Notes:
Thanks to my beta, alpha, and omega, editor, guide, sensei, and my other half neuron Zulmajea who helped me clear up several points that were a bit confusing and also gave me several ideas for the following chapters :D it was really helpful to have someone to talk to about the plot, so part of what there is and what is to come is also part of her. I was lucky because she has an awesome imagination and questions.
CHAPTER 8: Denial
Her head ached a bit, but she was so comfortable that she felt if she kept sleeping, it would go away. Her blanket was soft, and the smell of wood and sweetness calmed her. She turned over, and upon feeling the sunlight, covered herself with the pillow. She stretched her legs out from under the sheets in the bed that seemed endless. She didn't want to get up; she had had a very stressful night and didn't even remember how she had gotten to her room. Slowly, the memories of the previous night's conversation came back. This was not her bed. She opened her eyes in fright, touched her chest and her body to make sure she had all her clothes on, although her belt was missing.
—Don't worry, I only removed it so you would be comfortable. I'm not enthusiastic about touching sleeping people unlike others. —He emphasized the last word and pointed to the chair next to him with his head. —Sit down, we have a conversation to finish.
She gave the sheets another glance before getting out of bed, still anxious as she adjusted her clothes, fastening them with the belt while her eyes began to brighten. —Don't worry, I slept on the couch. I returned you the favor of the cave. —She turned to look at him with her eyes wide open, still a bit red and swollen. —Yes, I remember, though some things are still blurry. —He pointed to the bowl of soup next to him. —Come, eat a little first.
She had no choice. She sat next to him nervously, unable to stop feeling exposed after sleeping in his bed, having been in his hands and arms. She remembered the kiss and reflexively touched her lips, blushing. The effort of all those weeks had been in vain. She had given in to the desire she hadn't wanted to admit. That couldn't happen, or her brothers would pay the consequences. She had to get out of there. If she managed to avoid Naoya, she would agree to marry some stranger her father chose and let him take her far away. —Please excuse me for all the trouble I've caused. I'll gather my things and leave. —She tried to stand up, but he didn't let her.
—No. I can't let you go without answers. I need to know if my clan is at risk. —She shook her head. —Yesterday, you said you escaped and that they were going to kill you. Are they forcing you to pass information? What happened?
She tried to hold back the tears, but she couldn't. Saying it out loud made her feel ashamed, especially having to explain her brothers' jokes. She kept looking at the floor while she wiped away her tears until she felt him grab her hand, offering her a handkerchief.
—If you have problems, you can stay here. —He lifted her face so she would look at him. —But I need to know, what is your relationship with the Zenin, or rather with Naoya? —He didn't seem angry; on the contrary, his eyes held a mixture of sadness and anxiety.
She took a deep breath and began in a low tone. —I was an employee of the Zenin; I was only in charge of cleaning. I worked with them for three years, but... I had problems with Naoya. — Her voice trembled, and she started to fidget with the handkerchief between her fingers. —He... he... —The tears increased and her voice broke. —He harassed me and tried to take advantage of me more than once. —Satoru frowned, visibly angry, his hands turning white from the strength of his fists, and he cursed under his breath. —My friend, his cousin, told me to come here and asked Naobito-sama to let me go. —She sighed and lifted her head to meet his gaze again. —I have no relationship with them, I just wanted to get out of there, I swear.
Her face reddened, and her voice trembled once more. —My brothers were just joking. There was never anything between Naoya and me. I just... admired him because I thought he was a good person. —She noticed Satoru's annoyed expression, almost seeing a pout. She wanted to ask him so many things, such as how he found her necklace and how he found her in the forest, but given the situation, she didn't dare to.
How could she have been interested in Naoya?! The idea irritated him. Satoru knew him well and was aware he was capable of that and more. Did she think he was the same and that's why she avoided him? The thought was unbearable for his ego. She had been very lucky to escape, but the fear it left was evident in her desperation. This situation only complicated things further. He wanted to hug her again, but it wasn't the right time. He touched her hand slowly to get her attention. —And your family, why didn't you go to them?
