Nocturne

Nocturne, n: A short composition of a romantic or dreamy character suggestive of night.

Eimi entered her studio with her laptop and closed the door behind her. The night was yielding, driven off by faint, pinkish light and an orchestra of birdsong. Sighing with pleasure, she walked to the glass wall and stared at her garden, sipping a mug of coffee. She smiled as a robin zoomed by with a twig in its beak.

Without thinking, Eimi joined the birds, breathing life into the stillness of the room:

Ah, robin, gentle robin

Tell me how thy leman doth

And though shalt know of mine

The tug of resistance in her lungs jerked her from a waking dream. She sighed again, this time with resignation. Still, despite the pain, the call of morning and music couldn't be ignored. She switched to humming, soothing herself with a beautiful, but less demanding, sound.

Moving slowly, Eimi approached a desk tucked against the glass. She placed her coffee on a waiting geode coaster and slid her laptop from under her arm.

It seemed a pity to ignore the glory of morning in favor of work, but then, she was only up this early because Kaede scheduled an online meeting. Eimi liked her manager, but right now, all she wanted to do was daydream and listen to the birds.

Regardless, she booted up and launched a video chat. Kaede blinked at her, eyes made enormous by the combinaion of her cat eye glasses and the lens of her camera. Eimi swallowed a snort and hoped her smile passed as a greeting.

Kaede nodded, crisp and professional, even at this hour. Knowing her, she had been up and working for a while now, like Koushiro. "Good morning, Eimi-san."

"Good morning. Already at it?"

Kaede's eyes narrowed. "You're not my only client."

Eimi's smile widened at Kaede's tart tone. "Oh, dear. Well, let's get to it, then."

"Let's." Kaede arched a penciled brow, but the corners of her mouth nudged up. "I already planned the release party for Fear in Love, but I want to go over some things."

Eimi ignored a twinge of anxiety. She hated these parties, but was painfully cognizant that Kaede already reduced her public presence as much as possible. "Alright," she said, hoping she still sounded cheerful.

Although Kaede was probably using a laptop, she produced her ever-present tablet and poked the screen with her pointer finger. "I've hired the same company to drive you as before. They agreed to transport Aegis, so long as he stays in his crate."

"He's an angel in the car," Eimi replied. Kaede was familiar with Aegis' ability to travel, so she ignored her input.

"They're expecting you, Aegis, and Koushiro-san. Is he still attending? I seem to remember him looking uncomfortable at a previous event."

Eimi tipped her head and grinned, hoping to mask her hesitance. "Birds of a feather, yeah?"

Kaede snorted. "Most people enjoy these things. It figures that you'd find another absolute introvert to date."

This time, Eimi laughed in truth. "It would be a disaster if I dated an extrovert, and you know it."

Her manager maintained her typical expression of mild irritation. "You and Koushiro-san are still planning to stay at the ryokan for one night, right? And you're meeting back up with Aegis at your apartment in Odaiba the next day."

"Yep. Takeru is looking in on Aegis that night and the next morning." Roughly six weeks had passed since her tour of the apartment with Taichi. He had moved himself in and accepted shipments of furniture and possessions for Eimi, but she had no idea what state things would be in when she arrived. "You're sure the driving company doesn't mind moving some boxes?"

"As long as it fits," Kaede replied. "Just keep the dimensions in mind." She swiped a finger horizontally across the tablet, signaling a pending change of subject as she flipped through notes. "Have you thought about what you're wearing?"

Eimi paused to drink coffee, using the mug to hide her smile. If given half the chance, she simplified her dress and makeup. Kaede didn't doubt or dictate her sense of style, but she was always on the alert for any attempt to dress down.

"I'm wearing Sora-chan's dress. The one from the photo shoot."

Kaede glanced up from her tablet with an expression of surprised relief. "Excellent. I set up a hair and makeup appointment for you beforehand in Tokyo."

She paused, likely giving Eimi space to groan, as she often did. Instead, Eimi smiled and said, "Thanks."

In a rare turn of events, Kaede physically separated from her tablet, setting it out of her camera's view. She leaned closer to the lens, eyes narrowing. "What's going on?"

Eimi tipped her head. "What do you mean?" She had expected her compliance to surprise Kaede, but she didn't understand her manager's sudden wariness.

"You hate these parties," Kaede said. "And we both know you're not at one hundred percent yet, health wise. I thought I'd be pulling your teeth with this."

"I can't say I'm looking forward to it," Eimi admitted. "But... Koushiro-kun will be there. We've been dating for a few weeks, but we haven't really been out as couple, except for going to the market and a visit to our friends in Odaiba. I know he hates these things, too, but... Well, I don't mind dressing up and going out with him."

Kaede planted both elbows on her desk, steepled her fingers, and dropped her chin onto them. Though she was a petite woman, her stare carried weight, even through a chat program. Eimi blinked and edged back.

