Tanabata Lovers 4

Previous chapters: After marrying into the Fujisawa family, Hanaki was treated badly by Kazuya. Nevertheless, she didn't resent him for that. Not only did Kazuya treated Hanaki inhumanely, but Miya, who liked Kazuya, also treated Hanaki so. On an occasion, Hanakiw as drowned, and Kazuya seemed to have changed his attitude towards her.


Kazuya, hasn't been home since last night. It's all my fault. I should be the one to leave, not him.This is his own house. Why? Why am I so useless? I'm unwanted, abandoned, useless. Why am I even alive? I can't even please my husband, though we are forced to marry...

Hanaki started to cry, again. That was the third time, and it wasn't noon yet. She didn't have her breakfast. No appetite, was what she said. She held her semi-finished woolen sweater, which she initially intended to give to Kazuya as his Christmas present. Unfortunately, her intention was shattered to pieces. Their relationship worsened. Gentle, kind, and accommodating woman, paired with Cold, inconsiderate man. They were totally the opposite.

"Young Lady, please have your breakfast now. Or Madam will be mad at us. Young lady..."

I... I just don't have the appetite to, but... Please... Leave me alone.

Hanaki washed her face in the bathroom, dried it, and opened the door. The face of the servant lightened up.
"Young lady."She bowed to Hanaki. A rare scene to the socialites, Hanaki helped her up.
"Please don't bow down to me next time. We are all the same. And please do tell the others as well."Said Hanaki, smiling, The servant's eyes turned bright.
"Yes, young lady."
"And... Could you... please take my breakfast here? I'm not feeling well so... I don't think I want to go down."
"Yes, young lady. Right away."The servant went away, and Hanaki tidied herself up, before going to greet Yuri, which was her main duty everyday.
Several hours had passed, and Hanaki was reluctant to send lunch to Kazuya.

That lady... Miya... She must be there... this time...

It was unexpected to Hanaki, that Kazuya and Miya weren't at the office. Hanaki waited inside Kazuya's office. While at Kaze's office...

"All have been done. Now please clean up the mess for me. I will be going for lunch."
"Yes, Sir. By the way, Sir. It seems that the lady who often came to send lunch to Director Kazuya, is here. Are you going to have lunch with her again?"Kaze thought for a while, while his secretary looked at him.
"Good idea. I will be eating with her."
"Who is she, Sir?"
"....you'll know, someday."Kaze smiled, and left his office.

Alone again. I'm always alone, in a cold room. Wherever I am, I'm alone. My real parents abandoned me. I have to part with my foster parents. I'm alone in Fujisawa household. No one to keep me company. No friends in this foreign city. No attention from husband. Am I going to live the rest of my life, like this? Kazuya... He hates me...

Suddenly the door opened, Hanaki stood up immediately, and turned around.
"Kaze..."
"Hanaki... You, why are you crying, huh?! What's wrong?!"
"I... no.."
"Are you sick? Feeling uncomfortable somewhere?"
"No, just, something got into my eye so..."
"Uh.."
"What are you doing here Kaze? Looking for Kazuya? He was not here since I came."
"No, no. I came for you. Now, I bet you haven't had your lunch, again. Wanna go?"
"But, I... Kazuya's lunch.."
"Forget it. He must have had his already. Let's go!"Kaze grabbed Hanaki's hand, and headed for the door, just when it was opened.
"Hey, that was nice! We should go more often, okay?"Miya was seen crossing her hand with Kazuya's.
"Brother... Miya..."
"Ah! Hi, Kaze! And..."Miya threw a despising glance to Hanaki,and looked away arrogantly.
"What are you guys doing here?"Asked Kazuya, gazing at their hands. Kaze realised, and let Hanaki's hand go.
"Hanaki sends your lunch here, but you weren't around, so I kept her company. Good, now that you're back, you can have yours while we have ours."Kaze said confidently, purposely emphasised every words he said,just to upset Kazuya.
"Ah? That's too bad. We had our lunch already, Right? Kazuya?"Miya smiled to Kazuya, trying to be as intimate as possible. Again, she threw a despising glance to Hanaki.
"What? You had your lunch while Hanaki waited here for you? With and empty stomach?"
"No, Kaze.."
"Miya, you go out first."Said Kazuya, while looking at the lunchbox Hanaki brought. Miya went out after staring at Hanaki.
"Hanaki, could you please wait for me outside?"Miya nodded, and went out after being told so by Kaze.
"What do you want to say, Kaze?"
"Your behaviour towards Hanaki. That's too much brother. Once made her cry, outside your room. Then she drowned. What 's next? You're going to push her off the balcony? From your room?"
"Kaze! Watch your mouth!"
"Brother, it's you who should. You have been harsh to her. Can you weigh how much tears she had shed for you?"
"I have never agreed to this marriage. I cannot be nice to her."
"Neither does she! Both of you are forced to marry! But has she been harsh to you? Never! Has she opposed you? Never, I believe so. But you? You treated her, even lower than a servant. Brother, introspect."While at the same time, outside of Kazuya's office.
"Hey, pauper! Would you just stop coming? You're so bothersome! Especially to Kazuya. You're just a hindrance to our happiness."

I know. I'm a hindrance. To your happiness, to Kazuya's, to everyone's. I shouldn't have been born. My biological parents shouldn't have left me outside of the orphanage, but somewhere unnoticeable instead, so I could die.

"Hey! Are you listening? Hey! Answer, you dumb! You're so ugly, so old. What body-figure is that? You might as well die now."Suddenly, the door to Kazuya's office was opened. Kaze came out, and he grabbed Hanaki's hand.
"Let's go Hanaki."

I... I lost my appetite, again. Maybe I should go home now, resume my knitting. I can faint here, anytime. This city, That house, everything is so stressful. But, I have to return to that house, no matter what...

"Kaze, I think I can't eat with you now. I'm feeling dizzy. Sorry."
"Huh? Dizzy? It's not fever right?"Kaze touched Hanaki's forehead, while Kazuya and Miya were watching.
"No, it's not."
"Fine! By the way, I'm too lazy to go out now, can I have that?"asked Kaze, pointing as Hanaki's hand.
"Oh, fine. Here."Hanaki handed the lunch over.
"Actually, I made that. But sorry, it must have turned cold now."
"No! Fine! It;s okay!"
"Then, I'm going. Bye."Hanaki smiled, and went towards the lift, while Kaze returned to his office.
"Say, Kazuya. Aren't they strange? They look so compatible, and so sweet! See Kaze touching her forehead? I'm so envious...! But she's your wife, isn't she?"
"Cut your crap. Go back to work."Kazuya went into his office, almost slamming his door. Miya smiled gloriously.
"It's just the matter of time, before Kazuya will be mine. Unless one's blind, no one can resist my seduction, and my body."

