*Satoru's POV*
The day went wonderfully for the students, as well as for me and Genkai. The kids enjoyed a range of activities, while they were somewhat training based, they were also made to be fun and challenging. While they had their fun, I had noticed Genkai looking at me on and off throughout the day and I couldn't help but look back at her.
This morning was eventful with a random demon attack that was still weighing on my mind. The demon had to high classed to be able to charr my hand slightly. Further, the demon seemed to be playing games. I needed to talk to Genkai about taking turns in surveilling the area at night. For now, I would simply enjoy the night with her and the talk we needed to have.
My stomach fluttered with anxiety. On top of the demon attack, I came to recognize that I needed Genkai in my life, always. More than a friend and fighting teammate. Given her reaction this morning, and last night, I believe she wants the same. Now with the children fed and herded into their rooms for the night, I could finally speak with her.
She found me in the kitchen putting away plates and other things. She watched me for a few minutes until I finished my task. I turned to her and smiled. "Would you like to go outside?" I said as I held out my hand for hers, which she quickly took and followed me to our usual spot.
Sitting down, we took in the night sky. It seemed we were both nervous about this talk and well, I was unsure what to say to her, but Genkai being her, took my hand again and held it as we sat.
That was enough for me to start talking.
"This morning was eventful?" I asked to get the ball rolling and she chuckled. Her thumb caressing my hand, and I returned the gesture.
"You could say that," she said looking up at me, "But I think there is a certain part we need to finish."
I hummed in agreement and let the silence hold us for a few moments, enjoying the feel of her hand in mine.
"That we do, Genkai," I said and looked down at her at that moment. "I don't want to beat around the bush like this morning and I need you to be honest with me as well, okay?"
"Okay, I'll be honest," she said with a smile, which I returned.
Taking a deep breath, I began, "well, it seems that we have feelings for one another, beyond friendship. I can finally admit that I care for you more deeply than I can fathom. This morning, when that unknown demon attacked, I just stepped in front of you, not because you couldn't defend yourself but because I was afraid of what was coming and what may harm you. Hell, you could have taken that blast better than I could but I had to protect you... Over the last several months, I've grown to care more and more about you and I cannot stand by any longer and not say that I want more than this... I want you as my partner in both fighting and in life."
I held my breath at my confession, but she got up from her seat which made me do the same in turn.
"Dimwit," she said softly, "sit back down so we are the same height." I laughed and did as she asked. For someone so small, she was definitely larger than life. Having sat back down she then reached out with her fingers and touched my face.
"I've been fighting my feelings for a while. I didn't know what you want, what I wanted, or if you even wanted me, but… I feel more intuned with you than anyone I have ever met, Satoru. I can't imagine this will always be easy for us, but I want there to be an us. I would be honored to be your partner on and off the battlefield." She said, as I reached out and wrapped an arm around her waist, while swinging a leg onto the deck, pulling her towards me. I was able to hug her the way I've been wanting to for a long while. She hugged me back and kissed my ear.
My eyes fluttered closed as I savored the warmth of her lips. She then pulled way slight and I reopened my eyes to meet hers. "You're so beautiful," I said as I ran my fingers through her hair. I then slipped them behind her neck and moved forward to kiss her. She kissed me back, her wrapping her arms around my neck. We kissed for a while, enjoying the feeling and the warmth of each other. We finally needed air and separated, but I did not relinquish my hold around her no her hold on me.
"Look at you, dimwit, I've never seen you smile so much," she said as she laughed, which made me laugh as well.
"Is dimwit my new pet name, hm?" I said with an impish grin and she nodded, "we then, wildcat, let me show you how happy you've made me," and again I began to kiss her again.
We kissed on and off for some time, just enjoying the feel and warmth. Eventually, she settled into my lap. She was so small compared to me, but she fits perfectly in the nook of my arm and my upper body. Frankly, I did not want this night to end but we needed sleep.
Still holding her close to my chest, I stood up with her easily in my arm. She looked up at me, she seemed to have been sleeping. I smiled at her and kissed her forehead as we walked inside. I took us down the hall to her bedroom, which I then put her down at her door. I then went to one knee to be at her height and kissed her once again. This feeling of her with me was one I was beginning to relish and crave more and more. As I pulled away, I saw her smiling at me, as she kissed me on the cheek.
"Good night, Satoru," she said as she opened her door.
"Good night, Genkai," and with that, she closed her door and I stood, heading to my room.
My heart had fluttered endlessly the remainder of the night. I just wanted to be with her, but I also didn't want to rush her or our relationship into anything. I wanted her, forever and I would do things the right way.
