yet.

Hehe.

"Sorry about that. My wife... just texted me saying she is gonna be home late. So I'm free to go. I'm not just any ordinary newlywed, alright?" I teased.

He deadpanned from my emphasized status and tried not to give me any more attention I deserve.

"That so? Well, alright. Once you're done with work, come to the break room, I'll be waiting for you."

I smirked and was still feeling a little petty.

"Got it. I'll be sure to turn my phone to silent so that my wife won't text me while we are having fun. After all, being a newlywed is pretty difficult, don't you think?"

His indifferent expression soon turned to mild annoyance.

"You really like to tease me, don't you? I'm thinking of tying the knot this month, so..."

I looked at him warmly.

"Oh, for real?"

He acknowledged my words.

"Yep, I have been with her for a couple of years now, and I think I am ready. Dude, I love her, and I am willing to do anything for her. But I want to make my vows to her and show that I am serious."

It's...

It's a strange feeling to see one of my closest friends getting engaged?

Is this what my friends felt when I revealed that I was married to Yuri?

"Wow, I'm proud of you. To think that you dated a crazy psycho and now, a woman who actually loves you and gives you the space you need. I'm happy for you, I really am, Dan. Just know, I'm with you all the way on this. I won't let you back away on proposing to her. After all, just like you said, you have been with her for a couple of years."

His mildly annoyed expression soon bashful with my sincere words.

"Thank you, Val. I'm going to propose to her, but if I chicken out, I want you to stop me."

There were only a few minutes left before we had to go back to work.

"Dan, I got a question for you. So, when I revealed it to you that I got the marriage registration with Yuri... how did you feel?"

He shrugged at my question.

"It is what it is. You got married before me, but you still haven't had your wedding ceremony. So I guess I'm a little... meh about it. You're married true, but only then are you a husband when you come out of the ceremony. At least that's how I look at things."

Our small break was starting to run out, and so I went back to work.

"Alright, I'll meet up with you in the break room. I am gonna get back to reading these documents and filling out some of the paperwork.

He gave me a nod.

"Got it. See you then. Also, you better not cancel last minute you like to keep doing."

I snickered at my lousy habit to cancel prior commitments, most of the time being my wife wanting to go somewhere.

Now that I realize it, I kind of pamper my wife.

Hey, if it gets her to smile, then I am sure as doing it.

"Yeah, I won't. Don't worry." I assured.

---

I was proofreading my rival's work as she corrected mine.

I didn't want to, my mother practically forced us to work with each other, as if knowing our animosity.

Despite me not wanting to admit it, there was little that I can critique about the piece Chiyoko has made.

For some reason, her work on two childhood friends irked me.

I can't explain this feeling of... jealously.

Not because of how, because of her writing style, it seems to be something else.

Particularly how similar the characters were to her and Love.

The character here, Frank, seems to have a nearly indistinguishable personality when Love was younger.

And the girl being depicted has a competitive but cheery personality, similar to Chiyoko...

Wait, is this a piece about her-

"So, what do you think?" Chiyoko asked with a neutral disposition.

She cut my thoughts off in its place, almost with surgical precision.

"There don't seem to be any issues with grammar, spelling, or word choice. Everyone seems to be in character as well. In fact, I believe this is written very well."

Chiyoko gave me a haughty smile, something I despised.

"Heh, is that so? I can say the same for you. Besides your scenario's characters using a bit too sophisticated language than they should at their age, everything is written well. What I like is how clear the kid's thoughts are. They seem to be very sensible for a boy his age."

I smirked at her, as I knew that I wrote my scene well.

After all, Val helped me with writing this out.

He remarked at how his thought process was at the time, a little hasty and head-on, but always with good intentions.

But that's what got him to work under my father.

I was unhappy that he went to my home while I was away to ask for his permission.

And so I lectured him about being more careful and to have a second opinion on matters such as those.

Thankfully, he took my advice to heart but said he wasn't going to back away from my father's deal.

I don't understand why, but it has led to us getting married, so I don't mind.

He stated that it was something a man must do, but that means something that still eludes me to this day.

Were he to propose to me without my father's deal, I don't know if he would be happy.

My husband really loves to take anything the extra mile, always get a surplus of something done.

It's because of his hardworking nature is what makes his so dependable.

After all, it's one of the reasons why I fell for him in the first place.

My mother would approve since he always liked my husband's character.

But my father was a different story.

...

That's enough dwelling in the past for the moment.

"So, do you mind me asking a question then?" My rival asked, now leaning against my desk.

I eyed her body language.

By the looks of it, she is not talking "no" as an answer.

"What is it?" I replied, ready for any curveballs she may throw.

She took a look at my work and let out a unique sound.

"Hmm, it's about your scenario. I never thought you would get such an in-depth analysis of how this boy thinks. Tell me, did you get Val to help you with this?" She asked frowning.

I tightened my gaze at her, now choosing my words carefully.

"Perhaps, I did. After all, he was a boy once before becoming the man he is. Is there something wrong with that?" I asked, hoping to turn the tables around.

She doesn't like where I got the inspiration from.

But what I don't understand is why it is so... curious about this.

Her eyes widened for a split second with how I turned the tables but kept her calm.

"There isn't, I was only curious. After all, he was your childhood friend, right? It's only natural he would come to help you with."

I wasn't expecting such a counter-attack that would force me on the defensive.

Oh my...

She is the same breed as Monika.

Cunning.

But, I know how to deal with her.

"What's that supposed to mean?" I questioned with a warning glare, telling her to back off. "What other men would help me with this? I'm thankful for the feedback he provides."

She gave me a smirk, knowing that I was starting to be cornered.

But before she can answer, my mother interjected.

"Ah! There you two are! Are you done sharing each other's work?" My mother asked, hiding her disappointment behind a smile.

We both knew she saw us on the verge of fighting.

"Of course, mother. We are done and were only giving each other feedback." I half-truthfully said.

Chiyoko immediately caught on and followed with my train of thought.

"That's true, Mrs. Ikeda. Yuri and I were done with sharing our pieces. Might I say, she did a wonderful job writing out her scenario..."

There wasn't a hint of deception in her words, which meant she genuinely thought my work was well made.

How strange.

Competitive enough to attempt to get an edge over me...

But is willing to admit something that deflates the Competition.

It irks me that I can't get a read on this girl's behavior at all.

My mother clapped happily and smiled brightly at both of us.

"That's so nice to hear! And here I was, thinking that you two held grudges towards one another. That is why I am going to assign you two to check on each other every day!" She exclaimed.

Both of us were taken aback by the news.

"What?!" We both yelled simultaneously.

She only giggled, mysteriously in response.

"It will be fine! After all, both are at the same skill level in terms of writing, so it only seems fair. Both of you are good in certain areas and therefore, can help each other. Sounds sensible, no?"

We traded looks before we look back at our boss.

And so we also sighed simultaneously.

"Very well." I accepted.

"You're the boss, Mrs. Ikeda." Chiyoko followed up.

With a gleeful nod, she walked off to check on others.

Once she was gone, we both eyes each other.

And I decided to take the first action.

"If we are working together, know that I will not hold back on critiquing you. I expect the same in return." I declared, putting my hand out.

She took my hand and shook it.

"Likewise, Yuri. I wish you the best while writing. May we continue to improve our writing with our guidance."

We finished shaking hands and were about to walk off.

But I heard a chilling whisper behind me.

"Just know... I'm not done asking my questions..." I heard her mutter before she walked to her workplace.

My eyes widened at the tone of her voice.

I felt my body freeze in its tracks.

...

What...?

To think...

She would be capable of saying such things...

I balled my fists up and looked back at the retreating blond figure.

Very well, I can do the same thing too.

I will not lose to the likes of you.

Mark my words, Chiyoko.

---

Time flew by once I was done with my shift.

I was so focused that I didn't realize that I was done.

"Whoa, I might have stayed for the night if I wasn't careful," I muttered to myself as I checked the time on my phone. "Can't do that again."

Five more minutes until my shift ends.

I'm in the home stretch right now, so I will give it my all to finish everything here and get ready for the next day.

With a burst of motivational energy, I worked hard until I needed to leave for the day.

OK, I think that's all of it.

All of my documents have been appropriately put away, and I got myself a small head-start tomorrow.

Just the way I like it.

If it were me, I would have wanted to properly fix up the head-start I got and get some of the work done, but...

Nope, nope... I can't think like that.

Come on, I am pushing myself again.

But... I can't help this excited feeling in my chest when I try to get as much done for tomorrow before it arrives.

Goodness, I'm an insufferable workaholic at times, huh?

I really need to stop myself before I go overboard.

...

Actually, Dan would probably drag me out if I do try this.

That's what kind of happened when I tried to do some of the work reserved for tomorrow.

With a simper, I walked to the break room and saw that Dan was waiting for me.

"Ah, there you are! To think you would ditch us guys to hang out with your wife instead! I never would have thought we were worthy enough to begin!" He teased, trying to get me back from last time.

I scoffed at him.

"Nice try, Dan. I know you trying to get me back, you're gonna have to better than that." I counter-teased.

He rolled his eyes.

"Tch. Whatever, shall we go then?" He groaned.

With my bag in hand, I nodded.

"Yeah, let's go."

But before we can exit, another person entered the break room.

It was Akira, and he looked somewhat stressed.

That's understandable...

After all, we all found today that we... lost out on a significant deal by another competitor.

He didn't blame us at all but painted the loss in bright light.

Like an ideal leader, in fact.

"We have lost this time, but we always have the next time. We will continue to improve and get better by the end of this. Today proves time, and time again, there is someone who is a little more ready than us. And this always has happened from time to time. We haven't won every major deal in the making. So there is no point in getting bitter over this setback. Our work on getting the deal is over, we will learn from our mistakes and improve."

A staff member asked if he regretted what he did and didn't do, to which responded with:

"There's no point in clinging to the past, the best we can do now is to focus on the future. By focusing the future and leaving our negative emotions of the best behind, we can shrug off this defeat and look forward."

Those are sage words, as expected by the CEO.

I took those words to heart if I ever wanted to succeed in being the CEO of the company one day.

All I have to do is get over it!

That way, I can do the same too!

Once he saw us, he gave us a smile.

"Ah, hello! Are you two done packing up for the day?" He asked.

We traded glances and nodded.

"Yes, we are, Mr. Ikeda. We're about to go somewhere." Dan answered.

Akira was interested in this.

"Oh? Where are you two going?"

I gave Dan a look asking if it was OK to disclose the details.

He gave me a shrug to go ahead.

"Uh... We're about to head to the bar with our friends. Do you want to join?" I asked.

Akira was pleasantly surprised by my words.

"Oh, is that so? I was also planning on going to the bar as well with some of our associates. Would you like to go there together?"

I once again looked at Dan and asked if it was OK.

He looked a little hesitant but shrugged again.

...

He said it was OK for me to get him to join, but now he's backing away?

Why?

Is there something I'm missing out on?

"It's not a problem, Mr. Ikeda," I answered. "You're free to come with us."

He lit up from my words.

"Thank you. I will get the rest of my things and lock up, please wait outside for the moment."

Akira picked up his coat and then went inside to lock up.

We took the cue to leave the building.

"Hey, Val... This is something I should let you on." Dan said as we went down the stairs.

This doesn't sound good.

I looked at him expectantly, waiting for him to continue.

"The boss likes to head to the bar with some of his workers on days like these. You know how it went today, right?"

Yeah...

Even though he was trying to hide his stress and frustration, he did a great job protecting it.

I was able to pick up on it because I know him outside of work.

But how he deals with it beyond me.

"He goes to the bar whether we win or not on a deal. Because of that, he tends to drink a lot. He's... He's a completely different man when he is drunk, trust me."

I raised an eyebrow to which he only gave me a nervous smile.

"A different person? Looks like it going to be a... learning experience, I guess." I said, trying to be positive.

Why do I feel that something terrible is going to happen?

Not life-threatening bad, but something harmless...

Hmm.

"It will be. And it may... paint another picture on how you view your father-in-law." My friend uttered.

I'm starting to get a bad feeling about this.

As we continued to go down the stairs, we waited for Mr. Ikeda to come down.

He gave a warm smile and led us to his car.

"Well then, let's get a move on. Get in."

We got into the car and drove straight to the bar.

The drive to the destination wasn't all that eventful since it was only a couple of minutes away from our workplace.

There we saw familiar faces going in, but we saw none of our friends there.

"They might be late since Hiro suggested this on a whim. I don't like how plans are made on a whim, but he has a fair point. We haven't hung out in a while anyway. They will be here. For now, we can enjoy some time with the company off-hours." Dan assured.

The bad feeling in my gut was about to explode.

Ugh...

I kind of want to go somewhere else but...

I am not backing out!

Come on, I let's get it together and do this!

We got out of the car and entered the bar.

I felt a sudden switch in Akira, to which I glanced at Dan.

He looked nervous as well, it was like he was waiting for an inevitable doom to arrive.

Once we sat down with the company members, Akira ordered shots, with a bit of force.

Aw, crap...

I have a feeling I am not going to like this, am I?

Everyone got a round of drinks except for me, as I wanted ginger ale instead.

Dan didn't mind my tastes, but he liked to tease me about my choice of drinks with Tom.

Hiro was the only one which also follows the belief of not drinking any alcohol ever.

For him, it's because he doesn't like the taste of beer or any wine.

But for me, I would be petrified to find out about my behavior if I do get drunk...

And because of the stories, I heard of my great-granduncle's behavior whenever he wasn't sober.

It wasn't pretty.

As soon everyone downed their shots, except me, I heard an annoyed groan coming from Akira.

"This... is not enough! Bartender! Another shot!" He yelled, catching me off guard.

I heard Dan sigh to my side.

"And so, it begins. Get ready to be in one of hell of a ride, Val." He remarked as he eyed my father-in-law.

My father-in-law was starting to grumble loudly with his coworkers, something that I wisely stepped away from.

Once Akira got another shot, he downed it instantly.

Holy shit...

"Puah! ARGH! I'm fucking pissed over here! Bartender! Another shot! No fuck that, give me a drink!"

OK, I have never heard Akira cuss like that.

It's kind of...

Scary actually.

I felt a nudge from one of my coworkers.

"Don't sweat it, Val. This is how he deals with stress. He can't be the serious, wise boss we all know and love, right?" She assured.

I chuckled nervously at this.

"Uh... Ehehe, y-yeah, I guess you're right." I mumbled, not sure how to take in this new, never before seen side of Akira.

How does he let out all the pent-up stress and anger he had over a deal?

Now that I think about it, it seems to be pretty realistic.

While the bartender poured another drink for raging CEO, he turned to us, voiding my efforts to evade him.

"Competition? Fair? What a fucking joke! That shit was rigged! Anyone who doubts me can kiss my ass! They knew they wanted to go with the damn American company instead! Can't they handle our publishing standards?! We know what we are doing for years, and this is the respect we get?! Hell, they wanted to go for the Americans first! What a fucking joke! Damn it! I can't wait for other branches to whine about this..."

I shrunk from verbal diarrhea; my boss was spewing.

Other branches?

I have a feeling it's the family that doesn't approve Akira's ascent to power...

But we should be fine, right?

He looked all around us, and each of us gave our approvals to him.

"You said it, boss!"

"Fuck them, Americans!"

"We should've won!"

When he turned to me, and he expected me to give an answer.

I have no idea what to say...

Especially since I'm American in the first place...

Uh...

"I-I agree! It was a farce from the very beginning, Mr. Ikeda! Yeah! Without a doubt!" I exclaimed with faked enthusiasm.

Before I look to my coworkers to see if it worked, Akira growled at me.

"Jones, didn't I say to my name whenever we are outside work?" He warned.

...

But you're bringing up work...

And it's embarrassing to say that in front of everyone.

He'd tear me shreds if I said that.

"Y-Yes! Of course, Akira!" I corrected, praying he would stop his tirade.

I heard some laughter as he forced me to say his first name to everyone.

"You're a good man. Glad to see you agree with me."

Once he was done with me, he continued to rant.

I mulled over the events that transpired.

Dan put his hand on my shoulder and smirked.

"That's how things have gone around here, Val. Nothing we can do, and it's a good way to have some catharsis."

I only could nod at his words.

He quickly downed the rest of the drink and looked towards me again.

Aw, shit...

Here he comes again.

"You! My son, you're bitter, aren't you? Aren't you fucking pissed that our deal was rigged from the start?!"

Wait...

My son?

When did he ever call me that?

Nevermind that, I have to answer him!

"Uh... I-I guess I am..." I muttered.

That caught his ire.

"The fuck? Why are you so calm then?! If you want to show that you're bitter, you better say it properly, motherfucker!" He yelled.

I gulped at his yell and shook my head out of it.

"Uh... I mean! Arrrrgh! I am pretty angry right now! How dare they think we are a second rate company?! We are better than that and have delivered more than the Americans!" I insulted, putting on the best-faked anger I have.

This is pretty weird to insult them since I was born and raised there for five years...

And not to mention, I still have some pride in my home country.

"That's what I want to hear from my son-in-law! Now drink up, you idiot!"

I gripped my drink.

"Y-Yes, sir! I-I mean... Dad! Err... Uh...!"

With a nervous gulp to ease my mess up, I downed the rest of my ginger ale.

"Bottoms up!"

Some of my coworkers told me to take it easy and go somewhere else for the time, but I remained steadfast.

"You sure, Val?" I heard one of my coworkers ask, obviously picking up on how uncomfortable I was around him.

I only smiled in response and waved my hand at them.

He slung his arm around my shoulder and grinned.

"You see? This is why he is my son-in-law! Always working his ass off! Always impressing me with his ideas! You all better pick up on this guy's work ethic!" He unexpectedly complimented. "To think he was able to pull such an amazing display earlier this month! Unbelievable! This kid is always trying to get me to notice him, it's cute, really!"

...

Uh...

I don't know how to feel about that.

On the one hand, I finally heard the words come from his mouth for a long time now.

I am happy now, but...

He is intoxicated right now, so I can't take it for granted.

And he is also aware that he wants me to notice my hard work.

Calling it cute...

I don't know how I feel about all this.

Argh...

---

I was finally done with my shift.

And so, I went straight outside and left the building without leaving to say goodbye to anyone.

At least, that is what I wanted to do.

On my way out, my rival stopped me by standing near the exit.

"Ah, Yuri. I was wondering where you were headed. I still need to ask you a few things." She said with a faked smile.

I mentally shook my head.

Anything to get the edge over me.

Unbelievable.

I didn't give the same pleasant greeting back.

"Chiyoko, whatever that you want to ask, it can wait until tomorrow. I have someplace to be today." I answered, wanting to get away from the blond perfectionist.

But instead of backing down, she put her hand while keeping her fake smile on.

And so, I glared at her.

"Don't be like that, Yuri. It won't take too long to answer. After all, you must do." She gleamed.

Never in my dreams, I would get impatient at a woman like this.

If this was me before Val and I reunited, I am sure I would be playing up to her every trick.

As a result, I will continue to resist.

"Very well, make it quick. I don't have much time to spare, Chiyoko." I demanded, now crossing my arms.

Her smile drooped to an anguished frown.

"There is no way of winning with you? Whatever, look. That scene you wrote earlier today, what was it based on? Was it based on your childhood with your so-called husband?"

...

So-called husband, hmm?

I see you now.

She is jealous.

There is no way of denying it now.

Either way, I have to keep my guard up.

She indirectly insulted my Love, and I won't stand for it!

"He is not my so-called husband. He is my husband! And yes, I used our childhood memories to help write that specific scenario. What are you getting at?!" I yelled, the last of my patience starting to wear thin.

She flinched with my yell and tried to keep calm.

"I-It's not fair... Grgh...! I just wanted to make sure, nothing more and nothing less, alright?" She meekly answered before she opened the door and slammed it in front of me.

It was deafening quiet once she finally left.

Once she was gone, I began to reassess what exactly had happened right now.

What has gotten into her?

She wouldn't be outright hostile to me no matter what!

Today also seemed relatively peaceful before I showed her my story for the first time...

...

Ah, so that must be it.

She must be annoyed by how I used my memories of my childhood sweetheart.

But why?

Jealousy?

That has to be it, but there seems to be more to it than just that.

What is it, then?

My phone vibrated, cutting me off from my thoughts.

Ah, I almost forgot about my plans!

My phone displayed a message, so I touched it to open it.

Hmm?

Why isn't it opening?

I tapped against the message again, and it asked for my fingerprint, which I gave.

That's something I will never understand about technology.

After all, I'm not the best with technology, and I need Val to help me out with any device's daily functions.

I'm grateful that he is very patient with me to teach all the intricacies of any electronic.

But enough of that.

The message showed that the group chat was about to meet up in the bar.

And so, I hurried out of the building and immediately walked towards the bar.

I gritted my teeth at the reason why I was starting to run late.

That woman...

She's such a pain!

But, when jealously strikes and some unknown agenda comes into play then...

Maybe it is understandable.

She did sound a little desperate, but that may be just me.

After a couple of minutes of speed walking, I headed inside the building and looked for my friends.

My eyes found a group that had brown, pink, and coral-pink.

There they are.

The pink-haired girl noticed me and waved at me, causing the other two girls to wave back.

I walked up to them with a small smile plastered on my face.

"Hello, everyone. Sorry, I was late, a colleague of mine had asked a few questions before I started to leave." I apologized, putting my bag down under the stool I sat.

Sayori was the first to greet me.

"It's OK, Yuri! We understand! In fact, Natsuki came around the same time you did!" She beamed.

