Not Diabolika

•┈┈┈••✦ ♡ ✦••┈┈┈•

The weather was uncharacteristically warm that night. Reiji couldn't even focus on doing his nightly dusting before he heard something crash downstairs. His face squeezed and wrung into one of displeasure at the sound of his brothers already causing chaos so early in the day.

He sighed and fixed his glasses with his middle finger before gently resting the duster along one of the table's edges. His footsteps were loud but very rigid, he had made a habit of walking this way so that his brothers may hear him approaching. Like a rattle snake shaking its rattle to let others know the danger they have just put themselves in.

And yet, despite his effort to strike fear into his loathsome family, Ayato was still completely oblivious to his approaching.

"Ayato."

And with that one call of his name, the redhead spun around, shock glossing over his usually bright eyes. Ayato cussed before showing Reiji what appeared to be a broken vase.

"And what is this explanation of this?"

Reiji asked Ayato deeply, watching the glass shardes cover the floor near the stairwell. Broken pieces of what was once a beautiful picture of a cherry tree hand painted on the artifact lay still under Reiji's cold gaze.

"Tch- Don't ask me! Ask Kanato! He's the one who broke it in the first place!"

Ayato dirtily spat out. He rolled his eyes and crossed his arms as he heard the sound of the overgrown and erratic 4 year old teleport into the room and began throwing a tantrum once more.

"Cease your incessant lies Ayato! I had no part to play in this at all! You're just trying to shove the blame on me like always! You and Laito always bully me! Uuu..."

Kanato begins to sob, but not before the fedora clad pervert can sneakily appear above the stairwell. Not wanting to get closer to the scene.

"Fufu~ Someone called?"

Reiji had enough of this back and forth by this point and angrily commanded him to get down here with the rest of them and explain the situation.

"Geez Reiji, calm down. What's got you in a twist hm?"

Laito cooed out as he made his way next to Kanato.

"What's got me in a 'twist' Laito, is that there's a broken vase here that I'm positive does not belong to this family. Anyone would care to explain why it's here and why is it broken?"

Reiji was tired of his brother's tomfoolery, but that still didn't quench the thirst he had for answers. The vase seemed to be well crafted and worth much more than that of human worldly value. There were bits of raw gold painted onto the flowers of the tree the more he examined it and noted that the material was one made only in the demon realm.

"I dunno what happened but Kanato found it outside in a box-"

Ayato began before getting cut off.

"Ah- so that's what it was, who would've thought?"

Laito chimed in carelessly.

"Haa? You've known that it was here this whole time and never told anyone!?"

Ayato bickered back at his brother.

"No no, nothing like that. I just assumed it was for one of you guys so I waited to see who it was meant for."

Laito said pondering the situation for a brief second before returning to his playful stature. Reiji sighed before asking to see the box.

"So that way we'll know who the sender is! Good thinking Reiji."

Laito commented before grabbing either side of Reiji's shoulders and giving a light shake from behind.

"Now tell me again how exactly it broke in the first place. Based on the contents alone this was an extremely priceless gift from the demon realm and I'm concerned as to where that leads us."

Ayato handed Reiji the brown box, careful to not cut himself in the process as splinters were laden all over the packaging.

"Right where was I? Oh yeah- so Kanato found the box originally... But pancake was missing. So I asked him where she could've run off to, and that's when I saw the package. We uh.... Got to talking and landed on the idea that pancake had a secret admirer. And Kanato got upset and smashed through box so-"

Kanato angrily shouted and cut off Ayato.

"I did NOT just throw the box. You know better than to lie and put the blame on me Ayato! He was the one that thought someone was sending her gifts and started shaking it to see what it was, and I tried to grab it from him because I wanted to know too! But then Ayato wouldn't let me have it! So I held onto the box and he just let it go knowing I'd fall! He did it on purpose so I'd fall!"

Reiji sighed and squeezed his nose bridge. He wasn't sure how much of these childish antics he could put up with.

"It says here that this is a gift from...."

Reiji adjusts his glasses before his eyes went wide with shock.

"Father."

The entire room fell quiet. Not for long if Ayato had anything to do with it however.

"That old geezer!? What the hell does he want?"

Reiji glared at Ayato before reprimanding his poor speech and lack of respect towards their father.

"I wonder what that man wants? Perhaps another ploy to get us to act like a perfect happy family he sees on television."

Laito cooed out, but anyone with common sense could taste the passive aggressiveness in his voice. Reiji continued to look at the label, ignoring his brothers.

