One-shot
Like sun through clouds
Asuka applied a layer of a light-pink lipstick, pursing her lips and spreading it, her blue-gem earrings attached by a chain and stud to her ear clinked at the slight movement of her head, it matched her blue gem pendant with a golden, intricate made chain.
Taking a deep sigh, she looked right and left to check if her hair needed any adjusting, she had the very same face as in school, a tad more mature maybe. It wasn't every day she got invited to a school reunion party from her high school times.
As soon as she left the bathroom, Momoe and Junko both embraced her, stomping their feet on the ground and jumping happily.
"Asuka! It's been so long!"
They looked so different, they both had grown their hair, but Momoe tied it in a ponytail. And Junko was dressed in her office clothes, a set of a long-sleeved white shirt and black skirt that hugged her waist. Everyone was so grown up, she was a bit anxious to see what became of others.
She's been keeping contact with a few people like her two girlfriends. Shou gave updates from time to time. Ryo was still far too concentrated in his career, she got his updates from Fubuki who apparently often forced him to meet up and take a "break" from work; Judai was a tale on his own, he just braved the world, not giving anyone a hint of where he'd be or what he was doing, he came and went like the wind. The list could go on, but she was here to find out what was going on in their life and catch up.
"I just saw Manjoume-kun there,"
Junko pointed at a crowd gathered in a circle around someone, the spiky black hair sticking out from among it was unmistakable.
"Let'g go talk to him!"
"Hey, Manjoume-kun!" Junko shouted out loud. "How have you been?"
"Who ar-" he stuttered, his eyes widening as he spotted Asuka a faint blush, clearing his throat. "It's Manjoume Thunder! Now, everyone, you're dismissed, I have some catching up to do with my colleagues!"
He shook his hands away as if to tell them to disperse, a disappointed "Aw" soared from the crowd who spread all over the party. He finally looked at the three girls, folding his arms.
"Did you really stick with that for the pro leagues?" Momoe chuckled.
"Good to see you're doing well," Asuka smiled, greeting him politely.
"What about you all? How have you been doing?"
"Ah, I became an engineer for tech stuff at Kaiba corp," Junko proudly placed a hand on her chest. "Momo became a stylist for duelists and Asuka is taking care of the new generations of duelists as a teacher!"
"A teacher? I didn't know you took that path, you vanished!"
"Ah, yeah…I sort of went to study abroad."
"And she only told us close to the date, can you believe it?" Momoe complained. "Well, we're still happy we are back?"
"Back as in, back to the city?" Manjoume asked, a bit nervous, his gaze switching from her to the side constantly. "To stay?"
"No, I won't be here for long," she tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear. "I will officially start a probationary period under professor Chronos in the Duel Academy and learn from him too, so I'll be living on the island for a while."
"We're so proud of you, Asuka!" Junko wiped some tears. "I still can't believe you'll be teaching like professor Chronos, just thinking about it gives me so many memories!"
Asuka drifted off as Junko and Momoe blabbered about their own careers to Manjoume, they'd already caught up before, in truth, she spent the last night on a "girls night" in Momoe's new apartment.
She had so many recollections of the Duel Academy island, every nook and cranny of it. It was a dire, yet fun time in her life, she spent some of her best years there, she learned a lot and met so many amazing people.
She remembers searching for Fubuki and how desperate she and Ryo were back then to find any clue; then their happiness as they finally found him and how funny it was Fubuki ended up studying in the same class as her because of his lost time, while Ryo just went away to make his own life as a duelist; there was Shou, Manjoume, Kenzan, Rei, Misawa so many notable duelists, and lastly, Judai.
Judai was the one who had the biggest impact on her last year. His cheerful personality and ability to drive through the crisis, surpassing the obstacles, at the time her young self thought she had a crush on him, she feels embarrassed to remember it, but it was an important part of her growth.
What she really felt for him wasn't anything romantical, but a deep admiration. She saw in him the image of a carefree person that was able to live to their fullest and overcome even the darkest times. She wanted to be like him too, in her own way. When she realized that, like all the jumbled doubts and insecurities clouding her mind dissipated, she understood what she wanted to do.
It wasn't easy to decide and detach herself from all she knew, her family, friends and all those heartwarming memories she had in school, but letting go and working on one's personal growth before she can come back, that was the important lesson she learned. Judai did the same, except he became estranged from all his friends while she kept contact, to make sure she could check on everyone once she came back.