"I've tried to keep my nose out of your love life, but... I have to ask. How's it going with Koushiro-san?"

Eimi hesitated. Kaede seemed unsure of Koushiro, somehow, and she had no idea why. "Um, is something wrong?"

Kaede sighed and lowered her hands to her desk. "I just... From my perspective... I've known you as a loner for years. And suddenly, you're dating, you're getting an apartment with your cousin, you're changing your habits... I'm happy for you, I really am. But... it just seems like your life turned upside down since you went septic."

Kaede's piercing gaze shifted as her shoulders drooped. "I just want to make sure that you're okay. I've seen clients go through periods where they made drastic changes. It often signals some kind of mental or emotional break."

Eimi placed her mug onto the coaster with exaggerated care. "I'm not sure what to say," she admitted. "I guess, from the outside, it does seem like lots of change. But... It's mostly me examining my life after..."

She shuddered, then licked her dry lips. "Well, after I almost lost it. I can't be sure that every change will work out for me, but I can tell you that I'm consciously trying to improve my life. You know I'm seeing my therapist again. She'll tell me if I do anything unhealthy."

"That's true..." Kaede's hand dug into her poofy hair, altering how it sat. "This Koushiro-san... I've met him, but he barely spoke to me. Is he treating you alright?"

Eimi managed a tiny grin. "He's a bit shy, or at least awkward. Don't hold it against him, please. I'm very happy with him."

Slowly, Kaede nodded. "Well, that's what matters. And your attitude towards the party is telling..."

Eimi shifted in her seat. She hadn't meant to broadcast her feelings earlier, but of course, she had. Actions spoke louder than words, so her willingness to attend carried weight. She cleared her throat, then said, "Well... I love him. I've wanted this for a long time."

"Alright." The suspicion cleared from Kaede's face. "I'll let everyone know that you may need to leave early, since you're in recovery. I'm also setting up a rest area for you, in case you need to get away for a bit. I know I encourage you to work your party and entertain guests, but your health comes first right now. Understood?"

"Yes," Eimi replied, meek in the face of Kaede's caring bossiness.

Kaede reclaimed her tablet from off screen and turned it on, eyes already abandoning the camera. "Alright. That's all. I'll see to everything."

"Thank you." Recognizing this as a dismissal from long familiarity, Eimi said farewell and ended the call.

XXX

Koushiro stared at the full-length mirror, caught in the unsettling sensation of time unwinding. Here he was again, wearing a black suit made to his measurements, prepping for another party. Even to someone lacking in superstition, it seemed like a bad omen to wear the same outfit to his first event with Eimi that he wore on his final date with Mimi. He wished he owned a second suit of this quality, but he rarely dressed up. This was all he had.

Sighing, Koushiro straightened his tie and tucked a silk handkerchief into his breast pocket. He ran his fingers through his hair, hoping it would settle into a more dashing arrangement. It fell back into his simple style, chosen for its ease of upkeep.

Anxiety and unhappiness stirred from the blissful slumber to which Koushiro had only just grown accustomed. He locked eyes with his reflection, brow furrowing with consternation.

Don't flub this. You can't. There's too much at stake.

He began a breathing exercise, which was interrupted by the clack-clack of heels. Koushiro turned to see Eimi approaching, and the churning ball of greasy nausea in his stomach dissipated.

She wore the red dress from her recent photo shoot with Sora, and suddenly, that fact was all Koushiro was cognizant of. It caressed her curves, and the hem fluttered flirtatiously as she walked. She came closer, all swaying hips and flowing hair and glittering eyes, and that smile-

A high-pitched ringing displaced the nervous chatter in Koushiro's head. "You're so handsome!" Eimi cried, all excitement and animation. Koushiro blinked, arrested in a turbulence of feeling. When she grabbed his hands, he squeezed, grateful for the grounding connection.

Seconds ticked by, and slowly, Eimi's smile faded. Her gaze held his, assessing, weighing. At last, she stepped closer, until the toes of their shoes touched.

"It's okay," she murmured. "I promise. You don't have to socialize at all. Please, just stand with me when I open the party, then come back here. You can work the whole time."

Koushiro nodded mechanically, recognizing the reassurance from repetition, even as his brain stumbled. The party was in a private inn on the outskirts of Tokyo. He and Eimi had a lovely suite for the night, where he would spend the majority of the event. It sounded like the perfect arrangement a few minutes ago... But that was before Eimi walked into the room in the dress Sora made for her.

Eimi's brow crinkled with concern. "Koushiro-kun... Please. It really will be okay, I promise."

Belatedly, Koushiro realized that he had failed to speak a word since Eimi approached him. With effort, he gathered the frazzled flock of sheep that had replaced his neurons. He was still jittery, but he felt more like he had ingested too much coffee and less like he had taken a blow to the head.

"I know," he said, but the soothing tone he attempted sounded more like a nasal whine. Embarrassed, he cleared his throat, wound his fingers between Eimi's, and forced a smile. "I want to support you."