She looked to the side, uncomfortable. —It's... complicated. My father... wants to marry me off, but I don't want to. —She twisted the handkerchief nervously and kept looking at him. —Because of my hair, you know... it's not normal. But I'm going to go back to them. I understand that I can't stay here. Please, forgive me. I swear I would never tell them anything about you. I...
Gojo didn't let her finish. He saw the tremor in her body, her pale face, and her frightened eyes. He knew she wasn't lying. —Calm down, you can stay, but don't mention to anyone else that you worked for them. The elders would go crazy, and we'd be in trouble. You can trust Yuji and I. —He handed her a glass of water to calm her down.
She shook her head. —I can't stay. I've wronged your fiancée. —She said. Her face was flushed with shame, more pronounced with each word. —We shouldn't have, I shouldn't have accepted... you are engaged, you're going to get married...
—My fiancée? Do you mean MeiMei? —He asked, letting out an amused laugh as he looked her in the eyes. —If I got married every time the elders announced an engagement, I'd have a harem by now. They always do that to pressure me. —She looked at him warily, and he felt a twinge of nervousness. He shouldn't have let the situation with MeiMei progress without putting a stop to it.
—But everyone says you're going to get married, she must think so too. How will she feel if you reject the announcement? Even if you're not engaged, you are together, and what happened was wrong. —She said, her tone soft but carrying a reprimand. She looked somewhat upset, and he was surprised to see her so determined. If he didn't resolve the issue with MeiMei, last night's kiss would have been in vain.
He sighed and pouted like a small child caught doing something mischievous. —My relationship with MeiMei is... complicated. It's similar to your situation with your father. —He smiled nervously, echoing her words from a few moments ago. Given what she had just shared, it wasn't the best time to tell her they were lovers. —She's a... very close friend, but... — He hesitated, feeling awkward trying to explain. —There's nothing special between us. —She kept frowning, eyeing him suspiciously. —She's not very sentimental. She's more of a businesswoman and loves money. I know it sounds rude, but when you meet her, you'll know I'm telling the truth.
She still looked wary, but at least she no longer had that annoyed expression. She seemed to be thinking about her options, so he decided to insist. —If you leave, you'll be in danger. Besides, I want to repay you for what you did for me. You took a risk, and without you, they wouldn't have found me. If you don't want a repeat of last night, it won't happen; just let me help you as I promised. I know I'm a bit difficult, and I probably caused more trouble than I recall. —He leaned back in his chair, draping an arm over the backrest. — Leave it to me. As long as you're here with me, Naoya won't come near. He can't face me.
His certainty left her in awe, and his confidence made her feel secure. It was so different from what people said about him. If only he knew the relief his words brought her! She longed to hug him and feel his embrace, to feel safe once more, but she knew she had to keep her distance. —It's too much. I don't want to cause you trouble with the elders. I don't know how to thank you. —She clasped her hands together and bowed her head in reverence.
—Don't worry. Naoya is no match for me and I'm always arguing with the elders. I owe you. — He lifted her chin gently, urging her out of her submissive posture. —But if you insist, I'd like you to take Yuji's position. From now on, he'll have a different role, and I need someone trustworthy to handle my affairs. —She nodded and was about to bow again, but he stopped her. —So much formality isn't necessary. Calling me sir or bowing isn't useful to me; I prefer your loyalty and sincerity. Now that you'll be handling my affairs, I need you to be my eyes and ears, and tell me everything. There's no point in hiding anything from each other. Can you do that?
Miwa nodded. He was offering her a new beginning under his protection and she felt indebted. —Yes, I will. I'll do everything you ask. —He raised an eyebrow making her blush.