---

It's so hard. So hard to be the daughter-in-law of Fujisawa family. So suffocating, so stressful. Mother is urging me and Kazuya to get along. Father is waiting for me to conceive. Kaze is kind, but he's too kind. We can be misunderstood. The problem.... the problem lies beneath me. I shouldn't have come but...

Hanaki continued knitting, sitting outside at the balcony of her room. It was chilly, and Hanaki remained still, gazing at the trees at the backyard. Winter was coming. She shouldn't have her weak body stayed too long outdoors, but she didn't have the will to move either. She stayed there, till Kazuya came back.
"I'm just coming back to somethings done, I won't be sleeping here."But Hanaki ignored him.
"Why are you staying outside? Come in. It's getting cold outside."

Cold? I don't feel so. He must be kidding. It's kinda hot instead. The view here at night is quite beautiful, but is incomparable with my hometown's, of course. The sky... is so dark. But the moon shines so brightly, I don't need lamps anymore. Father... Mother... are they looking at the sky now, as well? Ugh... I'm getting dizzy... No, I must at least finish more of this sweater first, I'm slowing down...

Kazuya paid attention to Hanaki. She was supporting her head not to fall down with her hand. Her eyes were almost closed. She was breathing, or gasping unsteadily. Cold sweat, Kazuya could feel that.

She must have fallen sick. Just... Just how weak is she? She seemed... to be the type, who can't live without others' protection. Her body... is so small. I think, it can break apart anytime, if I touch her...

Kazuya carried Hanaki back to their room, put her on the bed, and saw her hand, grabbing the still semi-finished sweater tightly. Kazuya tried to take it away but...
"No...don't..."Hanaki tried to open her eyes, and clutched the sweater tightly.
"Put it away, no one will steal it from you."
"No..."
"F... fine. You seemed to have fever, I'll ask someone else to take care of you. I'm leaving."
"Wait..."Hanaki grabbed Kazuya's hand. Though it was easy for him to release her hand, but Kazuya didn't. He was unable to release it, without a clear reason.
"Don't abandon me... Don't go... Please..."Kazuya looked at Hanaki bitterly.

What had she undergone before coming to this house? She.. seemed to have suffered a lot.

Kazuya released Hanaki's hand, and went to search for servants to look after her. He decided to sleep there that night, looking after Hanaki. That night, on the other hand, Kaze didn't come home, and spent the night at Ryuuji's.
"Hey Ryuuji, how was Hanaki?"Asked Kaze, while taking a deep look at his red wine.
"Huh? What?"
"How was Hanaki? When she was in high school?"
"I told you didn't I? She was kind, the admiration of the entire school. Why?"
"Was she timid? I mean, not going against the other. Huh?"
"Well, she always took the blame for others, if it involved her. That happened so often that the teachers were reluctant to punish her. She wasn't rebellious, unlike teenagers usually do."
"What about her physical condition?"
"Well, she had heart disease, I told you. She was weak, and always stayed in class while her classmates would go outside exercising."
"Hmm.."
"Hey Kaze, why so sudden? What's wrong?"
"No... nothing."Kaze started enjoying his red wine.
"Don't tell me... You like her?"
"What? Hey! There's no way!"
"I know I know! But really, she's very attractive, unlike the bold Miya, and calm Kasumi. She gives out a very warm aura. don't you think so?"
*note: Kasumi was Kaze's secretary.
"I know..."
"Hey, you know you can't fall for her right? I mean Hanaki. Don't, or our friendship ends right away. She's your brother's wife."
"I know that."
"And though I'm a player, I won't go for my sister-in-law. I'm not that low."Ryuuji started to sound more serious. Kaze silenced, put his wine away, and looked at Ryuuji.
"I won't! Believe me, okay?"Kaze walked away while bearing deep thoughts.
"Hey! I think I'm into your secretary. How? Approve?"
"Immediate rejection!"
"Hey! Kaze! Let's negotiate!"
"Nooooo...."

---

Headache...

"Are you awake?"
"Mm.."A glass of water appeared in front of Hanaki's eyes. Hanaki tried to get up, and felt someone else helping her to. She took it, drank a little, and looked up.

Kazu..ya? Why? Why is he here?

"Why... are you here?"
"Th... This is my house! My room! W.. Why can't I?"
"R... right."
"You have a fever, rest well."
"..."
"By the way, can I ask you something?"
"Yes.."
"Why do you always say, don't abandon me, don't leave me... Like that?"
"Di.. did I?"
"Yeah, you did."Hanaki looked into the glass. If she were to gather her tears and place them inside the glass, it might overflow.
"I'm... actually an orphan."
"Huh?"
"I was adopted by father and mother, when I was 8. But during that 8 years... People who lived nearby my orphanage, mocked me for being an abandoned. And... And I developed an emotional problem. I... I'm afraid, when someone says he's going. I... don't want to be abandoned again... It was so painful.."
"But your father and mother adopted you."
"I was so happy. But the servants despised me. Even my parents' relatives... as well..."
"And... You don't have any other disease right?"Hanaki smiled, and looked at Kazuya.
"Fortunately, no. Although many people expected my death back in the orphanage, but I'm still living."Suddenly Hanaki had a headache again.
"Rest."Hanaki lied down, while Kazuya answered his ringing phone.
"Yes? Oh, Miya. Sorry I couldn't go over your house last night. Yes, I'm coming now."
"H... Hey, I'm go... I'm off to work."Hanaki didn't answer, pretending to have fallen asleep. Kazuya went out, and Hanaki peeked at the door.

I'm left behind. No... I can't cry. I have to overcome this. I cannot be a hindrance to Kazuya... and Miya. Endure.... I have to endure.

To be continued...

Tanabata Lovers 3

Previous chapters: Hanaki was married into the Fujisawa Family due to financial issues in her father’s company. Both company’s presidents were best friends. Fujisawa Kazuya, Hanaki’s husband, despised her and treated her lower than any servants while Kaze, his brother, treated Hanaki otherwise. On a certain occasion, Ryuuji, Kaze’s best friend, heard about Hanaki, and happened to know her. He requested to meet Hanaki.

—

“When is she coming Kaze?”
“Calm down, Ryuuji. Where’s your usual calmness with women?”
“But..”
“Just calm down Ryuuji. Act naturally, especially when she comes.”
“Y..yes..”After some arrangements, Ryuuji was able to meet Hanaki, his first love in high school. Several minutes later, sound of door-knocking was heard. Hanaki appeared behind the door, bowed down to them, and took a seat in front of Ryuuji.
“Hanaki, do you still remember him? Sasaki Ryuuji, a senior of you in high school.”
“Yes. I do. Good afternoon, Senior.”
“J.. Just call me Ryuuji.”
“Then… R.. Ryuuji.”

It feels strange, calling some other man his first name. If it’s Kaze or Kazuya, I don’t mind. They have become my family but.. Senior..

