Chapter 27: A Night to Remember, a Morning to Tease
After spending a relaxing evening with Ichigo and Isshin, Link and Momo retired to their luxurious honeymoon suite, a gift from Byakuya. The room was breathtaking, adorned in rich shades of green for Link and deep, romantic reds for Momo. Their evening turned intimate, a celebration of their love and new marriage. As the night went on, Momo eventually drifted off to sleep, dreaming peacefully of the life they were building together.
Link, still energized despite their activities, heard a soft knock at the door. Without thinking, he got up and opened it, still entirely unclothed. Standing there, to his surprise, was Soi Fon, dressed in a striking short yellow dress with black accents. Her face immediately flushed a deep crimson, and she visibly struggled to maintain eye contact with him, her gaze repeatedly darting downward despite her efforts.
"Soi Fon," Link greeted with a warm smile, entirely unaware of her flustered state. "What are you doing here?"
"I… uh…" Soi Fon stammered, her voice uncharacteristically shaky. She took a deep breath, doing her best to steady herself. "I came to… ask if you would join me. For a late-night walk. Or… date," she added softly, her words barely audible by the end.
Link's smile widened as he chuckled softly, his genuine kindness only adding to Soi Fon's internal turmoil. "Of course. I'd love to." He looked down at himself and realized his state of undress. "But let me get dressed first. Give me a moment."
Soi Fon nodded stiffly, unable to form coherent words. Link closed the door gently, leaving her standing there, her heart pounding in her chest. She glanced at the floor, her mind racing. How does Momo manage? she thought, her face burning. How does she handle someone like him so casually?
When Link reemerged a few moments later, now dressed in a casual yet handsome green tunic and trousers, he found Soi Fon still rooted to the spot, her arms crossed as if trying to compose herself.
"Ready?" he asked cheerfully.
Soi Fon gave a sharp nod, turning quickly on her heel to lead the way. "Let's go," she said, her tone regaining some of its usual confidence, though her cheeks were still faintly pink.
As Soi Fon guided Link through the dimly lit streets, he couldn't help but wonder where she was taking him. The quiet night air contrasted with her slightly tense demeanor, but she kept her grip on his hand firm. Finally, they stopped in front of a building illuminated by bright, colorful lights that pulsed in rhythm with the bass-heavy music coming from within.
Link tilted his head, intrigued. "What is this place?"
"It's called a club," Soi Fon replied, her voice steady but her cheeks faintly pink. "I've never been to one before, but I've heard about them. People come here to dance and… drink. I thought it might be something interesting to try. With you." Her last words were almost inaudible, but Link caught them and smiled warmly.
Before he could reply, she tugged him inside. The interior was an overwhelming mix of flashing lights, pounding music, and the unmistakable energy of people losing themselves to the rhythm. Soi Fon's eyes widened as she took in the sight of bodies moving together in the dim, vibrant glow. Couples—and sometimes larger groups—danced in ways that made her blush deeply, grinding against one another and letting hands wander freely.
She hesitated for a moment before pulling Link to a quieter corner of the dance floor. "I… I want to try," she said, her voice trembling slightly as she began to move. Her steps were clumsy at first, her normally precise movements betraying her lack of experience. Link watched her, concern flickering across his face.
"Are you sure about this?" he asked gently.
"Yes," Soi Fon said firmly, though her blush deepened. "I know I don't have the kind of body that… stands out like some of the other women. But I want you to see how much I want to be with you. Even if I look foolish."
Link's heart softened at her words. "Soi Fon," he said, his tone earnest as he reached out to her, "you're beautiful just the way you are. I find you—and your body—more than attractive." He pulled her into a warm hug, causing her to stiffen momentarily before relaxing against him. "We don't have to do anything that makes you uncomfortable."
Soi Fon stared up at him, her usual sharp gaze softened with vulnerability, and gave a small nod. "Then… maybe we could dance slower? Together?"
Link smiled, taking her hands and leading her gently toward the center of the dance floor. As they moved, he began to guide her into a slow, swaying rhythm. His confidence and calm demeanor helped her relax, and soon they were moving in sync. The clumsiness faded, and Soi Fon found herself smiling as she danced with him, the world around them seeming to blur into the background.
The DJ noticed the shift and lowered the tempo, switching the playlist to slow jams. "Alright, folks," the DJ's voice boomed, "seems like it's time to bring it back to Prom Night! Grab your partner and get close!" The crowd cheered as couples followed Link and Soi Fon's lead, creating a sea of slow-dancing pairs.