A sweet, tender smile replaced the tension on Eimi's face. Swift as a naughty cat, she kissed him, then spun, sending her hair and dress twirling. She glanced back at him over her shoulder, and Koushiro stared, transfixed by her playful grin.

"Thank you. Let's have a good night." Koushiro smiled, but was at a loss for words. They'd spend most of the party apart; what could she mean?

There was no time to ask. Eimi beckoned over her shoulder, and Koushiro followed. "Kaede-san wants to go over things with us. Are you ready?"

With effort, Koushiro redirected his thoughts from speculation to the conversation. "Of course. It almost seems a shame to leave the room, though."

Eimi sighed. "I know... I've never stayed in a modern ryokan. Have you?"

Koushiro gazed around the suite with appreciation. Ryokans were normally small inns in Japan's countryside, often run for generations by the same family. They usually featured natural settings, hot springs, and traditional Japanese elements.

In contrast, this modern ryokan was near Tokyo. It lacked hot springs and substituted traditional elements for more comfortable ones, like a spa-style bathroom, western furniture, and luxurious amenities. But the suite featured a private garden and traditional Japanese decor, nods towards the standard ryokan environment.

"I don't think I've been somewhere like this," Koushiro said. "Would you prefer a traditional ryokan?"

Eimi sighed. "I had my eye on one with a private hot spring bath, but... Well, ryokans can't host this kind of party. Kaede-san found a compromise. You don't mind spending the night, right?"

"Not at all." Personally, Koushiro preferred this middle ground, since the suite had wi-fi and a desk to work at. But if it made Eimi happy, he'd be willing to spend a weekend in a more traditional setting. "Perhaps you could keep that ryokan in mind? We could go together."

The sudden twinkle in Eimi's eye was equal parts alluring and foreboding. "Are you interested in the private bath?"

Koushiro was suddenly so hot that he wondered if he had somehow fallen face-first into that bath. "Ah- It- Sounds- Nice?" Too late, he realized that she had never specified using the bath together... But that was exactly where his brain leapt.

The corners of her mouth curled up. "I think so, too. But for now, I had better find Kaede-san before she sends someone after me."

Swallowing hard, Koushiro followed her out of their suite.

XXX

Eimi entered the inn's event hall with Koushiro beside her. The room was large and open, with a clean, modern feeling. It was simply furnished and relied on windows to a gorgeous garden, stylish lighting, and sleek presentation for impact.

Kaede stood in the middle of the space, barking orders in a slinky black evening gown. Her tablet cast a ghostly pallor on her face, which might have contributed to how quickly everyone took her orders and scurried away.

Eimi called her name as she approached, ever wary of her small-but-mighty manager. Kaede turned to her, her wild hair tamed in an elegant bun. She lowered the tablet, clearing the alarming lighting from her face. With a dash of relief, Eimi said, "You look beautiful."

Eimi swallowed a giggle as Kaede's eyes widened, then narrowed beneath a furrowed brow. "That dress looks even better in person. You said Takenouchi-san made it? Could we commission more?"

Eimi grinned, both pleased and oddly embarrassed. "Sora-chan's in the middle of designing a new line, so I'm not sure if she has time now... But I can ask."

"No need. I'll make a note." Kaede lifted her tablet, and Eimi waited while she entered the thought, knowing it was far better not to interrupt until the tablet was lowered.

"Is there anything we need to do?" Eimi asked. Kaede nodded, all business.

"You'll be addressing the crowd from there." She pointed to a microphone on a stand in front of a glass wall overlooking a garden of bamboo and greenery. Twinkling lights hung from the black window frames, drawing the gaze to the microphone and any speakers using it.

"Drinks are over there." There was no need for Kaede to point out the bar, which was back lit such that the liquor bottles glinted and glimmered in a range of colors. Still, Eimi nodded, nudging the instructions along.

"If you need to rest, rest. I'll make your excuses. Don't ask, don't explain, just take care of yourself. Hors d'oeuvres will start rotating about twenty minutes in, but the bar is open. Your speech is in about..." Kaede glanced at her tablet. "Fifteen minutes, so have a seat and some water."

Eimi thanked Kaede, then retreated with Koushiro. "Everyone's been telling me to drink water lately," she muttered.

His hand slid around hers, and Eimi smiled, already feeling a little better. "I'd like a water, myself."

Sighing, and recognizing that she was being babied, Eimi led them to the bar. The bar tender gave them water, which they took to a black sofa tucked in the corner of the massive room.

Eimi sank onto the couch, glad for a quiet moment before the party. She squished into Koushiro while staff members flurried by, gazing into the garden and feeling content, for the moment.

XXX

Koushiro raised his mai tai to his lips. When no liquid touched his mouth, he angled the glass higher. An ice cube plopped on his nose, cold and wet, and he jumped in his desk chair. He looked away from his laptop at last, feeling foolish.