“It has been a long time hasn’t it, Nishi.. Fujisawa?”
“Yes, it has been years. And.. Just Hanaki is fine.”
They continued their talk for a long time, and parted after the clock hit 3 pm.
“Are you still in love with her now? Ryuuji?”Asked Kaze, when he and Ryuuji were in the former’s car, on the way back to Fujisawa Corp Headquarter.
“Maybe, I don’t know. But she has gotten even more beautiful than before. How is she and Kazuya?”
“It seems that their relationship is on bad term. Well, you know brother.”
“What a waste. He just doesn’t know that Hanaki had a bunch of admirers then, in high school. She got at least 3 confessions in a week till she moved away. But strangely, she accepted neither of them.”
“Yeah, strange enough.”
Hanaki was back to the Fujisawa’s house, and was summoned by Yuri.
“How is your relationship with Kazuya?”
“That.. I..”
“Seems like it’s still no good. Tonight Kazuya will attend a party. Be his company. Of course, you’ll have to dress beautifully, emitting the aura of a noble lady and, sexual appeal, to attract him. I’ll bring you to the salon where I usually have my makeup done. Let’s go.”
“But.. Booking?”
“Booking? There’s no need to. To tell the truth, I’m the owner. Let’s go.”

W.. What?! Just what does the Fujisawa Corp own again?!

When Hanaki arrived at the salon, she was astounded. The interior was all in white and decorated with baroque and crystals.
“Welcome, Yuri! What a surprise! You’re as beautiful as ever! And this is..”They were greeted by the manager of the salon, a woman in her forties, but looked surprisingly gorgeous, as if a 32 years old woman. She was the relative of Yuri.
“Thank you Akimi. She’s my daughter-in-law, Hanaki, Kazuya’s wife. Please doll her up. She’s attending a party with Kazuya this evening.”
“I got it! Come here, dear Hanaki! I’ll get the best makeup artists in the salon to discuss the best makeup for you. Of course, I’ll do the makeup personally.”
“I.. Yes..”
After 15 minutes of waiting, Akimi came back to start dressing Hanaki, makeup, and do her hair afterwards. It was half past six, when Hanaki was ready. Hanaki went back alone by Yuri’s car, while Yuri stayed in the salon to work. When Hanaki reached home, she was escorted to her room by Matsuoka, who previously had received order from Yuri. Kazuya was already done in his room, and was putting on his cologne when Hanaki entered. Hanaki looked down, and Matsuoka closed the door.
“What are you dressed like that?”
“Mo.. Mother..”
“Mother’s plan huh? Just because she knows I can’t defy her.”
“…”
“You hurt my eyes. Go away.”
“But I…”
“Hide anywhere, just don’t let me see you.”Hanaki lifted her white dress and was heading for the door, when Kazuya stopped her.
“Stop! Ugh.. Fine! Just stay there silently. I don’t want to be mistaken for bullying you.”Hanaki grabbed her clutch tightly, and stood silently. Her ankle-long tube dress framed her body perfectly, showing her bare back down till her waist, which, successfully emitted sexual appeal and often distracted Kazuya from his focus. After Kazuya had perfectly done his dressing up, he looked at Hanaki, who was standing at the corner, and noticed the colour of the dress. It was white, as if a wedding gown.

This dress… Makes me feel insecure.. I hope no one will pay attention to my back, or to me. I hope Kazuya.. Will like it, but.. not pay too much attention to it.

“Don’t think that I want to attend the party with you. I am just obeying Mother’s order.”Said Kazuya unwillingly. He noticed Hanaki’s hair, groped for the pins and pulled them away.
“You look old with this. I hate your hairstyle. Remove it. Quick!”
“I.. Yes!”
He walked out of the room, followed by Hanaki. A Maserati was already waiting for them at the gate. They reached the hotel where its ballroom was the party’s location in the blink of eye.
“Hand.”Said Kazuya when Hanaki was standing beside him, at the entrance of the hotel. Slowly and carefully, Hanaki clung her hand onto Kazuya. They walked into the hotel, and gained the attention of the people completely. Hanaki shyly looked down, which she got reprimanded of by Kazuya.
“Don’t look down. Have more confidence! Don’t embarass me!”
Hanaki raised her head, and noticed people’s glances towards them.

But.. We are too much of an attention. This is even more embarrassing than my dress. And Kazuya is too outstanding, with his appearance. I know, he is very dashing. We are not compatible at all..

Right when they entered the ballroom, they were greeted by someone who seemed to be Fujisawa Corp’s client.

“Good evening, Mr Fujisawa. It is a pleasure to meet you here and this is your..”Kazuya kept silent for a while before he spoke out again.
“Good evening, Mr Henderson. Nice too meet you too. And.. She’s my wife.”Hanaki skipped a beat, and felt a single tip of delight for being acknowledged.
“Oh, but how come I have never received any invitation to your wedding?”
“We have officiated it. But I’m too busy for the ceremony and thus decided not to hold any.”
“It’s too bad. But still, congratulation to both of you.”
“Thank you very much.”
“Now, I excuse myself…”Said Mr Henderson, when later he moved from them to another group of people. They spent most of the time talking to other people, which in fact, only Kazuya was talking. Hanaki kept silent but smiled her sweetest.
“Why don’t you just go somewhere away rather than showing your gloomy face here? There is a pool nearby, take a walk there. The party is going to end one hour later. Come back soon.”Said Kazuya. They soon parted and Hanaki started to venture the hotel, where she eventually found the pool.

This pool is kinda scary at night. I hope I won’t fall into it, I can’t swim. Because… My heart condition doesn’t support it…

Hanaki sat on a chair near the pool, while staring at the sky. It was pitch dark. No moon, all dark, except for a small but bright star shining alone. How lonely. Hanaki looked around for clock, and it was time for her to take medicine, but it was too late. Her heart started to ache, it ached so much that Hanaki fell onto the floor, gasping and sweated.

No… It hurts… Kazuya… Save me.. Please…

Hanaki tried to crawl but her eyesight was blurred. She then fell into the pool, quite noisily. At the same time, Kazuya felt hearing something falling into water. He walked around uncertainly, for quite sometime before he headed for the pool, where he barely able to see something white inside. Hanaki had already passed out of suffocation. Immediately, Kazuya dived into the pool, reaching for Hanaki, who wasn’t breathing.

“No.. Wake up! Wake up! Hey!”
“….”
“Wake up stupid. I told you not to embarrass me in tonight’s party! Wake up!”Kazuya shook Hanaki’s body, though he knew she won’t wake up.
“….”Kazuya took a deep look at Hanaki, from which he realised her beauty. White milky but pale skin with long fringe covering sides of her face. Her hair was black, darker than the charcoal, but shinier than an opal. Small but sexy lips with the colour of peach, perhaps due to her lipstick. Long curled up eyelashes fully complement the seemingly gentle and mature face of her. When Kazuya tried to lift Hanaki up, his hands touched Hanaki’s bare back, stopped for a second, and quickly lifted her up again. With his handphone in his hand, Kazuya gently patted Hanaki’s face while calling his driver. Hanaki was soon sent to nearest hospital, and survived, fortunately.