"I- what?...."

Was all he could muster his lips to say.

"What is it now? Stop keeping us in suspense Reiji!"

Kanato shouted angrily at his older brother. Reiji read the label twice before ripping it off the box as his younger siblings watched in amazement. Ayato had enough of his suspicious behaviour and lunged at Reiji, stealing the label from his cold fingertips.

"Finally! Let's see here.... H-huh!? This can't be right- there's no way..."

Laito looked a bit concerned for a fraction of a second before stepping up and asking what everyone's reaction was about.

"F-four eyes here is- Reiji's getting MARRIED!"

Laito and everyone else fell into shock. By this point Subaru teleported into the room with them hearing the commotion.

"He's getting..... What?"

Reiji knew he needed to contact his father to make sure this wasn't some mistake.

"What exactly does that label say Ayato?"

Kanato asked, clenching teddy tighter.

"It says that... That it's a wedding gift for Reiji."

Subaru cussed out and went on a rant about how the "old man" couldn't just do that and it was bullshit. Shu eventually made his way into the room looking off into the distance and not saying anything. By the time everyone was done conversing, the shock finally set into their veins until all they could feel now was fear. Without Reiji, how would this house even remain standing? God knows Shu's not going to take up that responsibility. Despite not saying anything verbally, they all knew what the other was thinking.

"Hey Reiji so does this mean that- haa!? He's gone!"

Ayato said slightly offended. He couldn't help but wonder what would come of this situation.

........

The sea was harsh as sailors struggled to stay on board their ships, thunder and lightning blocked out their senses. 'People' like you were meant to be extremely careful during nights like these. Rough waters only called for trouble, not just for mortal men but for seafolk as well. Hunting was harder with all the lights people put on their ships these days, humans began getting advanced, in technology and weaponry.

You were built to face the elements, not defy gunshot wounds and spears. Your tail whipped rapidly as you bobbed your body up and down, following the current as your teeth remained clench. Your nictating membrane or second eyelid as more commonly known, was on full display tonight. Even your biology knew something wasn't right. Despite this being perfect weather for some hunting, your gut told you it was best not to.

You tried your best to swim back home, body using its full extent of power to five further and further into the depth of the ocean. Finally you saw what appeared to be a kelp forest. You quickly swam in between the slimy green leaves and stood there, waiting.

Your paranoia began to get the best of you, you watched from below as the ship stopped just above you. Had they actually seen you? Worse yet, today was the day of your coronation. You were meant to be home 2 hours ago. Your parents would kill you.

Suddenly you felt a flipper brush past you, jumping a bit in fright, you spun around and bared your fangs.

"G-geez calm down it's me..."

You 'heard' your brother say. Truthfully it was less hearing and more so knowing. Sound was useless in the ocean and all that would come out is bubbles. Seafolk were able to speak telepathically, a lot of scientists still believe that it was due to evolution since your ancestors originally couldn't.

"Shit... Is dad upset?"

Your brother rolled his eyes as the moonlight shun onto his scales, illuminating the blue and green hues of them. A tinge of purple melting into his pale skin as his long slender tail flipped back and forth keeping himself up. He was different compared to other seafolk. Despite having a tail, he was only born with a single flipper, making him resemble an eel rather than a fish.

"I'm upset with you. Do you understand how many people are waiting on you!?"

He berated you. Despite being your younger brother, he always seemed to act years ahead of you. But it wasn't your fault completely. Being burdened with such heavy responsibilities as the first child of the king made you susceptible to days with no freedom or boring political events. You had a vision for your people sure, but it was tiring sometimes and all you wanted was a break.

"Look I'm sorry- I just..."

His hair made a cloud around his head as the pitch black strands floated about. He was always a traditionalist when it came to how he viewed the world and even himself. Men in their colony would keep the top of their hair short and keep the rest in a singular long braid. Just looking at the jewels adorned on his body was a reminder that that's supposed to be you. You're the one that's supposed to be getting your younger brother put of trouble, you're the one that's supposed to bring honour to your family.

Sometimes you lose your way and that's okay, but having one of the only people that understand the pressure you're under and constantly forgives your childish behaviour isn't. A simple sorry wouldn't do. After a moment of silence, you both swam to your father's castle.

Despite what most fairytales depicted, it wasn't underwater at all. It was a large structure resembling the architecture of 14th century Indian royalty. It was built on a rocky island that was only one of the many small chain islands. Different tribes resided on each island and today was the day they were about to all be under your rule.