—One last thing: as Yuji may have mentioned, Naoya returned a few days ago. I know you're planning to visit your brothers, but I'd like you to hold off for now. He hasn't had a good trip. — He chuckled, recalling his friend's latest acquisition. —Knowing that you're not there will really get on his nerves. Let's wait to hear from him, okay? —She nodded, slightly distressed, as he rummaged in his chest pocket. He pulled something out and took her hand, drawing it closer to him. —Here, I think I accidentally took this from you; it's very pretty. —Kasumi smiled bringing her hand to her chest.
—Thank you.
Kasumi's attitude had changed; she seemed calmer, even happier. She had learned Yuji's tasks well, but she added her personal touch. She knew what he liked and sought to please him; there were always sweets, fresh flowers in his room, carefully prepared his outfits to avoid wrinkles, and well-organized papers from the elders.
That night, he had considered sharing the bed with her. He sat beside her, stroking her hair. Seeing her uncomfortable and tugging at her belt in her sleep, he decided to take it off. It was a big mistake because it made him want to see more. He thought about waking her up and seducing her. However, seeing her so frightened and nervous made him realize it would be too cruel to take advantage of her situation. To avoid temptation, he went to the couch, where he watched her until he fell asleep.
He had decided to give her time to calm down, but it was difficult to contain his impulses when she helped him dress or waited outside the bathroom. Sometimes he stayed in the tub until the water cooled, just to calm his thoughts. Part of him wanted to abandon composure and take her; after all, he was certain she wasn't indifferent to him. But it irritated him to think he would be repeating Naoya's steps. He was better than that, and he would prove it.
He contented himself with seeking her gaze, looking into her blue eyes, and then concealing his feelings with a smile. He used any silly excuse to touch her, made ridiculous poses when she helped him dress to make her laugh, or walked around with only a towel around his waist to see her blush. He cursed the old men, and she was scandalized by his words, but in the end, they always ended up laughing. What bothered others, amused her.
He had finally convinced her to sit down and eat with him by saying he needed to share the elders' movements and gossip. Truth be told, he just wanted to talk to her and insist to stop dyeing her hair. He was surprised by how polite and delicate she was despite coming from the countryside. Anyone would think she came from an important family.
—Are you sure you don't want me to send someone to watch your house? I can send one or two men to make you feel safer. —He said as they had breakfast, and she talked about her friends in the Zenin clan.
—I don't think it's necessary. Besides, I've already caused several problems, I wouldn't want you to argue more because of me, please. —She said, putting her hand on his arm.
He took the opportunity to place his hand over hers, making her blush. —Think about it, almost everyone here is a sorcerer, and one or two people fewer won't make a big difference. —He said, stroking her hand. —Speaking of which, you should stop dyeing your hair; it's too beautiful to be covered up. I'd love to see it.
Her face ignited upon hearing him, and she could only smile softly, saying quietly. —I'll think about it. —She saw their hands together and looked into his eyes to tell him to let go, but she got lost in his celestial gaze. Hers shone expectantly as he approached slowly. She closed her eyes and felt his lips on hers. This time, she didn't hesitate and responded, despite the guilt. His hand on her waist drew her closer, and a sigh escaped her. She felt his tongue seeking entry, and just as she was about to accept, a knock on the door made her push him away and return to her place.
—Satoru! I've come with my father, are you free? I'm coming in! —He recognized Shoko's voice. What a bad timing! Miwa was about to get up, but he instinctively held her hand to make her stay. —Shoko! Finally, you're here!
—How have you be… —Shoko stopped at the door. The sight before her didn't seem real. She had never seen him with a woman in his room before. She had once caught him quickly dismissing his nighttime companion to avoid being seen. And now this woman was there, sitting with him. Her surprise grew when she saw him holding her hand. The young woman let go and stood up, giving a salute. —Good morning, welcome. Excuse me, I'll leave you alone. —She gathered her things and poured a glass of water, all under Gojo's intense gaze. —Excuse me.