Is it my fault? For her to be in this state? I know I’m the one who made her go to the pool but, she fell into it accidentally. But… It’s still my fault isn’t it? Only if I were a little kinder to her, and had her stay by my side, this wouldn’t happen…

Not long after, Yuri, Takechi and Kaze arrived. Yuri slapped Kazuya immediately, and blamed her for harming Hanaki.
“You stubborn brat! You haven’t even married for a month, and now Hanaki’s hospitalised! Just what do you want?! She’s the best woman ever to be a wife!”Silent, was all Kazuya could do. His heart was filled with guilt.

What if she died? What should I do?

Hanaki woke up 1 hour later, and saw the agitated Yuri who just threw every words she could utter to her, of which of course Hanaki couldn’t answer.
“Mmh..”Then Yuri turned around to Kazuya.
“Kazuya! It was all your fault! You are not capable of taking care of Hanaki at all! Do you call yourself a man?! A husband?!”
“I…”
“It… Was..n’t hi..s…fa..ult..”
“Hanaki, stop defending Kazuya. I’m now training him to be responsible, especially when he’s married.”
“But..”
“I know it Hanaki. He must have threatened you to blame yourself for everything. He has been rude and mean to you, hasn’t he?”
“No.. He…”Too weak to continue, Hanaki just cried, to show that Kazuya was really innocent. The tears which swam down the milky complexion of Hanaki, touched Kazuya, who had never cared about others. Kazuya gazed into the floor, and walked out of the room slowly. The sky was lit up, as the cloud was blown away, and the moon surfaced, providing any living creatures with an amazing view. The moon was surrounded by a cluster of stars. That night, Hanaki was discharged. She was alone with Kazuya in her room, with the light dimmed. Hanaki sat on the sofa, while Kazuya on the chair at the balcony, staring into the eye of the sky. Hanaki stood up, and headed for the bathroom, but fell down. She groaned for a second, and tried to stand up, but her physical condition didn’t support that. That was when she saw a hand stretched out to her. A broad, big and firm hand compared to hers, a hand that should and would comfort her in times of difficulties, a hand that she was going to hold onto for the first time, willingly. For the first time, Hanaki could see the worried eyes of Kazuya.
“Let me help you.”Kazuya put his another hand on Hanaki’s waist, and pulled her up. When Hanaki had successfully stood firmly, she took a step, but fell down again.
“Where are you going to?”
“I… The bathroom…”
“Why? You want to take a bath?”
“No.. You… Haven’t taken a bath yet right? So.. I’m going to… Prepare the tub..”Kazuya was stunned.

How could she worry about others while she can’t even walk properly? She could’ve died then, but she didn’t blame me for it. What is wrong with her? Why doesn’t she prioritise herself over the others?

Hanaki gathered up all her strength, and aimed for the bathroom, removing her hand from Kazuya’s grab. Kazuya stood still in his spot facing down, wearing a guilty face.

She could’ve died in the bathroom, of slipping, and many other reasons. Come out now will you? I can’t let you die. You cannot die. You’re my… Wife.. So.. Don’t die. Please come out… Safely…

The silence sent Kazuya to worrying about Hanaki a lot more, and he decided to peek inside. He saw Hanaki leaning against the mirror and stared into a picture in her hand. It was children. Hanaki was between children who hugged and kissed her. They were smiling so happily, no one could taint the happiness.

“What was that? Children?”
“Um.. No..”Hanaki quickly kept the photo away, but Kazuya had already grabbed her hand.
“Who are they?”
“That…”
“Couldn’t be your siblings. There are tens of them. Who?”
“They… Orphans…”
“Huh?”
“I… Usually go to an orphanage.. To take care of the children..”
“…you like children?”
“Uh.. Yeah.”Kazuya closed the tap, which was filling the tub, and lifted Hanaki up, carrying her like a princess.
“Wa.. Wait… What?”
“You like children don’t you? What about bearing me one?”Kazuya threw her on the bed. Hanaki struggled away, but her ankle was grabbed by Kazuya.
“Why? Aren’t we married? What’s with all the panicking? It is bound to happen anyway.”
“No..”
“Stop protesting. Be obedient!”Kazuya kissed Hanaki, but she kept on pushing him away, to the point that Kazuya must grab both her hands.

No… Don’t.. I don’t want it..

Hanaki cried, again. Kazuya barely felt her tears, and stopped. Kazuya looked at the terrified Hanaki, with tears as pure as diamond.

“Please… No…”Kazuya moved aside. Hanaki curled up like a cat, hiding herself from Kazuya.
“Maybe we should…”Said Kazuya as he walked for the door. Hanaki was shocked, she stood immediately, but fell down. Kazuya approached Hanaki immediately.
“Are you okay?”Hanaki didn’t answer, but held onto Kazuya as firmly as she could.
“Please don’t… Tell mother…”
“Huh?”
“I know I’m not good. I’m at fault… For our relationship to be bad… I know I’m resentful… But… For the sake of my parents… Don’t… Divorce me…”
“H.. Hey…”
“Don’t… Abandon me… Again… Don’t…”

To be continued…

Tanabata Lovers 2

Several days had passed, yet Kazuya’s and Hanaki’s relationship remained the same. Cold, and unpleasant. Although they had officiated their marriage days ago.

What should I do? Kazuya and my relationship has not developed a single bit. He’s not even interested in me. I have no sex appeal at all. I dare not wear revealing clothes, though I have some. But I usually cover the revealed parts with shawl, cardigan, or jacket. If we divorce, father’s company will be in danger.

At the same time, Yuri called Hanaki.
“Hanaki?”
“Yes mother!”Immediately, Hanaki opened the door.
“Mother..”Hanaki paid attention to Yuri. She dressed up very gorgeously, unlike her mother who always dressed simply but captivating.
“Let’s talk inside.”Yuri entered the room and headed for the sofa.
“W.. What is it, mother?”
“Your relationship with Kazuya. Has there been any development?”
“Huh? I…”
“I mean, judging by Kazuya’s behavior, I don’t think you two will get along easily.”
“That…”

I don’t think that there will be a time when Kazuya and I will get along.