My former rival, now best friend, frowned at Sayori's honest remark.

"Way to keep a secret, Sayori... Seriously, I was late because my dad forgot to make a delivery and asked me to do it for him. I would have made it if he wasn't so forgetful." The pinkette said, now flushed.

Monika tittered at her misfortunate.

"Ahaha... That explains why Sayori and I were the only ones here for a couple of minutes. Anyway, I'm glad that we were all able to make it on time. It's been a while since we all got together like this, right~?"

We all eyed each other and agreed with her.

"Now, let's get drunk, ladies! I had a hard day at work, and I really need to drown my stresses out!" She declared, motioning the bartender to come to us.

I took a closer look at Monika, and she was indeed stressed.

But she wasn't as stressed as before.

...

That's right.

When she realized her childhood friend and love fell for me, she was absolutely devastated.

She didn't come to school for almost a week, and we missed out on a club meeting as a result.

I hadn't realized how much she loved for Val.

In fact, she asked me to go to the park to properly talk things through.

Once I met her there, she poured her heart out to me.

"Yuri... I tried to think of the right words to say, but I keep forgetting them because of how... It doesn't matter anymore. I just want to say congratulations. I am glad that you gave my best friend some love in his life. I... I shouldn't be saying this, but I didn't tell this to anyone, not even to Val, but I still love him. I still think of him as my soulmate despite you taking him... It's so wrong for me to say that, but my mind just refuses to process that Val isn't mine anymore. Don't worry, Yuri. I won't try anything funny, no matter what my mind says. I will support you with everything I got. Besides, it's the least I can do as his friend and... it will take my mind off things. If I do love him, then I will support him too."

Her confession broke my heart.

I didn't believe how much Monika had locked away all those years they were together.

And I cried...

I cried because I broke my best friend's heart.

After all, I am a crybaby.

Of course, my husband comforted me the best he could and doted on me, but I didn't tell him why I was so sad.

At times I would blame myself for grief, but I knew better once I realized it was Val's volition to fall for me alone.

He has said that a relationship with her wouldn't work if there wasn't a spark.

After all, he always viewed the perfectionist as a sister he had, despite the latter never want that to happen.

Ever since I poured my heart to Val on how much I loved him now, and when we were kids, I never doubted myself.

"We can't make everyone happy, Yuri." He said. "The least we can do is to do our best and keep doing whatever we can."

Those words are something I always kept close to my heart, and it's what allowed our relationship to continue.

It's what has made me happy as well.

And this is the happiness I will never trade for anything in the world.

The drinks we ordered finally came over, and we all brought our glasses together.

"Cheers!"

And we downed the drinks.

---

As he continued to rant and brag about me, I looked towards Dan.

He was looking at his phone, checking for messages.

Once he was done scrolling, he looked up to me and motioned me to come over.

I nodded and pulled my father-in-law's arm off me.

He noticed that I was leaving.

"Eh? Hey, where do you think you're goin'?"

I gave him an apologetic smile.

"Sorry, Akira. I am gonna meet with my friends right now."

That apparently made him frown, and he let out the same serious vibe he always showed at work.

"Aw, don't you want to spend more time with your boss and father-in-law?"

Dan came to the rescue as he watched the events unfold.

"With all due respect, sir, this was our plan in the first place. So if you don't mind, we will be-"

Akira turned his gaze to my close friend.

"I wasn't asking you, Mr. Miyazaki. I'm asking Mr. Jones." He coldly cut off, now turning his gaze back to me. "Now, will you disobey an order from a superior, or will you listen to your boss?"

Our coworkers and Dan quietly observed the interaction between me and my father-in-law, each holding their breath on what will happen next.

Damn it.

He's leaving me no choice.

I want to spend time with my friends after a long time not seeing them because of their schedules, and here he is, stopping from doing so.

This all may be a test in all honesty.

And besides, he's getting on my nerves anyway, so I will give him a piece of my mind.

I balled my hand up and readied myself to stand my ground.

If any goes wrong...

I will take responsibility.

Maybe, this will show how serious I can when I get backed into a corner.

"Akira, I'm only going to say this once. I refuse to spend time more with you because I already had other plans in place. Not only that, but you also are not my boss right now. We are now simply father-in-law and son-in-law, right now. So your order is null and void. I'll be going right now, alright?"

The area around us was now deafeningly quiet, while the rest of the bar was still as loud before.

I awaited my response as the man simply stared into my eyes.

We stared at each other without giving a response.

"Hm." He let out before letting a small smile crack his grim lips. "Very good. Even when I am down this much liquor, you're able to keep your ground. Well done, Jones. Go on, I won't keep you any longer."

All the tension I kept in was finally released as a result.

...

Phew!

I had a feeling it was a test!

But I didn't expect it when we are all relaxing, though...

Well, he did compliment me, so I guess it is something, right?

With a nod, I walked towards Dan, who was awestruck.

"Wow... you talked down the boss! You really know when to pull out the big guns, don't you?" He remarked.

I shrugged as we kept walking towards our waiting friends.

"Hey, I needed to stand up to him sooner or later. Especially since we have plans in place. Even if he wasn't father-in-law, I would still said those exact words no matter what." I simply said.

Dan grunted, amused with my response, and caught up to me.

We found our friends and sat down beside them.

"Ah, there you guys are! What took you?" Hill-Top asked, raising a glass to us. "We were just about to start."

Hiro smiled at both of us as we answered his question.

"Well, Val here, had to talk down our boss so we can leave. The guy said it so firmly and professionally, I was mesmerized by it." He complimented, causing me to flare up as a result.

Way to start things off, Dan.

"Come on, Dan. It wasn't like that... You know it. I just had to say what I had to say and left. It was a test, after all."

Hiro shook his head at me.

"Yeah, knowing you, you probably lectured him a little about he wasn't your boss or something right now and left. Isn't that right?" He wistfully said, which a little uncharacteristic for him.

I looked away for him to laugh and point at me.

"Ahah! Got him! I knew it went like that!" He cheered, showing more of his usual personality. "I had to the same thing, sort of, for my boss too. I just told him he isn't technically my boss right now since it's after hours and left. He liked how I told him off, so I got a small promotion from it."

Tom groaned and downed the shot he had in his hands.

"Lucky bastard. My boss pulled the same thing and didn't buy into my excuse. I should have thought of the same thing you guys did..."

We three looked at each and then smugly looked down on Tom.

"What?" He asked, eyeing our stares.

We all simultaneously said, "Loser." before laughing it off.

Tom downed another shot; as a result, annoyed with our antics.

Once we were all finally seated and comfortable, we got our drinks.

As usual, I got myself another glass of ginger ale, intent on finishing it slowly.

Tom rolled his eyes on my choice of drink.

"Seriously, Val? You still don't want to take a swig at some liquor?" He teased. "Even Hiro's joining in the action for once."

I faced Hiro and saw he had a drink in his hands.

"Heh, yeah, I'm good. Someone's gotta drive you guys home, right?" I counter-teased. "Besides, I'm high on life right now, and I think I'm better than everyone here."

OK, that last part is a joke but still...

My other two friends hissed at my words.

Tom smirked and down his drink.

"Woo! Yeah, you may be high on 'life' right now, but too bad you'll never be rad like us." He fired back, ordering another glass. "Loser."

Oh, that is pretty good, actually.

Especially since he managed to get me back for saying that to him.

I managed to hang on from his words and mount another comeback.

"So throwing your guts up and waking up to a skull-splitting headache is considered rad? If that's the case, then I don't want to be 'rad.' I'll stick to drinking ginger ale and water." I said, taking another sip of my ginger ale. "Also, I tried some vodka before for one of those parties I had to go with my father-in-law, that stuff felt like it burned my throat. The after-effects just annoyed me, and I just wanted it to be over with."

Hiro nodded and snapped his fingers at me.

"That's why you don't start with vodka first. That has one of the most alcoholic drinks in the world. You should have gone with sake first. But I get what you mean, Val. I'm making a special exception and drink only a little today. Besides, it's gonna take a while for me to get drunk for me."

Dan put his hand on my shoulder and smiled.

"Well, that's enough getting this prude to get drunk with us. Let's continue downing these drinks, shall we?"

Hmm...

Prude?

Why does it feel like Monika called me that before?

Is it because I...

Well, I don't usually make the first move whenever we have-

Argh!

What am I saying?!

Since when did Monika and I have intercourse?!

My first time and anything after that is with Yuri, no one else!

Jeez, so the word is strangely associated with Monika.

When will this weird deja vu end?

"Brooklyn! Yo! Brooklyn, are you good?!" Hill-Top called, causing me to snap out of it. "It looked like you were out of it for a bit there, are you OK?"

I shook my head and looked back at him.

"Huh? I mean, yeah. Yeah, I am. Don't worry."

Hiro shot me a worried look, but I smiled at him to reassure him I was OK.

Dan was next, and he knew what was going on.

"Yeah, Val's fine, there's nothing to worry about." He reassured, causing them to sigh.

He shot me a look asking if it happened again.

"Yep, I don't understand why, either. I'm fine now."

Dan knows about why I would occasionally zone out because of the deja vu I would be feeling.

He too sometimes gets it, and it confuses him.

Whenever I ask him what it's about, he is adamant about not telling me, citing it wasn't 'important' for me know.

That will always get me curious, but Dan made sure to shoot down any attempts of me asking.

Seriously, I wonder what deja vu moments he gets to the point he won't say anything?

But he isn't budging, then I won't ask.

I shouldn't, anyway.

We continued to drink until the three started showing signs of being drunk.

"Yeah... Everything is starting... Yep, here it is." Dan muttered, trying to shake himself out of it.

Tom had his hands on the desk and was starting to sway.

"Whoaaa...! It's like my hands aren't there anymore!"

The hell?

I didn't expect him to get drunk like that...!

Hiro was the only one who was still in control.

"Man, what a pain... The two are drunk right now." He said before he looked at me. "Val, I got this. And from the looks of it, we are gonna be here for a while. Do you wanna go home early?"

I shrugged.

"Might as well, right? I'll leave the rest to you."

He nodded and brought his hand out.

I took it and gave him a one-handed hug.

"See you around, Hiro."

He smiled and patted me on the back.

"Peace, man. Don't be a stranger, alright?"

I smiled and patted back.

"Yeah, I won't. Don't worry, I'll make sure to keep in contact." I assured, now taking my leave.

I paid for everyone's drinks as a gift and made my way out.

But before I was about to leave, I noticed a purple blob to my left.

I turned my head, and I widened my eyes at sight.

Huh...?

Wait a minute is that...

As I focused my gaze on the purple color, I saw a brown, pink, and coral pink.

Monika, Natsuki and Sayori.

They all look like they are doing well too.

Especially Monika...

She is looking a lot better while laughing with her friends now.

I was pleasantly surprised by coincidence.

Well, well, well.

I didn't expect to see Yuri here in the same bar as me.

But then again, this is the closest bar in the area and our workplaces.

I should mention our workplaces are on the same block, so I shouldn't be that surprised to see them.

My legs moved towards them, but then I noticed Yuri's smile as she spoke to her friends.

But I stopped in place.

Wait.

I shouldn't go there.

They are having fun right now.

If I just waltzed right in, I might ruin things for them.

So the best thing to do here is to let them be.

I guess the only thing I can do is get my car ready and wait for Yuri.

I turned around and walked towards the door.

"Hey! Where do you think yer goin'?!" I heard a familiar pinkette yell, before laughing it off.

My heart stopped for a bit as I froze in my tracks.

I turned to see what they were doing and saw it was business as usual.

Hmm.

They are probably just telling a story or something and need some dramatic effect.

For some reason, I didn't see Yuri in the group with them.

Hmm, probably went to get more drinks or went to the bathroom.

After all, alcohol's a diuretic, so I don't blame her if she needs to go to the toilet.

With a sigh, I walked towards the door and was about to push against it, until I heard heavy breathing behind me.

Oh for the love of-

I turned around with a small glare before I saw who it was.

What the...?

Before I could even get a good look at whoever was behind, the entity crushed me in a bone-breaking hug.

I recoiled back and struggled to keep my balance.

"Urk! What the hell?!"

I looked down and saw the familiar silky purple hair I loved so much.

Yuri?!

"Loveeee~! Hehehe~! I didn't think I would find you hereeeee~!" She giggled, rubbing her face against my chest. "You're soooooo reliable~!"

The onlookers smirked at what was unfolding in front of me.

"I loveeeee you~! Loveee~! Loveeee~!" Yuri cutely chanted, causing my heart to beat uncontrollably. "Even when I don't expect you to be here... I somehow found yooooouuuu~! Loooovvveeee~!"

Aw shit...

This definitely doesn't look good!

She pulled away from my chest and revealed her crazed, sharpened purple eyes.

There was a slight twitch on her right eye, and she was grinning happily.

Yep, she is definitely drunk.

I pulled her aside from the door and put my hands on her shoulders.

"Yuri, Yuri, Yuri, come on, listen to me. I'll be waiting outside whenever you're done with your get-together. So-"

Without giving me a warning, she lunged at me and stole my lips.

"Mmmph! Mmmph! Mmm!" I complained as she kissed me.

I forcibly pulled away and tried to glare at her, but her embarrassment kissing me in front of onlookers got to me.

She licked her lips, her tongue slowly but lewdly covering every part of her lips.

"Mmm... I love how your lips taste, my Love. I couldn't help myself... Especially since you are soooooo considerate of me~!"

The drunken woman tried to score another kiss, but I put my hand on her forehead to stop her from doing so.

She struggled and tried to use her outstretched hands as leverage, but I didn't budge.

Once she gave up, she let a cute whine.

"Come oonnnnn~! I want a kisssss~! Kisssss meeee~!" The woman mewled.

I sighed and kept my ground.

"Look, I'll be waiting outside. Just let me know when- huh?!"

With an impressive amount of strength, Yuri dragged me.

What the hell?!

"Yuri, where are we going?!" I yelled, hoping to get the crazed woman's attention.

She didn't turn around.

"It's obvious, isn't it? We're going somewhere familiar!"

I gulped at the possible implications of this.

Please don't be in the bathroom.

We were once in the bar to hang out once our shifts were on, and it resulted in Yuri cutely wanting to go to the bathroom with me.

I obliged, thinking she may need some help, but I soon realized it was a booty-call.

Because of how tired I was and how seductive she was, I relented and gave her a quickie fix before we went home to finish the deed.

As I begged to not go towards the bathroom, she instead dragged me to where everyone was seated.

Apparently, my friends found her friends and sat together.

Hmm...

Why do I get a feeling that I am going to be super embarrassed right now?

Hiro looked a little dumbfounded when he saw that I was coming back, albeit a little hesitantly.

"I thought you were going home, Val. What's wrong, boss?" He teased with a smirk.

I gave a glare at his words.

"Too bad that he didn't go, I feel like he is going to suck the life out of his since he is a black hole after all, am I right?" Dan added.

Monika laughed at this joke.

"Haha! Ah, I get it..." She commented, now smirking at me. "Hey Val, I didn't expect to see you around here."

I rolled my eyes, secretly happy that she was happy as well.

"Yeah, hello to you too." I greeted, now looking at the other two girls. "It's been a while, Nat, Sayori, how are you guys doing?"

Nat, for some reason, looked pained but shook out of it.

And I think I knew the reason why.

She is those strange attacks of deja vu, too.

But like Dan, she refuses to tell me why.

She said it might hurt Yuri or even me.

And not to mention, I totally forgot about her when Yuri had that dilemma all those years ago.

That hurt her a lot since she harbored some romantic feelings me at that time.

I rejected her sure, but the way I dismissed her when Yuri dragged me to confess also hurt me.

For that reason, I should've done something.

"Hey, Val. I've been doing great..." She muttered with a small smile.

Sayori excitedly bounced in, causing Natsuki to down a glass of sake down.

"I've been doing great! Hic! Tommy and I, hic, are going to get married later this hic, this year!" She announced.

I glanced at Hill-Top and saw he was nodding a little dazedly.

Yuri went up to my ear and whispered to me.

"Love? When are we going to have our ceremony?" She asked.

I looked towards her and flashed her a smile.

"Don't worry, we'll have it soon," I reassured, causing her to hug me tightly. "Gah! Seriously?!"

Yuri simply giggled in response.

"Hehehe~! I can't waiiiiitttt~! I lovvvvveeee you~!" She voiced loudly.

I felt my face heat up from her drunken, but cute behavior.

Their amused stares were starting to get to me.

"I, uh... I know. C-Can you get off me, Yuri?" I asked.

But instead of her complying, she hugged me tightly and puffed her cheeks out.

"I don't wannna~! If I let go of you, I think you'll disappeaaaar~! Let me kiss youuuuu~!"

Yep, I knew the bad feeling in my gut was telling the right thing.

---

The next day arrived somewhat quickly.

And I woke up confused at first.

My head was cushioned by Yuri's warm pillows once I opened my eyes.

She saw me wake up and smiled.

"Oh! You're finally awake! I'm here to service you in any way I can! Pyon!"

...

...

...

Pyon?

What the hell is going on?!

Why is my wife in a bunny girl cosplay with those fuzzy bunny ears on her head?!

"Yuri... Why? Why are you doing this? It doesn't make sense..." I muttered as I pinched the bridge of my nose.

She frowned from my words.

"Uuuh... Don't look so disappointed in me... I wanted to try this for quite some time now."

I raised an eyebrow at this.

"Cosplay? I never thought you were into this. I thought this was something Natsuki did or something. Wait, did you lose a bet?"

She puffed her cheeks and squeezed her chest against my exposed self.

"Nooo! I thought this cosplay outfit looked cute... And maybe you would like it. Natsuki hand-picked this specific outfit... So please, let me seduce you!"

...

What?

"Yuri, I'm flattered that you're doing this first thing in the morning, but you know how I am in the mornings... I'm not ready to say: 'OK! I'm ready to be seduced by you angelic bunny girl!' at this time."

My wife gave me a low whine from my behavior and words.

"Aww... Can you at least try? Please? If this doesn't make you happy, then I put on this rather embarrassing outfit for nothing...

Tears started to well up in Yuri's eyes as she quivered in embarrassment.

"Alright, alright! Please don't cry! We can continue with this!" I begged, hoping she wouldn't burst into tears. "I'm sorry... I'm thankful that you went this far to please me!"

In an instant, she gave me a giddy smile.

"R-Really? I can continue?"

I nodded with a smile.

"Yeah, go right ahead... I'm actually a little surprised by this. This goes without saying, but you're smoking hot with a bunny suit, Yuri. I think I'm starting to get turned on, despite the time..." I reassured.

Her purple eyes glimmered with hope.

"I-Is that so? Then... Then I will proceed to please you, Beloved! Pyon!"

Might as well not comment on the 'pyon' she is doing right now.

Yuri slightly closed her eyes and proceeded to push her lips against my mine, before moving down to where I was swollen.

Before long, her voluptuous chest finally began to move.

"Here... Here... Here we go..." She muttered to herself.

I felt her soft white chest press together, glancing at me to see how well I was reacting.

"Ngh..."

She still kept her timid eyes on me as I reacted.

She pressed her chest closer together, even more, rubbing them against me with more intensity.

There was still one thing that was missing.

But before I could even say anything, she knew right away.

She trails her wet tongue down my shaft while continuing to stroke me with her ample chest.

"Mmph... Mmm... How is it? Pyon?"

I felt myself gritting my teeth.

"Pretty good..."

She flared up and opened her mouth slightly before taking me in.

Waves of mild pleasure tingled my spine.

"Mm... Haaah... I never thought... mm... that you would throb this much inside my mouth, pyon..."

I grinned at a possible chance to tease her.

"Oh, is that so? But what exactly is throbbing in your mouth?" I asked.

Her eyes widened but quickly turned a dark shade of purple.

She trailed her tongue up and licked her lips.

"Your cock, of course. I love it when it throbs whenever I polishing it! Pyon!"

My heart jumped as she said with such confidence and moxie.

She smirked as she saw my reaction.

Looks like she is a little aware of how being direct elicits a response from me.

Tricky girl...

"I'm going to make you feel good, Val... Pyon...!"

And now the pyon effect was starting to get to me as well.

With a mix of stimulating and saying those dirty phrases, I was nearing my limit pretty quickly.

She licked, sucking, and rubbed at me all the same time, causing me to rapidly lose my defenses.

I strained myself, so I wouldn't give in so easily.

"Damn...!"

Yuri giggled as I tried to hold it in.

"Oh? Don't hold it in, my love... I want in my mouth. Come now! Let it all out... pyon!"

I glared at the taunting girl, feeling my ego getting a little bruised by this.

"You marked yourself for death..." I muttered as she continued to twist her tongue and head on me.

From those words, she started sucking onto me violently.

She was in a playful mood, and I really couldn't keep up with how the rate she was going in.

"Mmm...! So good...! I want it... I want it! Pyon!"

Her dirty talk almost caused me to release it all.

But I had a little more steam to go on.

"Khh!"

Yuri's movements grew more and more aggressive by the second, my resistance rapidly diminishing.

"Don't stop yourself, OK? I want you to let it alllllll~ out! Make sure that I get dirtied as a result! Pyoooon~!"

I gripped the covers of the bed as I felt myself about to release.

My wife saw this and engulfed me quickly, now pushing herself in every way possible to get to climax.

"Gaaah! Y-Yuri! I'm about to come!"

She didn't respond to me. Instead, she rubbed, swirled, and sucked vigorously in response, desperately trying to wring me.

I was overwhelmed by the waves of pleasure, and I felt my body tingle with bliss.