Once you and your brother made it onto land, your tail began to seperate into "legs". Your skin still retained it's green and blueish hues, scales littering your legs and fins attached to the back of your calves. Your toes were webbed and all along your body were zebra like markings that were completely white.

Your brother on the other hand was a different story. Once he got onto land, all that remained of him was a singular leg. He would often use an artificial body part to get around on land, but other times, you were there to help him.

Contrary to popular belief, seafolk aren't born with tails, they're born like a regular human with legs. For the most part of their life cycle they're amphibious, but through early ages they stay strictly on land. As they grow older, their fins develop and so does their innate ability to swim, despite needing to be taught exactly how to, the urge to delve into the water becomes stronger and constant.

The jingles of your gold netted attire, attracted the attention of others nearby who either ran to greet you or go to inform the king of your arrival.

Once you were finally at the top of the castle for all to see, your father behind you and a priest near your side, you were more than sure you weren't ready for this. Usually the first born son is chosen to be king by defeating an enemy clan's prince, but your father felt all too much love for you that he decided that certain rules needed to be broken. He enjoyed knowing that he'd leave his kingdom under a matriarchal power such as yourself. But currently you were testing his patience with your half assed speech.

Once the clapping finally ceased and the crown was placed onto your head, you felt bile rise in your throat. God you wanted any and every possible excuse to get out of there as fast as possible, but like the humans say, be careful for what you wish for.

The king took your hands in his and raised them up in the air, demanding cheering from the crowd below. Thunder brewed as rain painted your face.

"My daughter, your new highness, is getting married!"

You ripped your hands away from him and looked as if the world completely fell apart before your eyes. Tears filled your eyes as your father seemed to be the happiest man on earth. The crowd's applause only seeming to mock your distress. You looked across to your brother who seemed to be hiding in the shadows, his head hung low in shame, eyes daring to never meet yours.

"H-how.... Could you!? You-you SELFISH SELF ABSORBANT MAN!"

You felt a hand slap you hard across your face. The crowd went silent as your palm met your cheek. You looked at your perpetrator and all you saw were the teary eyes of a boy you once knew. A boy you once loved. A boy you would once call your brother.

You understand nothing and all you knew that this wasn't what you wanted. These people weren't your family, they were your enemies. Your brother would never hit you, your father would never force something like this onto you. You looked helplessly at the crowd as they gasped and judged you silently.

You ran, you ran as far as those shabby legs could take you.

...........

The night before his wedding, Reiji reassured himself that his father had a greater purpose in mind for this union. Surely, it would prove to be a smart move, one that would strengthen his relationship and prove to his father that he could handle anything thrown his way. Sitting in his study, he absentmindedly ran his fingers over the spines of books on diplomacy and noble bloodlines, envisioning his bride as a refined, obedient woman who would respect the title he worked so hard to build.

He paused, staring into the dim light as a sense of unease swelled. He knew this marriage was a matter of duty, a test to prove his loyalty and worth to his father. Still, he couldn’t shake the stories he’d heard of sirens: tall and powerful, with hearts as deep and restless as the sea. It was unsettling, the thought of binding himself to someone who might lack the discipline and restraint he held so dearly.

He couldn’t afford another woman in his life who wielded power over him. As a child, his mother had been the only woman he’d seen as truly worthy of respect, she held herself with grace and was revered by those around her. Yet for all his efforts, he had never earned her regard. No matter how he tried to impress her, she’d remained indifferent, distant, her gaze seeming to pass over him as though he weren’t there at all. He remembered the countless hours spent studying, practicing, trying to become a son worthy of her attention. But to her, he’d never been enough, and in the end, she was gone, taking with her any hope he’d had of proving himself in her eyes.

He knew in his heart that this would never happen again. Ever. His wife would see him for the man that he was and even more. She'd respect him and obey him and fear him and... Love him? She'd hold him and laugh with him and read and- no. Reiji made up his mind. This woman would have no control over him nor his heart. He didn't care what methods of punishment he needed to take into consideration, he just knew that he needed to be above her and everyone else.

.........

While Reiji sat alone in his study, you paced your quarters, the weight of your fate pressing down on you with each passing moment. Only tonight had you learned the true nature of this marriage, a cruel twist hidden behind the whispers and wary glances exchanged among your kin. You had always known your family harbored secrets, but you never expected to be bound to one, thrust into a union with a stranger for reasons that no one would speak of openly.