She watched her leave, while her friend's eyes followed her. —It seems like you want to devour her. Who is she? —But Gojo continued to ignore her. —From what I see, the rumors were true; that fall really affected you. I hardly recognize you.
As if just realizing her presence, he greeted her. —Shoko! Did you come to teach me the reverse cursed technique? Everything would have been faster if you were here. How was your trip? —Satoru turned to her with a wide grin.
—Don't avoid my questions; it's the first time I've seen you spending time with any of your lovers. I thought you were fine with MeiMei. Come on, don't be childish, tell me. —said Shoko, raising an eyebrow with a smile.
—She's not my lover. —Gojo said, furrowing his brow but avoiding her gaze, and Shoko chuckled.
—Oh, please. Who are you trying to fool? If she's not now, she will be later, otherwise, why do you have her sitting at your table? It surprises me that you went this far. What did she do to you?
Gojo looked grumpy, making Shoko laugh at him. He began to tell her everything from the beginning: the attack, how he met her, his recovery, and how he found her again after she escaped from the Zenin. He avoided mentioning certain things, like his attempts to seduce her in the cave and now that she had returned. He was annoyed to hear the same taunts that Geto had made, and he didn't want to give him any more reasons.
Shoko listened attentively. It had been a few months since she left to study the reverse cursed technique and to forget about the separation with Suguru. Upon hearing the rumors of Gojo's attack, she dismissed them as mere exaggerations and typical gossip. She couldn't imagine someone capable of hurting him. However, upon receiving Suguru's note, she realized her mistake. Hence, she decided to return earlier, though not entirely calm, as she felt compelled to help her friend.
As she listened attentively to Gojo, she noticed the small scar on his forehead and felt a twinge of guilt. She had imagined that Satoru might throw a fit about her absence, but he seemed unusually happy. As he began to talk about her, recounting how they met, his voice became excited, and he couldn't stop smiling as he spoke about finding her again. Amidst the conversation, she entered to serve some appetizers and noticed that he couldn't take his eyes off her. It was different from his usual conquests, in which he exuded arrogance and conceit; he seemed more natural, more... himself.
—What a mess. Be careful, Satoru; things with the Zenin are already tense, and you know how Naoya is. Don't give the elders reasons to take more control. What are you going to do with her after sleeping together? She seems like a good person, different from your other conquests. I like you more than before. —She said, laughing as she finished talking.
—I've always been pleasant, Shoko, but you only have eyes for Sugu… —He trailed off and swallowed to avoid saying his friend's name, and she saw him worried.
—It's okay, I'm fine. That's in the past now. We used to be friends; I hope at least that hasn't been lost. —She tried to disguise the tension by returning to her question. —And what are you going to do with her? It would be good to have someone like her by your side, you know what I mean. MeiMei isn't really to my liking.
Satoru rolled his eyes. —You, Suguru, and the elders never get tired of that topic, do you? I value my freedom; I don't like being held accountable, it's enough with the elders. MeiMei is careful about that, yet it's annoying. Getting married is for people who are already bored of living. What will I do with her? She can stay here; she'll have everything she needs, and she won't have any reason to complain.
Shoko sighed and looked at him with pity; just when it seemed like he had improved, he was back to the same old pattern. He could say whatever he wanted, but his actions betrayed him; there was something more he didn't want to acknowledge. —And then she'll see you with a new lover. I'll just tell you to be careful with that mouth of yours and your actions. It's not good to play with people, especially someone like her. I hope you don't have to get hurt to learn. —She said. Satoru stared out the window, and she shook her head with resignation. —Speaking of getting hurt, I came here to teach you the reverse cursed technique once again so you won't have to depend on me. I can't believe you don't understand. Let's go to the training room.
They were about to leave the room when the door opened, and Geto peeked in, followed by MeiMei. Shoko stayed in her place, looking at Geto, who seemed uncomfortable, while MeiMei approached Gojo with catlike steps until she hung onto his neck to kiss him. This display caused Shoko to roll her eyes in annoyance and stick her tongue out in disgust. Gojo's surprised and frightened gaze took in everything around him, and Geto laughed, easing the tension a slightly.