My hips gave out, and I twitched uncontrollably as I felt my climax eject into Yuri's mouth.

Her warm, moist mouth caused me to thrust upwards, causing her to nearly deepthroat me.

With each twitch came a payload, and she was able to gulp it all down.

She pulled away from my still hardened manhood and opened her mouth to show all the semen I unloaded onto her.

Once she showed me, she gulped it all in and licked her lips.

"Delicious. It has your taste... And I love it so much! Pyon!"

Another minor burst came out, staining her face and chest a little.

"The smell... It's so arousing! I must have more! Give me more! Pyon!"

I clutched my pounding heart as I took ragged breaths.

"D-Damn... That felt amazing. Give me a sec to catch my breath."

Once I caught my breath, I motioned Yuri over.

She pushed me down and straddled.

"I'll be on top today. After all, I'm here to service you. Pyon!"

I eyed her.

"Fine, but I don't forget about your death warrant," I warned. "It's still coming."

Because we have done this routine repeatedly, Yuri's womanhood had molded entirely to the shape of my manhood.

Once she lowered her hips, I was able to slide in easily.

The pressure gets more and more intense as I move in, her soft folds beckon me deeper inside.

Yuri rubs her clitoris against my crotch as she moved her hips back and forth.

Because of her body, she can push me further inside her.

"Mmm...! Ah...! Haah... D-Does this feel good? Pyon?" She asked.

I only nodded in response.

Yuri wasn't constricting me uncomfortably.

Her movements were merely pleasant.

I felt myself hitting a particular area that I was familiar with.

"Haah...! Beloved, do you love my pussy? Pyon?"

I nodded again, which cause her to tighten up in joy.

"Really?!"

I gritted my teeth.

"Y-Yeah! I love it...! And I love you!"

Her eyes widened from my words.

"Haaauh! Uuuuh! Not fair! You can't say that! Pyon...!"

Now that the tables of turned, I decided to take charge as usual.

I started moving, causing her to arch her back.

"Waaah! AAAH! Heeeey! I'm supposed to... Pyon... I am supposed to take the lead! I'm to pleasure you!"

I glared at her.

"How many times do I have to teach you this? Do you honestly think you keep me still for that long?! You idiot, don't get ahead of yourself! Now let go!"

I vigorously upped my tempo with each thrust.

"Ngggaaaah! W-Wait! You're thrusting too fast! I-I'm gonna come immediately! Stop! AAAAH!"

She can't give it up sometimes...

That's why I love her.

"Did you not hear me? Let go! Hrgh!"

Yuri's womanhood wriggled around me, trying to squeeze an orgasm out of it.

Tch!

I don't think so!

I braced myself as I continued to thrust.

Yuri started to quiver uncontrollably as she began to orgasm.

"Wait! No! I'm... I'm gonna! GHHHAAAAA!"

Even though she was orgasming, I didn't slow my rhythm in the slightest. Instead, I continued to jackhammer her.

"Nhaaah! Val, please! Please have some mercy! You meanie! UUUUUGH! I don't think...! GYAAAH!"

I scoffed at her.

"You know me well enough that I follow through with my promises. No mercy!"

The folds of her walls quiver intensely around, causing her to roll eyes back into her head.

With each thrust, her elegant dignity and intelligence seemed to diminish.

"Yaaah! Shooo good! Val! This... is amassing! More! I want more! Pyoooon!"

Oh, she wants more?

I got just the place.

I pulled out and started to prod against her butt.

"Y-Yeeeesss! Plug it in thereeeee!"

First thing's first, though.

I spun my wife around and laid her close to me.

From there, I lifted her up and entered her butt.

Yuri's surprisingly light, given her curvy body and ample chest, but there were times where she felt heavy.

She gritted her teeth in pain at first but soon welcomed my movements.

"Nnngaaaah! Aaaaah! Ooooooh!"

Her butt for pushed more and more of me out, which didn't surprise me.

Pushing my way into her despite the constant resistance felt very satisfying.

"You're one dirty woman. So very dirty. I'm gonna break your ass in half!"

And so I started to thrust violently into her, causing her to spasm into my body.

Her eyes rolled back, and her tongue wagged freely in the hair from my intense thrusts.

"Aaaah! Aaaaaaaaah! Uuuugh...!"

I was careful not to insert my entirety into her. As I knew it, that would be very painful.

"Do you like having your butt being torn up? Do you?"

She tried to formulate a sentence but failed royally.

"Yeesssh, I dhooo! I love having my butt tornnnn by youuu!"

Unbelievable.

She is a freak in bed.

"You're incredibly slutty. But I still love you- Gaaah!"

Once I said I loved her, her butt tightened suddenly, catching me completely off-guard.

"Hey! What's with you all of a sudden! Why are you... Hrk! Tightening?!"

She whined.

"My buttttt doesn't listen to meeeee... When you said you love meee, I can't help itttt!"

I gritted my teeth, feeling myself about explode.

"Damn it! You're still doing it! My stamina's being eviscerated by your tight ass!"

"I'm sworrrry!"

And she's moe as well?!

I'm gonna burst!

"If you really in your ass, then have at it! Haaa!"

I twisted my hips and started to stir up, causing her to spazz out of control.

"UUUUH! AAAAH! AH! AAAAAAH! You're making me come from my buttttt!"

Her constant squeezing finally broke me to the point where I needed to release.

As Yuri orgasmed, her butt clenched tightly down on me so tightly that I would have severed me.

"Ugggh!"

At that moment, I released myself into her butt.

Her back arched upwards and felt her contract.

She then started to urinate on the bed.

Aw, crap!

"Hey! Wait! Stop! Yuri!"

She was entirely in her own world as she emptied her bladder onto the bed.

"Hehehe... Splissssh..."

I was horrified right now.

"Splish?! Are you serious?! You're making a mess! Aw, man!"

Yuri was ultimately in bliss right now.

"Haaah~!"

I saw the stain she made on the bed.

"Arrrrgh! You! You made a mess over the bed! Stop looking so satisfied!"

---

It's been a week ever since we all went to the bar.

Today was the anniversary of when Love and I confessed and had our first kiss.

We planned on going on a date tomorrow, and so we got the next day off for both of us.

Having parents that work in the same company does have it's benefits.

My mother works in the writing and scripting department while my father works in the publishing and manufacturing department.

They need each other to work correctly and generate revenue.

It's a strange analogy to say that it is almost how they need each other in their lives.

Of course, they love each other ever since they met in Ainu.

Maybe...

Once Val and I do have kids...

We can be the right-hands of our respective parents.

If that is the case, then we can provide for our children.

Even though Love never told me how many children he wanted, I feel he wants twins.

I'm basing this off out of my womanly intuition alone...

But I have a feeling I'm correct.

After all, my mother did say this is the age when her intuition started to kick in.

Since I was home early today, I was making a special meal for the occasion.

It was one of my husband's favorite foods, Salisbury steak with gravy, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese.

Even though he has lived in this country for far longer than he lived in America, he still loves one of their trademark foods.

But I don't mind at all, since cooking American foods was always a good change of pace of what we usually eat.

Once I was done cooking, I placed the contents into two plates and put them on across from each other.

It was getting relatively dark outside, which meant my husband was almost coming back home.

He did say he is working a little overtime so he wouldn't feel left behind when he comes back the following day.

I hope he isn't overworking himself, something he loves to do.

But after my lecture about that, I think he has learned his lesson and does his work in moderation.

And so, I sat down, dimmed the lights and lit candles for a more romantic experience for both of us.

The darkness was starting to etch closer and closer to me until the candles' warm light drove them out.

I let out a sigh and tried to suppress the memories that inevitably pushed my way towards me.

All this...

It reminds me of my darkest times.

Something I don't ever want to go back to.

I... I remember being alone, scared and confused all at the same time.

The feelings that I felt when I was alone that day...

I wouldn't wish them on anyone.

Not onto Chiyoko, no matter how antagonistic she may be.

The door opened and closed, showing my husband has finally arrived.

"Whoa, it's dark in here. Hi, Honey. Sorry for being a little late today. I worked overtime today." He greeted, his smile wiping any doubt in me. "Something about some new transfers coming to the company the following day. But it's nothing to worry about, I hope."

I smiled back and kissed him, driving back the dark thoughts I had within me.

We kept it brief as I pulled away first.

"Hello, Beloved. You told me this before. I only hoped you didn't push yourself. You don't need to remind you why you shouldn't push yourself, right?"

My husband sighed but kept his smile.

"No, that won't be necessary, Yuri. You scolded me so hard that I can still hear the echoes of your voice whenever I close my eyes, hehe."

His eyes inevitably looked at the table and saw the food on the table.

"Salisbury steak? You're going for that extra mile, aren't you? And didn't I tell you to wait for me so we can cook together?"

I put my hand on my hip and looked at him with a deadpan expression.

"So, you expected me to wait for you to finish working overtime and eat at the dead of night?" I countered.

He rubbed the back of his head, sheepishly.

"Ow... OK, that had a strong kick. Fair point, but I still want to cook with you whenever I can, alright?" He said, now pulling his dress shirt and tie off.

That is if it happens...

We sat down across from each other and started to relax.

"Mm. I see you went for the extra romantic route, huh? The lights are off, we got a scented candle going on, and... relatively new cutlery? Are we going to eat as the aristocrats do?"

I shook my head.

"If you know how to. I added them for decoration." I answered.

We sat down and started to eat.

"Thanks, Yuri. This looks amazing. I can't wait to dig in." Beloved exclaimed, now taking the wrong knife to cut the steak.

I smiled happily at how giddy he was.

When he was like this, it made me happy too.

But something muddled that feeling.

My husband took a bite out of the steak and hummed in delight.

"Yep! I'm gonna say it right here! Better than any five-star restaurant! This is delicious as always, Honey! Mmm!"

Even when he complimented me, I didn't feel like I floating amongst the clouds.

He looked up to me with sparkling eyes, genuinely in bliss from the food I made.

Even when he looked at me with his loving onyx eyes, I couldn't look back at him.

What's going on with me...?

Even when he sat down with me and only the two of us, I felt something creep up onto me.

It was a feeling that I knew all too well.

No...

Why is this happening?

Is it because this is the first time we did this...?

My world started to twist and turn.

"Leave me alone! I don't care about your book!"

I felt my breathing starting to become unsteady.

"Why are you into something as dangerous as that?!"

Everything was starting to turn blurry for me.

"You're way too intense about this! Stop it and calm down, you're annoying me!"

These symptoms were all too familiar indeed.

That could be, but the feelings are coming back and they...

"You're a freak! You like knives that much?! Weirdo!"

I felt the stabbing sensation on my wrists as I started to blackout.

They hurt.

"Yuri? What's wrong? Yuri!" I heard a faint voice call.

The pain finally stopped as soon as everything went black.

...

...

...

I didn't understand what was going on, but I felt the need to wake up.

But no matter how hard I tried, my eyes wouldn't budge.

I can feel my breathing being more and more raggedly.

My lungs cried out for oxygen as I gasped for air.

The heavyweight in my chest and the stinging sensation on my forearm started to be too much for me.

But as soon as I felt some refreshing splash over my face, I was able to control my body once more.

My breathing finally stabilized, and the pain on my arms started to stop.

"Uuuuh..." I groaned, trying to open my eyes.

The world was still blurry to me, but I managed to at least open them.

All I saw was blobs of light, and I had no idea what they were.

I blinked a couple of times, and I finally was able to recognize what I was seeing.

...

I'm at my home.

No, instead, my husband's and my home.

The face in front of me was foreign, but I knew exactly who it was.

Val...

The love of my life.

He was pale and looked terrified, but was relieved when I finally came to.

"Beloved...?" I uttered.

That was all he needed to hug me tight.

He let out a shaky breath.

"Thank goodness... I thought you had a heart attack or a cardiac arrest or... No, it doesn't matter. I'm glad that you're OK... are you?"

Beloved pulled away from me and looked me in the eye.

"I... I think I am fine. W-What happened?" I asked, confused.

He frowned and looked beside him.

On the table behind him was a glass of water, which he used to wake me up.

"You... fainted. At least that's what I think happened. I know for a fact that something triggered this. Were you tired today? Did anything happen in work that stressed you out?" He frantically asked.

I shook my head and tried to push myself off the sofa, to which he gently pushed me down.

"Don't get up just yet, Yuri. Let your body catch up a little. Now tell, any idea why this might have happened?"

The room wasn't as dark as it was previously was.

Instead, it was lit up with no traces of the dark anywhere.

Ah, I now know what happened.

I nodded and looked at my spouse's eyes.

"It's because of a repressed memory started to open, Val. That memory let out some dark feelings within me that... pains me physically. It was a bleak, bleak time, and it is something I locked away so that I may never think about it to hurt me."

My husband's eyes flickered at this.

"Repressed memories... for some reason, I know exactly what you mean. I don't know how I know about this, but it doesn't matter. Please... tell me what happened. I think it will help ease the pain a little. Keeping it bottled up will... just hurt you more and more."

I looked unsure about this.

It wasn't because I didn't want to share my most hidden memory.

But mainly because I didn't want to experience the emotions and pain again.

My hands felt a firm grip.

It was my husband's hand.

"I know it will hurt, but I'm here now... Even when I wasn't there to be with you in your darkest times, I'm here now. So please... talk to me, Yuri."

I looked into his pleading, onyx eyes.

And it gave me all the strength I would ever need to finally open up.

This was due a long time ago but now was good at any time as any.

"You won't go anywhere... Will you, Val?" I meekly asked.

He shook his head.

"No, I won't. I promise. I will stick by you until the very end." He declared.

Those words were all I needed to let the floodgates open.

"My story begins back when I was in middle school."

---

My parents were very busy at this time since the economy was at an all-time high.

This meant the corporation experienced unprecedented change and growth.

They both worked tirelessly throughout the day, and I came home alone more and more often.

My younger sister was away at some boarding elementary school in Russia, so I was alone.

There was no one to comfort me when I needed it.

I unlocked the door of my home and ran inside.

Today, in particular, was a bad day.

Everything that could go wrong did.

My tears streamed down my cheeks as I collapsed over my doormat.

One after another, I was harassed by the bullies I despised so much.

They all picked on me and embarrassed me for my personality and interests.

Since no one was home, I cried and bawled.

No matter how loudly I screamed at the top of my lungs.

I sobbed uncontrollably, wondering why I was always a victim of abuse by classmates...

No one would ever hear them.

Ever all I was home alone.

Who would hear me?

Everyone in my family was far apart from me.

Once I finished my routine crying, I went upstairs and entered my room.

I...

I remember that I came off as very intense when I was younger.

Almost like how I was before you confessed again when we were in my mother's garden.

Hot-blooded and passionate.

That apparently translated into annoying and restless according to my classmate's treatment.

And so, I was treated as a menace and would continually get bullied by everyone.

No teacher or guidance counselor cared about my problems.

They thought I was exaggerating it.

But they never cared about the students in the first place.

They all have been desensitized by our chaotic, teenage nature.

I don't think I blame them...

My room was dark, as always.

The darkness was always around me whenever I was in my room.

Nothing went in or out when I finally arrived.

And so, I cried more.

Didn't I tell you that I was always a crybaby?

How I would cry and cry until I fell asleep only to wake up and cry more?

That never changed.

I would cry myself to sleep in my dark, dark room and wake up to cry some more.

When I came to, I remembered why I was crying.

It was like I said.

I was having a terrible day.

The bullying in that one particular day was the worst.

The constant disgust in their voices forced me to clutch my head in pain.

I felt my face grow cold as I thought their angry, charred words striking me.

And so, I moved closer and closer to my knives.

I won't ever forget when you defended me against those bullies at the end of our date...

They said how weird I was for having an interest in knives.

But what you said...

It is one of the reasons why I love you so much.

You said: "People like different things for a reason."

Even when I was trying my best to blot out the voices of those... people...

I heard you say that.

Someone so open-minded to my likes and dislikes is something I always wanted.

I opened my display case and picked up one of the knives.

It was a massive, blue blade, with gems encrusted on the hilt.

My grandmother was the reason why I was so into knives in the first place.

They are beautiful.

Sharp, but beautiful when crafted by the best blacksmiths.

Today was the day I decided enough was enough.

I pulled my uniform's sleeves back and lowered the knives onto my wrists.

Maybe the beauty of the blade was mesmerizing enough to take the pain away.

Maybe if... I cut myself the beauty that can make things better.

I felt the heavy blade poke against my skin.

Just a little more force, it would pierce through me.

Just a little more force, I may have found a coping method.

I closed my eyes and was about to push the blade down, but...

There was a voice that told me not to do it.

It was more of a cacophony of indecipherable noises.

But I somehow was able to understand.

And what it told me was that if I did push and pull down, it would be an experience that will corrupt me to the very core.

My hands were shaking, and I felt the blade starting to swivel under my grip.

But before I could do anything else, I felt a presence behind me.

My parents were there.

I remember my father grabbing the knife out of my hands and crushing me in a hug.

I remember my mother crying and hugging me as, whispering my name over and over again.

I remember that when I started to cry, something in me changed.

Maybe it was a realization that things needed to change for good.

And that happened.

That's when I started to become a total recluse.

That's when I started to adopt the behavior you saw when we met again.

Quiet, timid, and hesitant to do anything.

Once my father found out what was going on in school, he transferred me to another middle school, which was a private one.

He was furious once I told him everything I went through.

In fact, I don't think I saw my father ever that angry in my life.

He threatened to sue them for every cent they had, and make them regret forever pushing me to... do all that.

My mother then made drastic changes in the company and made sure they wouldn't see me again.

She made sure to take some time for both of us, that way she would check up on me since I adamantly didn't want to a psychiatrist.

Something about telling how I cried and underwent such torment was something I didn't want to say or relive to anyone, no matter how professional they were.

For good measure, she transferred my sister back here so she can live with us again.

They knew that because of how much time they dedicated to working, it partially affected me.

And for a while, things finally starting looking up to me.

No one bothered me in school because I never said a word to anyone.

In retrospect, I think I should have.

But I was paranoid, and I didn't want to cause any hassle for my parents.

It didn't take long until I graduated from middle school and moved onto high school.

Ainu Academy...

That was where I met Monika, Natsuki and Sayori.

My closest and best friends.

It was mandatory that I had to join a club, so I joined the literature club.

The club was full, so Monika decided to create another one, separate from the crowded club.

It had a more specific focus on discussing our thoughts of any literature instead of merely reading books.

It was inevitable that I bonded with them, and I didn't regret it at all.

And for a time...

It made me forget about the daily struggles of not sharing, talking, or even looking too much.

...

But that all changed...

---

"That all changed when I met you, Val," Yuri said with a smile. "You were so kind and understanding of me. You always encouraged me to be myself. I didn't know how you knew about my hidden self until we realized we were..."

"Childhood friends." I finished. "I... I had a feeling that you weren't giving it your all. It felt like you were always restraining yourself, but I didn't know why. Whenever you hesitated to do something, I had the feeling that you wanted to take action and speak your mind. Being quiet... It wasn't like you at all."

My wife continued to keep her smile.

"And you were right all along. That all changed when-"

I cut her off, knowing exactly what she was going to say.

"Yeah, I know. The damn lowlifes wanted to pick on you again. I still haven't forgiven them for thinking of touching you like that, wherever they are."

It happened a couple of years ago, sure...

But it still irritates me and how smug and know it all they were.

To think they would mature and apologize for their actions.

Instead, they kept their shallow and incorrigible behaviors.

Yuri laughed a little, which caught me off-guard.

"Even when you beat them silly, you wanted them to continue fighting you. I had to step in because you were causing such a scene. Anymore of the fighting, and you might have seriously hurt them." She stated.

I lowered my eyes.

"Yeah, yeah. You told me this already, I know. I never thought I would get so angry at them." I muttered, realizing the ramifications if Yuri never stepped in to stop me.

Yuri crawled towards me and laid her head against my shoulder.

I hugged her, knowing she was to confess her feelings at that very moment.

"When they insulted me and you, I felt those dark emotions again. I felt the despair and anguish fill into my very soul as they said all those vile things... It hurt to hold it in and so I wouldn't be crying in public... My self-confidence at that time was shattered, and I said I don't deserve you..."

She was about to tear up, so I patted her long hair to calm her.

"Even when I told you not to talk to me anymore or think of me, you still arrived at my house and spoke to me. After all, you said that I took your first time and took mine, so it is fair that you would come back to me. But it's not only because of that, but it's also because you believed in me. You believed in me when no one else did. And you never stopped me from believing. So thank you so much for being with me."

We hugged for a while before I pulled away.

"Yuri, I don't want you to feel like that again. I don't want you to think that you're alone anymore. This isn't your darkest hour anymore, Yuri. I'm with you, alright? So whenever you feel that memory opens up, as narcissistic as it sounds, think of me... I'll always be a part of you."

My wife's lips quivered uncontrollably before the tears started streaming down her cheeks.

But instead of tears of pain and misery, they were tears of joy.

We kissed again and again,

I wanted to help her feel better and to make her realize that I'm with her.

After a bit, we were now lying down on the sofa.

I kept petting her long purple mane as we silently relaxed.

...

Maybe it is the best time to talk about how I didn't remember her when we met again.

I thought the reason was that I found it traumatic.

But that wasn't traumatic enough for me to repress the memory.

However, I can't say the same for Yuri since I was her only friend.

"Yuri, I think I should tell you something that I haven't gotten the chance to tell you." I started to say.

She pulled away from my chest, looked to me expectantly.

"It's about... why I didn't remember you when we met again back in Dokisai."

