It Was All Arranged [R. Sakamaki]

Wedding Gifts

"What a beautiful day," her beige heels clacked against the smooth, concrete pathway. Fading green grass stood beneath the chilly sun, freshly mowed, its sweet scent drifted along the harsh breeze, lightly lifting the flounced, green, polyester skirt that reached just above Athena's tights-covered ankles. A brown belt hugged her waist, concealing where her beige blouse and soft skirt met. "though it is rather chilly - wouldn't you agree, Dear?" She tugged at the tan trench coat that embraced her waist.

Athena's arm was snaked through her husbands. He was dressed in a white shirt, a velvet waistcoat and long, dark trousers. A dark, double-breasted chesterfield coat warmed his icy body, the cuffs were folded back, dark, leather gloves embracing his hands. His dark hair had been swept away from his face, his rectangular glasses protecting his sharp eyes. His jaw was set as he gulped, staring ahead at the upcoming bridge.

"I suppose so," Reiji responded, his voice quiet yet loud enough for his lover to hear. They weren't alone in this park - though it was nearly desolate. The tall man carried a plastic bag filled with paints and brushes - all for Athena. It'd been Reiji's idea to go for a walk... Athena had just spotted an arts store on their way to the park. Reiji cleared his throat, "How is your mission going?"

Athena was silent for a moment before offering a polite smile, her lips parting. "I saw Mrs Jacobson in the store earlier today, we had lunch together in a small cafe - I didn't find out much." She sighed, pausing on the bridge and letting go of Reiji's arm. She stroked the wooden railing, looking out at the lake which ran below. It was old and small, hidden behind shrubbery and trees. "Although," she tapped her foot as Reiji stood slightly behind her, "Carlos works in business - finances. Malory is a simple housewife - she has two brothers, one works as a chef, the other also in business alongside Carlos; that's how they met." She pursed her lips, "I apologise for not gathering much information, Malory is rather secretive." She caught her husband's eye before glancing away just as quickly.

"You got more than I believed you would," he finally said, his hand reaching up to pat her back, "it'll rain soon - let's head home."

He was right, gentle tears fell from the fluffy clouds which now smothered the painfully bright sun. Reiji took her elbow, guiding her across the bridge. She followed his lead, not wanting to get damp from the rain. They were silent for the rest of their walk, a gentle smile decorated Athena's face as she glanced at her husband.

"It's Halloween soon," she said, her head landing upon Reiji's shoulder as she waved at a toddler who was sitting in his pram, his joyous mother grinning as she pushed him past, "what shall we do?"

"I don't celebrate such traditions."

"Oh Honey, we need to fit in - at least put some decoration up?" They were walking along the road they lived on now, the rain falling heavier. Reiji glanced up.

"I'll consider."

She leaned against the staircase, staring at the opposing door in a long daze. Her teeth gnawed softly at her long nails, her eyebrows furrowed. Her arms were folded over her chest as she stared at the unopened door, her foot tapping, catching the attention of her husband.

"What are you doing?" His sleeves were rolled up, tie loose around his neck and waistcoat unbuttoned as he stared at his wife, an eyebrow raised. Athena snapped out of her daze, sparing a look his way.

"Are we going to enter this room of horrors?" The door was pristine, untouched, it sent chills cascading down Athena's spine.

"If we must," Reiji returned, reaching forward to turn the door handle.

Cackling, the door slowly opened, revealing the small pile of presents that rested upon the glass coffee table. The walls were tall and smothered in floral wallpaper, the floor a clean, dark oak with a white fur rug located beneath the coffee table. A couch leaned against the left wall, it was white and plush - certainly comfy to rest on, lilac cushions decorated it, sending a chill down both Reiji and Athena's spine.