Chapter [44]

Kaito's Room

Kaito woke up with the gentle glow of dawn filtering through the window. He felt a comfortable weight on his chest and realized that Asia was still asleep there, her head resting softly on his chest. He watched her serene expression for a few moments, feeling a mix of peace and responsibility.

Trying not to wake her, Kaito moved slowly, gently stroking Asia's hair. She stirred a little, opening her eyes slowly.

"Good morning," Kaito whispered, a soft smile on his lips.

Asia looked at him with a mix of surprise and comfort. "Good morning, Kaito," she replied, her voice soft and sleepy.

Kaito kissed her forehead before getting out of bed. "Let's have breakfast. My parents should already be in the kitchen."

Kitchen

In the kitchen, Miki and Gorou were busy preparing breakfast. The aroma of fresh bread and coffee filled the air, creating a cozy atmosphere. Kaito and Asia entered the kitchen, and Miki smiled when she saw them.

"Good morning, you two," said Miki, placing a jug of juice on the table.

"Good morning," Kaito replied, grabbing a plate and starting to serve himself.

Asia, a little shy, sat at the table, looking around curiously. Gorou smiled at her, trying to make her feel more comfortable. "Sit down, Asia. Eat as much as you want."

She thanked him shyly and started to serve herself as well. The conversation during breakfast was light and pleasant, with Kaito and his parents asking questions to Asia, trying to get to know her better. She responded timidly but seemed to be starting to feel more comfortable.

After breakfast, Kaito prepared to leave. He put on his school uniform and packed his backpack. Asia watched him with a worried look, clearly anxious about being alone in the house.

"Kaito," she called, her voice trembling. "You... you'll come back soon, won't you?"

Kaito stopped and turned to her, seeing the concern in her eyes. "Yes, Asia. I'll come straight home after school. Don't worry."

Asia approached him, holding his hand firmly. "I'm afraid of being alone. What if... what if something happens?"

Kaito squeezed her hand gently, trying to comfort her. "Nothing will happen, Asia. You're safe here with my parents. And I'll be back before you know it."

She nodded, but the fear was still evident in her eyes. Kaito pulled her into a hug, trying to convey security through the gesture.

"Trust me, Asia. I won't let anything bad happen to you," he said, his voice firm and reassuring.

Asia snuggled into Kaito's arms, finding some comfort in his presence. "I trust you, Kaito."

Miki and Gorou watched the scene, exchanging looks of understanding and concern. Miki approached, placing a gentle hand on Asia's shoulder. "We'll take care of you while Kaito is at school. Everything will be fine, dear."

Asia smiled shyly at Miki, feeling a little more at ease. "Thank you, Mrs. Hyoudou."

"Asia, you can call me Mom if you like. I've said that before, and I would be happy if you felt comfortable doing so," said Miki, watching Asia with a warm look.

Asia blushed slightly, remembering the affection she felt from Miki. "Sorry, I forgot... Mom."

Miki smiled, moved by Asia's words, and gave her a comforting hug. "I'm very happy to hear that, dear. Now let's make sure you feel at home."

Kaito, watching the scene, felt a mix of pride and gratitude for his mother. He knew Asia was in good hands. After a few moments, he said goodbye to everyone, grabbing his backpack and heading for the door.

"I'll be back soon, Asia. Take care," said Kaito, waving to her.

"Take care too, Kaito," replied Asia, with a shy but reassured smile.

School Entrance

Kaito arrived at the school entrance and, to his surprise, found Akeno waiting for him. She looked worried, her normally calm and smiling face showing a serious expression.

"Kaito," Akeno called, walking towards him. "How's Asia? Is she alright?"

Kaito was a bit confused by Akeno's concern. "Yes, Asia is fine. She's at home with my parents."

"I'm glad to hear that. We need to talk. Come with me to the Occult Research Club." Akeno took Kaito's hand, intertwining her fingers with his in an intimate gesture, and began to guide him across the campus.

As they walked towards the club, some students passed by, casting disdainful looks and muttering malicious comments.

"Look at Kaito, thinking he's something special because he's close to Akeno," one student muttered to another.

"He doesn't deserve to be near her," said another, with evident hatred in his tone.

Kaito heard more spiteful comments directed at him but decided to ignore them. He knew it wasn't worth being affected by them. Akeno, noticing the tension, squeezed his hand, offering silent comfort.

"Kaito," Akeno said as they walked, "I know you're going through a lot lately, and Rias and I are worried about you. We need you to accept Rias's deal."

Kaito thought about Grayfia's words in the forest, remembering the complexity of the situation. "It will depend on what she offers, Akeno. I need to ensure my choices are the best for everyone."

They arrived at the club, and Akeno opened the door, guiding Kaito inside.

Occult Research Club

Kaito entered the Occult Research Club, closely followed by Akeno. The room was calm, illuminated by soft light streaming through the windows. The faint aroma of incense floated in the air, creating a calm and serene atmosphere. Rias was sitting in a chair by a table, watching their arrival with a pensive expression.

Rias looked up as they entered, a slight smile appearing on her lips. "Kaito, good morning. Please, have a seat." She gestured to the chairs in front of her.

Kaito sat in the chair facing Rias, while Akeno went to an adjacent room, leaving them alone. The atmosphere was charged with silent expectation.

Rias leaned forward slightly, looking directly into Kaito's eyes. "Kaito, I'd like to discuss something important with you. I want to offer you a contract as a mercenary to participate in the Rating Game. The payment would be your promotion to High-Class Devil."

Kaito, who already knew about the proposal through Grayfia, smiled slightly. He adjusted himself in the chair, crossing his arms and looking directly at Rias. "I accept, Rias. I'm ready for this responsibility."

Rias visibly relaxed, a smile of satisfaction lighting up her face. "I'm glad to hear that, Kaito. With your help, I'm confident we can win."

Kaito uncrossed his arms and leaned forward, showing his commitment. "I'll do my best to ensure our victory."

At that moment, Akeno returned to the room with a tray of tea, surprised to see Rias so content. She served tea to both before positioning herself next to Rias, facing Kaito. "It seems you two reached an agreement," Akeno said with a smile.

Kaito took the cup of tea and sipped it, feeling the soft and comforting flavor. "Yes, Akeno. I accepted Rias's proposal." He stood up, placing the cup back on the tray. "Now, I need to go to class. I don't want to be late."

Rias stood and stepped forward, extending her hand. "Thank you, Kaito. You're making the right decision."

Kaito shook Rias's hand firmly. "I'll do whatever it takes to help."

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