"Hey Asuka! You look troubled!" A hand slapped firmly her shoulder.
"Fubuki," she snapped out of her daydreams, recognizing his voice. "I was just suddenly filled with memories of everyone."
She wiped a few tears that gathered at the corners of her eyes, he held her by the arms, smiling sheepishly and hugged her warmly before tapping her shoulders as if to incentivize her.
"Are you searching for Judai? or maybe Ryo?" he asked intrigued.
"I'd like to see both, yes."
She answered not taking the bait, knowing where he wanted to lead her with the question. He was still as interested in her love life as back in school.
"I don't know about Judai," he scratched his face, a bead of sweat rolling down. "But Ryo told me he's not coming."
"That's so like him," she giggled. "As uninterested in parties as ever."
"I can try to convince him to come, at least see your face," he arched a brow, still testing her.
"No, thank you," she swayed her head gently in denial. "I'm sure we will have other opportunities to catch up, he'll come when he decides to."
"You're a tough one to crack," he sighed disappointed.
"It's because you misunderstand me."
"I only have great guys to offer you!"
He huffed, pouting like a child, no matter how many years passed, he still looked like the younger brother in this relationship.
"You have no guys to 'offer', they're their own people and so am I."
"Ugh, you got me."
"Plus, I heard Ryo is dating, doesn't he have a girlfriend?"
"Does he?" Fubuki gawked, shocked at that question. "The sneaky bastard! I didn't hear a thing."
"Oh, well, maybe you should ask him about that."
Asuka chuckled, waving to her brother and discreetly taking her leave while Momoe and Junko talked their ears to Manjoume, her eyes seeking for any other familiar face, she waved at Jim, Misawa and Kenzan who talked in a group, then she smiled briefly at Rei, the girl had grown in size but she was still boasting off and acting like she owned the world in front of others, granted, she was still in her teens.
She saw a glimpse of a brown-haired person, but it couldn't be, could it? Following that silhouette to a corridor on the back of the party, she found herself in a room where some table of cards was put, some students whose faces she didn't recognize in it, except one.
Mitsuo, the guy who stole her mother's scarf was the one at the head of the table, he smirked and stood up upon sighting her.
"Would you look at it, our ex-obelisk queen!"
The nameless students snickered and cheered, Mitsuo himself waddled towards her, not stopping in front, but bending for a hug, she lifted her hands to make a shield between him and her body, his smirk simply enlarged.
"Still as cold as ever."
"I don't remember being this friendly with you," she let out an exasperated gasp.
"But maybe you should," he flaunted the necklace with a blue gem she was wearing not too long ago, on his hand. "If you want this."
"That's my-" she touched her neck and chest bone, confirming her jewelry wasn't there. "I see you didn't lose your bad habits, now give it back!"
Stretching her hand, she scowled, he just laughed at her, a mocking tone. That pendant was something her father bought for her late mother, meant as a gift for her birthday, unfortunately he didn't have the chance to give it before she died, thus, he kept it until Asuka's coming of age, and gifted it to her instead. As usual, Mitsuo only knows how to steal precious objects that hold sentimental value to her.
"Come on, why don't we play a game? I'll give it back to you if you win."
"I don't play games, especially not with people like you."
"But we haven't seen each other for so long," he said in a melodic voice.
"And it should stay like that," she answered, sharp and crude.
The crowd who watched them laughed at her rejection, Mitsuo's smile disappeared for a second, they shivered under the disgusted, evil gaze he cast at them.
"How about we solve it the old way, then? For the sake of good times," he smirked. "With a duel."
Asuka's scowl accentuated, he enjoyed riling her up, it was but a game for him. Before she played his absurd mind games, a voice overwhelmed the chit chatter of the audience who did nothing but watch:
"Hell, she said no! Why don't you give up gracefully?"
The person slamming the door open was none other than Edo Phoenix, a crease between his brows; behind him Fubuki also glared at Mitsuo upon seeing what he held in his hand.
"I know I said everything goes for love, but stealing a girls' belongings? I would never condone that!"
"Ah, your hero in shining armor. Will you let him duel for you? That's not like you, Asuka," he landed his lips on the blue gem of the pendant, kissing it, provoking her.
Her blood seethed more at the disgusting sight, how could someone be so unbearable? Her fists curled in a ball, her teeth gritting.