You clenched the edge of the vanity table, your fingers digging into the polished wood as anger pulsed through your veins. Tomorrow, you would become the bride of a stranger, a vampire prince whose name was whispered around you but whose face you had never seen. You knew nothing of him, only that he came from a world so different from your own, a world of shadows and secrets. A shiver ran down your spine at the thought of what he might expect from you, this man you were bound to without choice or warning.

The idea of surrendering to this life unsettled you, and a part of you longed to flee, to lose yourself in the open sea, far from the web of silence and secrets that had trapped you here. But you knew you couldn’t turn your back, not yet. Instead, you steeled yourself, vowing that if you were to face this marriage, it would be on your terms. Let the vampire prince try to break your spirit, he would find himself standing against the untamed force of the sea itself.

Your thoughts turned to your kingdom, the vibrant underwater realm that had always been your home. You could almost hear the echoes of laughter from your people, the gentle sway of the currents carrying their songs of joy. Yet, beneath that melody lay an undercurrent of worry. You knew the weight of your responsibilities, the expectations that loomed over you like a shadow. As the current queen, you were supposed to be a guiding light for your people, yet all you felt was uncertainty.

Caught in this emotional storm, you felt torn between your own desires and the needs of your kingdom. Part of you yearned to escape, to dive into the depths and leave this impending marriage behind. But how could you abandon those who relied on you? Your heart ached at the thought of your younger brother, who had always been there to pick up your slack. He bore the burden of expectations with a grace that you often envied, navigating the intricacies of royalty as if they were second nature.

How could you let him shoulder this alone? He had sacrificed so much for your family, standing by you in times of need, embodying the strength you sometimes lacked. The thought of failing him filled you with guilt. You couldn’t let him down; he deserved a sister who would fight for their kingdom, who would step up when it mattered most.

..........

The grand hall was illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight, casting flickering shadows on the elegantly draped walls. The air was thick with anticipation, the rich scent of blooming night flowers wafting through the open windows. Guests filled the pews, their hushed whispers mingling with the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore, creating a symphony of expectation.

At the altar, Reiji stood, his expression carefully composed, though his heart raced with a mix of excitement and dread. Flanking him were his five brothers, their casual banter a thin veneer over the turmoil roiling beneath the surface.

“Tch... I can’t believe four eyes is really going through with this shit. I thought he was supposed to be the smartest of us.”

Ayato whispered to the group, moreso to himself than anyone else.

Laito looked off into the distance, his gaze momentarily lost in thought.

“Why wouldn’t he? This is everything he’s ever wanted.”

The weight of his words lingered in the air, a subtle acknowledgment of the pressure their brother faced. But just as quickly, he snapped back to his usual playful demeanor, a sly grin spreading across his face.

“I just hope his new bride has a good pair of legs. It'd be amusing to see Reiji finally let loose and have some fun fufu~"

Subaru’s expression soured instantly, and he shot Laito a sharp glare, the muscles in his jaw clenching.

“Seriously!?”

He snapped, barely keeping his voice down.

“That’s all you care about? Reiji’s throwing himself into this for our father, and all you can think about is some pathetic joke.”

Beneath his anger, there was something else, a hint of sadness, a weariness at watching yet another brother pulled into the relentless cycle of proving oneself to someone who would never be satisfied. It seemed to Subaru to be a constant variable among them.

“Relax, Subaru,”

Laito replied, shrugging nonchalantly, though his smirk faltered for a second.

“It’s a wedding, not a funeral. Might as well keep things interesting.”

Subaru rolled his eyes and was about to retort back but was interrupted by Kanato.

Kanato’s frown deepened as he clutched his teddy bear closer to his chest, casting a wary glance at Laito.

“You shouldn’t say such things.....”

He muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Teddy doesn’t like hearing such… unpleasant words.”

He hugged the bear tighter, as though shielding it from Laito’s careless remark.

“Fun?”

He scoffed, his expression twisting into a pout.

“Reiji wouldn’t know fun if it bit him. He’s just doing this to prove something...like he always does.”

Kanato’s voice took on a sulky, almost whiny edge.

“All he ever cares about is being ‘important’ to Father. He acts like he’s so much better than us, but he’s just as desperate.”

Kanato hummed in thought for a moment before adding on.

Kanato’s gaze shifted toward the aisle, almost lost in thought as he muttered to himself.

“It would be boring if he broke his new bride before they even get started. But I suppose it would make things… entertaining. Maybe he'll finally crumble."

