Chapter 22: The Proposal

Tokyo's skyline glittered with a thousand lights as the city moved to its own rhythm, indifferent to the turbulent lives of its residents. Within the corridors of Asuka Enterprises and the grand halls of the Oyakiji Clan, the pressure was mounting to an unbearable level. Kirito Asuka and Rin Oyakiji, their relationship strained by public scrutiny and family expectations, made a dramatic decision that would alter the course of their lives. As they faced mounting external pressures, they resolved to marry quickly, hoping to shield their love from the relentless storm surrounding them.

The Weight of Decision

The decision to marry swiftly was not made lightly. Kirito and Rin had been grappling with the increasing intensity of their relationship, both professionally and personally. The media's incessant focus on their burgeoning romance, combined with the constant interference from their families, had left them feeling vulnerable and exposed.

Kirito's internal conflict was palpable. He had been engaged to Aiko Matsumoto, a union arranged by their families, and this engagement had been a significant source of tension. Despite his growing feelings for Rin, he was acutely aware of the implications of breaking his engagement. The pressures from his family, particularly from his father, Mr. Asuka, were immense.

Rin, on the other hand, faced the additional burden of her family's scandal and the fraudulent claim threatening the Oyakiji Clan's fortune. The strain of balancing her responsibilities as the heiress with her growing affection for Kirito was overwhelming. Their decision to marry quickly was driven by a desire to protect their relationship and shield it from the escalating external pressures.

A Night of Decision

In a private meeting, Kirito and Rin decided to take the plunge. They met at a serene rooftop garden overlooking the city, a place where they had shared moments of respite amidst their busy lives. The soft glow of lanterns and the cool night air created an intimate setting for their conversation.

"Rin," Kirito began, his voice steady but filled with earnestness, "the pressure is becoming too much. The media, our families—they're all intruding on our lives. I think the only way to protect what we have is to marry quickly."

Rin looked at him, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and vulnerability. "I agree, Kirito. I can't continue to live under the constant scrutiny and the weight of our separate responsibilities. If we marry, we can face everything together, as a united front."

Kirito reached out, taking her hand in his. "Then let's do it. We'll have a private ceremony, just the two of us, to start. We'll deal with the public announcement later."

Rin squeezed his hand, feeling a sense of relief and resolve. "Alright. Let's make this happen."

Aiko's Reaction

As Kirito and Rin's decision to marry quickly began to take shape, the news reached Aiko Matsumoto—Kirito's fiancée. Aiko had always been aware of the underlying tensions in their relationship, but she had clung to the hope that the engagement could be salvaged. The rapid escalation of Kirito and Rin's relationship shattered that hope.

Aiko was devastated. She had been groomed from a young age to marry Kirito, her family and the Asuka family having long envisioned their union as a strategic alliance. The announcement of their sudden marriage was a blow to her, both personally and professionally.

In a private meeting with Kirito, Aiko confronted him, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and sadness. "Kirito, is this really happening? You're going through with this? What about our engagement? What about everything we've built?"

Kirito's expression was filled with regret, but his resolve was firm. "Aiko, I never wanted to hurt you. But Rin and I—our relationship is real, and it's something I can't ignore. We've decided to marry quickly to protect what we have."

Aiko's eyes filled with tears. "And what about me? What about our families? This isn't just about us. There are consequences, Kirito."

Kirito nodded, acknowledging the gravity of her words. "I know. And I'm sorry for the pain this is causing. But I have to follow my heart."

Aiko's Decision

In the aftermath of their confrontation, Aiko faced a profound emotional turmoil. She was left to grapple with the fallout of Kirito and Rin's decision and the implications for her own future. The engagement was not just a personal matter but also a strategic alliance that had significant consequences for both families.

Despite her heartache, Aiko chose to maintain her dignity. She announced her departure from the public eye, opting to step away from the media frenzy and the intense scrutiny. Her decision was a testament to her grace under pressure, even as she dealt with the personal betrayal and disappointment.

Aiko's departure allowed her to reflect on her next steps. She began to consider new opportunities and ways to redefine her own path, separate from the expectations placed upon her by her family and her engagement to Kirito.

Public Announcement

The news of Kirito and Rin's decision to marry quickly spread like wildfire. The media seized upon the dramatic turn of events, amplifying the already intense scrutiny of their relationship. The public reaction was a mix of shock, curiosity, and speculation.

Kirito and Rin's wedding was planned as an intimate ceremony, away from the prying eyes of the media. The event was held at a private venue, with only close family and a few trusted friends in attendance. The ceremony was a poignant and personal affair, marked by the couple's commitment to each other amidst the chaos surrounding them.

The couple's decision to marry quickly was both a strategic move and a heartfelt commitment. By formalizing their relationship, they hoped to shield their love from external pressures and demonstrate their dedication to each other. The wedding served as a powerful statement of their unity and resilience.

The Road Ahead

As Kirito and Rin embarked on their married life, they faced an uncertain future. The external pressures, including media scrutiny and family expectations, remained significant challenges. However, their decision to marry quickly had solidified their bond and provided them with a foundation of mutual support.

Aiko's departure marked a significant shift in the dynamics of the story. Her role as a key player in the unfolding drama had changed, and her future remained a topic of speculation. Her grace and resolve in the face of personal betrayal underscored her strength and resilience.

The chapter closed with Kirito and Rin facing the future together, their relationship fortified by their decision to marry quickly. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, but their commitment to each other offered a glimmer of hope amidst the turmoil.