Duty-Bound: Chapter 26
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No one voiced their disbelief, but he knew Mikan was not trusted by the lords and ladies of other lands. Really, he couldn't blame them as Mikan's name had never been mentioned outside of the western lands, or should he say outside of the western palace. Thus, everyone had believed Mikan was an imposter who wanted to rule this land.
He tensed when he approached Mikan. After hearing his polite request, he knew Mikan would not refuse him. The hot jealousy boiling within him immediately rose as he looked at Mikan and the nobleman. Suddenly, he envied the man as he had something that he did not. He could talk and display his emotions without restraint with her. Unlike him, the relationship between him and Mikan in everyone's eyes was like a master and a servant. True, he was the head of the clans of the royal ninjas, but his status was still her servant under her command, not one of her potential husbands.
As much as he wanted to leave them alone for privacy, his body refused to cooperate with him and remained hidden to watch them. After taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes and recalled what she told him last night.
"Something is bothering you, Natsume. Do you want to tell me?" she asked while gazing at the night sky.
He wished to tell her, but he could not.
When he did not answer, she turned to him. "Natsume?"
Stepping closer, he slowly dipped down to capture her rosy lips with his own. He needed to ensure that she was truly his.
After they broke apart from the passionate kiss, she hugged him. "I love you, Natsume."
Before closing his eyes, he whispered, "I know."
"I love you, too, Mikan," he murmured after opening his eyes.