2011: Sumire and Yuhi Part 2

"I--Im sorry. I know it sounds like an excuse. But I hadn't really noticed it had gotten worse." Her sentence fell short when he flicked her forehead.

"Yuhi?"

"You're really reckless. Anyhow, don't do any work for now." Yuhi mumbled. "Get some rest." He pointed to the couch, and she nodded.

Before they could go over, she watched as his gaze flicked toward the sheets of paper underneath all the energy drinks. Sumire froze, damn. She forgot she left those there. Yuhi was already taking them out.

"I-I just wanted to keep you fresh in my mind," Sumire stammered. Yuhi looked at her with an expression that can only be described as barely-contained amusement.

'Stupid, why didn't I take those drawings home?' Normally she would have. She feared what others would say if they discovered her feelings for Yuhi. Many people dislike her among the members of the Holy knights. If those drawings fell into the wrong hands, it would only spell trouble for her.

"Is that so?" He looked at the recent one and jabbed his finger at it. "Please don't tell me you really think my nose is this big."

Sumire's cheeks flushed red. "I-I'm not very good at portraits, but I really wanted to try."

Yuhi laughed. "Don't mind it. This is just another thing I can help you with other than your studies."

Does that mean they can spend even more time together?

"But, these are very good. Your drawings are always so gentle and filled with light."

How can he say something so kind about something like her? How can she draw light pictures when her heart is corrupted? Yet she knew Yuhi was not the type of person who would give out empty compliments. If he is complimenting her, he genuinely means it.

When the lights suddenly flickered, Sumire was about to say something, and darkness filled the room. She cursed quietly. Damn it, she left her light with the books on the desk just now. Sumire tried to navigate through the darkness, but it was difficult.

Before she could take another step forward, somebody grabbed her wrist and pulled her towards them. Despite the darkness, she understood what was happening.

Yuhi-san hugs her. Thump, thump. Right now, all she could focus on was the sound of her heartbeat. It's good that it's dark right now. She doesn't want him to see her face. It would give away her feelings in an instant.

"Ssh, don't be afraid," Yuhi whispered.

"Yuhi-san, you-you know I'm afraid of the dark?" Sumire muttered.

"Of course I do."

Sumire's eyes brightened. Is it normal for him to know information about her?

"I've been your partner for so long now."

Ah, so that's the reason he knows. Sumire sighed, disappointed. She should have known better than to get her hopes up. But, she supposes this is better progress than nothing.

These days, she is trying to find ways to learn how Yuhi-san truly feels about her. If it was simply desire, then surely he would have pounced on her by now. There are all sorts of rumors about him. While she is not the type of person, who would believe them. Not all rumors are lies, and there are many about Yuhi and different women.

If it's just desire and with that type of reputation, he would have tossed her aside by now, yet he hasn't done that.

It's comfortable being held by him like this.

Her thoughts break off when she felt Yuhi place a soft kiss on her forehead. W-what is he doing?

"Calm down. Remember to take deep breaths."

It takes her a moment to register those words. So, he is just trying to calm her down, right? Yet, just now, that brief forehead kiss. It held so much emotion. This person, even if he doesn't love her. How can she not know how much he cares for her?

How can she not know how much he does to keep her safe?

"The details of your job." Sumire trailed off and saw him flinch. "You don't have tell me. But I want you to promise me something."

"Anything."

"No matter what happens, you have to return to me."

Yuhi kissed her forehead again, and she felt her cheeks redden more. "W-what? Why do you keep-"

"You're very cute," Yuhi mumbled and she felt his hands intertwined with hers. "Yeah, alright. I can promise that. I will return to you."

She was already embarrassed saying those words before. But hearing him say it, she buried her face in his arms, and Yuhi only continued to laugh.

Why are his words so warm? Why is it so comforting just being held like this? If only, if only she could tell him. Then maybe they'd have more moments like this.

If she could find happiness with this person, then that is all she would ever do- her thoughts broke off when the lights suddenly went back on. It took her a moment to understand what her current situation was. She had her face buried in his arms.

Sumire was going to pull away, but Yuhi wouldn't let go. He brings her over to the couch and surprisingly lays down beside her.

"H-hold on- Y-Yuhi-san." Sumire stammered.

"Hm? What is it?"

"W-why-"

"I'm also tired, and as you know, there is only one couch in this office," Yuhi stated flatly.

What he is saying does make sense, but there is something wrong here. Why does he have to hug her like this? Unfortunately, this couch is too small if she moves so much. She will be leaning more into his arms.

"You know, Sumire, I truly meant what I said about having at least one meal a day with you. I'd like to see you daily if I can."

"D-don't we already see each other enough?" Sumire stammered.

"It will never be enough," Yuhi whispered.

'I also think the same. No matter how much time we spend together, it will never be enough. I want to be with him more. I want to know him better.'