Duty-Bound: Chapter 16
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From today onwards, they started training. Even though she hadn't shared her thoughts with him, he knew what she was trying to do. As much as he disliked the idea, he couldn't deny her. While waiting, he leaned against one of the trees. Splashing water could be heard every now and then. Trying to push away his dirty thoughts, he closed his eyes and recalled what had happened earlier.
He was impressed by her skills in combat. Even though her form was still slightly sloppy, she performed very gracefully. "Have you been training by yourself?"
She was panting when she answered. "I was… until you abducted me."
He looked at the sun's position before gazing at her. "Let's continue this tomorrow."
Before she could utter a word, he added, "Come. There's a river nearby."
A hand on his folded arms pulled him from his thoughts.
"Thank you for waiting, Natsume. I'm done."
Her smile was enough to tell him that she was contented. Water continued to drip from her hair. For explicit reasons, he was grateful that he had chosen a dark shade of blue for her yukata. "Ready to go back?"
As she looked away from him, she seemed disappointed.
"What is it?"
Pausing, she slowly said, "Nothing."
Before she could walk away from him, he grabbed her hand. Without uttering a sound, she looked up at him with questioning eyes. He released her hand to cup her face. While urging her to come closer, he caressed her cheek with his thumb. As she obediently stepped forward until their bodies were pressed together, he searched her eyes to find the answer to his silent request.
"Natsume…" she muttered quietly.
It would be enough for now. He felt satisfied as he pressed his moist lips to hers in a kiss.