Sano's gaze softened, and he kissed her eyelids softly.
"Don't take advantage of me."
It's difficult when she shows him this side of herself that reminds him of the past too much.
Sano knew that she would have dropped her duties immediately and gone to him if he had sent a message. No matter what this girl felt towards now, Sano felt confident that she would rush to him if he was in serious danger.
Like an idiot, she would have come to him. Truly, this is dangerous for the two of them. He was already surprised enough when she came that over that other time. She has no obligation to come to him when he is sick, but this is already the third time.
Since their relationship gradually improved, she has helped him more with his investments and other work.
But there was still some time before they had to finalize the deal. He was under the impression that Sumire would not come to see him willingly. He has had to make all sorts of excuses for her to come to him the previous times.
He didn't think she would use that pretext to come see him. This girl probably regrets a lot of things when it comes to him.
'Other than her plan, she might be coming to see him frequently because she is searching for closure.'
He has no evidence for a far stretched theory, but it is far better than deluding himself to think that she still cared for him.
Naturally, everything just fell into place. This is bad for her. He can't continue seeing her. After that time, he should have just told her that it would be the last time. When she asked him that question, he should have said it was a one-thing off.
What is he doing trying to destroy her life for? He gently caresses her brunette hair with his uninjured arm. A deep sigh of content from his lips passed as he continued to hold her.
Now that he thought about it, the main reason why he could last so long back when they dated was this. 'I was more content holding her like this than doing anything intimate.
"San, are you still hungry? I could make you something again. I don't think that rice porridge is enough."
"Yeah, that sounds great. But for a while longer. Stay in my arms."
"I didn't know you could be so cheesy."
"What, do you dislike it?"
Sumire does not reply right away. "Rather than strange, it's just weird. You never used to say things like that, though it's probably genuine."
"Probably?"
"Yes, probably. However, the current me, does not understand why you would still like me."
At those words, Sano frowned. How on earth is he supposed to deal with this situation? What more can he do to peru- Sano recalled the rings and paused. After Hino practically told him the two were engaged, he suddenly felt a sudden sense of urgency that he hadn't until now.
Despite what it looked like, he was genuinely panicking. There is not a lot of time left before the two get married. If he does not hurry up, she will be- his thoughts broke off when he felt Sumire's hand on the scar on his neck.
"San, do you truly want to continue helping me?"
"I do."
Sumire looked troubled but nodded. "I heard that those people are starting an entertainment company called dark entertainment?"
"Yeah, I helped them recruit people."
"If you can keep an eye out on things like this, then it will be very helpful." Sumire trailed off. She grabbed hold of his hands. "But San, even if you do this, please be careful. Those people are very dangerous, and look what they have done to you already-"
Seeing her panic and worry so much about him, he feels relieved. Even if he is running out of time to win her over, he feels satisfied.
"Then, can I call you often?" Sano asked hopefully.
"Y-you still have to limit the calls, but you can message me, and I will reply."
"Alright."
"Also, give me the full rooster of those who joined. If you recruited them, you should have all the details."
"Alright." Sano gazed at her hand in his, and Sumire followed his gaze. She pulled her hand back, but Sano grabbed hold of it. "Did you listen to my announcement?"
"Yes. I listened to it with Yuhi and thought how foolish. Listen, Sano. I am not the same person as I was before. Are you sure you love the present me?"
Sano's eyes widened when he heard her say those words. What silly thing is she thinking about now? After everything that has happened since he saw her again, why would she even have such thoughts?
Sumire turned away. "I am going to make you a meal."
'Wait, did she take my silence as a no?' Sano ran his hands through his hair. No matter what happens from now on, he will prove it to her.
For starters, he should do something for her. His entire body still ached due to the wounds, but he felt much better. It seems just seeing her makes him feel better.
Sano followed her into the kitchen. He stood at the door for a few minutes and just watched her. This was the scene he wanted to see in their future together, waking up and seeing her cook for him. It was a sight he often saw when they still dated. But he always dreamed of her calling out to him and saying, husband.
"Ah, don't stand around. You're still unwell."
"It's fine; what are you making? Maybe I can help."
Sumire tilted her head puzzled for a moment.
'She looks so cute; what is she doing?'
"Then, can you help me cut the ingredients?"
"Sure." Sano took the knife from her and started chopping away. The entire time he felt her gaze on him. "What is it?"
"Nothing, just this sight is unusual."
"Next time, I'll cook for you."
Though he should probably wait until he is healed up first, his gaze fell on Sumire, who smiled at his words. First thing is; first, he has to find a way to control his heartbeat when he is around her.