He placed the glass on a coaster and checked his wristwatch. Eimi had opened the party about an hour ago. The time had slipped by in an academic vortex, broken only by errant ice cubes.

Koushiro stared at the empty glass. He wanted another drink, but… Was it worth the risk of braving the party? He lifted his fist to his chin as he considered. Eimi, he knew, disliked parties. And while her health had improved, she still struggled with fatigue, and with occasional resistance in her lungs.

I told her I'm here to support her. Surely, I should check on her.

Koushiro rose, grabbed the glass, and headed towards the party. The sound of chatter grew as he approached the event hall. He willed himself not to break stride as he entered a room full of strangers.

The crowd was different than the ones he had grown to know from Mimi's fashion event parties. The energy here was far calmer, for one. The models attended after-events riding the enormous adrenaline rush of working the catwalk, such that the parties sometimes felt like a second show. Here, the atmosphere was measured, and the music was kept at a level conducive to conversation. Overall, it was smaller in scale and more modest. It was far from his preferred environment, but Koushiro navigated the hall without too much anxiety.

Due to the openness of the room and the spacing of the crowd, he found Eimi without difficulty. She was chatting with two figures in suits. As he moved closer, Koushiro noted that she was smiling and seemed engaged. Still, there was an element of discomfort in the way she clutched her glass with both hands.

When she noticed him, her smile broadened, warming her eyes. "Pardon me," she said to the men. "Please, feel free to talk to my manager about your idea." After a bit more small talk, she stepped away and took his arm.

"Do you need another drink?" she asked, a touch too loud. "Me, too." Koushiro allowed her to lead him to the bar. When they were a distance from the men, she leaned into him with a sigh.

"Thanks for the rescue," she murmured.

"Were they bothering you?" Surely, no one would harass Eimi at her own party. Still, Koushiro wrapped his free hand over Eimi's fingers, which encircled his elbow.

"I'll tell you later. They weren't out of line, though."

Koushiro frowned, but let it go. He understood that Eimi couldn't be overheard complaining about guests at her party. They took a place in line at the bar, and Eimi dipped her head on his shoulder.

"You're tired."

Eimi tsked. "I took a nap before this," she complained. "But yes. I'm exhausted."

"Kaede-san set up a private area for you, correct? Let's rest there with our drinks."

Eimi lifted her head and offered a weary smile. "Thank you. I'm so glad you came to check on me." She glanced at his empty glass and lifted an eyebrow. "Or was it a drink you're after?"

Koushiro squeezed her hand, then released her. "It can be both."

When the bartender was free, Koushiro requested another mai tai. "That sounds good!" Eimi said. "I'd like that too, please."

When their drinks were secured, Eimi led him to a corner of the room separated into a private area by partitions on wheels. Eimi sighed as she lowered onto a plush black sofa. Koushiro settled beside her, and she snuggled into him. Koushiro tensed, but calmed when he realized that they weren't visible to anyone outside of the partitions. That nagging flutter of anxiety finally vanished. He took a long draught of his drink, a tropical wonder that tasted like liquid sunshine.

"Thanks for coming with me," Eimi sighed. "I feel much better knowing you're here."

Koushiro fought the urge to wince. "I was in another room, though..."

Eimi grinned and shook her head. "What would you do here? Hover next to me while I talk to industry people? I wouldn't know what to say to anyone if your research department held an event."

Koushiro managed a wry grin. "I've spent untold hours awkwardly hovering. I'm an expert."

A spark lit Eimi's eyes, displacing some of her fatigue. "Oh? Well, you're free to show off your skills."

Koushiro dumped his face into his palm. "I walked into that."

"You ran into it. I'm only teasing, though."

"May I ask you something?" He waited for Eimi's nod, then continued, "I'm happy to be here, but... Do I truly contribute to your comfort from the suite?"

Eimi took a long drink, eyelids lowering as she appreciated the taste. At last, she placed her glass on the coffee table, then slid her hand into his. "Yes. I know you understand what it's like to feel tired and overwhelmed at these parties. I feel much less anxious when I know I can come find you if I need support."

He stared back, flabbergasted, caught in a deep emotion that he couldn't name. He knew he should speak, but no words populated his brain. Then, mercifully, Eimi looked away, freeing him from her earnest gaze.

"I love this song!" With effort, Koushiro diverted processing power from unraveling strange emotions to perceiving his senses. The world of stimulus returned in a dizzying rush, and the music registered, along with the ambient chatter. Although he didn't know this song by name, he recognized it from Eimi playing it at home. It was an ethereal, romantic tune that would have been appropriate accompaniment to an alluring dream.

A small, shy smile curved on Eimi's face. "Um… Would you like to dance?"

The muscles in his face contorted, and Koushiro knew he was grimacing. He relaxed them as quickly as possible, but the damage was done; the vulnerable light of hope extinguished from her eyes.

