Xanxus was not happy when we walked back in. He was scowling while Levi was pale. What happened here? Xanxus did eat all his food and he wasn't gripping the garbage pail. So, it definitely wasn't his stomach. Did Levi say something?

"What happened?"

"Get out." He spat.

"Me too?" I asked quietly.

"You're the only one that stays." The two men left the room. I walked over and sat on the bed. "Did Levi annoy you?" He huffed and relaxed against the pillows. "Do you need a massage?"

"Please. Every time I get pissed off my muscles lock up." I stood up and started on his shoulders. Since he was getting better, I could put more pressure on him.

"I'd tell you to not get angry, but that doesn't really work."

"You're the only one that learned." I made my way down his body and started on his calves. Shamal walked in with a folder. Squalo followed him in with a plate of food.

"Good morning. How's the massage working?"

"It's been working." I answered.

"Good." I was given the plate full of my usual choices.

"You haven't eaten yet and Lussuria is worrying about you because of it. Just because you missed your breakfast doesn't mean there's something wrong with you." Squalo scolded me while bickering about Lussuria.

"I was busy."

"You still need to eat." Xanxus scolded.

"I was planning on doing it after you were settled." I ate while Shamal did his checkup.

"It looks like you'll be able to move soon. Your muscles are receptive to my touch. It's a good sign and shows Shiori has been taking the best care of you. Now, you should try moving a little bit and have someone help you stretch." Xanxus just looked at me and I nodded. He didn't even have to ask. I just assumed I'd help him with everything but bathing. Shamal then checked Xanxus' blood using a quick test. "Look at that, the poison is almost out of your system. You'll be good to go soon."

"Will I need physical therapy?" He asked.

"Only if you don't stretch every day. Though, I'm sure Shiori will keep you on track. She's been keeping a detailed list of everything happening so far. You're in good hands with her." Shamal turned to me. "Now, it's your turn."

"Me?"

"My friend is very curious about you. How can someone whose blood results show they're dead be alive?" My stomach dropped. "Would you mind if I did a thorough examination on you? I want to compare it to the weird results I got from your dad." I immediately stood up. I needed to get answers.

"I wouldn't mind at all."

"Good. We should bring you to the hospital to do this."

"She stays." Xanxus threatened.

"Are you fine with that, Shiori?"

"I'm fine with doing the examination here."

"I'll need you to strip into your undergarments. Are you still sure?"

"I'm sure. It's not like they haven't seen it before." Squalo locked the door. I wouldn't want anyone else to look, but I was comfortable enough with Squalo and Xanxus. Squalo was more of a brother than a friend while Xanxus would make sure Shamal wasn't doing anything inappropriate. My limbs were moved in every direction.

"Your range of motions is like a gymnast."

"I used to do gymnastics as a kid."

"It's not just that. It's like you're still in the sport." He then hooked me up to a small machine he had in his bag. He put different pads all over me.

"What are you doing?" Xanxus asked.

"Essentially, I'm electrocuting her muscles to see if there's a reaction. It's at a low volt so it won't do anything bad."

"It feels good." I muttered.

"It shouldn't."

"So, what else did my blood say?" I asked. Shamal took the folder and opened it.

"As your grandmother predicted, you are, in fact, resistant to some poisons. Common ones won't kill you but rarer ones will."

"Would I be fine with the poison Xanxus had?"

"Yes."

"Would a blood transfusion help?"

"Unfortunately, it won't. He's making antibodies himself so you don't have to worry one bit if this happens again." Shamal stopped the electrocution and took out a scalpel from his bag. The two men made noises of protest.

"Are you going to stab her?!" Squalo shrieked.

"Calm down, you two. I'm checking something." Shamal took my hand and made a small cut on the top. A mosquito went down and collected blood. He went to put gauze on the cut but stopped himself. I looked down and saw the bleeding stop completely. "Huh."

"What is it?" Xanxus asked. Shamal put the gauze down and saw no blood transfer to it.

"That's interesting. I'm going to call my colleague. He'll want to see this. In the meantime, you can get dressed now."

Shamal left the room in a hurry. "What happened?" Xanxus asked me. I put my clothes on with a sigh.

"I just stopped bleeding."

"Maybe you do have the blood of a warrior." Squalo suggested. I sat on the bed. I could still feel how tired my muscles were from the electricity. Even though it felt good, it quickly tired my muscles out. Physical therapists used to do this to me when I learned how to walk again. They had to reteach my muscles how to move.