Yuri was confused by my words.

"I... I am afraid I don't understand. Wasn't it because you were young?"

I shook my head at that.

"No, even if I was young, I would have caught onto the hints your parents was dropping. It's even a wonder that I was able to remember you in the first place." I stated.

Her eyes widened.

"W-What? What do you mean? Why wouldn't you have remembered me?!"

I closed my eyes and sighed heavily.

"Unlike you, I think our separation wasn't as traumatic to me. We had different outlooks on the situation, after all. I was always hopeful that we see each other again and... I was oblivious to your feelings to me at the time. But you had a feeling we wouldn't see each other. It was as if you saw your loved one leave forever. That's why we had different reactions from that memory." I explained.

She took a second to process what I said but was able to catch on quickly.

I shouldn't be surprised.

Yuri is the smartest of the four girls.

"If that is the case, then what was it that... caused you to forget about me?" She asked with great difficulty.

I looked away and chose my words carefully.

"What I am about to tell you will surprise you, but please, don't worry too much. I'm completely fine and healthy, OK?" I warned.

Yuri already didn't like where this was going but nodded reluctantly.

With that, I looked into her eyes.

"Alright. Once I left this country and returned to the United States, your crying face was seared into my memory. I mean, why it wouldn't be? I saw your happiness become swallowed by a pit of despair in an instant... It hurt me to see that. I didn't realize how much it bothered me. Especially since I didn't realize how it stripped my awareness of the current world. Everything came to a close one day."

I gulped, hoping my wife wouldn't take what happened next too hard.

"One day... When I was with my parents, I was crossing the street. But the thing is, I was crossing it while the light was red. I had no idea because I was still thinking about how I missed you. My parents tried to grab me before I anywhere, but it was way too late. I don't know if they were looking at me or not. I guess it doesn't matter now."

OK...

I just need to say it.

"A car... A car hit me at top speed, and I was sent flying. My body felt like it was on fire from the pain. I was bleeding profusely everywhere... And my head felt like a jackhammer was hitting me."

Yuri squeezed the life out of me and took a couple of deep breaths.

"You're here... You're here with me..." She mumbled under her breath.

I held her tightly in return.

"The doctors told me that I wasn't supposed to make it. I was on the verge of death. I was treading through muddled waters, having no idea where I was going. But then I heard this voice... This man's voice guided me to an exit, and I woke up. I don't know who it was that guided me, but it sounded a lot like how I sound right now, but a little... deeper? Twangy, even? When I came to, I woke up to see a bunch of machines keeping me alive. Somehow, I survived, but what was more miraculous was how I was able to recover two weeks before I was supposed to be released. But you know what the side of effect was?"

I looked down at Yuri and saw her on the verge of tears.

"You forgot about me..." She managed to say through choked breaths.

I pet her long purple hair.

It always managed to calm her down.

"Yes. I had a severe case of amnesia. I lost almost a couple of months' worth of memories. It was only because I decided to spend more and more time with you is why I started to remember again. If I didn't do all that, then those memories would have been good as gone. And my life would've continued. But... I'm so glad. I'm so glad that I remembered you again. If I didn't remember you, then I wouldn't be where I am right now. And... I'm happy right now. Words can't even express how happy I am to be with you every day. I would have definitely missed out on everything that has happened here, and I can say without a doubt that my life has taken a turn for the better once we reunited."

I said it.

I finally said it.

I planned on telling her this for a while now.

Ever since, my parents revealed why my memory was so spotty whenever I visited Yuri.

My wife crawled up to me, revealing that she was crying again.

Her choked sobs filled the room, which made my heart twinge with pain.

"Uuuuh...! V-Val...!"

She then cried into my neck.

I rested my cheek against her head. She cried her heart out.

Yuri did say she was a crybaby.

But I'm OK with that.

To me, that simply means that she is very expressive with her emotions.

After a few moments of crying, she was sniffling.

Yuri looked up to me while rubbing her eyes.

"Y-You won't forget about me again, will you?"

I shook my head.

"No, I won't. I definitely won't forget about you, Yuri. You can believe me. Now that's enough crying for one day, let's get going." I stated, now starting to get up.

But she kept me pinned against the sofa.

I don't think I'm going anywhere for some time.

Some may think she is fussy, but I don't believe that all.

To me, it goes to how she interesting she can get.

"Val?" Yuri muttered.

I looked towards her.

"You want me all for yourself, is that correct?"

Those are the same words I used back in the garden.

"Of course, I do. I don't want to share you with anyone." I answered confidently.

My wife flared up a little but kept her adorable small smile on.

"Then... Will you take me?"

I smiled back, trying to hide my happiness over her words.

"No."

Yuri was taken completely off-guard by my answer.

"W-W-What...?! W-What do you mean, no?!" She yelled, baffled by my refusal.

The woman's razor-sharp eyes and gritted teeth just added to my amusement.

I covered my mouth to hide my laughter.

"Sheesh, I'm sorry, Yuri. It's mainly because I am pretty... well famished right now and actually incredibly tired right now. I may have overworked myself a little." I replied, her figure now shrinking.

Instead of being the next destroyer of worlds, my wife tapped her fingers together.

"Oh... I-I see... Yes, that would make sense." She mumbled before puffing her cheeks out. "Hey! It's not my fault that you were so... confident! I... I got turned on by caring you were!"

I bit the side of my cheeks, so I contain my laughs.

She's too cute right now!

It's so hard to keep all in!

In all honesty, I wanted to take her right then and there too, especially since the moment was right.

I was definitely in the mood for it as well.

But my other needs have to come first. Otherwise, I will regret it.

I had a small flashback where I was in the same exact condition right now and still made love with Yuri.

Suffice to say, the after-effects made me promise not to do that again.

"Mhm, yep... There it is. There's the perverted girl that I know and love. Man, that body of yours really gets you on, doesn't it?" I teased.

Yuri pouted and playfully slammed her fists onto my chest.

"So what if it does?! So what if I am a closet-pervert with a body that adds to my lust?! I want you! I want you! I want youuuu!" She endearingly cried.

Her childishly violent side is one of the many reasons why I am madly in love with her.

At first glance, Yuri and Haru are two sides of the different coin.

One was older by a few years and reserved.

And another was younger and playful.

But once I got to know them, they tend to switch their personalities up a little, which made things so enjoyable.

Ah, yeah.

I remember Mike telling me how dangerous Haru got one time when they were debating about something.

If I recall correctly, it was about college and how each of them wanted to go to different colleges.

Haru stopped all traces of her playfulness in its tracks and showed him the same hot-blooded temper Yuri has and showed him a piece of her mind.

Because of that, they are now attending the same college together.

And right now, Yuri is showing a little bit of Haru with how childish she was getting.

Yuri's cute pleading wails were pushing me on the brink of granting her wishes.

Come on, me...

Keep it together!

"Honey, listen. We have an entire day to spend together tomorrow since it's gonna be our anniversary. So I tell you what. If you hold in your lustful needs today, I will grant every wish tomorrow without a doubt. OK?"

She frowned while puffing her cheeks.

Argh!

My wife is too damn cute right now!

She whined and laid her head against my chest.

Before I could even lay my hand to pet her hair, she piped up.

"OK... But you promise that you will grant my wishes, is that right?!" She excitedly said.

I hesitated to answer because of how much my heart has swollen from the overload.

"Y-Yeah. I promise, don't you worry."

She gave me a charming grin and rubbed her head against me.

"Hm hm hm! Love, Love, Loveeee~!" My wife chanted.

I hope I don't regret this.

---

Meanwhile, in the college dorms!

I'm so going to get Haru back for pranking me today.

She replaced a small portion of the toothpaste with some pain relief cream.

I can still feel the burning sensation in my gums...

And I know exactly how to get her back.

My girlfriend loves to drink hot chocolate.

So I'm gonna give that with a little twist to it.

I walked to the dorm's living room and saw that she was relaxing on the sofa while scrolling through her phone.

Hmm, now that I realize it, Haru looks a lot more like Yuri now.

Her chest has gotten more abundant, and her body has become a lot curvier.

It's difficult to tell her and Yuri apart, with their smiles being the only way I can tell to differentiate them.

Good thing they didn't think about the twin switch yet.

I'm not sure how my brother will be able to tell who's who.

Because I'm sure as hell can't.

"Hey, Haru," I called, causing her to look up to me. "You want some hot chocolate?"

She was taken aback by my sudden generosity.

"Wait, what?! Since when were you the one to give me hot chocolate?! I'm usually the one to push you over it, you prude!"

I rolled my eyes, both from her surprise and nickname for me.

"I have no idea why you're getting so heated up about this. I'm asking if you want hot chocolate or not." I repeated.

All of a sudden, my girlfriend started looking bashful for some reason.

Err...

Why is she looking at that?

It's only hot chocolate...

Or so it would seem.

"I... Jeez, alright! If you want to give me hot chocolate so badly, then give it to me!" She spat, now starting to turn her body towards me.

A small smile crept to my lips as I retreated to make the hot chocolate.

She was apparently confused about this.

"Wait, where are you going?! I thought we were having some hot chocolate!" She yelled.

I don't understand the context she's giving right now.

This is only hot chocolate, nothing more or less.

Seriously, what's with her?

"We are! Or at least, I'm making something for you! Relax!" I yelled back.

I mixed the hot chocolate with the secret base I had planned on using and stirred the powder mix.

Once I was done, I grabbed the mug that I prepared and walked over to my girlfriend.

However, I was not ready for what laid ahead of me.

I walked into Haru in the middle of changing, as she was about to unhook her bra.

Strangely enough, she was unaffected by my intruding presence and grinned once she saw me.

"Ah! Took you long enough! Why don't you take off my underwear? I heard it turns men on a lot! Something like a prude like you really needs, hehe!" She teased.

I was more baffled as to why she was stripping.

My face burned up once I finally realized what she was doing.

"W-WHAT?! What are you doing, you buffoon?!" I yelled, giving her a swift chop to her crown. "Why in the world are you stripping?!"

She rubbed her head from the place I hit her.

"Owwwie! What the heck, Mike?! I thought... I thought we were going to have some hot chocolate!" She hollered.

Hot chocolate?

Wait a moment, did this idiot girl think hot chocolate was a euphemism for sex?!

I facepalmed so hard it almost caused me to drop the hot chocolate I prepared for her.

"No, you moron! That's not hot chocolate! That's hot coffee! Put your clothes on, damn it!"

She puffed her cheeks out and gave me a glare.

"Mmmph! No! I don't wanna! I want to have sex! Right now!"

The fire in her eyes was always tricky to ease, so the only way I know of calming her was granting her wishes.

I sighed heavily.

"Fine, fine. We'll do that later. Now, will you take a sip of the hot chocolate I made for you?"

She responded by snatching the mug from my hands and taking a huge sip from it.

I smiled devilishly once I knew what she in for.

Hahaha...!

Gotcha!

As she gulped it the drink, her eyes widened.

"Wait... This... This doesn't feel right. Something definitely feels off." Haru commented as she smacked her lips. "W-What did you do to this drink?!"

I continued to look at with morbid amusement.

"Mike?! Tell me!"

I grinned and crossed my arms.

"Oh? You haven't realized it now, have you? Do you want to know what my secret ingredient was?" I taunted.

As each second passed, it became clearer that she didn't like the way this was going.

"Y-Yes! What did you do?!"

I leaned against the wall.

"The hot chocolate's secret ingredient was... water."

In an instant, Haru's eyes widened.

"E-Eh? Wait... Why would you use water?! WHY?!" She screeched.

At this point, I couldn't hold it in my evil laughter.

"Hahaha... Do you really think you get away from pranking me? You thought putting pain relief cream in my toothpaste was something I going to let slide?! Hahahaha...!"

My girlfriend fell to her knees and clutched her throat.

"No... Noooo... Noooo! You're a monster! You're a monster, Mike! Ah...!"

She collapsed onto the ground, groaning and dramatically clutching her stomach as I continued to laugh maniacally.

"I-I-I can feel it! I can feel it in my stomach! I-I think I'm gonna die! Gwaaaah!"

Haru convulsed onto the ground and slackened as I continued to laugh maniacally.

After I finally calmed down, I walked over to her and crouched.

She weakly opened her eyes.

"Well played..." Haru muttered weakly, before opening them altogether. "Now that's over with, let's fuck!"

I had no time to react before she lunged towards me.

---

The next day came relatively quickly.

We woke up at the same time, or I least thought that was the case.

My wife woke up earlier than me, took a shower, and was jittery throughout the morning.

Seeing her so excited was always a treat, so I welcomed it.

I took a quick shower before heading towards the kitchen, seeing Yuri quickly get the breakfast out.

OK...!

Looks like she is very amped to do this.

I slowly approached her, to which she quickly closed the distance.

She took a couple of whiffs of me before nodding.

"Mmm... You smell great."

I raised an eyebrow.

"Really? I took a quick shower, so it's probably the pheromones or whatever spreading."

She took another sniff at me and sighed.

"It's refreshing... Very stimulating too...! I must hug you!"

Without much of a warning, my wife squeezed me tight.

"Ah! Y-Yuri! Jeez, I just got out of the shower and everything!"

She whined and buried her nose into my chest.

"I don't careeee~! I want your love, beloved... It's because I looooove you!"

Man...

I absolutely love it when Yuri is this endearing...

After that, we ate and checked out the plans, much to my wife's chagrin.

We were about to leave, but I wanted to take some time to plan our date out.

I had some plans when we were supposed to be on a date all those weeks ago, but given how rough I was the day before and how many rounds Yuri wanted, that plan was thrown out the window.

Maybe I can fit some of those plans here.

But the usual patient Yuri was showing she was getting restless.

I don't blame her since I especially told her we weren't going to do anything intimate yesterday.

But I didn't expect it to be this bad...

"Hurry up! I want to go on our date, RIGHT NOW!" She barked, causing me to flinch. "Come onnnnn!"

I gave her a nervous smile.

"We will go, just give me a sec, alright? Proper planning is smart if we are going to maximize how much fun we are going to have."

She irritatedly rolled her eyes.

"I already packed in some extra clothes, my swimsuit, a blanket, and other items, for the trip."

Wait, what?

I eyed her on the last part of the sentence.

"What do you mean... 'other items'? What else did you bring besides the beach supplies?"

Instead of answering me, she gave me her usual small smile.

"Why don't you see for yourself... when we embark for our date?" She playfully teased.

I deadpanned from her tease and sighed.

"Alright, alright. I'm done planning for the most part. Let's go." I said, now standing to leave.

Yuri took my hand as we started to head towards the door.

"So, since you planned. What do you plan on that we do first?" She asked as we left the condo.

I locked the door and started heading outside.

"What I planned on doing first was maybe walk around the main street, see if they got anything open at this time of the day. We got some time to burn until our bus arrives for the beach... Or-"

---

I smiled and put my finger on his lips.

"It doesn't matter, Beloved. As long as I'm spending time and having fun with you, I have nothing to complain about. Simply sitting around doing nothing is not a very productive way of spending time on our anniversary date, is it?" I stated, now pulling my finger away.

Val was a little disorientated by my bold move but shook it off.

Doing little actions like that here, and there is what keeps my husband on his toes.

He nodded in agreement.

"You're right... Maybe I'm overthinking this, but I really want to spend as much time with you as possible. Let's get moving."

We picked up the pace.

I held my husband's hand tightly and squeezed.

He squeezed back as we headed towards our destination.

As we walked there, I thought about what we were going to do once we got to the main street.

Hmm...

The main street has a library and tea shop, the same places we went to on our first date.

Perhaps we can go there on this date as well!

Once we were on the main street, I rubbed my husband's hand with my thumb, to which he turned his head.

"Hmm?"

I pointed towards the library.

"Can we go there first, Beloved? It's been a long time since I went back to the library!" I exclaimed excitedly.

He smiled at me.

"Sure, I don't see why not? Maybe instead of zoning out on how huge your chest is, I might be able to pay attention this time." He teased.

I covered my generous chest from him and looked away bashful.

"Y-You were thinking about my chest that entire time I was talking about books? Meanie..."

He laughed wholeheartedly.

"No, no, no. I actually wasn't, trust me. Remember, this was when I didn't get to see your complete personality of yours back then. When we first came here, it was like a switch that activated, and you became an older version of Haru. Or... at least an older version of your child-self. If that makes any sense." My husband explained. "I was thinking about how passionate you got when we were there. Seeing you jump around and looking for books was endearing to me."

My face flared up, but instead of being saddled by his words, I looked at him with pride.

"It's because of you that I am now like this forever. Let's get going already, shall we? The books are calling me!"

With that, I pulled him towards my favorite places in the city.

As we entered, I felt the memories of us coming to this place together for the first time.

We had so much fun here...

I remember it all so well.

"Hmm, this place looks a lot bigger than I remember it. Strange... Did they do any renovations the last time we visited?" Beloved asked.

I looked around as well, realizing there was a new section of the library now open.

The new section was an extension of the original's lines of mystery, sci-fi, and horror, but geared towards a more mature audience.

"It seems that only those who are over 18 are eligible to enter this new area. I haven't seen such a measure being placed before. How peculiar."

Since we were both over 18, this was nothing to worry about.

We entered the new part of the library and saw only a few shelves of books here and there.

I thought this area of the library would have some more genres than just-

My eye immediately caught onto the horror section of the library.

Oh, my!

And so I pulled my husband towards the section.

He let out a surprised yelp as I ran towards one of my favorite genres in literature.

Once we were there, I let go of his hand and felt my field of view widen.

"Oooh! So this where they put more of my favorite author's works!" I cheered, now picking up the book and browsing through the pages.

My husband did the same with an older novel.

"OK, let's see what we got here... 'And so his flesh cried out to the burning sun, melting it away until it was a sentient mess of skin.' Wait, hold on a minute... I think I read this before. This is sort of ripping on the S-"

I interrupted him before showing the cover of my book.

"Look, Val! This is the newest novel from the same author! Take a look!"

I handed him the book, and he opened it to a random page of the book.

"Hmm, let's see here... 'I woke up to see my classmates wandering the dirty halls of the apparently new academy sanctioned by the government. We all were taunted by this evil mechanized tiger, telling us we had no choice but to kill each other to survive.' Hoh, this sounds eerily creepy but atmospheric. This is precisely why you like these books, right?"

I nodded enthusiastically.

"Exactly! The way this specific author portrays horror is unrivaled! Although it isn't my aim to write horror... I do take inspiration on how he builds the world, expands upon the characters, and gives you the feeling of pure, unadulterated desperation. If he manages to make you feel helpless, then isn't that considered good writing?! Every word he writes somehow pops out of the novel and manifests into our reality! Isn't that amazing?!"

He put his hand on his hip and smirked at me.

"Yep, it is. Sheesh, you really like his work, huh? To be able to write like that and for you to admire him, I'm guessing he is a world-renowned author?"

I shook my head at this and frowned a little.

"Unfortunately, that isn't the case. This author is unknown to the other parts of the world and is popular only here. But I am sure that those who love horror will love his books. Now that is a promise." I declared.

My husband took another glance at the book before giving it back to me.

"This guy definitely deserves to be famous, given how amazing his writing is. If he's able to give me a random reader, a little chill down my spine, he is definitely good. If only someone can do a fan-translation of his work... That would be great." He remarked.

I looked at him expectantly.

"No, I won't be translating... Wait, actually. That might be a good idea..."

He picked out another older novel and browsed through its contents.

"Maybe, I can show Akira this book and maybe get him to hook up a translation company. If an experienced writer such as you admires this author's writing, then it doing that would be a great idea!"

I immediately picked up on what he was saying.

"That's correct! My father's company can provide the means to publish my favorite author's work in another language! That way, he can display his eminence to the greater world! And because of that, more and more people can read his works!" I buzzed, jumping in place. "What an ingenious idea!"

My husband simply looked at me with his warm eyes.

And so, I tackled him into his arms and cooed.

He put his hand on my head and gave me headpats I loved so much.

"Honey, I think I should be the first tell you that this is something I thought of at the top of my head. This line of thought is expected of me by your dad."

I looked up to him with a smile.

"So? You were able to apply that train of thought right here! It's a great idea!" I complimented.

He looked away with a diffident simper.

"Thanks... Yuri. Now can you let go, please? I'm starting to feel some glares burning a hole at the back, my skull..."

I reluctantly obliged him.

We continued to comb through the many books in the library before deciding to leave.

Val took out his phone and checked the time, never letting go of my hand.

"Hmm, we almost got an hour left before the bus arrives. What do you think we should do in the meantime, Honey?"

I thought back on what we did right after we went to the library.

That's right, we went to the cafe.

I made sure to give Jasmine tea so that he would be aroused...

To think he was able to resist it for so long...

When we went to the theater, he still was able to display impressive restraint.

But in the end, the aphrodisiac effects finally kicked in, and we made love in the back of the theater.

Sure, it was risky, but when the speakers were at full volume and so very far from everyone, there was nothing to worry about.

I...

I can only hope that we can do it again today.

No, I will make sure of it.

"Let us go to the cafe. I'm feeling a little parched from perusing all those books. Don't you feel the same?"

He shrugged at this.

"Ehh... Sort of. But I don't mind some tea before we hit the road."

I covered my mouth to hide the ever-growing grin stretching my lips.

Good...

Good.

It's been a while since he had Jasmine tea as well, so he won't be able to remember the taste as well I do.

Not to mention, I'm very well acquainted with the waiters of the cafe too, so maybe they might be able to grant some requests.

Even if that request is...

Somewhat questionable, I suppose.

