❤ ~ The Greatest Gift ~ ❤

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The following morning Yoriichi was greeted with sunlight, the rays passing through the smaller window of the attic area. He'd been offered the couch, but had steadily declined to avoid being in the way. As a note, he'd been given the attic where a bed had been placed for countless years. Pulling the fine sheets from his body, he stretched outward before standing. For an attic space, it was vastly large, fit for a guest room. Yoriichi moved toward the drop down, pushing the door as the ladder slid to the second floor. He carefully climbed down before putting it up once more. His hair was a disaster, but he ignored it as he scanned the area. Slipping to the first floor, he could hear the sounds of chimes, a soothing melody as a crisp breeze rolled through. 

"Good morning Yoriichi. How have you slept?" There was slight hesitance, but Yoriichi gave a soft nod.

"It was better than a cave, I can assure. I really appreciate the offer you've given me." Kanguro chuckled, waving it off as he moved somewhat slowly through the halls. He only faced back to Yoriichi when he spoke up once more.

"Glad to hear. Might you help me with something before I prepare breakfast?" Yoriichi saw no reason to refuse. Nodding, he followed suit as they entered the farthest hall. The home in total had three bedrooms, not counting the attic. It once was a full house, but with Kanguro's loss on his son, it left the place hollow. Even so, the older man refused to move away. It was a family home that he planned to keep, even though he knew one day he'd pass on. The duo made a abrupt stop before one of the door sealed shut. Kanguro worked the doorknob before getting it to open, a wave of dust shooting out. Yoriichi covered his nose, swatting the dust away. "Apologies for all the mess. I wanted to offer you something, a trade of sorts."

"Okay?" Yoriichi tilted his head slightly, showing his confusion. It made Kanguro chuckle before entering the room that needed countless hours of work. Boards were torn and the window was far from perfect. Cracks laced the area, spiderwebs resting in most corners. Compared to the rest of the home, this room was something of a horror scene.

"I offered last night for you to stay, but I hadn't truthfully understood your personality. You don't take things for granted, something I wish most did, so I've come to a different term. How about you remain here and in turn, work on this room. You will earn your stay, as well as your room. I will help of course, but only when I'm not busy at the village. Would that suit you Yoriichi? I truly am trying to look out for your child, as well as you." There was a long silence, Yoriichi feeling a slight smile twitch at his features. 

"You really are different. I thought about it all yesterday, coming to terms that being on the run will only last so long. I'd like to take the deal. I will even help at the market if you'd like." Kanguro clapped his hands together, smiling widely.

"Wonderful. Now, this room can wait. Let's get something to eat before traveling to the village. Also, mind me brushing your hair? It's quite the nest." Yoriichi chuckled, nodding as he left the room. The door was closed as he watched Kanguro, feeling joy bubble up in his stomach. He'd always thought running was the answer, but something told him to stay. It brought up a single thought Yoriichi wanted to voice.

"Oh! Kanguro... Might I plant some new trees around the area?"

"Trees? Of what kind?" There was a slight pause, Yoriichi scratching his cheek.

"They are called wisteria tress. They are known to ward Demons. I figured it would keep this home as well as you safe." The older male nodded, giving a gentle look.

"I've no issues with that. From this day on, this is your home to. Whatever feels safe, do not ask, simply do as you wish." Yoriichi nodded, following as the two entered the kitchen, a conversation picking up as the older male began to make food for the duo.

Yoriichi had arrived at the village beside Kanguro, simply glancing around. As a second day in the village, he found less eyes watched him. Yoriichi had learned the longer someone stayed, the more they became known and less trouble in the eyes of the residents. It also helped who Yoriichi walked with. The older man was well known and friends with most, if not all. It gave him quite the advantages when it came to shopping and selling. Even though he only sold bread, each loaf was something made with perfection. There was never a flaw and thus it was favored. Most stopped trying to sell bread simply because there was no possibility of getting more customers than Kanguro. The kind old man was one of a kind to most. An elder of their village to most younger adults and children.

The duo made their way to the cart, setting up everything as Kanguro took a seat. A couple who were already wake and out for the day had stopped by. Both had become intrigued by Yoriichi, not that he minded. He'd decided to settle, for himself and his future child. Kanguro had been correct in his wise words. There was more than simply Yoriichi.

"Kanguro, glad to see you well once more. Who is the new face?" The older man smiled, motioning Yoriichi to speak. 

"Hello Madam, Sir. My name is Yoriichi." The lady pressed her hands together, chuckling as she hooked her arm around her husband. The gentleman gave a curt nod as his mistress spoke up.

"Such a well mannered lad. Pleasure to meet you, Yoriichi. Where are you staying, if you don't mind me asking?" Kanguro laughed as he joined in, his hand resting on the red haired males shoulder, giving a soft squeeze.

"This young lad lives with me. He's helping me do repairs and in turn, I offered sanctuary. He's been a huge help, truthfully."

"Glad to hear that. Well, if he ever needs anything, be sure to stop by my stall. I sell plenty of fabric and would not mind making a new set of clothes for him. As a welcoming gift!" She gave Yoriichi a flashy smile before waving, the couple leaving. Kanguro watched Yoriichi leaned against the wall, his smile so permanent. It brought a low chuckle from the older male.

"You seem thrilled."

"You could say that. It's been so long since someone has shown me so much kindness, you know? I used to be a Demon Slayer, but things happened and most forgot I existed..." There was a heavy silence for a moment, Kanguro breaking it.

"Let them forget, Yoriichi. This is your life, a new path you are paving. Enjoy this moment and the freedom it offers. You'll only have so much freedom, especially with a child in the works." He nudged Yoriichi, causing the younger male to chuckle. 

"Yeah, you're right. Thanks for everything, Kanguro." 

"Anytime! You're a part of my family now, got that? I may not have a biological son any longer, but I see you as my own kin, even if just met. You're so much like my son, truthfully." Yoriichi nodded, taking a seat as he took in a deep breath. "You both were Omega and such kind souls. Those similarities might be the reason I decided to take you in..."

"Even so, you've given me something I've never had." Kanguro tilted his head.

"Like what?" Yoriichi smiled, sighing as he leaned back. His eyes closed as the sun washed over him, his voice low yet soft.

"Joy. True Happiness. A Home. All three of those I never really had, so I truly do owe you everything. You've made this world something worth my care, Kanguro."

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Sorry for the shorter chapter. Either way, leave me feedback! hope you've enjoyed~ (✿◠‿◠)