Chapter 172: Claiming Loyalties

Yumi stood frozen, watching in shock as Sachiko leaned into Ryo, completely unguarded and unashamed. His hand slipped under Sachiko's clothes with an intimacy that felt both possessive and undeniable, an unspoken bond between them.

Ryo's voice dropped low, a near-growl as he whispered to Sachiko, "You're mine." His tone was resolute, as though sealing a promise that extended far beyond the moment, marking her as his alone.

For Yumi, it was as if a door to their world had opened just slightly—enough to glimpse the depth of their connection but also the boundaries she couldn't cross without surrendering herself fully. This man had an intense hold over those he claimed, binding them with the fierce promise of both protection and control.

Yumi then heard Sachiko say to Ryo in a gentle, casual voice, "Ryo... not now... you still need to save that for later," her eyes drifting deliberately toward Yumi.