"What a bunch of crap! Do your jaws never get tired of spouting nonsense?! Stop provoking her!" Edo intervened again, stepping ahead. "Can't you take a no or a rejection? She said she won't be dueling, give her things back and get out."
"Asuka," Fubuki landed a hand on her shoulder, her fists slowly unfurling. "Don't waste your time."
"Sorry? Could you two leave her alone? This is between me and her! Stop barging into our conversation!"
"If you need to duel anyone, I will take you on!" Fubuki poked his thumb onto his own chest, a defiant gaze at the man.
"If you didn't, I'd take him on myself," Edo crossed his arms, glaring daggers at Mitsuo. "Talk about an inconvenient man!"
"Ugh, I'm not afraid of you!"
He clutched the pendant onto his closed fists, flinching when the sound of Asuka's heels clacked as she got closer, with an annoyed semblance, she lifted her hand, delivering a firm slap that turned his face to the side, her handprint bright red on his cheek, he dropped the object out of shock.
"Do not ever touch my things again with those filthy, imbecile hands of yours."
Squatting down like a lady, she picked up her pendant, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear after it flopped over her shoulder, getting up and whirling around to leave the room, casting a last glance angered glance at him:
"Meet you again never, Mitsuo."
A burst of cackles proliferated in the room, Fubuki and Edo exchanged an amused glance, then followed behind her.
At the balcony,
Asuka supported her elbows on the rocky railing under the night, she sighed heavily, looking at her pink palm, it still hurt from that slap. Did she really hit him that strong? She lost her mind there and isn't proud of it, but he deserved it.
A male voice asked her from behind. "Taking some fresh air?"
"Yeah, I kinda needed to-" she halted halfway whirling around, blinking stupefied, a wry, ashamed smile coming to her lips. "Edo Phoenix?"
"Oh, your brother is still in there, some girls surrounded him," he pointed his thumb back, over his shoulder.
"Ah, hm, hello."
She avoided her gaze to the side, combing her bangs a bit, then looking at him while screaming internally.
Is that your best Asuka?! Don't get too distracted just because he has a pretty face.
"Hello," a smile flashed on his face. He sensed her nervousness from miles away.
He came closer, landing his hands on the railing too, his gaze aimed at the starry sky. He was much taller than she remembered, a few centimeters over her height, his build was a pinch larger than before, even that young, angelic face of his became a bit more mature. With a calm, a tad apologetic tone he started:
"I'm sorry I just came into the room, I overheard the ruckus and rushed there without thinking much."
"Ahm, no, no it's not a problem. That was pretty cool," she grinned nervously. "I just didn't expect to see you here. "
"I also didn't expect to be here today, but they said many of the old crew would come, so I… Got a bit interested," he lowered his gaze, he risked the question. "Are you here because you thought Judai would come too?"
"So you too? I thought it was just me," she sighed in relief, putting a hand to her chest. "I wanted to see other people too, but everyone is so busy nowadays. Can't say you were the first person that came to mind when they mentioned the old crew…"
"We barely talked back in school, and even our duel got interrupted," he scoffed, remembering.
"Funny how things go. Why did we never talk back then?"
"Hm, I didn't put much effort in making friends at school and my career was the priority, so I didn't blend in much."
"Did you change your opinion?" she beamed, he gaped slightly, awestruck by how beautiful her face became brightened by a smile.
"A bit."
"Life was so much simpler back in the day…"
He looked back to the party full of people, then looked at that woman watching the sky, asking a bit disconcerted:
"You want to hop out of here and go somewhere else?"
"Go where?"
"Just have a drink from a vending machine, anywhere," he loosened his necktie. "All those people are getting me nervous."
She gasped in disbelief. "You? The famous Edo Phoenix, nervous?"
"It's a long story, I need some space too, not just fresh air."
Spotting Fubuki in the main salon, she bit her lip, feeling a bit guilty for ditching him. She'd see him other days, right? But talking to Edo, that is something she could only do today.
"Sure."
That was the big reveal of the year, how much she enjoyed his company. Edo talked about many things, the leagues, and how his life currently was with juggling his pro-league routine and some decent hours of sleep at night. She also shared about herself, how hard exams to go to the USA academy were, and how tough the classes were, finally how she loved the prospect of teaching kids and how enthusiastic she was to start it.
