68 More Than you can Ever Imagine

"Asu… I'm sorry… I hadn't thought that you would be so worried about my disappearance… I'm sorry. I didn't take your feelings into consideration… I just went to take care of something, but I didn't…" I sighed. "I didn't think it would take so long… Asu… will you… forgive me?"

As I spoke, my once bright violet pupils dimmed, with sparkling tears rimming my eyes.

As I spoke, I sneaked a glance at Asura's face, only to witness her expression as one of intense struggle, as if she wanted to pat and comfort me, yet at the same time wanted me to continue suffering.

You see, Asura is one of those people who believe herself to be this terrible villainess deep within when she is actually quite kind, both above and underneath her mask. After knowing her for almost a decade, I can predict with confidence what her reaction will be.

And...

I should look like an incredibly sorry and repenting person right now, no?

So Asura will definitely forgive me, right?

"N-No… It's fine! Y-Y-You don't have to… uh, you know, be sorry about something like that! I-I'm just… um, uh… I-ah… um… uh… I-uh…" As if knowing how hard she was blushing—it doesn't matter if it's due to anger, embarrassment, or the nerve wrecking feelings of first love—Asura quickly stopped speaking.

Pfft.

Blushing so easily? Asu, don't you usually take embarrassing events very calmly?

It suddenly feels like I'm meeting Asu for the first time... her behavior right now completely goes against what I've witnessed previously.

Though, once again, it isn't such a bad feeling.

But I shouldn't get sidetracked by my thoughts! I have an important action plan that must not be delayed!

"Thank you, Asu. I knew you would understand. And… uh…" I continued softly, "Asu… you asked before right? Whether I still like you after seeing your true personality?"

Seeing how her figure had gone stiff at the mention, I knew that this matter mattered very much to her.

But Asu, haven't I proved my loyalty all these years? That should tell you how much I'm infatuated with you; but it's fine. I'll tell you as many times as needed for you to fully understand.

"I..." I started. I love you.

Asura clutched her skirt tightly with her forehead beaded with sweat. Seeing her nervous appearance, I couldn't help but want to tease her a bit.

"I...I... I..." I made sure to savor her adorable impatient pout before finally striking out the ace I had prepared. "I'll love you, no matter what you are like. I love your beauty, your wits, your cuteness… but I love your selfishness, your unreasonableness, and your pettiness even more."

I love you more than you can ever imagine, Asu. You terribly irresponsible charmer who tempts others.