Satoru, unlike at other times, didn't know how to respond, so he slowly grabbed MeiMei's waist to pull her away before she could kiss him. —What's wrong? Why so shy? —MeiMei tried to kiss him on the neck, but he turned her around to face Shoko and Geto instead. —Ah, hello Shoko, I see, a meeting of friends. I'll take the opportunity to take a bath and be back later. Enjoy your evening. See you. —She gave Satoru a quick kiss and left, swaying her hips.
Suguru and Shoko exchanged complicit looks as they watched Satoru, who looked nervous, and both burst into laughter. —What a welcome! You almost fainted in her arms. I didn't think you missed her so much, Satoru. —Geto said, laughing.
—It's just that he's worried about his gam...thering of friends. —Shoko continued, playing with the last word and joining in the laughter of the raven-haired man. Satoru wanted to respond, but seeing them laughing like before, he restrained himself and just gritted his teeth.
—The thing is, his playtime is over, and he doesn't know where to hide his toys so Mommy doesn't see them. —Geto said, laughing hysterically.
—Will you two just shut up! —His friends saw him cross his arms, looking sulky, and laughed even harder.
—Well, well, at least tell me that the time I gave you was of some use. Will I get to meet her, or has she already left?
—Suguru! Were you involved in this? How embarrassing! You guys never change
—I'm just trying to be a good friend to this lovesick guy, I've given him the chance to find a good woman. —He turned to her. —By the way, Shoko, I'm glad you're back. We missed you.
Shoko blushed slightly and gave him a shy smile. —I missed you guys too. —She seemed to realize something and shook her head. —So, you also noticed that he's in love? She's here, I've already seen her. She seems like a kind girl, and I don't think she'll tolerate knowing about his antics with MeiMei, that's why he's nervous. We were just heading to the training room; we can talk there. I'll teach him the reverse cursed technique again. I think you've already learned it. —Suguru avoided her gaze, pouting. —You haven't either? You two are going to end up getting hurt because of your foolishness. Let's go, and then we'll call his ideal girl. —She pulled them by their clothes leading the way.
—Satoru, call that boy, what was his name? —Geto paused, trying to remember the name. —Yu, Yu Haibara! He's always willing to take hits just to train with us, and Shoko can heal him.
—Suguru, don't be like that, he's a good kid, unlike you two.
They spent the morning and part of the afternoon trying to perform the reverse cursed technique, with Shoko reprimanding them while watching her heal Haibara repeatedly. Haibara smiled and spoke excitedly to see them reunited, despite having several wounds on his arms. It had been a long time since they had spent time together; everything would have been perfect if Geto hadn't replaced her with someone like Utahime, who was such a prude. He endured their jokes and teasing about Kasumi just to see Shoko and Geto together again. When Haibara left, they ordered lunch, and Miwa approached with the food trays.
He tried to remain indifferent, but Shoko signaled to Suguru to indicate who she was, and his friend took advantage of it to provoke jealousy. When Miwa approached with his tray, he didn't hesitate and took it, touching her hands, making Miwa blush, and took the opportunity to talk to her. —Hello. Are you Yuji's replacement? —She nodded without saying anything. —What's your name?
—Miwa, Miwa Kasumi, sir. —Satoru was trying to calm his nerves, but seeing her blush with his friend bothered him. How dare Suguru play like this?
—No need for such formality; you can call me...
—He's Geto. —Satoru interjected. Geto exchanged glances with Shoko, and they both smiled knowingly. —Suguru Geto, and she is Shoko Ieri. Both are my friends, very close ones, and they always come to visit me.
—Are you like Mei-san? —Satoru turned pale, and Shoko looked down, making throat-slitting gestures behind Miwa's back, Geto mimicked Shoko, shaking his head as if hanging himself.