At the end of the night, they exchanged numbers, she sent a message to confirm he got the right number per his request, and surprisingly, he answered, but it didn't stop there.
For the days to come, Asuka would anxiously check her phone, the bright screen reflecting on her skin in the darkness, the Cyber Petit Angel strap of her flip phone dangling as she typed enthusiastically.
First they talked about their days, sometimes he wouldn't have time to respond, other time, it was her. Yet, he always found time for her and eventually…
[Are you free today?] he asked.
[Yes, why?]
Her finger hovered on the keys, she was about to suggest they meet, but she held back, not wanting to sound too pushy. Regardless, her wishes came true.
[Do you want to go out with me, then?]
[Yes! Where to?]
Asuka looked at her wristwatch, her coral nails matching the brown leather strap of it. It's been a while since she had a date, she dated a guy in America during her college days once, but it didn't go well, he was too self-conceited. Aside from that, she only ever had girlfriends meetings with Momoe and Junko. This was the first time she felt this fluttery feeling in her chest, her white long skirt had big buttons consisting of blue gems framed in a dainty silver design, matching her dark-blue shirt with a hue similar to black and her knitted white bolero.
She tapped her feet on the rock-clad ground, the grey bricks circularly aligned in the bustling streets. She waited for him by the old-styled street lamp, near a wooden bench in the city center.
Then, amidst the throng passing by, she caught a glimpse of him, he was dressed so casually she didn't recognize him for a moment: dark jeans, a black shirt and a white jeans jacket. he waved, smiling from afar, that smile of his was so stunning she blushed, gulping dryly as he approached.
"Today is my treat," he smiled. "So choose where you want to go."
"You can tell me which places you'd prefer," she suggested.
"Really? Well, then… there's a restaurant I like around this area, if you're fine with that."
"Anywhere is fine by me, show me which places you like."
As they walked by the city, Edo commented about all the cafes and restaurants he'd visited.
"You're too busy to cook? I can make you something one of these days," she suggested, chuckling delightedly.
"Hey, I can cook too, I just don't have time," he almost pouted. "But if that's an invitation for another date, I'll gladly try your cooking."
"You… will?" She flushed, realizing he took her joke literally, smiling guiltily. "I didn't, hm… What do you like to eat?"
"Anything you cook is fine," he caressed a strand of her hair, sliding it through his finger. "I'm more interested in spending time with you."
Said that, he boldly leaned on, planting a peck to her forehead, startling her. Edo had a way with words and a sway she was unable to resist. Her hazel eyes glimmered as she looked into his blue, honest eyes. This is what she liked so much about him, his honesty.
Edo wasn't trying to be someone he wasn't, he was every bit of the hero and professional duelist people knew him for.
Taking his lead, she was the one standing on the tip of her toes, kissing him. He was startled at first, but since he had started it, he was entitled to take responsibility for his actions, right?
Wrapping her onto his arms, he corresponded to that kiss. Asuka's lips were so soft, just like her skin, he slid his hand on her hair, holding her head gently.
That was the first date of many. Asuka thought the best days of her life were in high school, but without a hint of doubt, these were the happiest moments of her life yet. Until…
That day Edo took her to the orphanage again, he'd taken her a few times by now and all the kids teased them and called her his girlfriend, they all gathered around giving their approval and made embarrassing questions about when Edo would take her hand in marriage and if they wanted kids.
Asuka loved that place, she had been studying to teach kids after all. She had this dreamy glint in her eyes watching Edo play with a kid sitting on his lap while other kids ran around him. Her mind crossed the borders of reality, she dazed off.
"Did Yuri glue gum to your hair again?"
Edo's voice startled her, she was sitting on a wooden bench that worked as a giant swing. Denying with a shake of her head, she landed her hands on her knees, watching the grass flutter with the gentle breeze that brushed her hair and brought that faint woody smell from Edo's perfume.
"I was just thinking of many things."
She smiled, but he sensed this underlying worry in her tone, a pinch of sadness too. Bracing himself for the serious conversation, he sat down beside her, the kids' playful shouts making background noise as he watched them run around.
"Is something bothering you?"
"I got a new offer for a job," she revealed drastically.
"That's great, Asuka!" he cheered her up, a tad confused. "Why the long face then?"
"It's in America, they want me to move into one of their branches of the duel academy."
"Oh, you mean a permanent job?"
