The Shards of War: Balancing Power

Chapter 34

As Matsu gently rose from the bed, he couldn't help but smile at the sight of Calie and Marie still peacefully asleep. Their rhythmic breathing and serene expressions softened his heart. Before leaving the room, he leaned down, kissing each of their foreheads tenderly.

"Sleep well," he whispered, careful not to wake them. With a final glance, he headed to the bathroom to freshen up. The sound of running water mingled with the peaceful morning, creating a serene atmosphere.

As he brushed his hair, Matsu couldn't shake off the warmth that the quiet moments with Calie and Marie brought to his hectic life. Their bond, forged through years of friendship and shared adventures, had become a source of strength and comfort. In these private moments, he found solace in their shared genuine connection.

Dressed and ready for the day, Matsu returned to the bedroom, watching as Calie stirred and yawned. "Morning, sleepyhead," he teased, leaning to place another soft kiss on her forehead.

Calie, still half-asleep, mumbled a response, a content smile forming on her lips. The room slowly filled with the soft rustle of waking as the trio prepared for another day in the bustling city of Ironhaven.

As Calie stretched and started to get up, Marie, awakened by the movement, stirred from her slumber. Matsu, his hair now neatly braided thanks to his manipulation aura, continued his morning routine. He skillfully put on his necklace and rings, each piece holding sentimental value, and then carefully chose a set of family heirloom earrings.

Calie, noticing Matsu's meticulous routine, couldn't help but smile. "You're such a diva in the morning," she teased, her voice still groggy from sleep.

Marie, fully awake now, joined in with a smirk. "Honestly, Matsu, you put more effort into your appearance than we do."

Matsu chuckled, the sound carrying a warmth that matched his genuine affection for them. "You two might be low-maintenance, but I need to maintain this impeccable image," he said with a playful wink.

As he finished adjusting his accessories, Matsu reached for his blood monitor. It had become a routine, a reminder of his condition that he faced with resilience. He glanced at the readings, confirming the infection remained stable. A sigh of relief escaped him, knowing that, for the time being, all was well.

Calie and Marie exchanged glances, their expressions reflecting a mix of concern and support. "Everything alright?" Calie asked, her voice now more alert.

Matsu nodded with a reassuring smile on his face. "Just the usual check. Nothing to worry about."

The trio, ready for the day, shared a brief moment of camaraderie, a silent understanding that bound them together through thick and thin.

Then Calie grabbed Matsu from behind and kissed him on the cheek, saying at least he's healthy for now.

Calie's playful gesture brought a blush to Matsu's cheeks, a rare sight considering his usual composed demeanor. He chuckled at her remark about his health, enjoying the light banter that was a hallmark of their relationship.

As Calie shifted her focus to the rings on Matsu's finger, she inquired about the timeline for their return. Matsu, still in good spirits, responded with a teasing tone. "You'll get these back when we decide to make our engagement public, or better yet, when you finally say, 'I do.'"

He booped her nose, a gesture that had become a familiar and endearing part of their interactions. "Did you forget our little agreement?" Matsu asked with a smirk, keeping the mood light.

Calie laughed and shook her head. "No, I didn't forget. Just making sure you remember the stakes."

Meanwhile, Marie, having overheard their playful exchange, emerged from changing, her characteristic dry humor intact. "Well, well, it seems like the lovebirds are in high spirits this morning. What did I miss?"