"Oh… Well, it's too cramped in the private room, anyway…"

"The suite is much larger," Koushiro offered. Eimi blinked, and Koushiro waited in silent dread, praying she'd accept the compromise. He didn't remember to breathe until she smiled.

"Smart," she said, nodding. "I haven't danced in months."

Koushiro was spared responding by a call of, "Eimi-san?" They both turned to the private area's entrance. Kaede stood in the opening, hands closed around a partition edge.

"Sorry to interrupt," she said. "Eimi-san, are you feeling well enough to come back out? Harada-san would like to speak with us."

Koushiro didn't recognize the name, but Eimi nodded. "I'll be right out."

"Thank you." Kaede vanished, and Eimi sighed.

"Are you alright?" Koushiro asked.

"He owns my record label," she replied. "Best to go."

Oof. Although he regularly addressed students and shared research with colleagues, Koushiro didn't have to deal with business-related schmoozing. "Good luck."

"Thanks." Eimi gave him a weak grin and a swift kiss on the cheek. She braced a hand on his leg to help her stand, but paused. "I really appreciate that you came to check on me."

I appreciate that it's somehow helpful for you. That seemed a strange thing to say, so he substituted with, "Any time. Text me if you need me."

She smiled, stood, grabbed her drink, and disappeared around the partition. In an instant, the private area shifted from a comfortable hideaway to a weird, cut-off corner. Koushiro retreated to the suite with his mai tai.

He passed the full-length mirror on the way to the desk, where his laptop and papers waited. Although he rarely considered his reflection, he was accustomed to double-checking his appearance at formal events.

Nothing was amiss. He grinned at himself, then sat down to his work with his cell phone beside him, awaiting any texts from Eimi.

Koushiro didn't understand how he had come to be Eimi's haven, but he knew what it was to need one, and what it was to have one.

If Eimi wanted him, then he would do his best to stand.

XXX

The approach of heels registered through Koushiro's focus. He turned from his laptop in time to see Eimi enter the room. Her stride was choppy, her shoulders dropping. Alarmed, Koushiro hurried towards her.

"Are you alright?"

Eimi wrapped both hands around the arm he offered. He helped her to the sofa, concerned by how heavily she leaned on him. "I think I'm done for the night."

Koushiro steadied her as she sat, then checked his wristwatch. About three hours had passed since she delivered the party's welcoming speech. His brow rose; Mimi's parties wore into the small hours of the morning, but it was barely midnight.

Eimi leaned forward and popped a heel off with a groan that seemed to rise from the pit of her soul. As heels went, these were small, but they all seemed terribly uncomfortable to Koushiro. He sat and patted her shoulder with sympathy.

Her shoes discarded, Eimi plopped into him. "How was it?" Koushiro asked.

Eimi opened her evening bag and slipped out her mobile. "One second. I'm texting Kaede-san to let her know that I'm done for the night." After she sent her message and placed the bag on the floor, Eimi nuzzled into him. There was a tight squeeze in Koushiro's chest as she sighed with worn pleasure.

"This party was harder on me than usual, I think."

Concerned spiked, agitating his calm. "Because of your health? Are you alright?"

Eimi wound her fingers between his. "I'm so tired. But mostly..."

She fell silent for a long interval, then sighed again. "People used to chatter with me at these parties. It's mostly producers and other artists' managers, sometimes artists and song writers... You know, industry people, plus a few high-profile fans."

"People seemed to be speaking to you when I checked in," Koushiro said.

"Oh, they talked to me." Her dourness surprised him, so Koushiro angled for a view of her face. She was scowling, forehead indented with consternation.

"Did someone upset you?"

Eimi released a long breath. "I shouldn't get so bent out of shape. No one did anything wrong, it's just... It was mostly managers asking me if I'd like to collaborate with their clients, or song writers asking me if Takeru has any more poems he'd like put to music."

Koushiro hesitated. Clearly, she was annoyed, and yet... "Pardon me, but... Isn't networking a large part of these events?"

"I know, I know... But they should be talking to Kaede-san, not me. Which means that Kaede-san must have had her hands full fielding similar conversations."

Koushiro ran his thumb along the back of her hand, hoping to soothe. "Isn't that good? It indicates that your career is growing."

"You're right. I just... It feels like the moment I produced a hit, everyone started... Wanting a piece of my success. A piece of me. It feels... oddly predatory, even though I know it's normal. Heck, Kaede-san probably approached managers of more famous singers about collaborations on my behalf. Still, I can't help feeling like a pie that everyone wants a piece of."

Koushiro's first thought was that, in that dress, people likely did want a piece of her. That hardly seemed helpful, so he focused, struggling to find words to express nebulous thoughts and feelings.

"You have a giving nature. I've seen it time and time again. Frankly... At the risk of being bossy, I think it might serve you to feel wary when people approach you wanting something."

Eimi lifted her head to look at him. Even as her brow lowered in confusion, interest lit her eyes. "What do you mean?"