"They will give me a contract for 2 years first, then see if I am fit for the job."
"So?"
"I didn't give them an answer yet," squinting her eyes, she wiggled to the side, adjusting on the seat to look at him. "What about us?"
"Asuka, just go," he said confidently, landing his hand on her shoulders. "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for your dream job us, we will figure it out." As for us, we will find a way."
Blanketing her hand underneath his, he brushed his thumb on her skin, her eyes melted under that warmth of his words and of his hand, his gaze was so determined, fiery even, her heart was soothed by that belief of his that everything would be alright.
"Edo…"
"Plus I can enter the American leagues."
"Edo, you'd need to be a world class duelist for that," her brows curled a tad frustrated at him not taking this as seriously.
"Did I stutter?"
"You're serious?"
"I will need to rethink my whole schedule and see how to get on the good side of some sponsors abroad, but hey, your boyfriend is a cool duelist," he pointed at himself with a smug face.
Her eyes shone, a glint of hope flickering, she threw her arms around his neck, embracing him so tightly he gasped, a bit out of air.
"Thank you, Edo!"
"Don't thank me yet," he responded to that embrace, his arms tenderly wrapping around her perfectly delineated silhouette. "I'd do anything for you, Asuka."
Planting a peck on her cheek, they broke that hug, sealing their promise with a kiss, her lips were so warm and soft.
Months later,
Asuka had moved into the Duel Academy in the United States, at first getting used to the routine and time zones was difficult, but every time she felt down, she thought of Edo.
A smile came to her lips whenever she looked at that portrait with a picture of them both, in front of a water fountain. Edo had this angelic smile, his arm around her shoulder. This was the day he asked to be her boyfriend officially, he bought her this bouquet and had it delivered to her work, as usual, he never failed to be the romantic gentleman she always thought he was.
A message popped up on her PDA screen. [You're free today?]
[Only after 9 PM.]
[Fine by me, want to have a later dinner?]
[I do.]
Edo was on a tour of the pro-leagues in America, he jumped at the opportunity as soon as he heard about it. They have been meeting whenever he had some time, which wasn't every week, yet the prospect that she could see him and touch him, have his presence, that woody, delectable smell of his perfume, always lifted her spirits.
He chose a fancy restaurant to meet her today, despite his money, Edo wasn't always ostentatious, they've went out to fast food restaurants and at times, just cooking at home in their dates, he chose what they felt most comfortable with at the moment, though she admits the best times they were together were when they visited each other. That sense of peace and that the world belonged to them and no one else and they could kiss, cuddle and enjoy their time as much as they wanted, talk about anything without worries someone might be recording and publish it in the next morning news.
Usually she'd wait for him a few minutes, but today he arrived first, she smiled at the sight, he wore a casual black shirt under his white blazer and white pants. He stood up, pulling the chair for her to sit, she smiled, arching a brow amused.
"Is it some special occasion or did I miss something?"
"We'll get to it," he delivered a peck before sitting back on his chair.
The waiter brought a bucket with champagne and clattering ice cubes, paired with the sight from the 20th floor of a commercial building with glass windows from which the other skyscrapers and the starry sky shone.
Edo loosened a bit the collar of his shirt, his fists balling up as he landed them on the table. She started worrying about him, it's unlike Edo Phoenix to tremble on his feet during a dinner out night, she was the one swooning and fawning every single time.
"Is there a reason why you're so uptight?"
"You see, It's an important day."
"Did I forget some anniversary?"
She looked around, but everyone else minded their business, the chatter was low, she supported her cheek on her palm, her elbow well supported on the table.
"No, but we're about to celebrate a new anniversary."
"Which one?"
He cleared his throat. "We've been together for some years already, so I was thinking, isn't it time to settle down? I mean, think about a nice place, start a family."
"You want to retire? Is that the anniversary you're talking about?" she straightened up, her eyes almost bulging out in surprise.
He loosened the collar of his shirt with a finger again. "Not quite. Ah, listen… I don't like mushing words."
Impatiently pulling out a small dark-blue box from the inner pocket of his blazer, opening it to show a slim silver ring with a small diamond adorning it.
"Asuka, will you marry me?"
She gasped, switching her gaze between the ring and him, covering her mouth with a hand. This is what he meant? A whirlwind of thoughts washed in her mind, their memories together, filling her heart, warming it. Edo Phoenix is talking about starting a family with her?