It didn't take long until we finally made it to the cafe and sat down.

"Oh, wow... This brings back memories. Looks like we are a short trip down memory lane, huh?" He remarked.

I never would have thought it would be this difficult to stay quiet about this.

The suspense is killing me!

"Hm, I suppose we are. But I'm looking forward to the new memories we are about to make soon. Very soon."

Val didn't pick up on my subtle tone and looked at the menu.

"The menu changed a little. I didn't expect them to serve burgers here... Strange. Yuri, do you want any appetizers before we go?"

I shook my head.

"No, thank you. I would rather have my tea and depart for the bus." I answered swiftly.

He pursed his lips.

"Alright, then. I'll do the same too."

During our time talking, I wrote on a piece of paper, I planned on giving to the waiters when they arrived.

Fortunately, my husband was preoccupied with gazing at the new menu while I was doing this.

When the waiters finally arrived, I gave them the paper, to which they covertly took.

"We would like two teas, please!" I requested, to which they nodded and left.

I looked back at my husband, and he was eying me in amusement.

"So by just saying two teas, they'll serve it to you? Didn't they ask what tea we would want or something?" He asked.

I rested my cheek on my palm.

"Don't worry, so much, Beloved. I come here often whenever I had a lunch break back at work." I reassured. "They know what tea I'm going to have, and I am sure you would like it."

So far, it looks like I'm doing well.

I only need to keep this up for a little longer...

"Huh... You would go through the main street so that you would have tea here? That's something I didn't know." Val noted, putting down the menu.

Since there was some time left before our tea came, we started another conversation.

"Beloved, do you remember what I wore on our first date together?

I remember what happened as clear as day.

Val stroked his chin and immediately knew the answer.

"Oh... Yeah, I do. You were wearing a black dress, something similar to what you're wearing right now."

That is true.

What I am wearing right is a black lolita dress, since Beloved like the dress I wore on our date.

"Good, good. Now, what happened once we finished our tea?" I asked.

He immediately was able to answer me.

"We went to the park and took a walk, ate some ice cream..." Val's eyes widened once he got to a particular embarrassing part. "Uh, do I have to say what happened there?"

I only nodded to which he rubbed his forehead.

"Ugh... When we were sharing ice cream, we... made out in front of everyone there. I still get jittery when I think about it. Seriously, to think we laughed off something so embarrassing..."

They served us our tea and marked one of the two teacups with a black marker.

And so, I took the one without the black mark on it.

"I found it funny because we were doing that in broad daylight... I never thought you wanted me so badly..." I teased.

He rolled his eyes and picked up the teacup.

"Tch... I don't remember why I was so out of control that day. It all so very strange, honestly."

Val frowned and take a sip of the tea.

His eyes flickered as he savored the taste.

"I didn't have this tea in a long time... Why does it feel... Dense? Like it's heavier? What tea even is this?"

He's getting suspicious.

I mustn't blow my cover.

"It's green tea, Beloved." I simply answered, while sipping on my own tea.

He gave an amused grunt and shrugged.

"Hmm... I don't remember oolong tea feeling this... dense. Well, whatever. It still tastes sweet and is very fragrant." Val noted, now drinking the rest of the tea.

Looks like he isn't suspicious anymore...

I smirked at what he was drinking.

This is the same tea we drank all those years ago.

Jasmine Tea.

I told them to put a little more Jasmine leaves in his tea.

To mask the Jasmine taste, I told the waiters to conceal the base with green tea. That way, he wouldn't know what he was drinking.

As for me, I am having pure, adulterated Jasmine tea as well.

Ever since he refused me, I have felt somewhat frustrated.

By fleshing out my own frustrations against him... I hope he will understand to sate my needs whenever possible.

I long for his touch, and to wait for a day was simply torturous.

He had his reason to do it today, but we haven't made love in a week because of how busy we have gotten.

"Ah..." My husband let out. "I also remembered what happened right after we went to the park. Hehe, I don't mind seeing that side of you again, you know?"

It took half a second for me to realize what exactly he was talking about.

I puffed my cheeks out.

"That woman... the very memory of her aggravates me. The audacity! To think she would try to steal me away from you! To think she would have a chance, too. She was most likely attracted because of your foreign appearance. But she doesn't understand she can't jump in and take you away from me... You're mine!"

He put his hands up and tried to calm me down.

"OK, OK! I get it, Yuri. I doubt she is even working in that movie theater anyway... In any case, I liked how assertive you got against her. That was attractive." He elaborated.

I downed the rest of my tea, not caring to take my time.

"Of course! I have to be assertive! You're my husband, after all! I refuse to let any other woman in our relationship, no matter what..."

He looked worried and downed the rest of his tea.

"You're right. We're married, so that means our relationship is closed for good." My husband said, now putting the cash on the table before taking my hand.

---

We got up and left the area.

I really didn't expect Yuri to get so... hot-blooded over this, especially since it was mostly a joke...

If I let her at it, she would probably have gone on a tirade about I belong to her as she belongs to me.

Something must be messing with her.

This has happened before, and if I recall correctly, the way I managed to get her back to her usual self was by...

...

...

...

Oh, I think I get the gist now.

Gosh, I'm slow when it comes to these things sometimes.

Come on, I have to keep up!

We walked towards the bus station, as we had about thirty minutes remaining before our bus arrived.

I looked back to see Yuri still scowling somewhat.

Hmm, that means she is still a little heated about this.

So the best thing to do here is maybe cool her down.

What's one way I can cool her off?

...

...

...

My view filled with greenery as we walked towards the area.

That's right...

The park!

I can cool Yuri off here.

But why did I go here?

I thought I was going to the bus station to wait out until the bus finally arrived.

Well, that obviously isn't the case.

Maybe it was a subconscious thing...

In any case, this is perfect.

"Honey, let's take a stroll in the park. We still have a half-hour left until we gotta go. Not to mention, the park's pretty close to the station too." I asked, hoping she would say yes.

She only gave me a curt nod, which meant she was still thinking about what happened in the movie theater all those years ago.

I let out a quiet relieved sigh as we walked towards the park entrance.

Yuri's hand squeezed mine, so I pressed back.

A short stroll will be able to calm things down just a little.

Right now, all I need is a small distraction.

Hand in hand, we sauntered the park grounds.

The atmosphere we were in was perfect.

All there was a pure breeze, some birds chirping, and rushing water.

Hmm...

Now that I think about it.

This place kind of feels like the garden in Yuri's backyard.

Sure, this is much, much larger, but I feel so at peace right now.

I looked towards Yuri and saw the same effect on her as well.

Bit by bit, her tensed up expression was slowly starting to mellow back to normal.

If I had to guess, this is what Ivanka wanted to capture in her garden as well.

Because I would do anything to get this to work out...

"Beloved?" My wife called, now turning to me.

I turned to her and waited expectantly for her.

"If... We do get far with our jobs and will be able to support our future family... I want to have a garden that exudes the... same feeling as this park." She requested.

I stopped myself and took my wife's hands into mine, looking straight into her warm purple eyes.

"You know... I was thinking the same thing as well. If we can afford a larger home, I want to have a garden that can wash our stresses. A place where we can spend some family time with our future children." I stated. "So, let's work hard so we can achieve that."

Hmm, this sort of feels like Of Mice and Men...

Minus the ending, obviously.

Yuri hugged me tightly as a result of my words.

I held her soft body in return.

"You can count on me, Yuri. I'll try my hardest, so we can have a new home... A home that we can call home." I declared.

Her enticing scent invaded my nostrils as I rested my chin on her crown.

"As will I, Beloved. I will give it my all as well! I want our children to have a peaceful garden!"

I chuckled at her.

"Heh. You really want kids, huh? I wonder what our kids are going to be."

She pulled away from me and frowned.

"You still haven't told me how many children you want. I still want a precise number, Val."

I smirked at this and patted her purple hair.

"You'll get the memo later. I'm pretty sure we want the same number of kids as you want, that's for sure." I enigmatically remarked, now taking her hand.

She sighed, and we continued to walk.

"If that's how is... Then so be it. You best not be surprised by the number of babies I want!" My wife glared.

It was more and more difficult to not reveal how I actually know how many children she wants.

When we were drunk last week, Yuri was rambling a lot when we were coming home.

It was more or less what she loved about our current situation and some glimpses of what she envisioned for the future.

Particular on how many children she wants at first.

"Loveeee~? Are you thereeee?"

"I'm right here and still changing. What's up?"

"Do you know how many children I wanttttt~?!"

"Uh... No, I don't. You always said that it depended on how I wanted."

"Is that sooo~? Well, if we do have children... Then I want to have female twins~!"

Twins.

It was the same exact thing I wanted too.

I wanted to have two twin girls to raise and love.

To think Yuri wanted that too really makes my heart soar.

Seriously... it makes me happy.

"I won't, I won't. Don't worry, Yuri." I reassured.

We continued to walk towards the bus station through the park, still holding hands.

I took one last glimpse before we exited the park.

Hmm...

She looks a lot more relaxed than how she was before.

But this won't last for long.

I hope our time at the beach won't be too... muddled.

As we exited the park, I pulled out my phone and checked how much time we had left.

Hmm, we have about 10 minutes.

That's the ideal time to wait for the bus.

"We're here... And we still have some time to spare," I muttered, now putting away my phone. "Let's have a seat somewhere."

Yuri was starting to get excited.

"I can't wait! We haven't gone to the beach for a long time!" She buzzed.

She's really so cute when she gets stoked like this.

"Yeah, tell me about it. Work has been a pain before, but now we got the hang of it, there's nothing to worry about." I added.

My wife beamed at me.

"Indeed! It's because of that we are now able to go on these dates! Ooooh! I can't wait, I can't wait!"

I did everything I can to not hug my adorable wife right then and there.

"Just a little bit longer, Honey. Is there a reason why you're so excited?" I asked.

I felt some of her energy course to me as she hugged my arm.

"Well... I recently bought a new bikini! I wanted to get your opinion on it!" She declared not so quietly.

I started to sweat as I felt some of the stares beginning to focus on me.

Crap.

This isn't good.

To think her cute attitude would make her oblivious to her surroundings.

"Uh... Is that so? Well, I can't wait to see it." I muttered, hoping she would get the message.

She continued to hug my arm, which implied she was somewhat understood.

"You will love it! But I still want to hear your words when you see it! However, this isn't what I am more focused on. Instead, I am more focused on how you are going to grant my every wish! You didn't want to give me what I wanted yesterday, so this will be an amazing time!"

My face was now a scarlet red as I tried to calm the jittery girl down.

Argh, I should have expected this!

When she is excited about something, she completely disregards her manners!

Yuri stopped buzzing and saw my troubled expression.

Oh, thank goodness she stopped.

I hope she-

For some reason, she grinned mischievously, giving the same vibe as her younger sister.

That definitely doesn't look good.

"I'll make sure that I'm satisfied once I'm done with you. I'm quivering with the number of possibilities that lie ahead of us..." She started to say in a rather drawled tone.

Yep, I know exactly what she is trying to do.

Maybe trying isn't the right word, because it's working.

Yuri was using the voice whenever we are intimate, which triggered my heart to pump uncontrollably.

"I sure hope you will be extra roug-!"

I cut her off as I saw the bus finally arrives.

"Well! Why don't you look at that! The bus is here! Let's go to the beach!" I declared, hoping to clear the air she put up.

I gripped on her hand, pulled her into the bus, and evaded the many disapproving stares in the station.

Yuri and I sat together towards the window.

Once we were settled, I glared at my wife.

She noticed my flustered state and covered her mouth to stifle a giggle.

"Pffh...! Hehehe! It seems like you enjoyed what happened earlier..." She teased.

I tightened my glare at her.

"As if! I felt people staring at me...! I never been so embarrassed before..." I muttered.

Sure, I am a little off-balance with her small act back there.

But, in actuality, I'm thrilled that my wife managed to tease me back.

I usually am the one to tease her, but on this occasion, it looks like the tables have turned.

That is a nice change of pace, actually.

Yuri daringly put her hand on my thigh and leaned in with a lecherous mist in her eyes.

"That may be the case... But I have a feeling that you truly do want to do that soon." My wife whispered, sending jolts down my spine.

She spoke to the carnal desires in me, which, for some reason, was much more intensified.

Why...

Why do I feel so aroused?

Come on, get it a together!

We're on a bus for pity's sake!

I need to think of something to distract me from those thoughts!

Arrrrgh!

"Beloved...? Is there something that is bothering you?" She questioned with a barely restrained smirk.

Wait...

Why is she smirking?

That doesn't...

...

Yuri, you purpled eyed vixen.

I have a feeling that you did something to me!

What did she do it for me?

Put some aphrodisiacs in my water or something?

No, no...

This is Yuri we are talking about, so that must mean she had a brilliant way of hiding things.

But what did she use?

I looked at the surprisingly cunning girl.

"No, nothing. I'm fine." I claimed, still feeling a little aroused.

I can fight this off...

I'm a man!

I can do it!

...

I hope.

Either way, I'm gonna get my revenge.

---

We were now on the beach.

I teased my husband here and there, a little happy that I managed to get the odds in my favor.

After all, he is the one who teases me.

It's empowering when I have the cards in my hand.

There were many people at the beach, many of whom were near the food stands and in the ocean.

"Hmm, I didn't expect there to be a lot of people... Oh, well. Our plans aren't going to be affected." My husband examined now, turning to me. "Let's get changed."

Huh...?

"Val, aren't we going to change together? I want you to see my new swimsuit!" I mentioned.

He took a couple of blinks to process what I said.

After that, he shook his head.

"Yuri, you might want to rethink your sentence, a little."

I raised an eyebrow and thought about what I said.

Hmm...

I don't think there was anything wrong with what I said.

"Um... what was it that I said was peculiar?" I asked, genuinely confused.

My husband stared at me, blankly.

"Yuri, I'm a guy. I think you can work from there."

...

What's wrong with-

...

...

...

Oh.

I see.

My face burned up from my mishap.

"T-T-That's right... We are not at home. I seemed to have forgotten that."

My lust and yearning for my husband are starting to cloud my thoughts.

Even more so than I thought...

He smiled and patted my hair.

"It's fine, Honey. Now go get changed, I'll be waiting for you."

I responded with a simple nod and went to the changing rooms.

Once I was there, I opened my backpack and took out my swimsuit, while being careful not to reveal any of the "toy" I had with me.

These come into play later...

I stripped and put on the bikini I wanted to show my husband.

It didn't take long to change, and I was out within minutes.

---

In my hands was the deflated ball we were planning to play with.

I can tell Yuri and me are going to have fun.

Even if I have to go a little easy on her.

"T-Thank you for waiting."

I turned to see my wife's slender legs, gleaming and pale, reflecting my eyelids.

As I looked up, I muttered my wife's name.

"Yuri..."

She only fidgeted in place, apparently a little embarrassed.

My wife's remarkably pale skin shines through that simplistic black bikini.

Not to mention her slender waist, which had little to no extra fat.

And finally, her rather generous chest, exuding the beauty of both the bikini and her body.

"Wow..." I only uttered, eyeing my wife's gorgeous body.

She rubbed her arm, sheepishly.

"Is this... To your liking, Beloved?"

I grinned at her moe behavior.

"Damn straight it is! I knew you were always beautiful and all, but this swimsuit just makes you even more radiant! You're incredibly pretty, Yuri!" I exclaimed, restraining my self from hugging her.

Yuri was a little shaken from my words and took a deep breath while shuffling her legs a little.

"Thank you, Beloved. You... made this a lot harder than it has to..." She enigmatically said. "As for you, I can tell you still have your physique from high school... Did I tell you how much I am in love with it?"

My heart jumped from her slightly arousing words.

"Uh... Um... Y-Yeah, I think you did." I answered, trying my best to answer her.

Yuri licked her lips slowly at this.

"Good... That's good."

Uh?

What does that mean?

"In any case, you have the suntan lotion on, is that right?" My wife asked, changing topics.

I only nodded and pulled it out from my bag.

"You put some on already, right?"

She smiled at my question.

"Of course. But I need assistance putting some on my back and other regions. The sun's rays seem to be particularly intense today."

Hmm, that is true.

"You're right. I don't want to see your fair skin getting sunburned or anything."

She rubbed her arms when I said that.

"Uuugh... This is rather difficult. Is this your revenge for how I teased you in the bus station?"

I was a little perplexed by this.

"Uh... No? I genuinely think that." I answered.

She took a deep breath and shook her head.

"I prefer it if you would... give me your compliments in moderation."

I smirked at her.

"How can I hold back? I'm doing that right now. It's not my fault you're angelic." I teased.

She gripped the side of her arms as if trying to hold something in.

"You're... A real meanie, you know that? I'm struggling right now..."

Yuri then dropped onto the blanket I set up, face first.

"Put on the suntan, meanie." She groaned under the blanket.

I laughed a little from her nickname for me.

"Heh... That I will!"

As she laid down, I was fascinated by her beauty once more.

Yuri's extended, lean nape...

Her delicate shoulders and that smooth outline.

Even when lying down, I can tell that she has some of that aristocrat dignity in her.

"Val... Hurrrrry up!" She whined.

I love it when she does that.

With some suntan in my hands, I warmed it up and pressed it against her back.

"Kyaah!"

I started at the center of her back and used my fingertips to spread the suntan along her back.

"Hyahn...! Uuuh!" My wife twitched.

I can't get anything done if she keeps doing this.

"Honey, do me a favor stay still, will you?"

She gave me a low whine.

"I-I'm trying...! But your fingers seem to be... Aah! Kyaah!"

This isn't going anywhere.

I pulled away and deadpanned.

She looked to me with a glare.

"A-Are you attempting to seduce me?!" My wife accused.

I was baffled by this.

"Huh?! No, I'm not! What makes you think that?"

She pointed at my fingers.

"It feels as if you're trying to arouse me with your erotic fingers! Do it more normally!" Yuri hissed with a pout.

With a huff, she laid on the blanket and awaited my touch.

Ugh, what the hell...

How is my touch so erotic?

Anyway, a new plan.

Quick swipes with my palms should do the trick.

I hope...

With my new method, I was sure it would work.

But I was wrong.

"Hyahh...!" She moaned.

I stared blankly at this.

"Hold it in for me, Yuri. Come on."

Another approach is then.

Let's see, let's not put any emotion into this.

I went for the new strategy, and it was a small success.

"Kh... Uh..."

Hmm, it looks like it's working so far.

But, it looks like she's shivering a little.

Still, a lot bearable when she is moving around.

I was able to move to the sides of her back because of this.

My hands ran up and down her sides, but she started to tremble uncontrollably.

"Pff... Khf...!"

Huh?

I continued to do this a little longer before Yuri burst.

"Hahahahaha! Ahahaha! Stop! Stop! I can't best you!" She laughed uncontrollably.

...

I was tickling her?!

"My bad, my bad. I didn't mean to tickle you there."

She laughed for a little more before letting a sigh.

Once she did, however, my wife glared at me again.

"Your perverted nature seems to be leaking through. Stop it!"

I recoiled from Yuri's strange and childish accusations.

As expected from the older twin sister...

"What are you even on about?! I'm just trying to put on some suntan!" I explained.

She crossed her arms and looked away with a cute pout.

"That doesn't fit my perspective on this..."

Oh, dear...

Hmm...

For some reason, I am not annoyed by this at all.

Instead, I find it all too charming.

Maybe it's because of how Yuri has grown.

I can't help myself from comparing the old Yuri and the new Yuri so many times...

The old Yuri would be flustered and refuse any of this...

But the new Yuri isn't afraid to speak her mind but will get this done...

I love that about her so much.

Despite her protests, I forced my hands onto her back and rubbed the rest of the lotion.

She laughed uncontrollably as I did.

"Kyahahahaha!"

Once that was over, I stood up and took a step back to marvel at my work.

Yuri looked at me with her adorable pout.

"Meanie... Meanie pervert..."

I smirked at this.

Meanie pervert, huh?

"How did you arrive at that conclusion? Was it because of my so-called 'perverted fingers' or what?"

She only nodded in response.

I sighed and put my hand on my hip.

"I mean, hey. I got the job done. So that's gotta worth something."

My girlfriend crossed her arms and looked turned her head away from me.

"Hmph! Meanie-pervert-worker!" She declared.

...

What a weird nickname.

Childish, but it works...

I guess.

---

While this was happening, some woman with a microphone and camera came to us.

"My, my! Is this a lover's quarrel at work? What's wrong, you two?"

We were both taken off-guard by the sudden appearance of a camera crew and reporter.

"N-No, no! There's nothing wrong!" We simultaneously explained, much to the delight of the reporter.

We realized what we were saying and flared up as a result.

"I never thought we would see a couple that could make up so quickly! You must have a very caring boyfriend!" She remarked.

But before Val or I could correct her, she cut us off.

"Now! I'm here today to ask you two if you're interested in a contest! The contest of love! The contest of dedication! The contest of trust! That's right! It's the contest of who is the best couple on this beach!"

We glanced at each other, both of us unsure of what to say.

Val shrugged and gave me a look that said to go for it.

"May we ask, what the prize is if there is a victor?" I asked.

The reporter held out a picture of what the prize was.

Both of us stared at the picture and traded glanced.

Hmm.

The prize is a gift card at the local clothes shop.

A shop called Stephanie's Secret.

It's a little underwhelming.

"Very well. We would like to participate!" I declared, now taking my husband's hand.

And so, Val and I were participating in the contest.

In total, only six or so couples were participating.

However, the crowd that formed was quite impressive.

...

I expected more to compete, but given what the prize is, then it makes sense.