Koushiro hesitated, suddenly unsure. Social subtleties weren't his strong suit, but... By now, he understood Eimi. "I'm grateful for everything you've done for me. I know your other loved ones feel the same, like Hikari-san and Takaishi-kun. But..."

Koushiro paused and pulled on Eimi's shoulder, unconsciously nudging her into him. "You need to take care of yourself first. Sometimes, you make me think of that phrase they say on airplanes."

A wry smile tugged at Eimi's lips. "Put your own oxygen mask on before assisting others. My therapist often says that."

Koushiro blinked, then smiled, pleased to have landed on the correct interpretation. "You genuinely want to help, and that's admirable. Some people might intend to take advantage of you, but most are likely just responding to your nature. People have no desire to harm you, just as I never did, and Hikari-san certainly didn't. But, as someone familiar with the toll your concern for others can take on you..."

An obstruction clogged his throat, forcing him to pause. Koushiro wrapped both arms around Eimi, needing to feel her there. "I... I've never discussed your time in the hospital with you, have I."

Eimi stiffened, and Koushiro kissed her cheek, and automatic attempt to soothe. "Would you rather I drop this?"

"We... Really haven't talked about this." Eimi laughed, a wet, hollow sound that tugged at Koushiro's heart. He tipped her chin up and kissed her, a soft, tender brush of lips.

When Koushiro pulled back, Eimi followed him, eliciting a grin that bordered on a smirk. Fulfilling her desire for more kisses was tempting, but it seemed best to address the difficult topic before them first.

"I apologize," Koushiro began, his smile fading. "Even at the hospital, I think... I was trying to deny what was happening. I tried to distract myself with work, with caring for Aegis, with programming the pet contact software. I tried to help you every way I could, except... Except emotionally."

Her teeth dug into her lower lip. "You… did seem a little distant."

Koushiro winced. "I'm truly sorry. What I'm trying to point out is that... Even when I wanted, so desperately, to help… I came off as distant, even cold. Your warmth and depth of caring are rare, and that's why people respond to you so readily. And while networking is expected at these parties... I think it's for the best that you notice and pay attention when your instincts suggest that it's too much for you. In those situations, it might be best to extricate yourself and regroup. To stay in your own head and heart."

His mind had wandered back to their sunset discussion in her garden, as it often did. The dreaminess in her eyes suggested that she was there with him. "Stay on the shore," she said slowly. "Not the water."

"Exactly," Koushiro murmured. "And, should you want or need me, come to me."

"You know... Hikari said something similar, back when she asked me to visit her because she was pregnant and scared." Eimi smiled, but the tremor in her voice betrayed her vulnerability. "You all... You really love me, don't you?"

"I certainly do," Koushiro murmured, dearly wishing he could better communicate his feelings. "So please... Take care of yourself. Remember what you need before thinking of what someone else wants."

A knock on the door startled them both. Eimi blinked, then stood to answer. Koushiro shifted to see an inn employee holding a large wicker basket and a bucket full of ice. He hurried over to accept the items from him.

"T-thank you?" Eimi said. "I, um, I didn't..."

"Your manager asked us to provide this for you. Please, enjoy your evening."

Eimi stammered a farewell as Koushiro placed the basket and ice bucket on a nearby coffee table. The door shut, and Eimi joined him, examining Kaede's offerings.

The ice bucket contained a bottle of wine and two glasses. Eimi opened the large basket to reveal a white blanket and an assortment of fruit, including a beautiful box of chocolate-covered strawberries.

"Do you normally eat after these parties?" Koushiro asked. Eimi glanced at him, then quickly looked away. Still, Koushiro noticed the color spreading across her cheeks. Curious, he inched closer.

"N-no... Um, I told Kaede-san that, since I've been sick for so long... This is kind of like our first date. So I guess... That's why...?"

She fussed with the box, then with re-packing the basket. The cogs of Koushiro's mind whirred, producing a dizzying heat. "Eimi-san, I- I didn't realize this was- If I had known, I would have stayed with you at the party-"

"Don't feel bad! I didn't say anything to you, so-" Eimi stared at him, wide-eyed and overwhelmed. Then, something in her expression changed, and she slowly placed her arms around him.

"I was working before," she muttered. "And, um, now... I know it's late, but now I'm free. So, um... The garden is private... Would you like...?"

Sensing that he hadn't disappointed after all, Koushiro relaxed. "I'd like that very much. Please, just give me a moment to wash up, and I'll set up the picnic."

Mutually reassured, they separated to prepare for their surprise treat.

XXX

The garden was small, but private. Tall, thick bamboo encased the explosion of verdant plants. A shallow pond flowed over flattened stones, fed by a trickling bamboo fountain. The water shimmered white with moonlight, catching and delighting the eye.