"Are you sure that I'm the one?"
She peeked over his face, a smile spreading on it, his eyes squinting ever so slightly, a gleam of happiness, no doubt in his words:
"Yes."
Her eyes filled with tears as she stretched her hand, letting him adorn her finger with that ring, bending over and sealing the moment with a small peck. She beamed, this was one of the happiest moments of her life.
It didn't stop there, they had a fancy dinner and celebration with a bottle of champagne and a small cake offered by the restaurant, then having a night walk, Asuka walked like she was in the clouds, swirling around and smiling.
A few months later
If she knew planning a wedding would be so stressful, she'd have waited a few more months, but she had help from her trustworthy friends from school whom she never lost contact with.
Momoe and Junko were each at one side o Asuka, they all looked in the mirror, to the blonde reflected at the middle and her long, off-shoulder white wedding dress, the sleeves were composed by a soft, slim cloth, her torso piece was tightened around her, decorated with lace sewn over and gems of transparent color carefully imbued into the lace, a sapphire bead on the middle of her cleavage; long gloves tightly wrapped around her arms, the brims trimmed with lace and an intricate, delicate transparent jewelry, her fingers laced around a white-roses bouquet with touches greenery; her hair was tied up for the first time in years, a blue rose and leaves to the side of the tall coq.
"You look so pretty," Momoe clapped enthusiastically, squealing, she wore a simple lavender sleeveless dress that had a silky shine to it.
"I'm so happy for you!" Junko wiped off her tear, she wore a square neck dress down to her knees in the same lavender color.
"Thank you for helping so much, despite being so busy. I couldn't have organized all of this alone with my job and all my obligations."
"You're our best friend, of course we wouldn't miss helping!" Momoe tapped her shoulders carefully.
"Now, let's go before they think you're one of those brides who likes to get late," she fluffed the thin veil fluttering from Asuka's hair.
Walking by her side, they walked her all the way to the entrance of the chapel=like structure at the beach, on the benches lined up on the sand, they spotted many familiar faces, despite being quite famous, Edo preferred a wedding with their close family and friends only, avoiding the media and everything that could possibly ruin the day for them, that's why they chose a quiet, far away island as a destination for their wedding and he paid for all the guests.
Asuka smiled upon the sight of her to-be-husband at the altar, he wore a white suit with a blue rose like hers clipped to his lapel, his shirt underneath was black, the rose matched his eyes so beautifully, she blushed, meanwhile he gawked, stunned at her looks, it set in for both of them that from this day on, they'd be more than friends and partners, they'd be husband and wife.
She glanced over to her friends on the side, Shou who was now making his own pro-league with his brother; Manjoume whose popularity spiked up as he climbed through the leagues; Misawa and Tanya who managed to find way to open portals along with professor Eisenstein; and even Ryo who recently introduced his fiancée, a pink-haired lady, he was really a league of secrecy of his own. Yet, her gaze wound back to Edo as the scenery became a blurred background, that shine in her eyes that glimmered only when she looked at him.
When she stood there in front of him, he smiled too, his eyes locked onto hers, the ceremony happened without delays, and he rejoiced inwardly when the moment came where he was allowed to finally hold her hands onto his, brushing his thumb kindly on those smooth gloves, her warmth coming through the cloth to his fingertips, then, he slid the golden ring on her finger, and she did the same for him, they sealed their moment with a kiss.
The sounds of the cheers of people burst out loud, Fubuki clapped with teary eyes, never he thought that fiery, tomboy of a sister of his would look like such a normal woman, marrying and loving something that wasn't dueling, she did marry a duelist, though; and their father cried to send his little girl away, as a woman.
The party was long and Asuka ended up talking to so many of her friends, Edo also had his share of conversations. By the end of the night, they were tired and retired to their hotel.
Edo plopped to the couple's bed that bounced up and down slightly, sitting over some rose petals left there as part of the hotel service for couples, loosening his bow necktie, he sighed tiredly. Asuka disappeared into the bathroom, she was the one girded in more glitter and all this stuff to make her prettier, though he always thought she looked the best without any make-up on.
He took off his blazer, tossed it somewhere to the side and browsed the news from his phone just in case some funny reporter infiltrated his marriage or watched it from afar. Then, he relaxed, supporting his hand on the feather-soft, white duvet.