As we waited for the contest to start, a man with a microphone walked near us and the couples.

"Welcome, everyone! This is a high-risk, high-reward contest where the participating couples compete against each other in games that show how pure and potent their love is! The couple who is truly in love will win!" He started off. "There are three games! And in those three games, the couples who win will move onto the next! The ones who fail will be eliminated! The winning couple will receive a complimentary voucher to Stephanie's Secret!"

Val nudged me as he spoke.

"This is going to be easy. Just keep it cool and... listen to your heart." He muttered, feeling bothered. "Ugh... OK, that sounds cheesy even for me."

I smiled and squeezed his hand.

"Don't feel bad, Beloved. It's a part of who you are." I reassured.

We failed to notice that the host was looking at with a teasing smile.

"Well, well! Look at these lovebirds! They are showing off their love to everyone! What a bold move! Now! Let's start!"

Our faces started to heat up.

Fortunately for us, the contest host moved on and led us to an area with small dunes of sand and holes everywhere.

"Alright! This is the dig out of your buried boyfriend game! Let's get started!"

I saw Val's face pale as he saw what was going to happen next.

That's right...

He's a little uneasy in places that restrict movement much.

"Girlfriends are to dig their significant other out by hand. Boyfriends, your objective is to get the sand off as well so that you can kiss your girlfriend once free. The couples to kiss before the timer runs out will be able to proceed to the next game! This is the test of cooperation and unity!"

I squeezed my husband's hand and gave him a firm nod, which gave the will to continue.

He squeezed back before laying on the hole, with the workers burying him in the same.

I knew he was a little nervous, given how he had closed his eyes.

Hopefully, I will be able to help him out quickly.

Once the workers were done with the burial, Val opened his eyes and assessed the situation.

I walked over and knelt by his side.

"Are you OK, Beloved?" I asked, worried about his wellbeing.

He gave me a steady smile.

"You're here with me. I'll be just fine. Now let's get this done."

I nodded and thought of a plan.

Since Val is restricted and needs to get out of the sand as soon as possible...

I need to help regain control of his fine motor skills first.

By giving him control, he will be able to pat off the sands on his arms and chest, making it much more straightforward.

"Beloved, I have a plan ready. Since this is the test of cooperation, we must help each other. First, I will dig out the sand on your upper body, that way we can work together to-"

"To get the rest of the sand off. Good thinking, Yuri. Always the quick thinker, huh?" He complimented.

I felt my face starting to flare up.

This is no time to gush over his loving words!

We must do this quickly!

I slapped myself and focused on the task at hand.

"We will be starting the game in 3 seconds! Ready...! 3! 2! 1! Go!"

The whistle blew, and I went straight to work, digging out the sand on his upper body.

As I dug, I knew that I was digging slower than the other couples.

"Look at that! A couple has already finished!" We heard the contest host say.

But I had a feeling my husband's strength will be able to offset this.

A bead of sweat dripped from my forehead, falling to the sand below.

"Grragh!"

That, for some reason, caused Val to pull his hand from the sand.

He reached to this body and was able to quickly work his way to clearing his left side.

The sand was no match for my husband's strength once his left side was cleared.

"Ooooh! Look at this couple here! This boyfriend can quickly outpace the remaining competition! It's as if they planned this out!"

Once a sufficient amount of sand has been cleared, he looked at me.

"Get clear! I can get out now!"

I nodded and took a couple of steps back.

With a mighty jump, he was able to clear the sand off him.

"Hah!"

He arose from the sand and patted the rest of the sand off.

"Looks like he is finally free! There has one more step left to win!"

I immediately ran over to him and kissed him, to which he strangely protested.

Why is he trying to stop me?

I pulled out and eyed his scarlet-red face.

"What's wrong, Beloved?"

He frowned and looked at me in the eye.

"Everyone saw that."

I raised an eyebrow before realizing what I have done.

Oh...

Oh no.

"Wowwwww! Amazing! Such raw love from the girlfriend! What a superb display by the final couple to win the first game!"

The crowd applauded at the turn of events, causing our faces to burn even brighter.

After that turn of events, we proceeded to the next game, with two couples being eliminated.

"Next game is the game of trust! Boyfriends, it is your job to try and catch your damsel from falling! Girlfriends must let fall at the most opportune time because your hero won't be able to help for too long! If the boyfriend holds out their arms for longer than two seconds, then they will be disqualified! You both will be wearing blindfolds!"

We were all handed a blindfold.

My husband and I gave each other one last nod before tying them.

"OK, Honey. This is all too reliant on timing and luck, so I'll try to even the odds. Give me a codeword, and I will pull my arms out to save you."

I thought of a codeword as we got awaited the whisper.

"Let us go for '(Love).'"

I heard of him chuckle at this.

"Oh? We are using 'that' as our codeword? Let's do this then."

We heard the contest host clear his throat.

"Now then! Staff, monitor the couples, and get ready to push the damsel!"

I heard a shuffle behind me as one of the staff got ready.

"We won't be starting at the same time! Rather, everyone will get a warning randomly through our staff, so get ready!"

Hmm...

If that's the case, then I need to pay extra attention later.

We both waited in anticipation of the push.

...

...

...

Is she going to push me or-

Wah!

"(L-Love!)"

Val took a step forward and outstretched, catching me in the last second.

"Good, good! Two couples failed to win the trust test! Now it is only you and another couple! Let us see who wins!"

And so we took off our blindfolds, allowing Val to let out a sigh.

"Not going to lie, this game was a little strangely worded. I had no idea that I had to step forward!"

I gave him a small smile.

"Be that as it may, we won the game at the end of the day."

He shrugged.

"Eh, I guess you're right."

And now, it was the final game.

This time the crowd was strangely close to us.

How strange...

"This is the final game! This game is called "Follow your lover's voice by using sonar!"

...

Is this another blindfold game?

"Boyfriends will be blindfolded and spun in place, while the girlfriends call for their lover in the crowd! Be careful! You don't want to put your arms around another couple's girlfriend! I've been there, hahaha!"

Wait, what?!

Without warning, a staff member pulled me towards the crowd, separating me from my husband.

"Hey! What the hell?!" I heard Val yell, obviously upset by this.

The contest host was taken aback from his angered demeanor.

"Now, now! Don't be upset, your girlfriend will be accompanied by our female staff! Shall we begin then?"

Before the game started, I racked my head for an idea.

Whatever shall I do...?

I looked towards my boyfriend, where he mouthed the word "(Love)" to me, before getting blindfolded and spun around.

Ah!

That's right!

Speaking in Russian is an excellent idea!

There is no way that my husband won't be able to recognize my Russian.

I'm reasonably confident there are no other Russian speakers here.

"Audience! Will you please demonstrate your greatest distractions!"

They all voiced their varied sentences, which worried me a little.

"Now that you are aware of what you're up against, boyfriends, let's get started! In the count of three! 1! 2! And... 3!"

Once the whistle blew, I started to speak in my native language, being distinct from the drowning voices.

"(In the garden of Eden, we sat. And there we wept, realizing the worst has not come to past...)" I started to recite.

This...

This is what we memorized back when we were children.

A book that we promised to read over and over again...

"Oh! Look at this! This boyfriend has already started moving towards the direction of the crowd! Will he be able to find her lover amidst this noise?"

I continued to recite the words I memorized.

"(But with our collective strength, we will endure. And with our love... We will continue on to the next day, warmed by each other's presence...)"

The crowd continued to get rowdier and rowdier.

"Looks like this boyfriend is still looking, but however this one is walking straight somewhere! Is he going in the right direction?!"

I'm sure...

That Val is a little bit familiar with this.

"(Only then, the doors of the promised land would finally open...)" I finished.

I felt a presence hug me tight.

"Good work, Beloved..." I whispered, taking the blindfold off him.

He smiled and leaned to give me a kiss on my forehead.

"I knew we had the right idea. Russian in a crowd like this... It was practically foolproof. What was it you were reciting? It sounds eerily familiar."

I grinned playfully.

"Don't worry, I'll tell you about it later."

The contest walked up to us with the same reporter as before, who was talking with others.

"Well done! Magnificent, from start to finish! You are the couple that wins this contest! You have earned the title of Best Couple of this beach! Congratulations! Here are your prizes, you lovebirds!"

Lovebirds?

He handed us our passes and left.

The reporter thanked the couple and moved to the next couple that competed.

"What's going on there, Val?" I asked, pointing at the more exciting scene ahead of us.

She was walking with the same microphone and camera crew.

"Hmm, if I had to guess, then they are probably interviewing people. I think the contest was big enough to cause a stir." He explained.

She was from our local news network, given the sticker on the camera.

"Thank you for your input and time!" She thanked.

The reporter then stepped in after finishing her interview.

"Now, saving the best for last. The winners of the contest! May I take a moment of your time?"

We traded looks and shrugged.

"Of course." We simultaneously said, causing the reporter to laugh.

"Oh my! The same as before! Given how you are two saying the same things, it's no wonder that you won the contest!" She remarked.

We flared up at this and looked away bashfully.

"How adorable! Now, allow me to start asking questions! Where are you two from?"

I let my husband answer this one.

"Well... We live here. We're both from this city." He answered.

The reporter turned the microphone towards her.

"Is that so? Are you two on a date on this fine day off?" She pressed.

Val was starting to feel a little uncomfortable about this, so I decided to pick up the slack.

"Err... I-I guess, yes."

I rested my chin on his shoulder and smiled.

"Yes! We are on a date!" I answered for him.

My husband squeezed my hand back as thanks.

I squeezed back.

"How romantic! Going to the beach and participating in a contest! Very nice~! Now, what is your relationship? Are you two about to tie the knot?" She teased.

This misunderstanding has gone on long enough.

I can tell my husband is starting to feel a little annoyed by this too.

"We are married!" We both declared at the same time.

...

NOOOO!

Why would we say this at the same time?!

"My, my, my! You two said the same thing thrice! You two are made for each other!"

We both looked at each other despite our embarrassment.

"I... I suppose we are." My husband said.

It's improbable they are to use this footage since this is a small beach after all.

I hope there is nothing to worry about.

"Well, then! Best of luck to you both! Thank you for your time!"

And with that, she finally left.

We both let out heavy sighs.

"Finally..." I muttered under my breath.

"Yeah, tell me about it." My husband agreed.

We then started walking away from the scene and towards our belongings.

"Alright, so what do you want to do next, Yuri?" He asked as I checked if everything was in place.

The rushing water to my side called for us.

I pointed towards the water.

"Let's go swimming! I want to see if you can keep up with me!"

He grinned and cracked his neck.

"Hah! Bring it on! I improved since then!"

And so, we played in the water.

---

After our time in the water, we decided to finally start playing volleyball.

"Hmm, a volleyball. I haven't played with these ever since high school." I remarked. "Whenever I had gym with my friends, we would team up and annihilate any teams that went against us. Teamwork really pays off when every strike is coordinated."

She gave me another competitive look, which I welcomed.

"That is the case when you're with your friends. However, I don't seem to see your friends nearby." Yuri stated.

I was pleasantly amused by her taunting.

"Oho? You're challenging me?" I taunted back.

She put her hand on her chest and took a deep breath.

"I am! And I can't do so if we don't put any ground rules!"

I smirked from her passion.

Hoo, boy...

I get the feeling she gets like this when she competing against Chiyoko.

"Alright, we'll have a penalty game. The loser has to buy crepes!" I declared.

Yuri scoffed at my idea of a penalty.

"Is that all, Val? How disappointing. I suppose you can't make the stakes higher, can you?"

Make it higher?

I mean buying crepes is kind of a significant penalty, right?

"OK, Missus Jones, what's your idea of a penalty?" I asked.

Yuri smirked back.

"You shall see it later. Let's begin! Whoever lets the ball fall three times loses."

I nodded and cracked my knuckles.

"You're on!" I pumped, tossing the ball at Yuri.

She caught it and took a couple of steps back to create some distance.

"OK... I can do this! Watch me, Beloved! I am not as frail as you think I am!" She voiced.

Trying to make up the water fight we had, huh?

I grinned and waved my hand at her.

"Come on! I can take it!"

Yuri took the ball one hand and hit it with her forearm, serving the ball underhand.

The first hit was only the primer for the rest of the game, obviously.

"Hm!"

I lightly set the ball towards Yuri, hoping it wouldn't go out of bounds or anything.

My wife did the same as well.

"Hah!"

I saw the ball was starting to influenced by the wind.

And so, I reached out and hit the ball upwards, giving her the advantage.

She grinned at this and jumped up to hit the ball downwards.

Crap!

A spike!

But it's nothing I can't handle!

Yuri jumped a little in the air and was about to hit the ball down.

When this would happen, the standard procedure was to challenge them and spike it down from their side.

But I was going easy on my wife, so I wouldn't do this.

To accommodate, I crouched and got ready to set it upwards again.

I was able to succeed somewhat.

The ball went upwards again, giving her the advantage.

However, her thin arm had other plans and missed the giant beach ball completely.

As a result, she lost her balance and fell onto the sand.

I recoiled from how she fell before running to her and picking her up.

"Hey, hey... Are you OK?" I asked.

She nodded.

"Y-Yes! I'm fine. I miscalculated that's all."

I looked down to see the sand spread all over her knees, so I brushed it off.

"The ball's too smaaaallll~! Val, get a bigger one!" She bemoaned.

I can only stare at her and took a couple of steps back.

"Yuri. This ball's about 65 centimeters long, or about 2 foot and a half..."

She pouted and looked away.

Hehe...

That's cute.

"Mmmh...!"

Without giving me any sort of warning, she served the ball.

Huh?!

Because of how sudden the serve was and how baffled I was, I had no time to readjust.

"D-Damn it! I can't keep up!" I groaned as the ball kept getting further and further away.

The ball inevitably hit the sand as a result.

Yuri giggled as I couldn't keep up.

"You fell to the oldest trick in the book! You taught me this a long time ago, remember?"

I vaguely remember doing this when we were kids, but I didn't expect it now!

Alright, then.

Looks I'll be on the lookout for any tricks.

Since I had the ball, it was my turn to serve.

"OK, Yuri. Let's not try to use any cheap tricks. Come on!"

I served the ball to her.

She managed to stretch and hit the ball towards me without consequence.

However, unlike her, I hit the ball without stretching due to our height difference.

We continued to hit the ball back and forth before I decided to switch things up a little.

The ball was continuing to get higher and higher, causing Yuri to jump and me to stretch.

This has gone long enough!

I hit the ball downwards, to which Yuri couldn't keep up.

My wife tried to jump and spike the ball but failed.

Fortunately, the wind allowed the ball to stay afloat for a little longer.

She slid on the sand in an attempt to hit the ball back, but the wind had other ideas.

The ball rolled on the sand as a result.

Yuri gritted her teeth at me.

"Some husband you are! Why are you not going easy on your wife?!"

I gave her a teasing smile.

"Yuri, I'm going as easy I can. You have to up your game."

She gave me an adorable growl and served the ball.

Unlike before, I was ready and was able to attack back.

Yuri took my words to heart and started jumping more often to hit the ball, which made me stretch a little more often.

As she jumped, my eyes fixated on her swaying chest, which distracted me.

With luck and the distraction, she managed to spike it, and I wasn't able to hit the ball upwards.

The ball rolled on the sand as a result.

She gasped and jumped in place.

"I did it! I did it! I did it! Val, did you see that?!"

Her bubbly and energetic cheer made me smile.

"Yep, I did! Nice one!"

Wait...

Why did I look at her chest?

And...

I am feeling a little turned on right now?

Especially at the sight of her... sweat.

Why?!

Argh! Come on, get it together!

Yuri tossed the ball to me, and I served the ball underarm.

"Take that!"

She returns with an astonishing amount of force.

"Hup!"

The wind started to drift the ball away, making things a little more complicated.

"Damn it! This wind's really starting to get on my nerves! Huah!"

The ball curved with a satisfactory amount of force, causing Yuri to stumble.

However, she was able to recover in time and hit back.

"I-I won't give up! I will make you take the penalty! Here!"

The ball was deflected with a relatively strong force.

"Looks like you're upping your game even more! If you're gonna improve, then I will too! Hrgh!"

I aimed slightly downwards, causing her to hit the ball higher to stabilize things.

"M-Me too! I'll keep adapting and adapting! Just like you, Val!"

I now decided to spike to spice things up.

Yuri, in response, started deflected said spikes.

The ball flew high above my head, giving me ample time to spike.

"This is it! End of the line!"

I stretched up and spiked down, intent ending things once and for all.

But to my surprise, Yuri countered this by jumping to stop my spike.

Impressive.

But I know how to handle that!

I reflexively jumped up as well, spiking the ball down.

But as I did, Yuri's balance in the air faltered.

"Waah!"

Shit!

"Yuri!"

I grabbed onto in mid-air and barely had enough time to shield myself from the brunt of the fall.

Once we fell, Yuri rubbed her head.

"Ow... Ah! V-Val! Are you alright?!" She called.

I shook my head out of it.

"Y-Yeah... Argh...! I'm good, woo! That was a fun game!"

Yuri pursed her lips and looked away.

"It was..."

I looked at her negative expression.

"Hey, look. I was planning on going to the crepe stand anyway, so-"

She put her lips against mine, kissing me.

And just as fast, she pulled away.

"No, Beloved. I lost, and I must pay for the consequences." Yuri interrupted.

I helped her stand up, and she walked over to her bag.

What's she doing...?

I patted the sand off me and eyed her as she walked there.

She knelt down and pulled out something from her backpack.

In her hand was a small egg-shaped bud and what seemed to be a remote.

Wait a minute...

Is that a...

Pink rotor?!

"Don't tell me that's the penalty you were going with!" I muttered while looking at the vibrator. "If I lost then-"

She flared up and shook her head, vigorously.

"NO! No! Of course not! I was thinking of... making love in the changing room after hours... Since we only have a little more time left before we have to leave."

I let out a relieved sigh.

"A-Alright, but why this?" I asked.

She shuffled her thighs in response.

"W-Well... I've been so frustrated lately and..."

I immediately knew what her train of thought was going with.

"Ohh... I didn't know it was this bad... But you don't have to do this." I said.

She shook her head, having none of it.

"I lost the game and therefore must pay for the penalty. This will suffice." She answered.

I gulped as she handed me the remote.

"Fine... I will do this. But hurry back, OK?"

She simply nodded and went to put it in.

Having the ability to bully Yuri with the slight flick, made the bulge in my shorts grow more and more noticeable.

I...

I think I'm hitting my limits here...!

Whatever Yuri did to me is starting to kick in full force!

I don't know if I can't take much more of this...!

And the fact that she is willing to do something this risky is...

Come on...

Just a little more!

Then I get rid of these tendencies...

It didn't take long for Yuri to come back with a bashful smile.

"I'm ready... Test it out."

...

OK!

Let's get this over with!

I looked down on the remote and turned it on slightly.

Her eyes widened, and she bit her lips.

"Aah...! Uuuh...!"

Damn it!

When she's looking at me like this, I really need to let it free!

My heart was pounding against me uncontrollably, as I struggled to keep it in.

"G-Go...! Get a move on..." I ordered, to which she obediently followed.

She walked towards the crepe stand, where an old lady was awaiting new customers.

The old lady smiled at Yuri and awaited her request.

"My, my. You're quite beautiful. Your skin is so very fair!"

She meekly nodded at the woman's words.

I amped up the toy, to which she covertly covered mouth to stop the moans from leaking.

"T-T-T-Thank y-y-you...!" She mumbled.

The old lady smiled and this.

"Now, what would like?" She asked.

I amped up the toy at this, causing her to let out a shaky breath.

She was having extreme difficulty trying to speak at this point.

"I-I-I would like...! Uh!"

Yuri started to reshuffle her thighs.

The old lady eyed Yuri.

"Is there something wrong?"

I amped the toy once more.

She shook her head.

I-I-I can't take it anymore!

I'm the verge of losing it altogether!

I saw some liquid starting to slowly drip down Yuri's nether region, causing me to grab her and pull away from the scene.

"B-B-Beloved?!"

I gave the old lady a patronizing smile.

"Sorry about this." I apologized before dragging my wife to the changing rooms.

It was late, and so the changing rooms were deserted.

Since there was no one around, I pinned her against the wall and glared at her.

Yuri shivered at this.

"You... You did something to me. I feel like I'm slipping...! My self-control has never been this poor before. What did you do?!" I yelled.

My yelling only turned on my wife even more.

"Simple..." She grinned. "Jasmine Tea."

My eyes widened at the context.

No...

So that's why...

"An aphrodisiac? Why? Was it revenge for not fucking you?!"

Yuri licked her lips slowly, but messily.

"You can say that, Beloved. After all, you said I have an attractive body. This was all fair, don't you agree?"

I gritted my teeth and dragged to one of the many stalls.

Once that done, I locked the stall and stripped her.

"Fair?! I'll show you 'fair'!

She welcomed my very aggressive actions.

Usually, I wouldn't be this brash with her.

But given how turned on I am and how she practically judged me, this is only fair.

I flung her black undergarments away and stripped down myself.

Yuri's aroused genitals greeted me, glistening so intensely from the sheen she secreted.

"You're gonna regret drugging me!" I growled, spreading her wet region out, taking the toy out.

"Aah! Make me regret it then!" She invited.

I positioned myself against her, but actively resisted the temptation of her and toyed with her instead.

She was puzzled by my behavior all of a sudden.

"W-What are you waiting for...? Put it in!" She demanded.

I gritted my teeth.

"You aren't any position to demand anything! You're gonna apologize to me, first!"

