The loveliness of you (Tobirama x Madara)

6. (Tobirama)

"How did it go?"

"Leave me alone."

"But-"

"I said leave me!!"

Hashirama jerked and took a few steps back as I turned to him and screamed. I had tried to walk I to the castle unnoticed but failed, of course, seeing my brother had been waiting for me right at the door.

He looked hurt at my outburst, but I couldn't help myself. I was just so comprehensively hurt.

I expected him to chastise me, to ask me how badly I had treated Madara in order for him to reject me. But he didn't. Of course he didn't. When would I ever learn that Hashirama was too good to ever wrong me?

Instead, he put a hand on my shoulder.

"Stay with me", he said.

"I really want to call it a night", I murmured.

"A compromise? Until midnight?"

"Fine", I agreed tiredly, too exhausted to argue anymore.

I stood to the side, watching people once more. I saw women and girls casting curious glances my way, but ignored them. I felt anxious. It took me a while to realise that it was because I was waiting for him; that some part of me, and I didn't know if it was the part that felt hurt or the part that still hoped, was still hoping he would change his mind and come anyway.

He didn't, of course. I didn't even allow for one second to pass after midnight before I left the ball.

But I didn't go to my chambers. My mind was a whirlwind, and I knew it would be impossible for me to rest, let alone sleep.

So I walked out into the gardens.

A light rain had started falling, wetting my hair. I hoped it would help wash out whatever it was that kept it slicked back so I wouldn't have to bother washing it before bed. 

I strolled through the beautiful grounds, dressed for autumn with orange paper lanterns and glass jars with lights and garlands of every colour of autumn. It looked magical.

I walked to the main fountain, around which was a circular path. I inspected the autumnal flowers planted around it, the sight of them accompanied by the soothing sound of running water. I let the fragrance of nectar soothe me, the feeling of silken petals beneath my fingers ease my soul.

I frowned. I thought I heard something. Over the sound of water pouring into the fountain was the unmistakeable sound of hooves. I looked out into the night; a galloping horse was approaching.

And he came. He actually came, stopping his large, brown horse into a forceful halt a way away from me, looking down on me.

He hadn't changed clothes, just put a coat and boots on. His hair was wild, coming out of its braid. His face was wild as well, his eyes full of energy after a furious ride.

I felt quite ridiculous in my frock and slicked hair.

"You came", I said.

"I did."

"I didn't know you had a horse."

What a stupid thing to say, Tobirama.

"You think my family too poor, don't you?" I didn't answer. "Actually, it's my neighbours. I borrowed it... Without asking... I stole it."

I couldn't help but smirk a little.

Then, I held out a hand.

"Would you dance with me?"