Admittedly, Koushiro's sense of romance was poorly developed, but he chose the open area beside the pond as the picnic site. He moved the paper lanterns from the room's stone patio to the picnic blanket, adding their warm glow to the cooler light of moon and stars. Music from the party floated over the bamboo, but any chatter was distant and garbled, suggesting a hidden speaker nearby. It wasn't loud enough to drown out the wild song of insects and frogs.

Eimi approached and stood barefoot by the blanket, absorbing the scene. Koushiro smiled as she drew a long breath through her nose, smelling the lush scent of earth and growing things.

"It's not my garden," she said as she sat, "but it's nice."

Koushiro chuckled. "You know, vacation sites are meant to be luxurious compared to home."

"So I'm spoiled." Eimi grinned as she sat, tucking her dress skirt below her. "I really do prefer the country... We're still too close to Tokyo to see many stars."

"That's easily fixed. I'll set up something similar at home."

That sweet smile Eimi gave when he pleased her was addicting. "I'd like that! But I'd really love to go to a traditional ryokan with you."

Koushiro filled a glass of wine and handed it off to Eimi. "Then we will," he said, and relished her glow of happiness.

She paused with the glass halfway to her mouth, expression shifting towards thoughtful. "You know... They don't have much in the way of modern amenities."

"They're not technology friendly, you mean." Koushiro sighed, but smiled. "I'll live... For a weekend, at least."

She took a long draught of wine as Koushiro filled his glass. She swallowed, then squared her shoulders and said, "I'm sure we'll find a way to fill the time."

Koushiro's hand jerked, nearly dumping wine on the blanket. Eimi's responding giggle sent a current down his spine that resolved into heat and a nervous tremor. When he regained control of his hands, he filled his glass to the brim and threw back as much wine as he could.

Eimi popped a grape in her mouth, then scooted closer, until their hips touched. "It's really nice out here."

"Mm." Koushiro's pulse was like a bassline for the party music, thumping in his bones. Generally, Eimi's flirting was accidental; a witty response more heated than intended, a gaze revealing too much of her heart. He couldn't articulate how he knew, but tonight... Tonight, she was intentional.

And she called this a date. This, specifically, not the party. What had prompted the change? Was it the new scenery, a break from their routine at her home? Or were the atmosphere and the fine clothing pushing her mind towards romance?

Somehow, Eimi inched closer, until their thighs pressed together. She reached into the basket and removed the fancy box of chocolate-covered strawberries. "Would you like one?"

"Y-yes." Although Koushiro loved strawberries, the agreement was a sputtering reflex. He reached for the box, but Eimi ignored his hand and removed a plump berry slathered in dark chocolate.

She gripped the leaves and lifted, but paused, eyes narrowing as she considered the fruit. "Okay, so… Would feeding you this be cute or cringey?"

A surprised snort popped out of Koushiro, and he joined Eimi her laughter. "I'd rather eat it myself," he said, sliding the strawberry from her hand. "But I'll thank you for your trouble."

Eimi tipped her head, still giggling. "Oh?" She squeaked when he kissed her, a satisfying sound that went to Koushiro's head with more potency than any wine. He didn't intend to linger, but her response left no choice- or, perhaps, his didn't.

When they parted, it took a moment for Koushiro's mind to blink back to life. Eimi's eyes were glazed, and even in the moonlight, her flushing was visible. He watched her chest rise and fall with shallow breaths and was stupefied by the impact of his power over her.

Koushiro ate his strawberry, hoping to give them both time to regain their wits. But the fruit burst beneath his teeth, all sweet and tart and bitter, a mix of springtime brightness and the decadence of dark chocolate. He shivered, rolling into another indulgence while still in the grip of the last.

Eimi cuddled into him, wrapping her hands around his arm. "So, um… How are you feeling? The party went okay, right? I know you were nervous."

Koushiro ripped his thoughts away from taste and back to the conversation, feeling disoriented, undone. How had Eimi shifted from that kiss to what seemed like small talk? "I was nervous," he ventured at last, "but I see now that there's no need. So long as I didn't disappoint you, then I had a nice evening."

Eimi shook her head emphatically. "I'm grateful that you're here to support me... And that we're together now."

Koushiro released a slow breath. He didn't want to mention Mimi, and he had no desire to compare the two women. However, he was beginning to understand and accept that their expectations were different in these situations, and that he hadn't caused any accidental damage tonight.

"I'm grateful, too," Koushiro said. Eimi smiled, but uncertainty lingered on her face. "Is something wrong?"

"Oh…" Eimi's grip on his arm tightened. "Nothing's wrong, I just… Um." She winced. "Why is this so hard to say?"

"Eimi-san." Koushiro patted the hand squeezing his elbow. "Please, say whatever you need to say. I'm listening."

"Well- Uh, you know how you said you want to go slow? I hope I haven't been pushing too much tonight- I just thought I should check in with how you, um… How you're feeling about…?"

Koushiro's throat made a valiant effort to choke on nothing. Somehow, he resisted the urge, but he did stare blankly at Eimi for a longer period than was wise. When she began to fidget, he hastened to pull himself together.

