Beautiful boy

~5~

As Kiyoshi roused from his sleep, he noticed the bandages adorning his wounds, meticulously applied with care. The realization of someone tending to his injuries without his knowledge or consent elicited a mixture of surprise and curiosity.

Approaching Toshio, who sat by the window lost in thought, Kiyoshi's demeanour was icy and distant. "Why did you bandage my wounds?" he questioned sharply, his tone lacking its usual warmth and veering towards accusation.

Toshio looked up, meeting Kiyoshi's gaze with a calm and gentle expression, unperturbed by the sudden hostility. "Because I care about you," he responded simply, his sincerity evident in his unwavering gaze.

Kiyoshi's frustration simmered beneath the surface, his brows furrowing as he struggled to contain his emotions. "Are you dumb?" he retorted, his words laced with disbelief. "I can take care of myself. I don't need your help."

Toshio remained composed, his demeanour a stark contrast to Kiyoshi's rising agitation. "I know you're capable, Suwa-san," he replied calmly. "But sometimes, even the strongest warriors need someone to lean on."

The tension in the room was palpable, the air crackling with unspoken emotions. Kiyoshi paced back and forth, his thoughts racing as he grappled with the conflicting feelings of anger and gratitude.

Kiyoshi's icy facade softened, a flicker of emotion crossing his features. Without a word, he closed the distance between them and pulled Toshio into a tight hug. It was a silent acknowledgement of gratitude and understanding, a way of saying "thank you" without needing to utter the words.

After the brief embrace, Toshio busied himself making tea for both of them. The fragrant aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the room, creating a cozy atmosphere. They settled at a low table, cups of steaming tea in hand, and engaged in a heartfelt conversation.

As Toshio's cheerful demeanour shifted into a shadow of sadness, Kiyoshi's expression softened with sympathy.

"I miss her during the festival," Toshio admitted, his voice tinged with melancholy.

Kiyoshi nodded, his eyes reflecting a deep understanding. "Kiyoki was brave," he said softly, memories of their time together resurfacing. "She fought with all her heart."

Toshio's gaze grew distant, memories of that tragic day flooding back. "She protected us, Ani and me," he explained, trembling slightly. "But... but she couldn't save herself."

Kiyoshi's brows furrowed, a mix of concern and curiosity in his eyes. "What happened, Toshio?" he asked gently, sensing the weight of untold sorrow in his words.

Toshio took a deep breath, steeling himself to recount the painful memories. "There was a demon, a powerful and perverted one," he began, his voice quivering with suppressed emotion. "It attacked us, and Kiyoki shielded us from its wrath."

He paused, his hands tightening around his teacup as he continued. "But in the chaos, I got in the way. The demon... it touched me," he confessed, shame and sadness mingling in his gaze.

Kiyoshi's eyes widened with shock and concern. "Toshio, I had no idea," he said, his voice filled with empathy. "Why didn't you tell me?"

Toshio looked away, his shoulders slumping with the weight of guilt. "Ani was furious," he admitted quietly. "He blamed me for what happened and kicked me out."

Kiyoshi reached out, placing a comforting hand on Toshio's shoulder. "I'm sorry you went through that alone," he said sincerely. "But I'm glad you're back."

Toshio met Kiyoshi's gaze, a mix of gratitude and sorrow in his eyes. "Thank you, suwa-san," he said softly. "For listening and for being here."

"You seem troubled. Is there something you wish to speak about?"