Fortunately, she was in no mood to protest.

"Very well! I'm sorry for tricking into drinking that tea... Now please! Sate my bodily needs!"

I forcibly inserted into her, causing her to widen her eyes.

"Aah! Agggh! W-What's this?! I n-never thought you would...!"

She has no reason to complain.

But I do have to say that she is incredibly well-lubricated.

As expected from a woman such as Yuri.

And so, I pull back then stabbed my way inside of her, causing her to hitch a breath.

"Ahhhhh! Kyaaah!"

I gripped her hips.

"Every bit that happens next is thorough bullying. So prepare yourself!"

I started my first round of thrusts into her, causing her to wrap her arms around my neck.

"Waaa! Wait! I-I-I! Aaaah!"

I felt myself pulsing inside of her as I continued to thrust.

And I felt her pulsing back in rhythm.

"You're despicable. I can tell you're a lot more excited than usual, aren't you?"

She bit her lip.

"I-It's been so long... My body longed for you... It's a miracle that I managed to hold it all in. And it feels so good too... So, please... Move a little more."

I granted her wish just this once.

"Fine."

I upped the tempo of my thrusts a little and started wandering her narrow walls.

"Hnnngh!"

As she moaned, I made sure to push her down onto the floors of the changing room.

That way, I was able to better penetrate her tunnel.

As I went in and out, she wrapped her legs against my waist, not wanting to let go of me.

"Uuugh! I-I will never get enough of this feeling! Oh my gosh! I feel so alive!"

Her erotic tone and words turned me significantly, almost causing me to forget my original target in bullying her.

Since I didn't need to grip her hips, I bit the side of her neck and focused my hands onto her ample chest.

Yuri reacted accordingly.

"AAAH! Haaah!" She squealed in surprise.

Her squeal allowed me to launch my attack on her, so I thrust deeper into her.

Each time I went back in, her walls clamped against me, stopping me from leaving.

"Khh! You...!"

To punish her for this, I positioned myself a little higher so that she had no choice but to stop her legs from latching.

And because of the extra distance, I rammed myself into her.

She rolled her eyes back from this.

"Auuugh! AH! AH!"

I pinched her nipples as each time I thrust, causing her to arch her back towards me.

And to readjust, I took more distance and entered myself again, until she went back down.

But that didn't seem to be the case at all.

As she arched back, her legs rested on the sides of my arms.

Yuri is still as limber, but that doesn't explain her stamina in some sports.

Here, I just need to break that.

With each thrust, her body convulsed with pleasure.

"Uuugh! Ah! V-V-Val! AAAH!"

She was trying to keep it together, but given how intense we were, that seemed practically impossible.

It didn't take long for her face fall slack as a result.

My hard thrusting caused her legs to spasm uncontrollably as she desperately tried to reclaim her sanity.

I felt her body grow progressively hotter underneath, along with her subtle Lavender body odor becoming more pungent in the air.

Her walls started to clamp down, so I decided to switch things up before she can release herself.

"I don't think so!"

I pulled away and pulled her up before turning her around.

"W-What are you doing?! I-I was so close...! Auuuh~! You meanie!"

I responded by smacking her ample butt.

"AUUGH!"

I stabbed her again, much brusquely than before, which caused her to stick her tongue in surprise.

"Let's see if you can handle this. And you love it when I am rough like this, you lusty woman..."

Since she was on the verge of an orgasm, I quickly sped my tempo as I gripped her hips.

"NGGGAH! AAH! I-I-I! AUUH!"

Yuri was wading through waters from the sudden pause and now rapidly approaching climax.

Every time Yuri moaned, her walls tighten wetly around me and squirm inward, urging me to go further.

I actively resisted the inviting movements, so I pulled slowly out of her.

But before she can react, my head brushed against her bladder, prompting her to grit her teeth.

"Nnnngh! Agh! N-No! D-Don't!"

I pinched her a little roughly, causing her twinge in pain.

"Aagh!"

I smirked at this.

"Sorry about that."

She puffed her cheeks out.

"Meanie... You're so mean, Val..."

Yuri was not aware of what this accomplished.

Since I inspired her to relax after a bit of pain, her carelessness and awareness will plummet.

As I slowly and carefully rubbed her clitoris, Yuri's eyes grow hazier and hazier.

Her legs weakened, her knees trembling uncontrollably, as her climax started getting closer and closer.

The intense heat of her body, her fragrant and womanly scent, and the beads of sweat on her naked back made me feel like I was one with my wife.

"Auuuh...! Val... S-Stop playing with my c-clit... Please... You teased it... long enough... please..."

I replied with a spank.

"AAH!"

She doesn't know her place in this routine.

I'm making her pay.

Now that I have weakened Yuri's defense completely, I began to pick up the tempo.

"Ah! Ah...! AAAH! N-NO! I-I-I don't know if I-I can hold it! Y-Y-You're gonna make me...! Waaaah!"

I scoffed at her.

"If you really want, then fine. Watch me."

Now instead of playing with her clitoris, I began thrusting into her deeper areas.

Her body arched with electricity as I went deep.

"Y-Yes... Yess! I love it! I love it when you rub me there! Good...!"

To reward me for listening to her, she clamped down onto me.

"Grk! Gah! To think you can tighten whenever possible!"

She was grinning.

"I'll reward you if you keep listening to me..."

I didn't like the subtle switch in power.

"Tch! I do whatever I please! Don't you dare try! To think you make demands now..."

And so I focused my efforts entirely hitting her g-spot.

Her arms lost their strength as she collapsed onto the floor in a daze.

"AAAH! AAAH! I-I-I CAN'T HOLD IT IN! Wait! Wait! UGGGH!"

Despite this, I continued to thrust in.

It didn't take her body to finally cave into what it always wanted.

Her walls tightened immensely, causing me to grit my teeth.

"D-DON'T GO THAT FAST! I'm going... I'm going to...! Nhaaaah! Eeeek! AAAAAH!"

Her body shook violently as she rolled her eyes back.

She was desperately trying to gulp in any air with her tongue, but it didn't seem to be working.

Once she finally climaxed, there was an unintentional bonus.

Her climax triggered her bladder to slacken as well, causing her to lose control.

"You meanie! You meanie! I can't stop peeing! And... You aren't stopping! UGGGH!"

I gave another smack as I continued to thrust.

"Hey, it's not my fault that your womb is opening up now. It keeps sticking out, so I want to keep going..." I teased.

But as I kept going, her recovered state broke once more.

Her tongue was out again, trying to take any air to regulate her breathing.

"AAAAH! I feel so hot! And I still can't stop peeing! I'm still so sensitive too! Auuugh! I-I think I'm gonna...!"

But before she gave me any more information, she rolled her eyes back, tightening against me.

And so, I decided to give my all.

I twisted my hips around so that I can tease and violate every little corner of her walls.

She reacted positively to this.

"EYAAAH! You meanie! You're such a meanie...! Auuuh!"

I grinned at her outburst.

"I told you, I was gonna make it extra punishing today."

Because of my twists, I was able to stir her up, causing her to lose her mind.

"Haaah! Haaaaah! Shoo good...! Aaaah! Vaaaaal~! Keeeep fucking meeeee!"

I gritted my teeth as I felt a building pressure starting to overwhelm me.

Her legs were starting tremble with her body spazzing from my brutal thrusts.

"I-I... I can't... Nooo! Yeeeeesss! AAAAAH!"

I felt her body release its juices all over my manhood.

My body couldn't handle anymore of the tightening and twitched uncontrollably, finally releasing the payload.

"Aah! Damn...! Gaah...! It's like you're trying to wring it out of me...!" I groaned, as my world went blank for a second.

When I came to, Yuri still had her mind broken expression, unable to comprehend her surroundings.

Her vaginal walls still tightening around, causing me to grit my teeth.

"Gah! Jeez, you really wanted it badly, huh?"

I felt myself twitch as I slowly let myself into her.

Her womb was filled with my seed but still refused to let go.

After a couple of minutes, she stirred.

"Mmm... What happened?" She cutely asked.

I didn't separate from her.

"You came pretty hard and went blank," I answered. "How was it?"

She responded by clamping against me.

"Amazing... Absolutely sublime, Beloved... I never thought having one round would cause this to happen..."

I grinned at that.

"Well, you drugged me, so I was extra mean to you. This was way better than having a couple of rounds, don't you think?"

She nodded lethargically.

"Y-Yes... Yes, indeed. Val... I feel sleepy..."

Without much warning, she knocked out cold.

Wow...

I never thought it would push her to that point...

Looks like it was more than she can handle.

I picked her up in her arms and cleaned her with the showerhead.

But she loved it and so did I.

So, this was worth it.

---

I woke up next to my Beloved on the next day.

He caressed my cheek as I woke up.

"Ah, you're finally awake. Good morning." Val greeted, kissing me on the cheek.

I cooed from his loving gesture.

"Mmm... Good morning, my Love."

I yawned and stretched my limbs.

"I made breakfast today. We got work in the afternoon, and it's gonna be about is meeting or something. I don't think we have a lot of work today, either." He said, vacuuming the bedroom.

Seems like these past few days have been light.

I don't mind these days much, but I do wish to go back to work soon.

"Thank you, Beloved. I will wash up and begin eating."

It didn't take long for me to clean myself and begin eating with my husband.

He took the plate and sat down in front of the TV, turning it on.

As he switched it on, he gave me the toast and began to eat.

"Tell me if you want toast, we got plenty." He assured, now looking for the remote.

I smiled and handed him the remote.

"Of course, thank you, Beloved."

With a nod, we both looked towards the TV.

"And now, we had our newscaster go to the local beach to film the local 'Best Couple' contest yesterday. Please enjoy the footage." The announcer droned.

We were both a little surprised by this.

"The local beach?" I muttered.

"The local contest?" He muttered as well. "Must be a coincidence, I'll get some more jam and some milk."

The same interviewer came onto the screen displaying the contest's couples and the many watchers.

Hmm...

This must be coincidence indeed, as these are only interviews.

My husband returned with more jam and was gulping down a glass of milk.

"There are two other beaches besides the one we went to. So I'm guessing it wasn't ours. Oh, well." He said, putting the glass of milk down.

Hmm, they must have been filming in the other beaches and deemed our beach's footage unsuitable.

I looked up and saw a rather amusing sight.

Along his upper lips were a thin line of milk.

"Love, do you mind looking at me?"

He raised an eyebrow and sat down, allowing me to kiss him.

I licked the milk clean off him, to which he pulled away.

He saw me smack my lips from this.

"Seriously, never would've expected such a treat this early in the morning. That's what I paid for when I hooked up with you."

I winked at him.

"Indeed... You were asking for it, after all."

He sighed happily.

"Jeez... We're a bunch of lovebirds, aren't we?"

I laid my head on his shoulder.

"That we are."

My eyes went back to the TV and saw something that shocked me.

"Ahhhh!"

He jolted back and was startled by my sudden yell.

"W-What?! What's wrong?" He asked, now rubbing his ear.

I pointed at the screen.

"Now, saving the best for last. The winners of the contest! May I take a moment of your time?"

Those...

Those are the same words the interviewer from yesterday has said!

"(Aw, fuck me...)" My Beloved muttered in English. "We weren't even cut..."

Both of us appeared on TV.

"V-Val... Val! We're on television! What are we to do now?!" I panicked.

He looked ahead nervously.

"Uh... There's nothing we can do now. Don't worry, nobody watches the local news. Everyone gets their news from the internet instead. We got nothing to fear." He reassured.

"Now, allow me to start asking questions! Where are you two from?"

"Well... We live here. We're both from this city."

"Did you have to say that we live here and from this city?" I asked.

He flared up.

"Hey! I was only answering normally, alright?"

"Is that so? Are you two on a date on this fine day off?"

"Err... I-I guess, yes."

"Yes! We are on a date!"

I facepalmed from how lovey-dovey I was.

"I can't believe it... I shouted over you... How embarassing~..." I mumbled.

He took the chance to deadpan at this.

"You would be surprised by how cute you get from doing that."

I shook my head out of it.

"Everything yesterday was a bit of haze... What did she ask next?" I questioned, feeling a little queasy.

"How romantic! Going to the beach and participating in a contest! Very nice~! Now, what is your relationship? Are you two about to tie the knot?"

We both knew what was coming next.

"We are married!"

...

...

...

"We... actually said that..." I uttered.

"At the same time..." He continued.

My soul was starting to leave my body.

"My, my, my! You two said the same thing thrice! You two are made for each other!"

"I... I suppose we are."

"Ehehe!"

Both of our faces on sc-reen were flushed as we smiled awkwardly, but lovingly.

"This... This is all so embarrassing." I squeaked. "We are total lovebirds..."

He rubbed his face.

"Not even... We're a completely idiotic couple." Val corrected.

We both got calls, with both our cells ringing, so we picked up.

"Hello?" I greeted.

I heard a giggle on the other side.

"Hello, Yuri. Are you having a good morning so far?"

My mother called, and I knew exactly why.

"Y-Yes... we are..."

"Hahaha! Good to know, especially since you had a good time on the beach as well... Heehee~!"

"Mom!" I heard Val groan.

We both knew that our parents saw the interview.

"W-What are you saying? We... We stayed home yesterday, mother."

She didn't buy it at all.

"Yuriiii, come now. Don't you try to lie to me, young lady! To think you would be so lovey-dovey with your husband!"

My face burned from this.

"Mother! We weren't lovey-dovey!"

"Mom! We weren't an idiotic couple!"

Oh, dear...

---

I walked into the office, nervous and incredibly jumpy.

Our friends teased us except Dan...

I got a feeling he's gonna tease the shit of me in person.

But not to worry.

I doubt anyone will jump in when he's busting my balls.

To prevent anything from happening, I went straight to my desk and turned on my computer.

As I waited for my computer to turn, I saw my coworkers snickering at something as they passed by me.

Oh...

Oh no.

"Well, well, well. Look who's come to work."

Oh shit.

That isn't Dan at all!

That's-

My eyes reluctantly looked up to see my Boss looking at me with a teasing smirk, instead of his usual serious expression.

Aw, come on!

"H-H-Hello, sir..." I mumbled.

He crossed his arms and looked teasingly at me.

"To think you made my daughter so lovey-dovey. I knew you were the one for her. It seems like you're taking good care of her!"

Fuckkkkkk!

I thought it would only be Dan but...!

"Heh, to think someone like this idiot can make a girl head over heels is astounding." Dan teased, joining into the conversation.

I couldn't muster a glare but only blush profusely.

"Boss, that isn't the best of words to use, but we got to see how lovey-dovey you two are~ Ahhhh! I'm so jealous!" One of my coworkers exclaimed.

Wait!

Whoa, whoa!

Two is a company, but three is a crowd!

One of my senior workers joined in as well.

"Hoh, I'm glad to see the youngins' are still loving as before! You're an imposing specimen of a man, you know that, Mr. Jones?"

I twiddled my thumbs from this.

This...

This is going to suck, huh?

Before anyone can join, the company phone rang, providing a much-needed distraction.

"I'll get that!"

I jumped to the phone, fleeing from the teasing.

"Hello, Ikeda Publishing-"

"Ahh! Perfect! I was waiting for you to pick up! I wanted to speak to you!"

Uh, oh.

It's Yuri's mom!

"Uh... Yes, what would you like to talk about?"

"Oh, you know. About what I saw on TV this morning... Come now! You know exactly what I'm talking about!"

"Err... Maybe we can talk about this later?

"Why, laterrrrr? Let's talk about how lovey-dovey you were with Yuri! I got everything from her, but now I need your point of view! Tell me!"

I pursed my lips from this.

"I-Ivanka, this is the office phone! Let's just talk about this later!"

Man...

I know Yuri got teased to oblivion from this too...

---

It has been a few days since everyone teased both Yuri and me because of what we said at the beach.

We were still feeling the aftershocks of it here and there, but the teasing has ceased for the most part.

Yesterday, Akira ordered some senior workers, along with Dan and me for a meeting.

To my surprise, Yuri, Ivanka, and some of the writing team were there as well.

We gave each other a brief wave before we sat down.

It was clear that the CEO was about to deliver some grave news to us as we entered the room.

We were briefed that Akira's new arrivals talked about a while ago were planning on making a visit to us.

"I hope you all can recall the meeting we had about a few days ago. We have guests coming to the company. These people are simply here to bolster our workforce and monitor our progress, so they can give valuable insight and advice. They are expected to leave by the month's end."

I got a bad feeling about this.

Especially since Akira was super serious right now.

I know that we all have the same question right now.

Why?

Why are these guys coming to our workplace?

And who even are they?

"The people that are arriving soon are from the same company, but from another branch of the family. They were considered to be our rivals before, but now they are our allies. Albeit, reluctantly... They have a vested interest in us because of how we failed to win the deal against the American company some weeks ago."

As soon as Akira finished speaking, we all glanced at each other.

We all have a bad feeling about this.

Nothing about this even gives the slightest glimmer of good-faith.

Akira did mention that the Ikeda family has some infighting because of his marriage to Ivanka, but... I never thought they would strike back at a time like this.

It's like... they planned this out.

But, I don't have any evidence of that.

My gut is screaming at me right now...

I'm sure they have ulterior motives, such spying on us.

Wait...

Are they aware of my marriage with Yuri?!

Sure, it's a bit of an open secret with the people I know and those I work with closely, but I never thought anyone would leak that information out!

...

Stay calm me, I'm only basing this off on a hunch.

We'll have to see for ourselves.

Ivanka stepped in to speak, which is something I never saw until now...

"I expect that we work harmoniously with our guests, and hope to improve relations with the other branch. And so, we will work as usual and win the next deal that comes."

Huh...

She's almost like an older version of Yuri whenever she speaks so seriously.

And now we are at the present time, with the new workers watching us like hawks as they did their work.

It was difficult for some to focus on their work as they watched on, but we kept at it.

For me, I was a mix of being able to work but also being a little on-edge.

I don't understand these guys at all.

They have this weird aura around them.

For the most part, they are seemingly friendly and helpful.

But I think we all known this is just an act so they can observe us more closely.

On the other hand, I feel that they are mocking us and planning something behind our backs.

Planning something insidious, that's for sure.

I don't know why I feel that way, but-

"Mr. Jones? Do you need any help?" One of the workers asked.

He had a friendly smile on, but I knew he was forcing it.

I smiled back.

"No, no. I'm fine, thank you." I reassured, causing him to bow and leave the area.

My lips pursed into an annoyed frown.

Maybe I'm just distrustful...

Strange...

I can usually work with newer people.

Same for the senior workers too...

But that doesn't explain why some of our workers are somewhat hostile to them as well.

Some of the senior workers don't like these guys at all.

Especially if some of them are from the same branch of Ivanka's father.

A bunch of random workers from another branch of the company is suddenly helping us...

There is bound to be something afoot.

After a little bit, it was now our lunch break, so I immediately walked towards Dan.

But before I walked towards his desk, I saw a woman checking Dan's work.

Dan politely waited for her to finish checking, but I knew he was much irritated.

After all, we have been friends for a decade now.

The woman returned the documents to him and bowed.

"Good work, Mr. Miyazaki. Everything seems to be in order."

Dan only gave her a nod before she walked away.

Once she was gone, Dan let out a heavy sigh and glared in the direction the worker left.

"What a pain. Hey, Val. We're taking our lunch break?" He asked, giving me a small smile.

I nodded, to which he quickly stood up.

We then walked out of the building, avoiding the 'friendly' gazes the other workers gave us.

Dan shot me a look that meant: "We're being watched..."

I pursed my lips and nodded.

Fortunately, it didn't take long for long for us to exit the building, away from the workers' sights.

We both let out deep breaths as we were finally out of the suffocating workplace.

"Damn it! I hate these punks!" Dan started to rant, which was rare for him to do. "I know it is what it is, but I never been so annoyed in my life! Argh!"

I patted the back of his shoulder.

"Hey, don't worry. We only have like what? A few days until they leave. Even if they aren't helpful to me..."

Hmm...

I wonder how Yuri's doing with all this.

---

This isn't right at all...

I looked around and saw the workers' fake cheery smiles.

We all were feeling uneasy about this.

I know they are spying on us.

But for what reason?

I glanced at the clock, hoping my break time would arrive soon.

And I was granted that.

All this spying and fake enthusiasm are starting to wear on me...

I need to leave as soon as possible.

As I packed some of my belongings to leave the building, one of the workers came up to me.

"Ah. Hello, Ms. Ikeda. I'm sorry that I'm intruding in your break, but I have orders to check on your work." She asked with an obviously fake smile.

I suppressed my urge to roll my eyes.

"It's not a problem. Please, take a look." I courteously answered, allowing her to see my terminal.

With a nod, she examined my work and scrolled over it.

In the corner of my eye, I saw Chiyoko calling me.

What does she want now?

I took a step to the side and motioned her to come towards me.

She got up and quickly covered the distance.

Once the blond was here, we took a couple of subtle steps to the side to make sure the worker wouldn't listen in.

"They're checking your work too, huh? These guys did the same to me." She muttered.

I glimpsed back at the worker.

"I don't like this. They are up to something." I whispered back.

The worker looked like she was finished, so I walked up to her.

She turned around and gave me her usual smile.

"Good work! There aren't any errors in your writing! Enjoy your break!" She cheered. "Thank you for your cooperation, Ms. Ikeda."

The worker started to walk away but stopped and turned around.

"Say, Ms. Ikeda. Do you happen to spend your lunch break with someone?"

Behind that cheery smile, there was something insidious.

I instantly knew what she talking about.