"You good?" Xanxus asked.

"Tired."

"You can take a nap when he's gone." I nodded as Shamal walked back in.

"Well?" I asked.

"We're going to take a look at your blood again. We're very interested in how your wound suddenly stopped bleeding. Do you mind if I take another sample?"

"Not at all." Once Shamal took a sample, he left. I let out a sigh before lying down. "Can I nap now?"

"Get under the covers first. You'll get sick if your stomach gets cold." I couldn't believe Xanxus remembered that about me. I crawled under the covers and snuggled up to him. Since he was still sitting up, so I had to deal with his leg for warmth.

Shiori fell asleep almost immediately after she was comfortable. The examination must have really tired her out. "Do you want me to lay you down?" Squalo asked.

"A little bit." Once Xanxus was in a comfortable position, he let out a sigh. Shiori noticed the change and woke up only to attach herself to his chest. "Don't say anything."

"I wasn't going to. No one cares what you two do. It's your business and none of ours."

"I don't want any of this to get out."

"It won't. Besides, if you're that worried about it, why do you keep letting her sleep with you? Even you should know the consequences."

"I can't help myself. I haven't felt this content in years." Xanxus admitted softly. He turned his head and looked at Shiori's sleeping face, memorizing her soft features.

"What will you do if it gets out? Even Nono can't quell that storm."

"What do you think I should do?"

"I don't know and if I did, this is something you need to figure out. You'll have to talk to Shiori about it. You know we'll be on your side."

"Humor me. What would you do?"

"It depends on how I felt about Shiori." Squalo admitted. He knew Xanxus wasn't ready to talk about his feelings, but it had to be discussed.

"Explain."

"You know what I'm talking about. You're not that stupid or innocent." Xanxus sighed. He didn't know what to do. "It's best not to think about it now. Focus on recovering because once you're back to normal, you won't have Shiori like this."

"Like what?"

"Always by your side."

"I know that."

"Get some rest." Once Squalo left, Shiori shifted. She pulled herself up to use his shoulder as a pillow before clinging onto him. Despite all the dangers that could happen, Xanxus didn't care right now. He was comfortable with everything. Did he even dare to say he loved it?

Two days passed. Xanxus was starting to be able to move again. In turn, it made him less of a grouch to deal with. Though, he could only move his arms. His strength still hadn't completely returned to him. So, I had to help him eat and drink still. As long as it was me, he didn't seem to mind. Nono came to visit but it was brief since Xanxus was in a sour mood. Today, I helped him stretch. I started with his arms, back, and torso.

"How are you feeling?" I asked.

"Better."

"And your legs?"

"They still need to be worked on."

"Let's work on them then." I gently shifted his body where his legs were hanging off the side of the bed. I got in front of him on my knees before taking his left leg and massaging it first. I needed to help loosen the muscles before I could stretch them. I looked up and Xanxus' eyes were in a haze. "Are you alright?"

"I'm good. Keep going."

"O-okay." After his left leg, I massaged his right. His stare was getting more intense. I heard the door open and then slam shut. We looked towards the door. "Who was that?"

"Don't worry. Keep going." After the massage, I stretched his calves by pushing the top of his foot up towards the ceiling. He winced in pain. "How much longer?"

"A couple more minutes. As painful as this is, it'll help you recover quicker. Trust me. I know the pain."

"I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"For being difficult." I realized what he meant. He was still hung up about how long my recovery was.

"You're not being difficult. Now, if you were stuck with someone else doing this, you'd be difficult. And since you can move your arms now, you'd probably kill them. You just need to wake your muscles up. You don't have to learn to walk again. It's a different process. You also don't have a crazy grandmother that's been secretly making you immune to poison." That got a soundless chuckle.

"That's true. I can't think of anyone that would do that."

"My grandparents are insane. I'm surprised dad came out so normal."

"You never know, he might have had another side to him that you didn't know about."

"Probably. Everyone on his side is like that. Dad never liked to show me his bad side or if there was anything wrong."

"Just like you." I paused for a second before smiling.

"Just like me."

"You need to learn to rely on us. You're not alone anymore."

"I know. I'm…doing a lot better. There's still some things I don't really feel comfortable relying on everyone for." I admitted quietly. It felt like a mini therapy session when we talked like this. These were the softer moments I cherished.

"Like what?" He asked.

