Chapter 33: Morning Revelations

Ryo woke up to the first light of dawn filtering through the windows. He stretched, feeling the warmth of Sakura's body still lingering beside him. Carefully, he slipped out of bed, trying not to wake her. He needed to shower and clear his mind for the day's tasks ahead. As he made his way to the bathroom, he glanced back at Sakura, who was still sound asleep, her face peaceful and serene.

The hot water cascaded over him, washing away the remnants of sleep and the grime of the previous day. Ryo sighed, letting the warmth seep into his muscles, easing the tension that had built up over the past weeks. He had a lot to think about—securing their new home, gathering supplies, and ensuring Sakura's safety.

As he stood there, lost in thought, he didn't hear Sakura stirring in the bedroom. She woke up to find Ryo's side of the bed empty, a brief moment of panic flashing through her before she heard the sound of running water. Smiling to herself, she slipped out of bed and padded softly to the bathroom.

When she opened the door, the steam enveloped her, and she saw Ryo standing under the spray, his back to her. Quietly, she shed her clothes and slipped into the shower behind him. Ryo, sensing her presence, turned around, a surprised but delighted smile spreading across his face.

"Good morning," he said, his voice soft over the sound of the water.

Sakura giggled and wrapped her arms around him. "Good morning," she replied, looking up at him with a playful glint in her eyes. "I didn't want to wake up alone."

Ryo chuckled, pulling her closer. "I didn't mean to leave you. Just needed to clear my head for a bit."

"I understand," she said, leaning into him. "But next time, maybe let me know you're getting up. I was a little worried when I didn't see you."

He kissed the top of her head. "I will. Promise."

They stood there for a moment, just enjoying the feeling of being together. The warmth of the water and the closeness of their bodies created a cocoon of intimacy that felt like a world away from the chaos outside.

As they showered, Ryo gently washed Sakura's hair, his fingers working through the tangles with care. She closed her eyes, savoring the sensation, a contented sigh escaping her lips.

"This feels nice," she murmured.

"Yeah," Ryo agreed, his voice a low rumble. "It's nice to have a bit of normalcy, even if it's just for a few minutes."

They took their time, letting the water wash over them, rinsing away the stress and fear of their situation. Ryo's hands moved over Sakura's body, tracing the curves and lines that he had come to know so well. She responded in kind, her touch gentle and loving.

"You know," Sakura said, looking up at him with a mischievous smile, "this could become a habit."

"I wouldn't mind that," Ryo replied, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "In fact, I think it's a great idea."

They both laughed, the sound echoing off the tiled walls. It was a moment of pure joy, a brief respite from the harsh reality of their world. As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Ryo felt a renewed sense of purpose. He had someone to protect, someone to care for, and that gave him the strength to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

When they finally stepped out of the shower, the steam clung to their bodies, mingling with the cool air of the bathroom. They dried off, the towels soft against their skin. Ryo handed Sakura one of his shirts, which hung loosely on her petite frame, and a pair of his shorts. She smiled, accepting the clothes and slipping them on.

"Thanks," she said, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek. "I guess I'll be borrowing your wardrobe for a while."

Ryo grinned. "I don't mind. You look good in my clothes."

Sakura blushed, but her eyes sparkled with happiness. "I'll take that as a compliment."

As they made their way to the kitchen, Ryo couldn't help but feel a sense of normalcy returning to their lives. They moved around each other with ease, preparing breakfast and setting the table. It was a small slice of domestic bliss, something that had been missing from their lives for far too long.

Over breakfast, they talked about their plans for the day. Ryo explained his idea to fortify their new home, outlining the supplies they would need and the steps they would take to secure it.

"We'll need a welding machine, fuel, and a generator," Ryo said, ticking off the items on his fingers. "And we need to find a place that's defensible, somewhere we can really fortify."

Sakura nodded, her expression serious. "It sounds like a lot of work, but it's necessary. We need to be safe."

"Exactly," Ryo agreed. "I'll start gathering the supplies today. In the meantime, I want you to stay here and keep a low profile. No loud noises, and keep the doors locked."

Sakura looked worried, but she nodded. "I understand. Just... be careful, okay?"

"I will," Ryo assured her, reaching across the table to squeeze her hand. "I'll be back before you know it."

They finished their breakfast, and Ryo gathered his things, preparing to head out. Before he left, he showed Sakura how to use the gun he had given her, emphasizing the importance of safety and caution.

"Only use it if you absolutely have to," he said, his tone serious. "And don't hesitate if you're in danger."

Sakura nodded, gripping the gun tightly. "I won't. Just... come back safe."

Ryo gave her a reassuring smile. "I will. I promise."

With a final kiss, he left the apartment, heading out into the uncertain world beyond. As he walked down the stairs, he couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of hope. They had a plan, and they had each other. And as long as they stayed strong, they could face whatever the world threw at them.