Subaru scoffed at his brother's thoughtless remark.

“You’re unbelievable, you know that?”

Subaru's voice was laced with venom. Sure he hated his brothers, but in times like this, they were the only ones they could rely on. Kanato simply shrugged, brushing Subaru’s reaction off.

“What? Teddy and I think it’s only fair.”

Before Subaru could respond, Shu shifted, glancing up with a half-lidded gaze. His expression was unreadable, and for a moment, his piercing eyes rested on Reiji.

“You’re all wasting your time.”

He murmured, his tone quiet but laced with a hint of sadness. He sighed before responding.

“Reiji’s been chasing Father’s approval for as long as I can remember. He thinks this will finally make him happy.”

Shu’s gaze softened slightly, as though remembering the years they had spent in tense rivalry. Though Reiji’s resentment toward him ran deep, Shu couldn’t ignore the reality that they were still brothers, bound by blood and bitter memories.

“But if this marriage is just another game for him to win…”

He let out a sigh, his voice tinged with disappointment.

“He’s setting himself up for a lonely life.”

He leaned back, closing his eyes as if to detach himself from the scene.

“Not that it matters,”

He added quietly.

“Reiji wouldn’t listen to any of us, anyway.”

They all fell in a somber silence. No one had anything else to say. They couldn't, it was just too much.

The murmur of the guests faded to silence as you entered, every gaze turning toward you. You stood in the entryway, bathed in moonlight, your figure luminous as you took your first step forward.

Your dress was breathtaking—a gown crafted from woven seaweed, embedded with jewels that caught the light with every movement. Sapphires, emeralds, and shimmering pearls adorned the deep green and blue fabric, each piece glinting like ocean waves in moonlight. The dress cascaded around you in flowing patterns, trailing behind like a living shadow of the sea itself.

Golden bands wound around your wrists and neck, twisted into intricate designs that announced your lineage to anyone who dared question it. Tiny shells and coral pieces were woven into your hair, crowned by strands of delicate pearls. In place of a bouquet, a garland of kelp and sea flowers draped over your hands, an offering from the ocean that spoke of your world beyond this one.

Your skin carried the faint hues of the sea, light blue and green, shimmering softly as though kissed by ocean tides. There was a fierceness to your beauty, an untamed quality that felt powerful, ancient, and strange. As you walked, each step was measured and full of grace, and yet I could sense something more....a quiet strength, perhaps even defiance, beneath the calm expression you held.

As you finally reached the altar, Reiji’s breath caught in his throat. At 6'5", you towered over him, a striking figure that commanded attention. The way you moved, so confidently and gracefully, made him acutely aware of the space between you. How effortlessly you filled it with your presence. He had expected beauty, but the sheer magnitude of your stature and the shimmering hues of your skin left him momentarily speechless.

It was as if the very air shifted around you, drawing the eyes of all who gathered. In that moment, Reiji felt a rush of emotions, intimidation, admiration, and an undeniable spark of intrigue. How could someone so magnificent and unlike anyone he had ever known become his bride?

........

Two weeks had passed since the wedding, and life in the castle near the shore had become a dance of mischief and challenge. Reiji sat in the sunlit library, a heavy tome propped open before him, its pages filled with complex theories about etiquette and social conduct. You lounged nearby, legs crossed, and glanced over at him.

“What are you reading this time?” you asked, your tone dripping with mockery. “Another guide on how to be a proper gentleman?”

He glanced up, slightly defensive. “It’s called The Art of Nobility, and it’s quite insightful.”

You scoffed, shaking your head. “You need a book to tell you how to be a normal person? Isn’t that an oxymoron?”

Reiji felt irritation flare inside him. “This is important, you know. Understanding how to navigate our world—”

“Oh please, you’re drowning in a sea of nonsense. You think reading this drivel will make you more refined? You’re just pretending!”

With each jab, you pushed him closer to the edge, and he struggled to maintain his composure. “I’m not pretending! I’m trying to—”

“Trying to what? Live up to some outdated expectation? That’s just sad.”

“Sad?” Reiji snapped, unable to hold back any longer. “What do you know about it, Ayato?!”

The slip hung in the air, shocking both of you into silence. As the silence hung in the air, Reiji quickly cleared his throat, eager to move past the awkward moment. “I didn’t mean to—”

“Who’s Ayato?” you asked, curiosity piqued.

Reiji froze, his eyes narrowing slightly as he adjusted his glasses. “My brother,” he replied, his tone clipped.

