Efflorescence
Chapter Twelve: Curiosity
by Autumn Win-Dow
"It's been a month since we've had this discussion, Natsume. If you don't find a fiancée by next month, I'll have to choose her for you."
Natsume now deeply regretted his agreement to get married. Because it was only when his father was becoming even more ill that his mother started to sound more urgent - and he a lot more reluctant.
At times like these, all he could do was go to the one place where he could forget that he was arranged to be married.
But as he expected, the topic had somehow slipped into their conversation above all else.
"So you're getting married?"
"Apparently."
On the other hand, his relationship with Kurike had softened over the past month. Her critical glares and his wish to investigate started to vanish as they became acquainted with each other, and after a month they ended up talking to each other about the smaller problems, and distract each other from their lives for a moment.
His marriage problem was the biggest issue which had been brought into discussion.
"Well... I'm sure you'll find someone great." Kurike reassured with a forced voice which he was too dazed to notice.
For some unknown reason, Kurike didn't like the sound of Natsume getting married. She wanted to be happy, but a part of her was reluctant to accept it.
Ugh, what's wrong with me? Why am I even forcing myself? She scolded herself as she reluctantly grinned at him. The woman hadn't felt this conflicted in his presence ever since a month ago in the garden.
"...I guess." Natsume simply replied before finishing his cup of tea.
His visits had become even more regular than before, as he talked to her a few times a week. Natsume had almost forgotten the issue about Kurike and his father as he spent more time with her.
Almost.
But that wasn't the only thing still bothering his as they spent more time together. The more he knew her, the more curious he became in regards to her - her face, name, and background. He wanted to know.
One of the reasons why was that he disliked the sound of her geisha name rolling off his tongue.
"...What's your real name?" Natsume blurted out unconsciously, and it made Kurike flinch.
"W-Why do you want to know?" Kurike breathed, concern about the progression of the conversation evident on her face.
He exhaled deeply before explaining. "I don't like calling you 'Kurike'. It's too feminine, and it's not your real name. Besides, I know you don't like it either."
Kurike had never actually minded being called that particular name, but at times she did feel iffy being referred to by the colour of her hair. Also, the topics that would emerge when someone saw her true name was something which she wanted to prevent at all costs.
That was why she had no idea why she wanted to tell him her true name, despite him being the son of his father.