Some shuffling took place in the bathroom, he raised a brow, but he shouldn't be too curious, some other seasoned duelists who knew he was getting married told him to not be too jumpy on the first night.
It was then that Asuka opened the door ajar, peeking out, here yes squeezing a tad, she hid behind the door.
"Do you need some help?" was the first thing he asked, oblivious to the reason why she hesitated to come out, his gentlemanly brain taking over.
Instead of answering, she came out, a white corset adorning her torso, shaping her breasts up, connected by a strap to white stockings that squeezed her thighs making a bump in it; her hair finally undone, like the good old Asuka he knew.
To tell the truth, she was utterly embarrassed to be using such scanty clothes, but Momoe and Junko guaranteed her to-be-husband would love it.
She blurted out after a second of silence. "They said this is what brides usually have under the wedding dress, but I feel kinda fat in it," she pinched the bumps made by the tightness of her clothes.
Edo's jaw had dropped so far he took a moment, gulping, he shook off his hand, jumping up and contesting her.
"No, no, you're absolutely gorgeous!"
"Do you really like it?"
"Have I ever lied to you?"
He held her by the arms, one of his hands coming up to her face, now he had to look down to match her eyes, compared to his young self, he had grown quite a bit. Thei gazes met, she took a good look at the traits of his face, those honest blue eyes of his, those silver strands of hair falling near his shoulders. When was it that silver became one of her favorite colors?
Before they knew, they both were drawn to a kiss, their lips meeting slowly, but warmly, he got a hold of her face, leaning on, the sequence of long kisses evolving to him introducing his tongue in the mix, she wrapped her arms around his neck, all the nervousness for this was the first time they'd be more intimate than the kisses and touches melted away and their tongues entwined together, she had been with him for a long time after all, and she yearned for this moment where they would be together as one.
"Are you ready? It's gonna be a lot more embarrassing from here on," he chuckled.
"Like you aren't embarrassed either," she teased with a smirk.
"I'm not," he blushed a bit. "I've had my share of experiences, okay?" she scowled, he trembled at that sharp, annoyed gaze. "B-before you, of course. Forget it, today it's just us and us alone."
He sweated a tad, normally he wouldn't make the blunder of mentioning those thing sin his marriage day, he messed up so badly, but seeing Asuka like that, his mind drew a blank and his mouth just blabbered in its own, his cheeks prickled, his body heated when she was so close, knowing where this was going.
He took her lips again, this time, more passionately, his hand sliding to her nape, her hair draping over his fingers, entangling around it like their tongues did, the scent of wild fruits wafting into his nostrils so pleasantly, he boldly slid another hand down to her waist, and even more down, squeezing her butt, she jolted, breaking apart their kiss.
"Did you just-"
"Sorry, I thought that was the point of-"
He was interrupted. With a flushed face, she squinted her eyes shut, taking a hold of his face and pulling him in for another kiss, he took that as a sign to continue, his hand coming back right where it stopped, she crinkled his shirt, he broke apart a moment, he surely wasn't needing that anymore.
Undressing as quickly as he could, he threw it to the ground, seizing her by the waist at the sound of her swoony gasp, Edo wasn't overly muscular by any means, but he had a nicely shaped, healthy body and just the right amount of muscles, he went for kisses onto her cheek instead while fondling her waist, the moving onto her butt again. Delivering pecks to her shoulder line, then moving down he stopped by her cleavage, a short whine as he squeezed her backside a last time before whispering sultrily:
"Maybe we should move to the bed."
She nodded, at this point her gaze had this dreamy gleam to it, he felt a bit proud of himself there, but it was way too early for any praise yet.
She laid onto the bed, he climbed on top of her, leaning on for more kisses, this time, he started to slowly pull apart the strings holding her corset together, helping her undress it. Her bare chest got his breath hitched.
"Wow," he exclaimed, exhaling. "Can I?"
"I think it's-"
He pounced down before she answered, she gasped as he fondled her chest with a hand, his mouth occupied with her nipple. A new sensation coursing through her body as her legs buckled up, aroused by the way he moved his tongue, sucking on her chest, his hand let go of her chest and moved down, to her hips, then slowly coming under her panties, his fingers sliding in her, she whined, holding his shoulders tightly for a moment, a half frustrated and half frown on her expression, he smirked, pulling his finger out, then giving pecks to her chest, going down to her belly, then her thighs, he slightly spread her legs, hooking the side of her panties and tugging it down, she hid her face in anticipation.