You raised an eyebrow, genuinely curious. “What’s he like?”

He hesitated, the question lingering in the air. “It’s complicated,” he finally said, his defensiveness surfacing. “I have my own responsibilities to manage.”

You nodded, sensing the tension in his voice. “I get that. Families can be... complicated.”

Reiji felt an unfamiliar urge to share, but he quickly suppressed it, recognizing that he had already revealed too much. “We should focus on our duties,” he said, trying to sound authoritative.

“Of course,” you replied, your tone calm. “I didn’t mean to pry.”

He took a step back, feeling the weight of the moment press down on him. “Right,” he said, his voice tight. “I’ll... I’ll see you later.”

Without waiting for a response, he turned on his heel and left, the air between you heavy with unspoken thoughts.

The next day, Reiji was pacing the halls of the castle, lost in thought about the previous evening’s awkward exchange. He was trying to shake off the unease when he heard muffled voices coming from the other room.

Curiosity piqued, he approached the door to your quarters, where he could hear your voice, thick with emotion. As he leaned closer, he caught snippets of the conversation—your tone was strained, and it was clear you were upset.

“...I’m fine, really. It’s just... difficult,” you said, your voice cracking. “I just wish things were different.”

Reiji hesitated for a moment before gently knocking on the door. “Is everything all right in there?” he asked, his voice calm and collected, though he didn’t genuinely expect a response.

When you didn’t answer immediately, he pushed the door open slightly, peering inside. The sight of you, tears streaming down your cheeks, caught him off guard. You looked vulnerable, a stark contrast to the strong facade you usually wore.

“What's wrong?” he asked, more out of politeness than genuine concern. His instinct was to remain distant, but something compelled him to check on you.

You glanced up, surprise flickering in your eyes. “I... it’s nothing, really,” you said quickly, wiping your tears with the back of your hand.

“It clearly isn’t nothing,” he pressed, the irritation in his voice surfacing. “If you’re going to cry in the castle, at least have the decency to do it quietly.”

You took a deep breath, attempting to regain your composure. “I didn’t mean to disturb anyone. It’s just... family stuff.”

Reiji felt a flicker of interest but quickly suppressed it. “If it’s family, then it’s not my concern,” he said, trying to sound indifferent, but there was an edge to his tone that revealed his discomfort.

“Right,” you replied, forcing a smile that didn’t reach your eyes. “Thanks for checking, though.”

He nodded stiffly, feeling the tension in the air. “Just try not to let it affect your duties. We have a lot to handle.”

With that, he turned on his heel and walked away, the encounter leaving him with a strange sense of unease. The sound of your muffled sobs lingered in his mind, but he brushed it off. Emotions were not his concern; he had his own burdens to bear.

........

The rain tapped gently against the windows of the sunroom as you lounged on a cushioned chair, staring out at the grey skies. You had hoped for a day to explore the gardens, but the weather had other plans.

Reiji entered, shaking droplets from his hair, looking somewhat annoyed. “I had plans for today, and they’re all ruined by this weather.”

You smiled, glancing up at him. “We could find something to do indoors. There are plenty of games in the study.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Games? You think that will keep my mind occupied?”

“Why not? It could be fun,” you suggested, standing up and moving towards the shelves. “Or are you too busy being the perfect son?”

Reiji’s expression softened slightly at your teasing. “Fine. What do you have in mind?”

After rummaging through the study, you found a deck of cards and challenged him to a game. As the two of you played, laughter filled the room, the tension of earlier days dissipating.

“Do you always cheat?” Reiji asked, mock indignation on his face as you grinned, adjusting your strategy.

“Only when I have to,” you replied, your eyes sparkling. “Maybe you should try it sometime.”

As the game progressed, the playful banter turned into genuine conversation. You shared stories about your upbringing and the pressures you faced, while Reiji opened up about his past and the shadows of his brother’s brilliance that loomed over him.

“I’ve spent so long trying to prove myself that I forgot how to enjoy life,” he admitted, a hint of vulnerability in his voice.

“Maybe you don’t have to prove anything to me,” you said softly.

Reiji's mind reeled. His body becoming temporarily paralyzed as he analyzed your words. He couldn't explain the lump in his throat and he didn't want to.

........

The grand dining hall was alive with laughter and the clinking of glasses as guests celebrated your recent achievements. You sat at the head of the table, sharing stories and soaking in the compliments when Reiji’s sudden outburst shattered the festive mood.