Soi Fon tensed slightly, realizing they were at the center of attention, but Link's steady presence kept her grounded. "Don't worry about them," he whispered, his voice soothing. "It's just us."
As they swayed together under the soft, colored lights, Soi Fon let herself lean into him, her head resting against his chest. For the first time in what felt like forever, she allowed herself to enjoy the moment without overthinking. And as Link held her close, she felt a flicker of hope that maybe, just maybe, she had a chance to be part of his life in the way she truly wanted.
As they left the club, a few patrons waved them off with heartfelt thanks, calling out how the couple had brought back cherished memories of their youth with their dancing. Link smiled and waved back before turning to Soi Fon. "Do you have anything else planned for tonight?" he asked, curious about where the evening was heading.
Soi Fon gave a small nod, her cheeks faintly flushed under the soft glow of streetlights. "Follow me," she said simply, taking his hand once more and leading him toward a nearby park. The cool night air was refreshing, and the sound of leaves rustling in the breeze created a peaceful atmosphere. She guided him to a wooden bench beneath a large, sprawling tree and motioned for him to sit.
Link complied, looking up at her expectantly. "So, what's next?"
Soi Fon hesitated for a moment, her usual composed demeanor wavering. She clasped her hands together, avoiding his gaze as she began to speak. "I… I've always had a dream," she started softly, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "A dream of being a singer. It's silly, really. I've never pursued it seriously. I've always been so focused on protecting Yoruichi, my clan, and Soul Society that I… I never let myself think about something as frivolous as singing."
Link tilted his head, his expression warm and encouraging. "It doesn't sound frivolous to me," he said. "It sounds like something that's important to you. What made you want to share this with me?"
Soi Fon's cheeks turned a deeper shade of pink as she glanced at him. "Because I trust you," she admitted quietly. "And because I've been practicing. I wanted you to be the first person to hear me sing. It's… It's not perfect, but…"
Link's smile widened. "I'd be honored," he said sincerely, settling into his seat. "Take your time. I can't wait to hear it."
Soi Fon took a deep breath, closing her eyes for a moment as she composed herself. When she opened them, a spark of determination replaced her earlier uncertainty. Then, in a voice that was soft but grew steadily stronger, she began to sing "Sen no Yoru o Koete" by Aqua Timez. Her voice carried through the quiet park, weaving a melody that was both hauntingly beautiful and filled with emotion.
Link was mesmerized. The world seemed to fall away as he watched her, captivated not only by her voice but by the way her passion and vulnerability shone through in every note. She was stunning, and in that moment, he felt like he was witnessing a side of Soi Fon that few had ever seen.
When the final notes faded into the night, Soi Fon looked at him nervously, her earlier confidence giving way to self-consciousness. "What… What did you think?" she asked, fidgeting slightly.
Link stood up and walked over to her, his expression soft and full of admiration. "That was amazing, Soi Fon. Truly. Your voice is incredible." He paused, then added with a grin, "If you want, I can help you practice. I play a little music myself. I'd love to be a part of this with you."
Soi Fon's eyes widened at his offer, and her cheeks turned crimson. "You… You'd really want to do that?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Of course," Link said without hesitation. "It'd give me an excuse to hear more of your angelic voice."
Her blush deepened at his words, and she looked away, muttering something under her breath. Then, to his surprise, she walked over to him and sat down on his lap, her hands resting lightly on his shoulders. Link's eyes widened, but he didn't pull away.
Soi Fon avoided his gaze, her face burning red. "Thank you," she said quietly. "For tonight. For… being here."
Link smiled softly, resting his hands lightly on her waist as he responded. "I'm glad you trusted me with this. It means a lot."
The two sat there for a while, the park quiet except for the occasional rustle of leaves, a moment of peace and connection shared between them under the starlit sky.
As the night wound down, Link and Soi Fon made their way back to the hotel where he and Momo were staying. The streets were quiet, and the two walked in comfortable silence, the warmth of the evening's shared moments lingering between them. When they arrived, Link opened the door to their suite, revealing Momo still fast asleep in bed. She lay sprawled out under the covers, murmuring softly in her sleep about Link and their future children, a faint smile on her lips.
Link chuckled softly at the sight before turning to Soi Fon. "Would you like to stay the night with us?" he asked, his tone casual.
Soi Fon froze, her face immediately flushing bright red. "S-Stay the night? W-With both of you?" she stammered, her voice rising slightly in pitch. She averted her gaze, her thoughts racing. "Should I wake Momo up first… for… for that kind of thing?" she asked hesitantly, her words barely above a whisper.