“How about you send lunch to him everyday? Of course, it must be your cooking. Just tell him that it is my order.”
“Uhm.. O..kay.”
“Then it’s settled! Go down and prepare the lunch now. By the time you finish cooking, go to his office immediately and it must be lunch time already.”
“Okay, mother.”Hanaki went down with Yuri, and entered the kitchen.
“From now on, Kazuya’s lunch will be taken care by Hanaki. She’s still new to this kitchen. Guide her to what Kazuya cannot and do not eat. Understand?”
“Yes, Lady!”Said all the chefs. After Hanaki had done with the cooking, she realized that Kazuya was allergic to prawns, and squids, hated onions, carrots, and lettuce. But as long as the scents were faint, he wouldn’t notice. Hygiene and freshness were the utmost important elements. These explained why his meals had always been different from the others.
“It is all done. Nothing is left out.”Said Hanaki.
“Let’s go, Young Lady.“Said the man who fetched Hanaki to Fujisawa house back then. He was assigned to be Hanaki’s chauffeur.
“Yes.”
10 minutes later, Hanaki arrived at Fujisawa Corporation Headquarter. It was so big and grand that Hanaki didn’t blink her eyes for seconds.
“We have arrived Young Lady, at Young Master Kazuya’s office. He’s still working inside. I’ll be waiting here.”Said that man. They had arrived at the entrance of Kazuya’s office. Hanaki walked in, and saw Kazuya’s beautiful and sexy secretary working outside. Hanaki felt inferior compared to her.
“Excuse me…”Said Hanaki.
“Yes? May I help you?”
“Err.. I want to meet your boss.”
“Have you made an appointment?”
“No, but..”
“Then sorry. Please come again next time, after you have made an appointment.”Said the secretary, looking down on Hanaki.
“But, I came to deliver Kazuya’s lunch.”
“What? Who are you?! How could you call him Kazuya so casually like that?! And in what position are you to deliver Kazuya’s lunch?!”
“I..”
“You shameless! You dress so unpleasantly like that, do you think Kazuya will like you? You have to at least have a body like me to attract him. Now get lost pauper!”
Suddenly, Kazuya’s office door was opened.
“What’s all the noise, Miya?”
“Ah.. Kazuya. This woman, she said that she wanted to meet you, but without an appointment! Moreover, she insulted me!”

W.. What? When did I insulted her? Why did she called Kazuya ‘Kazuya’ so intimately? Is she the woman Kazuya wanted to marry?

“Just let her in, would you? Stop making ruckus all the time.”
“But who is s..”
“She is my new wife! Happy now?! Enough?!”
“W.. What? Ka..”
“Come in.”Said Kazuya to Hanaki. Hanaki walked slowly. A big, grand, and comfortable leather seat of a director captured Hanaki’s attention, followed by a set of european-style sofa with gold-colored frames. The window took up one wall of Kazuya’s office, decorated by peach-colored curtains. Hanaki stood in front of Kazuya’s desk after closing the door.
“Why are you here?”
“I… Lunch..”
“If it’s what you cooked, throw it away. I eat only our chefs’ dishes.”
“Mo.. Mother asked me to send this to you.”Kazuya looked at Hanaki in suspicion, and took the lunch.
“I..”
“What are you doing now? Go out.”
“Y.. Yes. Then..”Hanaki went out, closed the door. When she was about to leave, Miya stopped her.
“So you are the one huh? You shameless.”
“…”
“I’m Miya, Kazuya’s secretary, cousin and his fiancée-to-be. And here are you, ruining our upcoming marriage! You bitch, I’m going to take him back! Kazuya is mine! Don’t you dare touch him!”
“But I..”
“I eavesdropped your conversation with Kazuya. You are not getting well, aren’t you? Just wait. Kazuya likes me. He’ll definitely choose me over you!”
“Young Lady, the car is ready. Good afternoon, Lady Miya.”
“Good afternoon.”Said Miya, smiling beautifully.
“I excuse myself.”Said Hanaki, and walked away.

That woman, Miya is so beautiful and tall. Furthermore, she seems to be very capable. On the other hand, I am very plain-looking and small. My complimentary part is only of my capability to do houseworks, but it’s useless in Fujisawa household, which has plenty of servants. Of course Kazuya will choose Miya over me.

But before Hanaki entered the car, she was stopped by Kaze, who called her at the right time.
“Hanaki!”Hanaki turned around, and smiled.
“Kaze..”
“Are you going home?”
“Yes.”
“Have you taken your lunch?”
“No.”
“How about we eat together? There’s a japanese restaurant nearby.”
“Uhm.. Okay.”
“I’ll drive you home later. So.. Kusumoto-san, you can go back now. If mother asks, tell her that Hanaki is with me.”Said Kaze to Hanaki’s chauffeur.
“Yes, Young Master Kaze.”After Kusumoto drove away, Kaze gestured his secretary, a sweet woman, Kasumi, to come.
“Prepare my car. I’m going to have lunch with Hanaki.”
Soon later, Kaze and Hanaki were already alone in Kaze’s grey and shiny Maserati. Its fine slender body and structure distracted some drivers and pedestrians from their activities.
“Kaze.. Y.. You said it’s nearby..”
“Yeah. It is. There, do you see it? The one with the high wooden fence.”
“Oh, yes.”
Their arrival was welcomed warmly by a beautiful woman dressed in edo-style.
“Welcome Young Master Kaze, and..”
“Hanaki. Brother’s new wife.”
“Welcome Young Lady Hanaki.”

How come she knows Kaze’s name?

That woman guided them to a private room, which was located at the innermost of the restaurant, and was lavishly decorated by two Koi and Sakura paintings, an antique cup. The other wall-high traditional door was opened, facing directly to pine trees, a pond of koi fishes, foot path made of rocks, and lastly tall and fresh bamboos as fences.
“This room can only be used by our family, so in other words, owner.”Explained Kazuya.

What? This beautifully designed and classy restaurant is owned by Fujisawa Corp?! No wonder that woman just now knows Kaze’s name.

“I.. I just knew it.”A few women dressed in edo-style came, bringing two menus for Hanaki and Kaze to order from.
“There comes the menu. What do you want to order?”
“I’m fine with anything. What about you decide for me? You must know the best.”
“Then I’ll leave it to the chefs. Let the chefs recommend the best for us.”
“Yes, Young Master Kaze.”
The group of waitresses left the room after bowing.
“So… How is your sweater? Has there been any progression?”
“Oh. Yes, somehow. What about your shawl?”
“I did only a little. I barely manage to find some time to knit. That’s why..”
“It’s okay. If you want, I can knit it for you. I don’t mind.”
“No no no. I must knit it myself. I don’t usually receive help from other people.”
“But..”
Suddenly the same group of waitresses came again, serving Hanaki and Kaze a sumptuous meal. There were so many plates of food that they barely finished them. Though Hanaki thought of it as a waste, but to maintain the Fujisawa family’s reputation, she didn’t have the food to be packed and taken away, which she usually did.

Some of the food were barely touched, I could have sent them to orphanage, but…

“Let’s go Hanaki. I’ll send you home.”
“Yes.”

They were now alone in Kaze’s car again. Hanaki felt uncomfortable being alone with him, and pretended to be attracted by the view of the city she had recently moved in.
“We’ve arrived.”
“Y.. Yes. Thanks a lot.”Said Hanaki, nodding her head as she open the door. She bowed, and the door was closed by a servant nearby. Hanaki watched the car driving away, and disappeared.