"I feel like my troubles aren't worth anyone's times. Everyone has more important things to worry about."

"What about Chen?"

"She isn't good at comforting people."

"Ah." It got silent. I wondered if Xanxus would want me to tell him what troubles I was having. I wouldn't want to tell him since they were too embarrassing even for me. "You know you can come to me."

"Even if you're part of my troubles?" I looked up with curious eyes. He didn't react whatsoever.

"Yes."

"What if I wanted to vent to you about how childish you act during certain times?" He frowned but sighed.

"That's fine."

"Even if I want to strangle you when you don't listen?"

"It's only fair. I feel the same when you don't listen to me to get to safety."

"I see I'll never live that down."

"I'll keep reminding you until the day one of us dies."

"Well, if that's the only thing I've done that has really annoyed you, I think that's a win."

"When you look at things that way, that is a good thing. Let's hope you don't piss me off that much again."

"I probably will." I replied with a chuckle.

"Just know I'm here no matter what. Even if you want to degrade me, I'll allow it."

"Why?"

"Because it's you."

The door opened as Lussuria ran in with excitement. For some reason, I could see hearts in his eyes from behind his sunglasses. The rest of the Varia walked in. Levi was tearing up and Squalo looked terrified. I looked up at Xanxus and he was furious. His scars were starting to stretch. Oh no.

"I never knew you were so bold, Shiori! And to hear the boss say something so sweet is a dream!" I realized why the door slammed earlier. I stood up and picked up a cup. Xanxus watched me with interest. Without hesitation, I threw the glass as hard as I could right at Lussuria. Upon contact with his forehead, the glass shattered, Lussuria's body fell unconscious.

"Out." I demanded in a deeper voice.

"Scary Shiori is back." Levi panicked. I picked up a pen and pointed it at them in a threatening manner.

"Shall I show you the extent of my flame? I'm sure your bodies would explode in tiny pieces. No one will be able to identify you. Though, I'm sure you'd all sell for a pretty penny. I could just do that." Bel and Mammon were the first ones out with Levi right behind them, dragging Lussuria with him. Squalo was the only one left. I put the pen down and sighed heavily. "Squalo."

"Y-yes?"

"I'm hungry."

"I'll bring you something to eat."

"Also, do not let that happen again."

"I tried. I really did." I held my head and sat on the bed. My head was hurting. I've never been that embarrassed and angry at the same time. Once Squalo left, Xanxus let out a hearty laugh.

"I'm glad someone is amused."

"I've never seen someone knock out that energetic trash in one hit." I groaned and covered my ears. He was being too loud. I felt a tug on my arm before being pulled back.

"When did you get your strength back?"

"Seeing that little exhibit of yours gave me my strength back. It's still a shame my legs are still rough." He said quietly before hugging me. I relaxed into his embrace. It was one of the few things that'd help calm me down. "Are you good?" He asked after five minutes. I sat up and nodded. Squalo came back a few minutes later with a big plate of food.

"How's Lussuria?" I asked.

"He's still out cold but he's muttering some weird shit. You don't have to worry about anyone barging in like that. You scared them. The main instigator is out for today."

"Good."

Later that night, I was exhausted. I hated how I'd feel like this when I let my emotions get out of control like that. I snuggled into the blankets. All I wanted was to sleep. I was being pulled backwards by my shirt. Since getting some strength back in his arms, Xanxus was bolder with his actions. I turned around and was embraced. It was how we'd usually sleep. I basically turned into a koala and wrapped my limbs around him.

"What do you say? Will you move in here?" He murmured in my shoulder.

"I will." His grip tightened slightly.

"Good." His hand went to my head and massaged it. He was being excessively touchy lately. I didn't mind it, but it was definitely strange. I don't think I could sleep like this with anyone else.

"With the way you're recovering you might be able to walk in a few days." I was shushed. "Xanxus?"

"I want to enjoy the silence like this."

"What's wrong?"

"Am I not allowed to be needy once in a while?" Something must have made him like this.

"I'm not saying you're not allowed. I'm just worried. That's all. Did someone say something?"

"Would you forgive me if I got you hurt?"

"Huh? How would you get me hurt?" I questioned.

"Just by being associated with me, you have a target on your back."

"Xanxus, I've always had a target on my back since I was born. You might give me another target, but you're also reducing several larger ones. Just by taking me in, I'm protected for the horrors I've faced in Japan and from those people. Chen is also there for me. She's always in my shadow and when she isn't there, I'm with you."