—We've known him longer, but we're not that close. —Suguru said with a friendly smile. —Thanks for the food. How are you doing here? —Suguru asked Kasumi some questions, while Satoru looked on, annoyed and powerless.
When Kasumi brought Satoru's tray, he also took it from her hands before she could place it. —Thank you very much, Kasumi. It looks great. —The girl smiled at him and placed the napkin on his lap, and as she did so, Geto and Shoko pulled their antics behind her back again, repeating the word "thanks" without actually saying it aloud.
Once Miwa left, Geto looked serious. —Satoru, that girl seems calm, and she's very pretty; MeiMei will crush her if she finds out. What are you going to do with her? Forget it, you'll only hurt her.
—That's what I told him, but you've seen it for yourself. Although it would be good for her to stay away from MeiMei. Why don't you clear things up with her? If you don't plan to marry her, then put a stop to it because everyone thinks you're serious.
—Enough already, you two sound like the old folks scolding me. —Since both seemed annoyed, he continued. —I was thinking of talking to MeiMei. This issue has gotten out of hand. —They continued discussing about MeiMei and Miwa while eating, trying to advise their friend to clarify his situation. When they finished, Geto stood up to stretch.
—Alright, I'll leave you to it. I have to go see Utahime; I can't stand not seeing her anymore. —After saying it, he regretted it when he saw Shoko's smile freeze. —I'm sorry, Shoko, no, I mean... —He stammered.
—Don't worry, I thought you'd stay longer, but go... she must have missed you too.
Satoru watched the scene, and even though he argued with Geto, telling him insults and calling Utahime boring, the raven-haired man ignored him and left. Gojo returned, annoyed with Shoko. —I'd tell you to forget about it, but I don't want him with her either.
As he walked back home, he passed by the market to buy something for Utahime when he heard a woman shouting.
—Get out of here! You're not welcome! Go away! —Geto saw a woman silently crying, holding a small child, about 4 years old, sleeping in her arms.
He approached her slowly. —Excuse me, can I help you with something? —But the woman running the fruit stand replied before she could. —I don't want the wife of someone... —She couldn't finish because the young man confronted her. —Enough! You have no right to treat her like this. Control yourself if you don't want to be reported. —The old woman glared at him and turned to enter the shop.
Geto was annoyed by the vendor's behavior and reached out to the woman with the child. —No, please wait, what do you need? I can help you.
The woman, touched, swallowed hard. —I just wanted to buy some things for the house, but it seems that my husband and I are not well-liked by people. —Suguru was moved to see her swollen and red eyes, disheveled hair, and petite figure; everything indicated she wasn't having a good time. —I can buy them for you, don't worry.
And even though the woman refused, he went with her to a grocery store and bought her several things, enough to last her a couple of days. —Thank you so much, I have no way to repay you for what you've done for me. —The woman bowed deeply, and the child who had been asleep until then opened his eyes. —Let me help you, I'll accompany you home.
—No, please don't worry, you seem like an important person and must have things to attend to. —Suguru recalled Utahime and admitted the woman was right. —Thank you very much for everything, may the gods bless you. Let's go, Megumi, you must be hungry.
She took advantage of Satoru being with his friends to tidy up his wardrobe. They had brought some new clothes, and she wanted to rearrange that space. Perhaps putting some dried flowers and pieces of aromatic wood to keep a pleasant smell and prevent it from spoiling.
The day they talked, she felt a great weight lifted off her shoulders. Satoru was removing the poison that Naoya had left her. Now she had a refuge that was slowly becoming her home. He said they were even, but she didn't feel that way; the care of one day did not compare to the freedom he gave her every day. That's why she made an effort to please him with things he liked.