I might as well continue knitting.

Hanaki was sitting at the backyard knitting again. She breathed in the air deeply, and coughed.

As I thought, the air of city is really polluted. I miss my hometown. The fresh air and the greenery are all very refreshing. Unlike this busy city, my hometown was rather relaxing, though I could still hear the honks of cars on main road. But… One day, my hometown will be the same as this city. Everything is changing, including my life…

“Young Lady! Please go inside immediately. It is starting to rain.”Said a servant carrying an umbrella for Hanaki.
“Oh.. Really it is.. Let me take my things first.”Hanaki grabbed her knitting-kit and went inside with that servant.
“Young lady! Here’s the towel!”
“Young lady! What do you prefer? Hot chocolate or hot green tea?”
“Young lady! The bath is ready. Please take your time.”
“I… Yes.. Thanks for the towel and.. I would like green tea. Yes, I.. Right away.”Hanaki looked at the time, and it was already 19:00p.m.

How did the time pass so quickly? I was still knitting about three hours ago and yet.. It feels like thirty minutes ago.

Hanaki dried herself with the towel, and sipped her green tea in. Then she headed for her room, took her changing clothes and went to the bathroom.

There are too many servants in this house. I’m unable to relax at all. They are everywhere, not allowing me to do any housework. What am I here for? To marry? To be a wife? No more?

Suddenly, Hanaki heard Kazuya banging on the door.
“Hey! Are you inside?! Come out immediately! You don’t own this bathroom! Hey!”
“Y.. Yes! Right away!”
Grabbing her towel and clothes instinctively, Hanaki was done in seconds and opened the door immediately, with her hair still dripping. Kazuya took a look at Hanaki. Her hair was still dripping wet, emitting a sexy aura. Her tiny figure compared to Kazuya’s was very tempting to be held. Kazuya swallowed his desire and turned away.
“Get out of this room.”
“I.. But..”
“IMMEDIATELY!”
Hanaki ran for the door, but bumped into Kazuya and fell down. Her knee-high dress was lifted. Kazuya aimed for her towel and covered it.
“Go out of my sight. NOW!”Hanaki ran out of the room and closed it gently. She still carried that scared-looks with her, right when Kaze appeared. Hanaki covered her mouth, and cried softly, out of fear.

What did I do? Why? Is it wrong? To take my time bathing? Or perhaps he found out about the lunch? Which was it?

“Hanaki? What’s wrong?”
“I.. I don’t know.”
“What happened?”
“I… I don’t know as.. Well..”
“Why? Here, come to my room first. Quick.”Grabbing her slender arms, Kaze brought Hanaki to his room.
“Here’s water. Now tell me what happened.”
“…”
“Hanaki?”
“Just now…” “I.. I don’t know what happened.”
“It’s okay, tell me. I’ll help you.”
“Kazuya… He was… Shouting at me.. I.. Don’t know why… Maybe because I.. Used the bathroom? I don’t know..”
“Follow me.”
Kaze grabbed Hanaki’s hands again, this time heading for Kazuya’s room. After knocking for a while without an answer, Kaze barged in.
“Brother.”
“Kaze? What are you doing? You…”Asked
Kazuya who had just got out of the bath. He noticed Hanaki’s presence, and looked away. Somehow annoyed, Kaze approached Kazuya and punched him in his shoulder, hardly.
“What the heck, Kaze?!”
“What the heck? Shouldn’t that be my question?”
“What?”
“Why did you shout at Hanaki? She’s your wife!”
“I…”
“You’re being hard on her. She has just come and is not adapted to the new environment yet. As a husband, you should guide and support her!”
“Have you forgotten Kaze? That I am never willing to marry her. Have I ever proposed to her? Never! Do I like her? No. I hate her. So much that I can throw out this instance!”
“You.. Son of a..!”Kaze punched Kazuya again, and they eventually fought.
“No.. I.. Stop it Ka..”
“Get lost!”Shouted Kazuya as he shoved Hanaki away. Hanaki fell down and felt a sudden pain in her chest.
“Hanaki?! What’s wrong?!”
“My heart.. Medicine.. Bag..”
Kaze reached out for Hanaki’s bag and water immediately, while Kazuya stayed where he was, though wearing a panicking expression. His pride had glued his feet to the floor.
“I’m fine now. Thank you.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes. Thanks, Kaze.”
“Kaze, leave for a while. I need to talk to her.”Kaze helped Hanaki to sit on the sofa, and left.
“Are you fine now?”
“…”
“What disease have you caught?”
“…heart.”
“Curable?”
“I.. Incurable.”
Asked Kazuya while stretched out his hand for Hanaki’s shoulder, as he felt a slight worry for her. But Hanaki flinched, and moved away.

She’s scared of me, and hate me now. It must have been my fault. She’s… A lot different from any other women I have met. She’s.. Somehow pure… Innocent… But the fact that I despise her for ruining my life, is undeniable.

Kazuya once again stretched his hand out, and patted Hanaki’s shoulder. Hanaki still squirmed away, though a little late this time. Kazuya could see drops of pure transparent tears rolling down Hanaki’s face, while she pressed her hand against her chest. Kazuya got a glass of water and put it before Hanaki, and in the moment of awkwardness, Kazuya went down to have dinner, while Hanaki followed later on. They spent the rest of the night silently.

“Hey Kaze! I heard that you’ve got a sister-in-law? How is she? Some hot chick?”
“Stop that Ryuuji. She’s illegible now. You have Fumiko now, haven’t you?”Asked Kaze. He was having lunch with his bestfriend, Sasaki Ryuuji.
“Aaah.. We broke up. She cheated on me. Well, never mind! I myself cannot count women I had met when we were still dating. Put that aside, what’s her name? I mean maiden name, of your sister-in-law.”Asked Ryuuji randomly, while he wasn’t interested at all. Who would care about a married woman’s name?
“Nishiyama Hanaki. She’s.. Of course beautiful. But too bad. She’s brother’s woman.”
“Wait.. What? Nishiyama.. Hanaki?”
“Yes. Why?”
“No.. I just.. Happened to know someone, with the same name, when I was still in high school. But she moved away.”
“Your crush? Was she?”
“My first love, to be precise. Gentle, kind, beautiful, very caring, and she had a heart disease. The whole school knew it.”
“And she always wore one piece dresses? No?”
“How do you know?”
“It’s Hanaki. Few days ago she had a heart attack.”
“…”Ryuuji thought deeply, his first love was married.
“This world is so small. I’m happy for you, Ryuuji, to be able to meet your love again but unfortunately, she’s taken.”
“Can I meet her?”

To be continued...