"And if I can't protect you?"

"I'm sure you'd give one hell of a fight. Plus, you seem to forget just how strong I am. If I get hurt, it won't fall on you. It'll never be on you. That party? I was one of the main targets because of Nikita. It had nothing to do with you." I knew it didn't reassure him at all. The possibility of me getting hurt because of him was still high no matter what. "The second I know there's a target on me, I'll let you know. Will that make you feel better?" I proposed.

"Only if you rely on me more."

"I can't promise that I'll tell you everything, but you'll be the first person I go to when I'm trouble or need something."

"That's enough for me."

The next day, Xanxus was able to move. Though, it was slow maneuvers, it was still something. So, he had to use a wheelchair to help get around headquarters. I went to his room all dressed up with his tea. Squalo was there with food. "Where are you going?" Xanxus asked.

"It's punishment time. Nono gave me his decision." The two men stared at me intensely. "Don't worry. You two have front row seats. You'll get to see everything going on from a livestream."

"Who will be with you?"

"Chen, Nono, and some CEDEF members will be watching from the next room over. Will that suffice?" He nodded. "Any special requests?"

"It depends on what you're allowed to do."

"I get to do whatever I'd like." The two smirked. It was in these times did they show their professional selves. The murderous aura they radiated really suited them.

"Give her a fitting punishment for doing this to me."

"Very well, boss. I'll see what I can do. I'll make an example out of them." Chen entered the room.

"It's time to go. Car is here. Need any last-minute preparation?" She asked.

"I'm ready. I have everything I need." We left the room and walked into Mammon and Bel on the way out. "I'd like everyone to go to the conference room for a show if you're up for it." Bel snickered, knowing exactly what was happening.

"We'll be watching."

Inside the car, I thought about everything that was happening behind the scenes while I was taking care of Xanxus. Nono had CEDEF interrogate everyone still alive from the party. Lucia seemed to not be listening to anyone. She didn't even speak unless Xanxus was mentioned. When her father was interrogated, it came to light how he's been planning to overthrow the Vongola for a number of years. They were going to blame it on me since I'm new and an ex-member of Nikita's family. It would have almost worked if Lucia hadn't fucked up. It would have definitely worked if I was from another family. So, today, I get to take the two enemies and do as I please. I planned on just chopping them up and selling them, but I had a better idea. I'll stream this to everyone. Every Vongola ally has their own front seat to the true horror that is known as me.

"Today will be fun. Are your men there?" Chen asked.

"Yes. Who else will clean up properly?"

The car came to a slow stop. Chen and I got out of the car to warehouse. Nono brought us here so we didn't have to worry about staining anything. He even so graciously had a sturdy table set up for me. We walked in and immediately saw Coyote.

"Welcome, Shiori. If you need any assistance, don't hesitate to call."

"Thank you, but that won't be needed. If anyone needs to leave, please do. I'm not forcing anyone to watch."

Kira and his superior were here. They spotted me and nodded as a greeting. Everyone else noticed me and all stared. "I know you used to be one of Nikita's men, but will you be fine doing this?" Iemitsu asked.

"She'll be fine, Iemitsu. I've seen only a fraction of her work, but she's more than fine. I wouldn't have called her here if I wasn't one hundred percent confident in her skills." Nono defended me.

"Sir…"

"We still have two minutes left until show time. Any requests, Nono?"

"I have none. I am more than confident you'll give a fitting punishment to them. No longer will we be soft towards our enemies and especially our traitors."

"Even Xanxus?" Iemitsu questioned me.

"Did you give him a fitting punishment?"

"I did." Nono's smile became wide.

"I'm glad. What was the punishment?"

"We had a promise. The next time he came to Japan, I had to tell him my past. He hated how I'd never tell him. It even angered him. My punishment was not telling him until later."

"That's a very fitting punishment. And what was Xanxus promising you?"

"He promised me a home with him. The original plan was for me and dad to live with the Varia. When he died, the Varia basically packed my bags right after the funeral. They wanted me out of Japan as fast as possible."

"You're finally home, Shiori. If anyone wants to hurt you, they have to go through some scary people." I chuckled.

"You and the Varia are the only people that don't see me as scary." I looked at the clock and walked towards the door. "How many viewers so far?"

"Forty."

"Wonderful. Let's go, Chen. It's showtime."