Still, what could he say? Eimi watched him, all vulnerability and earnestness and desire. Koushiro couldn't say that he wasn't afraid, that those old fears about himself and his ability to be what she wanted were gone. He couldn't deliver a speech about how everything was healed and he was ready for anything, for everything. After all, he was neither an orator nor a liar; all he had was the unpolished truth.

"I'm still uneasy with myself, but… I have utmost confidence in you. And when I see the trust and patience you give me, time and time again, I…"

I'm beginning to believe they're warranted. The sentence hung in the night, punctuated by chirping crickets. Koushiro swallowed hard. Eimi's hand was on his thigh- when had that happened? A glance at her face obliterated his thoughts, making way for subconscious ones that were often pushed aside. They whispered that the night was moving, whether he was ready or not.

"I owe you a dance." Eimi blinked, likely jarred by the turn of subject and Koushiro's nasal, tense tone. He was a terrible dancer, but right now, even that seemed easier than talking… With the added benefit of soothing the staggering craving to touch her.

When Eimi smiled, Koushiro drew a breath, stood, and helped her up. He had no clue how to begin, but thankfully, Eimi embraced him. His arms wound around her, and suddenly, he was anchored, secured.

"I still don't know what you're thinking," Eimi pointed out. A twinge of anxiety rose, then fell as she nuzzled into him.

"I'm afraid that can't be helped," Koushiro sighed. "I have no idea, either, except that… I suddenly feel much better."

They lapsed into silence, folded in each other's arms. Bit by bit, the frazzled buzz of Koushiro's thoughts and instincts quieted. His focus turned to his senses: the music, now a soft piano melody, the lulling sound of water sliding down bamboo, the cool caress of night air juxtaposed against the warm woman pressed to him. He slid one hand to her waist and lifted the other, inviting her to a standard slow dance, the only option he had.

Eimi's smile lit her face, and Koushiro's heart tripped and flubbed the landing. He stared, unable to do anything but. "I'm remiss," he murmured. "I've failed to mention how beautiful you look. I wanted to, but…"

When his brain caught up with his mouth, Koushiro cleared his throat, suddenly self-conscious. "I… I couldn't find the right words."

Eimi slid one hand into his and placed the other on his shoulder. They began to move, and Koushiro had no awareness of how poorly or well they danced. All of his attention was on Eimi, absorbing her sphinx smile with its manifold potential meanings.

"I'm not looking for a poem. 'You look beautiful' is all you need."

"I'll take note." Her laugh emboldened him, and he added, "You're lovely. Radiant. Am I improving?"

Eimi swatted his shoulder, but stepped into him. Their movement slowed, impeded by her body smushed against his. Eimi released his hand and cupped his cheek. "You look amazing."

Koushiro might have been tempted to brush off her words, but the tenderness of her gaze was far more convincing than language. "I've always found men's formal wear plain," he said, because he had to push back for air somehow.

"Plain?" Eimi tipped her head, and a loose curl fell over her shoulder. "Not at all. You look classy." She trailed her fingertips over the collar of his green dress shirt. Even through fabric, her touch registered as gentle, reverent. Koushiro's gaze jerked from her hands to her face, and he nearly choked. In a word, Eimi appeared enamored, and all of that amorous energy was directed squarely at him.

Suddenly, Koushiro found himself deeply kissing her, with no memory of beginning. Somewhere during that lapse of awareness, his hands had slipped his control and were finally investigating whether her body was as delightful to touch as her appearance suggested. Instantly, his hypothesis was confirmed, and he pressed her against him, needing to feel more of her as quickly as possible.

When Eimi tried to ease back, his grip tightened, barring escape. Something passed through her eyes that he couldn't identify. In a calmer state, he might have recognized the look of a woman who knew things were progressing exactly as she desired.

Briefly, she kissed him, then murmured, "Hmm… You don't look classy anymore."

Koushiro froze, and in that pause, his brain sputtered into service with a groan reminiscent of a tired engine turning over. One hand was on Eimi's lower back, a relatively safe zone. The other had closed around a breast.

Koushiro tried to step back, already blabbering apologies, but Eimi laughed and squished him closer. "Touch me anywhere." Her wicked smile did something regrettable to Koushiro's knees. He grabbed her hips for purchase, which backfired spectacularly as his fingers sank into a decadent combination of silky fabric and curves. Eimi rested her head on his shoulder, and her sweet, beloved voice delivered revised orders directly to his ear:

"Touch me everywhere."

Even when overwrought beyond hope of succor, Koushiro was an intelligent man. He recognized that yielding was the only option. Somehow, he scraped together enough focus to deliver what was likely to be his last coherent thought for a while. "S-shall we go inside?"

Eimi didn't bother responding. She gripped his hand, turned, and led him back into their suite with a haste he rarely saw from her.

The night was moving, and it swept them along.