“Enough!” he shouted, his voice echoing through the hall, silencing everyone. You blinked, shocked at the sudden intensity of his words.

“What’s wrong, Reiji?” you asked, your heart racing as the eyes of every guest turned toward you, the laughter dying down into an awkward silence.

“It’s just—this is ridiculous! You stand there, taking all the credit for everything, while I’m left in your shadow!” he exclaimed, frustration evident in every word.

You felt heat rise to your cheeks, a mix of embarrassment and anger washing over you. “I’m not trying to overshadow you! I thought we were celebrating our success together.”

“Celebrating you, maybe,” he shot back. “It feels like I’m a footnote in your story, and I’m tired of it!”

“Reiji, you need to calm down,” you said, trying to maintain your composure while the guests exchanged bewildered glances.

“No! I can’t just stand by while you steal the spotlight!” He slammed his hand on the table, the noise reverberating in the now-silent hall.

Your patience thinned. “This isn’t the time or place for this! You’re embarrassing me in front of our guests. If you have something to say, let’s say it privately.”

Reiji’s expression faltered, uncertainty flickering in his eyes, but he stood firm. “Maybe you should reconsider how you present yourself if you want my respect.”

You took a deep breath, frustration boiling inside you. “Leave us,” you commanded, addressing the guests. “This conversation is no longer appropriate for this setting.”

The guests exchanged confused looks but complied, rising from their seats and filing out of the dining hall, whispering amongst themselves as they left. The door clicked shut, leaving you and Reiji alone in the suddenly quiet room.

“Now, can we talk?” you said, your tone firm yet calm.

He rubbed the back of his neck, tension evident in his posture. “I... I didn’t mean to lose control like that.”

You crossed your arms, studying him intently. “But you did, and it’s not the first time. Why is it so hard for you to accept that I have my own strengths? I want to work together, but I can’t do that if you see me as a threat.”

God Reiji would do anything right about now to just vanish off the face of the earth. He was losing his mind, his self. Nothing could quell the ache in his battered heart. He took a deep breath before speaking.

"You could never be a threat to me."

And with that he was gone.

The garden was peaceful, the soft rustle of leaves and the distant sound of water creating a calming ambiance. You and Reiji stood beneath a large oak tree, the moonlight filtering through the branches. The earlier tension from the dining hall lingered in the air, but you sensed that he needed more than just words of encouragement.

Reiji leaned against the tree, arms crossed over his chest, his gaze fixed on the ground. You could see the weight of his thoughts pressing down on him, and your heart ached for him.

“Reiji,” you said softly, stepping closer, “I didn’t mean to push you. I just want to understand.”

He remained silent, the shadows playing across his face. You could see the turmoil in his expression, and instinctively, you reached out to touch his arm, offering warmth and reassurance.

“I know things can feel overwhelming,” you continued gently. “You’ve always been so dedicated to your duties. But you don’t have to carry everything alone. I’m here for you, no matter what.”

He glanced at you, eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and uncertainty. “It’s not that simple,” he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. “There are things... things I can’t share.”

“Why not?” you asked, your brow furrowing in concern. “I want to help, but I can’t do that if you keep pushing me away. It’s okay to be vulnerable.”

Reiji looked away, the vulnerability in his gaze quickly masked by a wall of stoicism. “You wouldn’t understand. My past... it’s complicated. I don’t want to burden you with it.”

“Reiji,” you said, your tone firm but gentle, “everyone has their struggles. I may not know the specifics of your past, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be here for you. You don’t have to face everything by yourself.”

He inhaled deeply, trying to mask the emotions threatening to spill over. “It’s hard for me to accept help. I was always expected to be perfect, to uphold a certain image.”

You took a step closer, your heart aching at his words. “You don’t have to be perfect for me. I admire your strength, but I also see how hard you are on yourself. It’s okay to let that facade drop, even just for a moment.”

Reiji turned to face you, his defenses wavering as your kindness washed over him. “I’m scared,” he admitted, his voice trembling slightly. “I don’t want to disappoint you.”

“You could never disappoint me,” you replied earnestly, your eyes locking onto his. “It’s okay to show me your true self. I promise I won’t judge you. I just want to be close to you, to support you, even if I don’t know everything.”

For a brief moment, Reiji seemed to consider your words, his walls faltering. But then he took a step back, the distance between you seeming to widen. “I need time,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. “I’m not ready to share everything yet.”

You nodded, respecting his need for space. “That’s okay. Just know that whenever you are ready, I’ll be here. You don’t have to hide from me.”