Kissing her soft thighs, a few times, building her anticipation, a jittery flutter inside her stomach when she met that fierce gaze of his, like he was ready to win a duel. He sank his face in between her legs.
Her whole body tensed when he introduced his warm tongue, sliding it on her wet slit, it felt strange at first, but the sensation turned into some indescribable pleasure.
"Uh-oh, ungh, E-Edo-"
She clawed his shoulders as he threatened to slide his tongue further, teasing to go into her hole, she wouldn't dare deny him with how good it felt.
He continued gliding his tongue up and down her whole sensible area, she grasped him even further, to get a hold of herself.
"Edo~" her voice came mellowed out, an inbetween of pleasure and conflict.
Her hands trembled as she enveloped those dashing silver locks of his under her grip, pushing his head slightly further, her spine bending as he applied more pressure in her clitoris, his hand appraising the shape of her legs, then cupping her butt and pulling her even closer.
She didn't know what to expect from this night, but having preliminaries before they did the real act wasn't in her imagination. She wanted him to do her the whole night. She bit her lips to restrain her moans, but it was useless,
"Mmh, anh~"
Her hips moved closer to his mouth wantonly, she could not hold herself anymore, her whole body undone, climaxing. He drank all her cum without hesitation, savoring every little part of her, like he promised to in their wedding vows, just in a different way than she thought.
He unburied himself from between her legs, then threw himself backwards onto the bed, sitting there, her body's movements as she enjoyed herself set his blood aflame and so the bulk in his pants was visible.
"It's a bit… uncomfortable," he said, unbuckling his belt, speedily undressing his pants, to show a full fledged erection, she gasped at him, shielding her mouth with both hands, the way her eyes almost bulged out was so unbearably cute and he loved to meeting yet another side of Asuka.
She was so pure, he believed that was the first time she'd seen a man naked and a part of him felt victorious that he got married to this woman. Asuka was this stunning blonde girl who had many suitors interested in her, and out of all, she chose him and nobody else. Could he be happier?
"Asuka, are you ready?"
Crawling sluggishly, he climbed on top of her, rock hard, a faint smile as he quickly kissed her lips again, gingerly touching her face, appreciating every single curve and trait of it, his fingers caressing her so delicately.
"Let's make this night unforgettable."
Like he put a spell on her, preparing her for the next moments, she clenched her fingers around his nape, without delay, he introduced himself, despite all the foreplay, her insides were so tight, it stung her a bit. He kept pushing farther, steadily, little by little, her walls coating his cock so warmly.
"Ungh…"
She clung to his back, her nails burying onto his back bones as he repeatedly slid in and slightly out. He should make sure that she enjoyed this night as much as him.
"I'll try slowing down, just relax."
"O-okay."
She wasn't sure how to respond, but she took a deep, ragged breath, the pain slightly diminishing as he gave slow, loving kisses, suddenly, she forgot all about it, that sight burning sensation drowned by the heat of their bodies melding together as one, it didn't take long for him to reach his limit, releasing his seed inside her, her body quivered at the end filled in rapture, her nails sinking even more onto him, he smiled faintly, weary even at how she cutely sought solace in him.
They both collapsed onto the bed after that, sweaty faces and less than flattering sights, under the afterglow of the experience, Asuka chuckled, her arms holding him tight in an embrace as she closed her eyes, letting his warmth and that beloved woody scent of his sip into her nose and skin.
"Thank you Edo, this was wonderful."
"Are you hurt?"
He clutched her even tighter in the embrace, turning his face slightly to the side, his profile seen a bit from her peripheral vision as he asked in a muffled voice for his mouth was deep sunk into her shoulder.
"It burns a bit down there, but I'm fine. I just… Couldn't think of anything else but you," she admitted, her cheeks blushing.
"Let's give you a smooch of a break as you need," he separated from her grip, supporting his arms on the bed, to look at her from above, not in any arrogant or contemptible way, but with a genuine, kind smile. "But when you are ready, I'd love to do this with you more times."
"Me too."
With that, they kissed and spent the rest of their night together, sleeping in the same bed, cuddling each other. Edo had dark times in his life and so did Asuka, but now, this was the happiest moment of their lives and it started with them coming together, she would always be his sun through the clouds no matter what happened and likewise, he would be hers.