Moreover, she couldn't forget the first kiss they had shared. When they locked eyes and she saw his smile, it ignited a fire on her lips and inside her, making her crave more. Seeing him come out of the bathroom left her breathless, and when he touched her, she hoped he would pull her closer to him. How could she distance herself from him? When she arrived in her room that day, she took her locket in her hands and upon opening it, found several small blue dried flowers inside, a promise not to forget her. These flowers now accompanied her every day on her necklace. And today, they had kissed again. It was futile to try to ignore the affection she had for him and the desire to be with him. She felt guilty for desiring him as much as she did now, getting lost in the scent of his clothes.
She was still troubled by his relationship with MeiMei-san and the commitment the rumors mentioned. He had told her that it wasn't true, and she believed him. After all, she had discovered that rumors about him were just malicious gossip, she knew the kindness he possessed. However, he hadn't given her more details, and she felt there was something else he didn't want to tell her.
She heard the door slam shut, followed by Satoru's cursing voice. She saw him, irritated and pacing around. She was about to go out to talk to him when the door rang again, accompanied by a seductive feminine voice calling him. It took her too long to decide whether to go out or stay, and in the end, she ended up hiding behind the half-open door, peeking through the crack. She saw a woman with white hair loosening the belt of the robe she was wearing, letting it open, and hanging onto Satoru's neck to pull him closer, but he didn't move.
—What's wrong with you? You've been acting strange since I arrived. Do you have any complaints about me because of Shoko?
He took her hands and pushed her away. —The rumors of a supposed engagement have gone too far, so it's best to keep our distance. I don't want any more misunderstandings like that.
She narrowed her eyes and smiled. —Misunderstanding? I don't recall you ever complaining. Or is there something that caught your attention while I was away? —She finished removing the robe, threw it to the floor, and let her hair down. —You know I don't mind sharing, so all this drama is unnecessary. —She approached to remove his belt, but he grabbed her hand before she could touch it.
—You know perfectly well my position on this matter; I always repeat it to the elders. I thought you understood. I'm not interested in commitment.
—You're only delaying the inevitable, someday you'll have to do it. Do you think any other commitment will give you the freedom for your whims, like I do? They'll force you to comply or they'll strip you of everything.
His attitude annoyed her, but she had learned to keep calm; getting upset would work against her rather than help.
—And if that happens, will you stay by my side? No, right? You'll look for someone else. —He said with a smile. —It's not my first time dealing with those decrepit elders; I don't need someone else forcing me to do something they know I don't want. They don't just want a commitment; they want marriage and children. Neither you nor I want that, you know it well.
—Is that how you thank the person who saved your life? —She said, her voice serious.
—It's good that you bring that up. You know, it's strange. If I was so bad that you had to take care of me when we returned, how did I end up there? It's a doubt that I can't shake. Are you sure neither you nor your crows saw someone else?
She stepped back slowly. He knew it! How? She had made sure to keep him distracted. Where the hell was this coming from, unless he remembered or... —You were alone on the road, and I picked you up. Do you think anyone else could do what I did? Not many people want you alive.
—You were rewarded handsomely. The elders brought you to this compound; it wasn't for free, it never is. You haven't answered my question, and I don't think you're being honest, but I'll give you the benefit of the doubt. You can keep the room and the staff I assigned to you as long as you make it clear that there's no commitment.
She looked at him with cold anger and helplessness. —I imagine your complaints are just excuses because there's some new conquest in the picture. So, I'll give you time to cool off; after all, you always come back. I hope you enjoy the pastime, if she doesn't get bored when she finds out what you're really like. —She picked up her robe to put it on as she left. She would take care of getting rid of that woman, she always won, and now wouldn't be any different.
Miwa stood in place, unable to move. She saw his somber face; he seemed wounded. So that was the relationship they had. They had said horrible things to each other. He had shown his coldest and most inflexible side, and she had revealed her true interests. She remembered his words, "She's not very sentimental; she's more of a businesswoman." It saddened her to see how she reduced him to a bag of money, and he responded by pushing her away so easily. She was confused and worried. MeiMei suspected there was someone else, and she had called her a "pastime." Was that what she was to him? She looked at the kimono in her arms and realized that the man she had shared all this time with wasn't like this. She would wait for him to go to the bathroom so she could leave without him seeing her and think calmly about what she had seen.