Tanabata Lovers 1

The cold wind gently stroked the body of a 5’3″ tall woman. Small and delicate body, covered with white satin clothes, which reflected her image. The winter was coming and she stood by the gate of her house, accompanied by her parents.
“Hanaki, are you okay?”
“I’m okay, Mother.”
“Tell me if you need anything now.”
“Yes, Father.”

Once an orphan, I was adopted by my current parents for 14 years. Due to financial issues in my Father’s company, Nishiyama Gorup, I was ‘sold’ to the Fujisawa family as their daughter-in-law. It seems that Father and the head of Fujisawa family were friends. I am Nishiyama Hanaki, aged 22.

Suddenly, there were 2 cars stopping by the gate, and several men came out of them. One of them approached Hanaki and her parents.
“Greetings, Ladies and Master.”Said that man who came out of the first car as he bowed.
“I’m here to fetch Young Lady Hanaki to Fujisawa house.”Hanaki looked at her parents with teary eyes. She then walked to the first car while her luggages were taken care by the people from the second car. Hanaki stepped into the car hesitatingly, and kept on looking at her parents, till the car sped off and they were out of sight.
Father, Mother.. Goodbye…
“We have arrived, Young Lady.”As Hanaki stepped out of the car, for a second, she admired the Fujisawa family’s posh house. Then she was welcomed by servants and a butler.
“I have always been looking forward to your arrival, Young Lady Hanaki. Let me introduce myself. Matsuoka Keiji. I’m the only butler in this house. You can come to me if you need anything.”
“U.. Uh…”
“Now.. Let me escort you to the Master and Lady. They are at the living room.”
Matsuoka escorted Hanaki to the biggest room in the house. Then he knocked the door.
“Come in.”
Hanaki’s heart skipped a beat as Matsuoka opened the door, and there were three people sitting on the european-style sofas.
“Master, Lady, Young Master Kaze, I have brought Young Lady Hanaki here. Now, I excuse myself.”
After Matsuoka went away, Hanaki sat down as she was told to by her mother-in-law.
“Don’t be too nervous, Hanaki. We are family, aren’t we? Call me Mother from now on.”Said Fujisawa Yuri, the mother of the house.
“I’m Kaze, your brother-in-law. Nice to meet you.”
“Hanaki. Answer me, honestly.”Said the patriarch of the house, Fujisawa Takechi.
“Y.. Yes?”
“Do you regret coming to this house? You still have time to reconsider until tomorrow morning, when you’ll register your marriage.”
“Takechi! What are you saying?!”Screamed Yuri.
“Yuri, Kazuya and Hanaki’s marriage is arranged. I’m not saying that Hanaki doesn’t like this, but you know Kazuya that stubborn child. Although he doesn’t complain, doesn’t mean that he has accepted this marriage.”
“Takechi! Would you stop scaring Hanaki already?”
“I’m telling the truth. I don’t want Hanaki to suffer in this house.”
“You’re making her suffer right now.”
“Oh come on both of you. You’re making ehm.. Sister-in-law in a bad position! She has come, that means she has accepted this marriage! The same goes for brother! He has never complained.”Said Kaze suddenly.
“Sorry Hanaki, to have you been in this situation. You’ll be a good wife, I can see through that. Kazuya, your husband is ill-tempered and very stubborn. Communicating properly with him is hard for those who just know him, so.. You can bear with it, can’t you?”Asked Yuri suddenly.
“O.. Okay.. Mother.”
“And.. You know right? That Kazuya doesn’t want any wedding ceremony to be held. He just hates parties very much.”
“Yes, Mother. It’s okay.”
“Now Kaze, send Hanaki to her room. She needs rest.”
“Yes, Father.”Kaze rose, and nodded to Hanaki, signaling her to follow him. The two of them vanished behind the doors and went up to the second floor. They remained silent until Kaze spoke up.
“So… Can I call you Hanaki?”
“Oh.. Yes, of course.”
“My brother won’t be home till 7p.m. later. You can sleep first, but make sure you tidy up the bed later. Don’t get anything out of place, or stain anything. He’s a clean and neat freak.”
“Uh.. Yes. Thank you.”
Clean and neat freak. I have to do things very carefully.
“Now.. I excuse myself.”
After Kaze went away, Hanaki carefully laid on the bed, and soon, she fell asleep.

Where am I? It’s so dark. I’m scared. Mother? Father? Help me.. Please… Light.. I see light… There.. Is a person? Wait! Wait for me wait! Waaaait!

“Wait!”Hanaki shouted. She soon realized that it was just a dream. She closed her eyes, trying to recover from the dizziness after a nightmare.
“Have you slept enough?”Said a sound suddenly. Hanaki was shocked, and caught a glimpse of somebody arising from sofa.
“E.. Err.. I.. Yeah. Maybe.”Answered Hanaki.
“With me, Maybe isn’t a satisfying answer, let me tell you.”That person turned around, and Hanaki recognized him as Kazuya.
“A.. Ah..”Hanaki immediately got out of the bed, and tidied it up.
“How dare you sleep on my bed, you filthy creature!”Shouted Kazuya as he approached Hanaki. Hanaki’s heart beated 10 times faster.
“I.. Because I was too tired.. So..”Hanaki almost whispered.
“Let me explain myself. I hate you for ruining the rest of my life. I would have married someone else if not for you, and you better pay for it. I don’t want you to sleep on my bed. I’ll do whatever I want to you and you better obey me, or I’ll have you suffer.”

He… He is scary. Mother… Father… I’m very scared. I want to go home…

Kazuya shoved Hanaki onto the bed roughly, and positioned himself to be on top of her.
”W.. What… This..”
“What? Satisfy me, that’s your sole purpose of being my ‘wife’.”Said Kazuya as he smirked. He kissed Hanaki roughly, while she was still in shock. While moaning, Hanaki tried to resist, but Kazuya’s grabs were too tight.

No.. I.. Don’t like this! It.. Grosses!

They kissed for quite sometime, till knocking sound were heard from the door.
“Brother? It’s me, Kaze.”Kazuya got up immediately, followed by Hanaki who was still panicking. She tidied up her white dress.
“What’s the matter?”Asked Kazuya when he opened the door.
“Father asked you and Hanaki to have dinner now, downstairs.”Kazuya immediately went down without waiting for Hanaki. Left alone, Kaze waited for Hanaki, unwillingly.
“Sorry for troubling you.”Said Hanaki as she bowed.
“No.. It’s okay.”Then the both of them went down together. The whole family had dinner quietly and chatted about the newlywed couple afterwards. When Hanaki and Kazuya were alone in their room again..
Kazuya sat on the sofa, and turned on the television while Hanaki stood at the door, like a scared kitten.
“What are you doing there? Go and prepare the bath!”Ordered Kazuya rashly. Hanaki immediately entered the bathroom and fell down due to the slipperiness. Hearing the thuds, Kazuya went inside, and saw Hanaki touching her elbow.
“Can’t you do things properly?! Don’t think that I’ll pity you. Never! Now hurry up!”

