The Hard love

Chapter 16: Unseen Currents

The following weeks were a time of healing and renewal for Mitsugi and Suguri. Their relationship felt stronger, and they were more in tune with each other's needs. They created a schedule to balance their chores and responsibilities, ensuring they had quality time together amidst their busy lives.

One evening, as they were preparing dinner, Suguri received an unexpected phone call from his supervisor at the university. Mitsugi watched as Suguri's face shifted from curiosity to shock.

"What is it?" Mitsugi asked, concern etched on his face.

Suguri ended the call and turned to Mitsugi, his expression a mix of excitement and anxiety. "My supervisor wants me to present my research at an international conference next month. It's a huge opportunity, but it means I'll be away for two weeks."

Mitsugi felt a pang of unease but quickly pushed it aside. "That's amazing, Suguri! You've worked so hard for this. You have to go."

Suguri smiled, though his eyes were filled with uncertainty. "Are you sure? I don't want to leave you alone right after everything we've been through."

Mitsugi took Suguri's hands in his. "We'll be fine. This is your dream, and I'll support you every step of the way."

In the weeks leading up to the conference, Suguri was consumed by preparations. Mitsugi did his best to help, taking on more household duties and offering words of encouragement. Despite the mounting stress, they remained close, their bond unshaken.

The night before Suguri's departure, they shared a quiet dinner at home. Mitsugi tried to ignore the knot of anxiety in his stomach, focusing instead on how proud he was of Suguri.

"You're going to do great," Mitsugi said, raising his glass. "To Suguri, the future star of the research world."

Suguri laughed, clinking his glass with Mitsugi's. "And to Mitsugi, the best partner anyone could ask for."

The next morning, Mitsugi drove Suguri to the airport. They stood together at the departure gate, holding each other tightly.

"I'll miss you," Suguri whispered.

"I'll miss you too," Mitsugi replied, his voice thick with emotion. "Call me every chance you get."

As Suguri walked away, Mitsugi felt a sense of emptiness settle in his chest. The apartment felt eerily quiet without him, and the days stretched on, each one longer than the last. They spoke every evening, their video calls a lifeline that kept them connected across the miles.

One evening, a week into Suguri's trip, Mitsugi received an unexpected visitor. It was Riku, a mutual friend from college, who was now working in the same city.

"Hey, Mitsugi," Riku greeted, a concerned look on his face. "I heard Suguri's away. How are you holding up?"

Mitsugi forced a smile. "I'm managing. It's just...lonely without him."

Riku nodded sympathetically. "I get that. How about we grab a drink? Get your mind off things for a bit."

Mitsugi hesitated but eventually agreed. They went to a nearby bar, where they caught up on old times and shared stories about their current lives. The distraction was welcome, and for a few hours, Mitsugi felt a semblance of normalcy return.

As the night wore on, they ordered another round of drinks. Mitsugi felt a bit lightheaded but brushed it off. However, Riku's behavior started to make him uneasy. He noticed Riku leaning in closer, his touches lingering longer than necessary.

"Mitsugi, you know you're special, right?" Riku said, his voice low and earnest.

Mitsugi shifted uncomfortably. "Riku, I think you're misinterpreting something. I'm with Suguri."

Riku sighed, leaning back. "I know. I'm sorry, Mitsugi. I didn't mean to overstep."

Feeling uneasy, Mitsugi decided it was time to leave. "I should get going. Thanks for the company, Riku."

Riku nodded, looking regretful. "Of course. Take care, Mitsugi."

Back at the apartment, Mitsugi felt a swirl of emotions. He texted Suguri, but it was late and he knew Suguri was likely asleep. The next day, he decided to call Suguri and tell him about the encounter with Riku. He knew honesty was crucial, especially now.

When Suguri answered, Mitsugi felt a rush of relief. "Hey, I need to talk to you about something that happened last night."

Suguri listened as Mitsugi recounted the evening. There was a long pause before Suguri spoke.

"Thank you for telling me, Mitsugi," Suguri said, his voice steady but tinged with worry. "It means a lot that you were honest. Just be careful around Riku, okay?"

"I will," Mitsugi promised. "I miss you, Suguri. I can't wait for you to come back."

"I miss you too," Suguri replied softly. "Just a few more days."

The rest of the week passed slowly, but Mitsugi focused on his work and preparing for Suguri's return. When the day finally arrived, he drove to the airport, his heart pounding with anticipation.

As soon as Suguri stepped through the gate, Mitsugi rushed forward, enveloping him in a tight embrace. "Welcome home," he whispered.

Suguri held him close, the tension of the past weeks melting away. "It's good to be back."

That evening, they sat together on the couch, the warmth of their reunion surrounding them. Mitsugi felt a sense of contentment and relief, knowing that no matter the challenges, their love remained steadfast.

"We faced a lot these past weeks," Suguri said, intertwining his fingers with Mitsugi's. "But we made it through."

"Together, always," Mitsugi replied, squeezing Suguri's hand.

With renewed strength and trust, they looked towards the future, ready to face whatever came their way, knowing that their bond was unbreakable