He saw the closet door open and approached to close it, but he noticed the kimonos out of place. When he turned, he saw Kasumi behind the door. —I'm sorry, it wasn't my intention to eavesdrop. I wanted to find the moment to leave, but... everything happened so quickly. I'm so sorry.
Satoru paled. He wouldn't have wanted her to see that, of all things, she had to see his darkest side. —You must think I'm the worst, even though you saw it was true when I told you there was no commitment. —He tried to smile, but it only came out as a grimace. —I hope you don't judge me based on what you've seen. It's... —He didn't know what to say; there was no way to explain everything he had said. The words got lost in his throat as he saw her blue eyes. —We don't usually treat each other like that, but there are many things that... ugh, who am I kidding? I can't justify it. Everything I said was serious; I don't want commitment, marriage, or children. That's what I think. I don't think I'll change, I don't know. —He shrugged and looked away. —I don't have any pastime; I just don't want anything with her. Besides, she already said it, there's no one who can stand me for too long. —He whispered the last part more to himself than to her.
His smile didn't reach his usually cheerful sky-blue eyes; now they were dull. His confident voice now hesitated, and he felt small. —If you want, you can finish it tomorrow. Send one of the boys to the bath; you go rest.
He left the closet and leaned against the balcony door, looking at the garden filling with shadows as night fell. She followed him and stood behind, watching his broad back. His attitude and words were cold, but she couldn't judge him; she had also treated him that way. She had snubbed him more than once, and when he discovered everything, he listened and understood her reasons without judging her for what happened with Naoya. She shouldn't rush to conclusions; he was only defending what he believed. MeiMei had made it clear that she didn't want him and also seemed to be hiding something. That day, after leaving Satoru, some crows followed her, forcing her to hide. If she had to believe one of them, it would be him. The young man who rescued Yuji and Nobara couldn't be selfish. Someone who offered her care couldn't play with people. He had asked for her loyalty, and she would give it to him.
—I believe you must have your reasons for acting this way. —Her soft voice surprised him. He turned to see her standing in the middle of the room. —You don't need to explain; I can listen whenever you need. —She continued, approaching until she was standing in front of him. —You have helped several people. That's also a part of you and is more valuable than your mistakes or flaws. —She said with a smile, reaching up to caress his face. — I'll bring you something to eat while they prepare your bath.
She turned around and left, her touch lingering on his face and a heaviness in his chest. He remembered his friends' words, and the guilt intensified. What was he going to do with her? After everything she had seen, she decided to trust him. Her innocence and loyalty moved him because he knew he didn't deserve them. He realized that Shoko, Geto, and MeiMei were right. He was going to hurt her, and she would end up getting bored of him... or hating him.
Notes:
In this chapter, we were supposed to see more of Suguru and his strange relationship with Utahime. However, Shoko came in strong and didn't let her get into scene.
At least Miwa has fallen. Thanks, Naoya, for giving Gojo an imaginary rival, and thanks, MeiMei, for showing your true colors. Let's see what they have in store for the rematch xD
Little Megumi? Yes, Little Megumi is necessary because only him can do certain things that the older one can't.
Thanks for stopping by to read, and once again, thanks to Zulmajea for the ideas 3
P.S. Once again, I confirm that my brain is configured to give final ideas in two weeks XD I'll try to write faster to then correct.
P.S.2 Chap 261 didn't end with me. I'll wait for him because he DESERVES to know what unconditional love is. He DESERVES to live like a normal human and be HAPPY. Come on, he has been suffering in solitude and carrying the weight of the world all alone his entire life. Now it's time for him to ENJOY the fruits of his efforts and sacrifices.