He looked at you, a flicker of appreciation in his eyes, though uncertainty lingered beneath the surface. “Thank you. You’re... you’re too kind.”

“It’s just who I am,” you replied with a soft smile, trying to lighten the mood. “I’ll always be here to remind you that you’re worthy of love and support, no matter what you’ve been through.”

Reiji’s gaze softened, the tension in his posture easing ever so slightly. “I appreciate that,” he said quietly. “It means more than you know.”

You stepped back slightly, giving him the space he needed while still maintaining a comforting presence. “Whenever you need me, day or night, I’ll be here. Just take your time.”

As you both stood in the moonlit garden, a sense of understanding began to weave between you, a promise of support in the midst of unspoken fears. While Reiji still guarded his past, he felt the warmth of your kindness enveloping him, a beacon of hope amidst the shadows of his insecurities.

........

The moonlight spilled across the balcony, illuminating the space where you stood, arms crossed against the night air. The cool breeze offered a fleeting relief from the warmth of your thoughts, but it couldn’t erase the tension that lingered between you and Reiji.

He leaned against the railing, staring out into the night, the weight of his unspoken thoughts palpable. You both had spent weeks navigating this uneasy partnership—an arrangement rooted in obligation and resentment. At first, the two of you were like oil and water, clashing at every turn. But now, as the days passed, the barriers you had built began to show signs of wear.

“Why do you keep looking so serious?” you asked, breaking the silence. Your voice held a hint of challenge, but deep down, you were curious.

Reiji turned to you, his expression a mix of frustration and contemplation. “I was just thinking about how strange this all is. We’re forced into this arrangement, and yet... it feels different now.”

“Different how?” you probed, crossing your arms tighter.

His brow furrowed as he considered his words. “At first, I couldn’t stand the idea of being tied to someone like you. You were impulsive, carefree... everything I’m not. But now... I don’t know. It’s not half bad.”

The admission hung in the air, and your heart raced at the unexpected turn of his thoughts. “What are you saying, Reiji? Are you really implying that you’ve come to tolerate me?”

“Maybe more than that,” he said, stepping closer, the distance between you shrinking. “You’ve challenged me in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve never been good at opening up, but you’ve somehow cracked through my walls.”

A wave of warmth flooded through you, surprising both of you. “I guess I’ve had my own struggles, too. At first, I hated being here. I thought I’d be trapped in a life I didn’t choose, forced into a marriage that meant nothing.”

His gaze softened, curiosity replacing some of the tension. “What changed?”

You took a deep breath, the weight of your confession threatening to spill out. “I was forced into this marriage because of my father’s debts to your family. He was desperate, and I didn’t want to see him suffer. But now... I’m starting to feel like maybe this isn’t as awful as I thought.”

Reiji’s expression shifted, surprise mixing with something deeper, perhaps understanding. “You mean to say you’ve grown to appreciate this situation?”

“I’ve grown to appreciate you,” you admitted, your heart pounding. “Despite everything, you’ve become... more than I ever expected. I don’t think I can keep pretending this is just a business arrangement.”

Silence enveloped the balcony, the gravity of your words settling in the space between you. Reiji’s eyes widened, and for a moment, it felt like time stood still.

“I thought this was just about duty,” you continued, your voice trembling. “But it’s become so much more for me. I’m scared because I didn’t plan to fall for you. I didn’t want to like you. It complicates everything.”

He stepped closer, the vulnerability in his eyes undeniable. “And what if I said I’ve felt the same? That beneath all my irritation, I’ve found myself drawn to you in ways I never imagined?”

Your heart soared at his confession, the tension between you shifting. “Then maybe we can make this work. I want to fight for something real between us, something more than just obligations.”

Reiji hesitated, the flicker of hope igniting in his gaze. “You’re willing to take that risk?”

“I am,” you replied, feeling the fear that had gripped your heart begin to melt away. “I want to be with you, despite our past. I want to see where this can go.”

The air crackled with tension, and in that moment, you both understood the weight of the leap you were about to take. As the moonlight enveloped you, the realization that your feelings had shifted became undeniable.

Reiji reached for your hand, his grip warm and reassuring. “Then let’s explore this together. No more hiding from what we feel.”

You nodded, a sense of relief flooding through you. “Together,” you affirmed, feeling the distance between you dissolve as the promise of something real began to take root.

In the quiet of the night, beneath the vast sky, you both stood on the brink of a new beginning, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, together.

Word count: idk probably too much