Father.. Mother.. I want to go home… But I know I can’t.

Hanaki wept bitterly. That night ended with Hanaki sleeping on the sofa, and Kazuya on the bed. Tomorrow, Hanaki woke up at 5 in the morning and took a bath before Kazuya. She dressed simply: a soft pink knee-low dress with long sleeves, white slippers, and she braided her hair. She looked sweet, but unfortunately, Kazuya didn’t even glance at her. They pretended to be in a good relationship before the others during breakfast though Kazuya left without saying goodbye to Hanaki. During the day, Hanaki took a walk at the backyard, accompanied by falling leaves. Before lunch time came, she went to the kitchen, preparing onigiri and served them to Yuri, who was home.
“M.. Mother. I prepared some onigiri with tuna as the filling. I hope you’d like to eat them.”
“Oh. You don’t have to wear yourself out. We have chefs, haven’t we? I could just ask them to cook.”
“But.. As a daughter-in-law, I should at least cook even just once to my parents-in-law.”Said Hanaki politely. Yuri smiled, and took one onigiri.
“Takechi was right. You really are a good woman. Hmm.. This onigiri is very good! I should let my friends taste it during tea-party later. Could you make some more?”
“Yes!”
Hanaki smiled happily. She went to make more onigiri, placed them on the coffee table in the living room, right where Kazuya saw her.
“What are you doing?”Asked Kazuya.

W.. What?

“Ah.. I.. I was making some onigiri for mother.. And they are done so… I’m putting them here.”
“Why are you doing that? Are you looking down on our house’s selected chefs?”
“N.. No! I… Wh.. Why are you… Home by this time? Is there something wrong?”
Kazuya looked Hanaki in despise, and answered, “I always have my meals at home. Do you even call yourself a wife? How could you not know your husband’s every details?”
“I…”Even before Hanaki could finish her words, Kazuya walked away to the dining room. Hanaki, knowing her position as a wife, followed him.
“Why are you standing there? Sit down! I don’t want to be misunderstood for bullying you.”Hanaki slowly sat down in front of Kazuya.
“Sit further away you disgusting creature!”Then, Hanaki moved to the other edge of the table. Then a chef came out, serving Kazuya his lunch.
“Young Lady, would you like to have a meal as well?”Asked the chef.
“Uh.. No, no need. I’m not hungry.”The chef looked at Hanaki in confusion, and walked away. Kazuya finished his lunch and went away, leaving Hanaki behind. Hanaki got up, and walked up to her room. Having nothing to do, she took a photo album and viewed it. There were Kazuya’s and Kaze’s childhood photos. They looked alike, though Kazuya seemed to always be wearing a piercing glare on his face. Soon, time passed, and it was already 3. Hanaki immediately went downstairs, and looked for Yuri. After handing Yuri the box of onigiri, Hanaki helped the servants with houseworks. But she was prevented from doing so by Matsuoka.
“Young Lady shouldn’t be doing this. If you were seen so, we all would be scolded by Master and Lady.”
“But..”
“Lady, you can just sit down and relax. I can set up everything for you for tea-time. A relaxing music, refreshing tea and several cakes in the backyard.”
“Um.. It’s okay. I’ll just go back to my room.”Said Hanaki in disappointment.

Wait.. Since winter is coming. I can knit sweater! I.. Maybe I’ll knit it for Kazu..ya..

Hanaki observed all of Kazuya’s outfits, and went down immediately, looking for Matsuoka.
“Young Lady, if you want to knit, we the servants can help you. What if you injure or wear yourself out? It’s not good.”
“I..”
“Uncle. Just let her be.”
“Young Master Kaze.. But..”
“You’ll actually stress her out for doing nothing. Knitting is a good activity as well, as a wife. Now… Get o.. No, get two sets of knitting-kit for us.”
“Us?”Hanaki asked in confusion.
“I think knitting is an interesting activity. You can teach me as well right?”Kaze smiled. Soon later, they were already sitting at the backyard, knitting.
“Say, Hanaki. What are you making?”
Hanaki smiled, “Sweater. Winter is coming isn’t it? How about you?”
“Shawl. I think it’s the easiest, in terms of shape.”
“Then let’s start. Firstly, do this…”
Hours passed, they called it a day though they had only done a little.
“I don’t know that knitting could be this tiring.”Said Kaze while rubbing his sore shoulders.
“Do you need me to help you?”Asked Hanaki kindly.
“Huh? With what?”The next second, Hanaki was already massaging Kaze’s shoulders.
“I usually did this to my father when I was a girl. Now it brings back memories.”Hanaki smiled. Kaze remained silent. Gentle breeze caused more leaves to fall, showering both of them.
“Uh… I.. That… You..”Hanaki raised her voice.
“Kaze. Just call me Kaze.”
“I think we should go inside now. The sky is turning dark, and the air is getting colder.”
“Oh yes. Let me help you with these things.”Said Kaze as he picked all the knitting-tools up, put them inside Hanaki’s room, except for his own set.
“If you have a hard time to do it by yourself, you can come to me. Or do you need an instruction-book?”Asked Hanaki.
“No, it’s okay. I don’t think those kind of books are helpful. A direct coaching will be best.”Kaze smiled, a very gentle smile which might have never appeared on Kazuya’s face. Hanaki smiled back. Kaze noticed a leaf stucked on Hanaki’s hair, and reached for it. Suddenly, Kazuya opened the door.
“Kaze? What are you doing?”
Continuing taking down the leaf, Kaze said, “There was a leaf stucked on Hanaki’s hair.”
“You’ve been here all the time?”
“No. I just came.”Said Kaze. Then he headed for the door. “I’m going. Bye Brother. Bye, Hanaki. It was a great time.”
When Kaze closed the door, right away, Kazuya showered Hanaki with questions.
“It was a great time? Do you mind explaining that?”
“I.. We were knitting.”
“Knitting? Just knitting? ”
“Yes.”
“And the way you address each other, it is inappropriate. It’ll cause misunderstandings among the servants.”
“But… We are just..!”
“I don’t care. You are my wife. I don’t want my reputation to be stained by wife’s adultery. Keep that in mind. Prepare my bath. Now!”
“Ye.. Yes!”

To be continued…

Tanabata Lovers (Overview)

Hi everyone! This is going to be my first post here. I hope you like it. (And… Please pardon my grammar and vocab :’( )

Tanabata Lovers. (Overview)

Due to financial problem in her father’s company, Hanaki was ‘sold’ to the Fujisawa family as their daughter-in-law. An arranged-marriage life was not happy for Hanaki as her Husband, Kazuya, disliked her and treated her as if his servant. Sad, Hanaki sought comfort from Kaze, Kazuya’s younger brother who seemed to have developed forbidden feelings for her. Will Hanaki be able to earn Kazuya’s acknowledgement and live happily ever after? Or will Hanaki end up being with Kaze?