What?!

How does she know of our marriage?!

"N-No, I don't!" I mumbled, now taking a step back.

She took a step forward and smiled even brighter.

"Aw. Please, don't hide your embarrassment! I'm sure you do have-"

"Ma'am. That's enough." I heard someone interrupt.

I looked to my side and saw Chiyoko giving her own fake smile to the worker.

She was taken off-guard by this.

"Ms. Ikeda doesn't have any other significant others at the moment. So please, don't it the wrong way. Now if you will excuse us, we will be taking our lunch break."

With that, she dragged me away from the scene.

...

Ehh...?!

Did my rival defend me there?!

As soon as we left the building and away from the workers' surveillance, Chiyoko turned to me and bowed, surprising me again.

"I'm sorry for my behavior the other day!" She apologized.

Eh?

"Um... uh... I... I suppose you're forgiven...?" I uttered, a little confused.

She frowned and didn't raise her head to my level.

"It's been a while since you two have been married, huh?" She asked.

I slowly nodded, allowing her to continue.

What is she getting at exactly?

"Yes... We have. For almost a few months." I answered. "Chiyoko, is there something you want to tell me?"

She closed her eyes and let out a deep breath.

"Yeah, I do. You should know... I couldn't believe it for myself. I thought the doofus was still single to this day. I wrote about what could have been if he and I were still childhood friends. What could have been if he didn't leave the U.S again... And what could have been if he wasn't hit by a car... That delusion of mine faded when you wrote about your childhood with him. Hearing that he found someone hurt me. The month we spent together was... eventful. But I realized that I fell in love with him a while back. To see him back in Dokisai and sometimes here makes my heart spark. But it was my fault for not going after him when I had the chance. Or maybe I never had a chance. If I was realized my feelings a long time ago, then things might have been different."

Is this...

Is this how Val felt when Monika confessed to him but had to reject her?

"I'm sorry."

It was all I could muster at the moment.

She shook her head.

"Don't be. I'm starting to get over him. I can't go for a married man, can I?" She joked. "Anyway, let's get some lunch. You owe me that much for saving you."

Her competitive nature came back once she was done talking.

I smiled back.

"Very well."

---

I was now in the Ikeda household with Akira.

It has been a few days since the new workers have come to our offices.

We all know something was up, so Akira decided to negotiate with Ivanka's father, to get some people to rid the spies.

But Akira decided to take me with him.

I figured it's because I had to meet with him sooner or later.

And to demonstrate my worthiness to Akira's next successor, even if I came from a lower class.

One of the household members bowed as we sat down.

"Thank you for coming. Mr. Ikeda will be arriving soon, please make yourselves comfortable." He said before leaving the room.

The household was very traditional, with paper-thin sliding doors, multiple maids and butlers, and a large atrium in the middle.

It was very atypical of a daimyo or something similar to rank to have a compound like this.

Despite the warm surroundings, I felt very uneasy about this.

My gut feeling is a little conflicted.

On the one hand, I might be comfortable if I perform well.

But I got a feeling that he is one of those guys who are seldom impressed by anything.

We heard a door open, and we both saw a tall, but a regal man wearing a dark yukata enter the room with his attendants.

He motioned for his attendants to leave and sat down.

Akira and I bowed, honoring his presence.

"Thank you for meeting us, Mr. Ikeda," Akira said, now raising his head. "It is great to see you."

I followed suit and kept my eyes lowered.

"Hm. Likewise, Akira. Now let's get to business. This isn't a friendly visit, am I wrong?"

Wow...

He is incredibly straightforward.

"No, sir. It is not." Akira answered, straightening himself. "We're here to ask for your assistance. Recently, there have been workers from other family branches coming to our offices to help 'bolster' our workforce. But it is growing more and more evident that they are planning something."

He rubbed his chin in thought and grunted.

It was apparent he wasn't surprised by this.

"I see. They have made their move. To think they would undermine my authority so brazenly... Before we get any further, I have to ask..."

I felt his eyes focus on me.

"Who's this?" He asked.

Don't fuck up, me...

I have to be clear and confident about this.

Here goes.

I looked up with a serious face and looked into his purple eyes.

"I am, Val Jones, sir. I am currently under the tutelage of Mr. Ikeda." I answered.

He didn't react for a couple of seconds, instead of examining me closely.

"Hmph. An American? Speaking fluently, too. So, you have wed my granddaughter, haven't you, Mr. Jones?"

I still looked in his eyes and gave him a small nod.

He smirked slightly.

"To see, you're still keeping eye-contact with me... Impressive. Akira, give a moment, will you? I would like to speak to him privately."

Akira stood up and bowed.

Our eyes met, and he gave me a curt nod before leaving.

Once he left the room, Mr. Ikeda looked me in the eye once more.

I did the same as well.

"So you're Mr. Jones? Middle class, American, moved in almost two decades ago... Your father is a very promising worker with a decorated police history. Such as... stopping a gun-running business around this area with S.A.T snipers."

What the...?

He really has done his homework...

I didn't dare to show him any reaction to this.

"You joined our workforce for almost two years now. Akira speaks highly of you, always citing that you are a hard worker and constantly improving... What do you have to say for yourself? Is there a reason why you worked so hard?" He asked, with a cold stare.

I gripped my knees and answered him.

"Yes, Mr. Ikeda. It's because I want to provide for your granddaughter. I have to show... Akira, that I am willing to whatever it takes as his student."

He stroked his small black beard and closed his eyes in thought.

"As his student, you say and to provide for Anastasiya? Don't be afraid to state 'your' true intentions. I know you are hiding something, Mr. Jones." He sagely responded.

I pursed my lips as he wanted the truth from me.

"Very well. I want to succeed in your son-in-law and become the next CEO of the company. All the while, fulfilling my original intentions." I confidently said. "Is that what you wanted to hear?"

Because of my brazen words, he eyed me.

I stared back with a slight glare to cement how serious I was.

After a while, he smirked.

"That's what I'm so intrigued about non-aristocrats. Having a spine. You're a forceful personality, aren't you?"

I was taken off-guard by his sudden smirk.

"What?" I mumbled.

He guffawed at my reaction.

"Ho, ho, ho! This is what I want in my company! I only realized it when my daughter finally married Akira. All the men that I interviewed who wanted to wed my Ivanka were all spineless, thieving, cowards! I'm glad my son-in-law sought you to wed my granddaughter."

I still couldn't process the information in front of me.

Wait...

Does he already approve of me?

What is even this?!

"Err... If I may, Mr. Ikeda, I thought you would be against me in general. After all, I'm only a guy who has a bachelor's degree in business and working in your company as an intermediate worker. Wouldn't you want someone much richer and experienced than I am?"

He smirked at this.

"No, I would not. My father did the same thing in his youth by wedding the rich and powerful to my sister. All they did was attempt steal from him, no matter how trustworthy or experienced they seemed. When I met your father-in-law, his hardworking and reserved personality enticed me. At first, I was close making the same mistake as my father by allowing a Russian chip manufacturer to wed with Ivanka. But he stole her away while I heard the manufacturer got arrested for illicit gambling and smuggling. So I begrudgingly accepted their wedding and haven't regretted it since. Akira is still loyal to me and is working the company to prosperity. He also has made my daughter happy and made sure his children were happy as well. That's all I ever wanted from a man."

This is a lot to unpack...

"In that case... I'm assuming I fit the bill too?"

He nodded.

"Yes, you do. You're the perfect candidate to succeed, Akira. The imbeciles I call my relatives don't understand the consequences my father went through and don't approve of what happened recently. They are using the failed deal to justify their excuse to spy on you all. Don't worry. I will make sure that those workers will be gone by tomorrow, along with added security if they attempt to do something."

I let out a relieved sigh.

"Ah... That is good news. Thank you, Mr. Ikeda."

He gave me a small smile, which resembled Yuri's and nodded.

"Don't thank me yet. I must fulfill my word first. You're free to leave if you like. Please send Akira in on your way out, so we can discuss the finer details."

I nodded back and gave him a smile before leaving.

Maybe...

Things won't be bad, after all.

---

The next day sped by.

Beloved told me about how he went to my grandfather's compound to get his support.

Of course, I knew of this and wished him the best since I had no reason to be there.

What's strange is how quickly the family workers have started to pack up.

It's like they are a hurry to leave.

That must be good, right?

I still couldn't shake off the bad feeling in my stomach.

Why do I feel this way?

They are leaving us alone...

But I feel like they are planning something important.

And that plan is about to come to fruition.

I tried to stave off this bad feeling and continued to work until my break.

As my break started to finally arrive, I received a text message from my husband.

"Hey, Yuri. Want to have lunch with me? I want to talk about something."

"..."

"Of course, my Love. I will be waiting in the lobby."

I wonder what Val wants to talk to me about...

I hope it is nothing terrible.

With an invigorated smile, I finished my work quickly and went down downstairs.

It seems like things are going back to how they used to be.

This is very relieving to hear.

Now I don't have to look over my shoulder every few moments.

To my surprise, he was already waiting for me.

He walked up to me with his usual dorky smile

"Oh, I didn't expect you to be finished already. Are you ready to go now?"

I nodded and took his hand.

"Yes! Let us depart!"

And so we exited the building.

It was rather sunny today, which added to my good mood.

"Hey, do you know what day it is?" Val suddenly asked.

Hmm?

Is there something particularly special today?

...

Ah!

That's right!

Today is the day where he...

Where he told me loved me in the garden.

"Yes, I do. You told me... You loved me while we held each other in the garden."

He looked elated when I remembered.

"Good, I have something to show you when we get to the cafe. I think you'll like it."

We then walked to the cafe to get our lunches.

I was trying my best to hold in my excitement of whatever the surprise was.

While we waited for our lunch to arrive, my husband squeezed my hand, which prompted me to look at him.

In his other hand was a small red box, little enough to carry a...

No...

Is he finally going to...

"Come on, me...! I wanted to show you how serious I am to be your husband. I know we're married and all but...

He took a deep breath and opened the box.

Inside was a silver ring with an amethyst gem in the middle.

"I want to make it for real this time. I want to have a ceremony. So, Yuri..."

He paused and looked into my purple eyes.

"Will you marry me?"

The happiness in my heart was starting to spill as my eyes burst into tears.

He was taken aback from this but was surprised once more when I rammed my lips into him.

Since we were in public, I reluctantly gave him a quick kiss before pulling away.

"Y-Yes! I accept! I will be your bride!"

---

My gut feeling was yelling at me as if something was badly wrong.

I looked down at Yuri and saw she was getting a little anxious for some reason.

She then turned to me.

"Don't look behind you. We're being tailed."

What?!

"By who?" I asked, looking straight into her eyes.

But I knew the answer right away.

"Damn! I thought they will leave us alone! Alright, let's take a shortcut straight to my workplace."

I didn't quicken my pace, since it would make us look suspicious, so we kept it calm and slow.

"Val... I've seen these people before... Remember when you walked me home from Dokisai?"

What...?!

No way...

So they have been onto us from the very beginning?!

I grimaced and looked forward.

"In the words of Mr. Ikeda, 'imbeciles,' they don't know when to quit."

Mr. Ikeda knew some altercations may happen, so he gave me a button that serves as a distress call.

I pressed it and hoped that help would be on the way.

The shortcut I usually took was, for some reason, completely empty.

Wait...

Did they know that we were taking a shortcut?

We continued to walk down the shortcut and down into an alley.

On the other side is the front of my workplace...

We're almost there!

Suddenly around the corner, came a large man who blocked our way.

He stared at us and slowly advanced toward us.

We looked behind us and saw the two people shadowing us, starting to walk toward us as well.

"Shit...! Stay calm, Yuri. It's only a matter of time until Mr. Ikeda's men come...!" I reassured.

She was petrified with what was going on and only offered a meek nod in response.

The men cornered and backed us against the wall.

"(You can understand us, can't you? Let Ms. Ikeda go. We have no plans for you.)"

Russian?!

I snarled at them.

"(Fuck you. You're all from the other Ikeda branch, aren't you?)"

The large man grinned at this.

"(It doesn't matter. Let her go, and you can walk. Otherwise, you will not like the consequences.)"

I shook my head and motioned Yuri to lay low.

"(She's my wife. Don't you dare try anything.)"

Their next move surprised me.

He threw a punch to which I barely was able to parry.

Such strength!

The two other men attacked, so I shoved the larger man away and punched the one closest to Yuri.

He recoiled, allowing me to attack the next man near her.

The larger man was a much more significant threat than the other two, so I put my fists up and adopted my boxing stance.

I was able to parry the next punch since I was ready and countered with a swift uppercut, causing him to double back.

The one closest to Yuri before tried to charge at me, so I maneuvered towards the downed larger man and sidestepped him, causing him to trip.

And now it was the third man who was up, so I decided to take charge and attack.

With a quick jab, I rattled his head, which allowed me to follow up with a few more punches against his shattered defenses, ending it with a cross.

He staggered to the left and hit the wall.

And now it was the larger man and the other shadower who was up.

They eyed me waiting for me attack, so they can both start to counter.

Patience...

All I have to do is wait and see.

The smaller stepped in and swung at me, to which I ducked.

He tried swinging again, but I shifted my body back.

Frustrated that he couldn't land a hit, he focused onto my lower body, which I saw and moved to the side, causing him to fall over.

This is what the larger man was waiting for, and he landed a strong punch on my cheek.

"Gah!"

I was surprised by this since it was hard-hitting and was unexpected.

"Val!" Yuri screamed.

I put my hand up to stop her from worrying.

"I'm OK! Don't worry!"

The larger man took the chance to swing again, but I knew what to do.

I blocked the enormous punch with my arms and landed two quick counter punches in return.

He was only staggered by this as I continued to swarm him.

I knew I had to move to the next target, so I did a right hook, hoping it would make fall over.

It barely managed to do that, unfortunately.

I felt a sharp pain behind me, turning to see the second man attacking me with kicking.

With footwork, I step dodged his kicks and landed another hit on him, in the form of an uppercut.

I saw the third man seizing the chance to take Yuri from me, so I moved to intercept.

That is until I was stopped in my tracks with a nelson.

Shit!

To counter the nelson, I tried to move backward and hit the large man against the wall, but he knew what I was doing.

He backed himself onto the wall so it wouldn't take him by surprise.

"Yuri! Look out!"

Before she could react, the third man grabbed Yuri by the arm.

I tried to set myself free, but I slugged by the second man.

"(You should've listened when you had the chance!)" He angrily yelled, punching me.

Which each hefty punch, I felt my vision being clouded by something black.

Everything went in slow motion.

Yuri tried her best to resist but wasn't able to dent the third man's grip.

As I saw the despair in her face, I felt angry.

They're taking her away from me...!

I promised that I will protect her!

With newfound strength, I slightly shifted and kicked the second man, allowing me to headbutt the larger man behind me.

I charged ahead and slammed the second man down to the ground and landed a savage sledgehammer against his skull, knocking him out.

The larger man tried to grab me again, but I knew better.

I slapped away his hands and crossed him, this time, causing him to double over.

Once the two pursuers were down, I sprinted towards the third man trying to escape with Yuri and pulled her off.

"(Get your hands off her!)"

I palmed both of his ears and landed some wild punches against him, making him fall over, subduing him.

He put his hands up, trying to stop my punching, but it was futile.

Once I was done, he was bleeding profusely and was knocked out.

The larger man was starting to stand up again, so I broke out the combo I practiced against the punching bag.

I won't let them touch them again!

I punched him with my right arm.

"One!"

I quickly followed up with my left arm.

"Two!"

Right after the quick follow up, I threw in a cross with my right.

"Three!"

He was trying his best to keep his ground, but I kept advancing.

With the cross, my left arm went for a swift uppercut.

"Four!"

The larger man was struggling to not fall over at this point, so I went for a hook keeping the momentum.

"Five!"

I pulled my fist back and landed the final hit, a quick yet brutal cross.

"Six!"

The man fell over twitching from the combo before he stopped moving.

Once it was done, I collapsed on my knees and desperately tried to catch my breathing.

I turned to Yuri and saw a woman holding her with a knife against her throat.

"Yuri!" I called, which caused the woman to move the knife closer.

Behind the women were more men, which I assumed were with her.

Damn it!

"Not one more step. If you want her to live, stop fighting! We are taking her to Russia away from you. It's over."

I gritted my teeth and glared at her.

"You cowards! Why?! Why are you taking her?! Just so you can continue your aging tradition?!"

She put the knife down and glared back.

"A peasant like you has no reason to learn of our tradition and family history. We had Akira under our fingertips... But you?! Letting you join the family is the last straw! If we take Mr. Ikeda's granddaughter, he will be forced to listen to our every demand!"

Before she can continue her tirade, a black man grabbed her from behind and slammed to the ground.

"What?!"

A group of men jumped out of a van with sidearms, checking the men I knocked out.

Yuri ran to me, and I put her behind me from the advancing men.

"Easy." One of the men in black said. "We work for Mr. Ikeda. You're safe now."

I darted my eyes between him and his men handling the scene.

What am I going to do against people with guns?

...

I guess I can trust him, but...

"Safe-word?"

He nodded.

"Lavender." The man responded, causing me to loosen up.

Thank goodness...

"We apologize for the lateness, sir. Impressive that you were able to hold off those three men." He said, now turning to clean up.

I turned around to see a pale Yuri.

"We're safe now, Yuri. It's OK."

She simply hugged me, scared that I would disappear.

"I was so scared for you... They were punching you and... and..."

Yuri started to tear up with what could have happened.

"I promised that I would protect you... And I will continue to that for the rest of my life. Don't you worry."

She gave me a smile.

"I know... You really did mean every word. I never doubted you for a second... Thank you for saving me."

I smiled back.

"It's part of the job. After all, we're married... right?"

My wife giggled as we walked out of the alley.

"Yes... Yes, we are. I hope... I hope this never happens again. I want to live out my life with you in peace."

I took Yuri with me, and we decided to go home early.

"Me too... And you know why?"

She nodded.

"I love you."

"I love you, too."

---

...

...

...

It has been some time after the incident...

My husband and I have become relatively successful in our endeavors.

He has become the right-hand man of my father and is planning on taking his plan soon.

While I... I became a stay at home mother and author.

My works have gotten worldwide acclaim since the debut, and it didn't take long for my works to get translated.

All in all... life was perfect.

We had twin daughters and a garden, after all.

"Papa! Wake up! Wake up! It's time to goooooo!" I heard one of my daughters whine as they pushed my husband.

He groaned and shifted on the sofa.

She looked up to her twin sister and nodded.

With a flying body-slam, she landed on him.

"Father, wake up." My other daughter demanded.

That got my husband's attention, and he laughed as a result.

"Hahahaha! Oh, alright, alright! I'm up. Where are we going?"

I leaned against the doorframe as he dealt with our twin daughters.

Surprisingly, this wasn't what I expected at all.

Having twins on the first try is not unheard of, but to think our wish was granted...

I'm grateful...

"Beloved, we're going to the garden, remember? We have a picnic today."

He snickered at us.

"Oh, I know, I know. I remember. Come on, let's get going."

Both of our daughters got off, and we went straight to the backyard, leading to our garden.

We fulfilled our promise in the park, striving to make the garden a sanctuary for our family.

So far, it was good, and we were ready to make more and more improvements.

We all were seated underneath the cherry blossom tree's shade, with our two daughters being restless throughout the whole ordeal.

Once we were done eating, the two jumped up and went straight to the garden to play.

"Heeeey! Don't move too much, or you won't feel good!" My husband hollered.

I giggled and laid my head on him.

"Don't be like that, Love. They ate relatively light, we have nothing to worry about."

He sighed and smiled as we relaxed.

"Oh, alright... I can't help feel overprotective over them... I love them so much." He said, which made my heart soar.

I hummed as we both watched our daughters play.

"And they love you. They have a loving father, after all."

He wrapped his arm around me.

"Don't forget they have a loving mother—a mother who looks... exactly like them. I don't know why, but all my girls inherited from me was my little smile... But as for you? They have the same eyes, skin, hair, and even a little bit of that maternal temper you, Haru, and Ivanka carry."

That is a strange phenomenon.

Perhaps it explains why Haru looks so identical.

"Don't worry about it too much, Love. They are yours as much they are mine, you know this better than anyone! They inherited your calm nature, after all."

He laughed a little.

"Haha! Oh, you know what I meant. It's just... I want what's best for them. Guess I found out what every father goes through. But I will try my best to give them the love and care they need, all the while trying to respect their privacy..."

Those are the usual idealistic views my husband loves.

"It will come in its own time. Don't you worry."

As we continued to look at our daughter's play, my husband looked at me.

"Hey, Yuri... Do you remember what the book said, back when we were kids?"

I nodded.

"Of course. Why?"

He then turned to where our daughters were playing.

"(And with our love... We will continue on to the next day, warmed by each other's presence...) He started to recite. "(Only then, the doors of the promised land would finally open...) I think I finally understand what this means."

I looked at him expectantly.

"As long as we love each other... we will make it to the next day. And if we make it to the next day... we will make it. Look at where we are. We loved each other and finally made it..."

I pondered from his words before smiling.

To respond to him, I leaned in and gave him a brief kiss.

"Looks like you liked my take on the quote we read all that time ago."

My smile was still as bright as ever.

"Of course... It was beautiful. How it all related to us... I loved it."

He rested his head on my lap and gazed at our daughters and garden.

"Not as much as I love you," Val said, turning to me. "I love you so much."

I leaned in and gave him another kiss.

"As do I... I love you soooo much too!"

And so, we looked towards the future.