It took Link a moment to realize what she was implying, and when he did, his own face turned a shade of red that rivaled hers. "W-Wait, no! I didn't mean that!" he said quickly, waving his hands in front of him. "I was just asking if you wanted to sleep over. Like, literally sleep. Nothing else!"
Soi Fon blinked, processing his words, and felt a mix of embarrassment and relief wash over her. "Oh… I see," she muttered, her cheeks still tinged pink. She glanced up at him. "Then… why?"
Link sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, I like to cuddle when I sleep," he admitted sheepishly. "But Momo… she's like a walking furnace. Her body heat is like being in a sauna on full blast. I was hoping you wouldn't mind… y'know, cuddling. Just for tonight."
Soi Fon's embarrassment shifted to a soft smile as she nodded. "I don't mind," she said quietly. "Let me… change into something more comfortable."
She left the room briefly and returned a few minutes later, dressed in bee-themed pajamas that fit snugly but comfortably. Link couldn't help but smile at the choice—it was undeniably adorable. Soi Fon hesitated for a moment before climbing into bed with him, careful not to disturb Momo.
She lay down in front of Link, positioning herself as the little spoon. Just as Link was about to settle in, Soi Fon subtly shifted, pressing herself back against him and grinding slightly against his hips. Link stiffened, his blush returning in full force, but before he could say anything, she turned her head slightly and murmured, "Goodnight, Link." Her tone was soft and laced with a hint of mischief.
Despite the teasing, Link relaxed and wrapped an arm loosely around her waist, a content smile on his face as they drifted off to sleep together.
As the first rays of sunlight filtered into the room, Momo stirred awake. She blinked sleepily, her gaze falling on the bed beside her. The sight that greeted her caused her to freeze mid-stretch. There was Soi Fon, nestled against Link, her arms wrapped tightly around him like a koala clinging to a tree.
But what really caught Momo's attention was Link's hand. His arm was draped over Soi Fon, and his hand had somehow ended up inside her pajama bottoms, firmly grabbing her rear. Momo's cheeks puffed up in a mix of jealousy and amusement. She muttered softly, "So, Soi Fon gets to be the spoiled princess now, huh?"
Momo quietly got out of bed, careful not to wake them. She grabbed her Soul Pager, an evil grin forming as she snapped a few pictures of the scene. The way Soi Fon's face was buried into Link's chest, a faint smile on her normally serious face, coupled with Link's completely relaxed grip on her backside—it was too perfect not to share with the others.
Momo whispered to herself, "Wait until Rangiku sees this… she's going to lose it." She took a few more pictures, even adjusting the angle slightly to get the perfect shot, before stepping back to admire her work.
However, as she put her pager down, she crossed her arms and pouted slightly. "Lucky Soi Fon," she muttered under her breath. "I mean, I'm his wife! I should be the one getting cuddles like that every night."
A slight shuffling sound drew her attention back to the bed. Soi Fon stirred, her eyes fluttering open. At first, she looked disoriented, her gaze moving from Link's face to his hand, still firmly planted on her backside. Her face turned bright red, and she let out a soft, surprised squeak as she quickly tried to disentangle herself.
Momo smirked, walking back toward the bed. "Good morning, Soi Fon," she said sweetly, her voice dripping with teasing.
Soi Fon's head snapped toward Momo, her face a deep shade of crimson. "M-Morning…" she stammered, trying to pull herself away from Link without waking him.
Momo leaned closer, her grin widening. "You know, I don't mind sharing, but I didn't think you'd go straight for *that* level of cuddling on the first night."
"I-It's not what it looks like!" Soi Fon protested, her voice high-pitched and panicked.
Momo just giggled, holding up her Soul Pager. "Oh, don't worry. I got all the evidence right here. I'm sure the others will love to see how cute you two are together."
Soi Fon reached out, her face a mix of embarrassment and indignation. "Delete those! Now!"
Momo playfully dodged her, shaking her head. "Oh no, these are for the archives. You're officially part of our family, Soi Fon. Spoiled princess status unlocked!"
As the commotion continued, Link stirred awake, his eyes opening groggily. "What's going on…?" he mumbled, looking between the two women.
Momo grinned and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "Nothing, darling. Just a little bonding time with Soi Fon."
Soi Fon groaned softly, covering her face with her hands as Link blinked in confusion, his arm still lazily resting where it had been all night.