Days turned into weeks, and Shinobu found herself slowly adjusting to the idea of her arranged marriage. Despite her initial resistance, she couldn't deny that her interactions with Giyu were not as unpleasant as she had feared. Their families arranged several meetings, each one providing an opportunity for them to learn more about each other.
On a warm summer afternoon, Shinobu and Giyu met in the Kocho family's garden. The garden was in full bloom, with vibrant flowers and the soothing sound of a bubbling stream. Shinobu wore a light, pastel-colored yukata, her hair pinned up elegantly. Giyu, as usual, was dressed in a simple yet neat kimono.
"Kocho," Giyu greeted.
"Tomioka-san," Shinobu responded.
They took their seats on a wooden bench under a cherry blossom tree. The silence between them was no longer as uncomfortable as it had been in their first meeting. Instead, it felt more like a quiet understanding, an unspoken agreement to give this arrangement a chance.
Shinobu took a deep breath, deciding to start the conversation. "Tomioka-san, do you have any hobbies or interests?" Her tone was genuinely curious.
Giyu looked thoughtful for a moment before answering. "I enjoy training and practicing my swordsmanship. It helps me clear my mind."
Shinobu nodded, her curiosity piqued. "That sounds very disciplined. Do you find it relaxing?"
Giyu's eyes met hers, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "In a way, yes. It allows me to focus and center myself."
Shinobu found herself smiling back, a small blush coloring her cheeks. "I enjoy gardening. It's calming to take care of the plants and watch them grow."
Giyu nodded appreciatively. "Your garden is beautiful. It reflects the care you put into it."
An idea then suddenly popped into shinobu's head"Ne ne Tomioka san how old are you"shinobu asked. she wanted to know how old Giyu were since she had found out that he went to school with her elder sister kanae
Giyu then faced shinobu looking at her with his usual calm demeanor"i recently turned 21, why are u asking?"Giyu said. shinobu's jaw immediately dropped at his unexpected response.
Giyu looked at shinobu dumbfounded since he didn't find himself that old."how about you, how old are you?"he asked.
Shinobu pulled herself together and answered Giyu's question while looking a little bit worried."I'm turning 18 soon."shinobu answered responding to Giyu's question.
Giyu had mentally gasped but kept his composure on the outside. giyu had calculated shinobu's age if she is turning 18 soon then that mean's she is 17.
"so ur 17, now it make's sense why ur so short."he answered while looking a bit concerned. Shinobu kicked his leg"Hey im not short, ur just a giant."she said while pouting
Their conversation flowed more easily than before. Shinobu found herself warming up to Giyu, appreciating his quiet strength and calm demeanor. There was a sincerity in his words that she hadn't noticed before.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the garden, Shinobu felt a sense of contentment. She realized that maybe, just maybe, this arranged marriage wasn't as terrible as she had initially thought.'
The next meeting was at the Tomioka family's home. Shinobu arrived with her sister, Kanae, who was there to provide moral support. The Tomioka residence was as serene and well-kept as their own, with an air of tranquility that put Shinobu at ease.
Giyu greeted them at the door, bowing respectfully. "Welcome."
Kanae smiled warmly. "Thank you for having us, Tomioka-san."
They were led to the sitting room, where tea and light snacks were prepared. Shinobu noticed a small collection of bonsai trees near the window, meticulously cared for.
"Did you tend to these bonsai, Tomioka-san?" she asked, genuinely impressed.
Giyu nodded. "Yes, it's another hobby of mine. It requires patience and attention to detail."
Shinobu smiled, a soft blush on her cheeks. "They're beautiful. You must have a lot of patience."
Giyu looked at her, his expression softer than usual. "Thank you, Kocho. It's rewarding to see them thrive."
As the evening progressed, Shinobu and Giyu found themselves talking more openly. They discussed their childhoods, their families, and their hopes for the future. Shinobu discovered that beneath Giyu's stoic exterior was a thoughtful and caring person.
Kanae watched their interaction with a smile, glad to see her sister opening up. She excused herself to give them some privacy, trusting that they were beginning to find common ground.
"Kocho," Giyu began, his voice gentle. "I know this situation isn't what either of us expected, but I'm committed to making it work. I hope we can find happiness together."
Shinobu looked at him, her heart beating a little faster. She could see the sincerity in his eyes, and it made her feel hopeful. "I believe we can, Tomioka-san. Let's take it one step at a time."
They continued to talk as the evening turned into night, the bond between them growing stronger with each conversation. Shinobu found herself looking forward to their meetings, her initial resistance fading away.
hey guys i made this chapter so giyu and shinobu could interact a little bit more and pls tell me how u like the story im a little nervous since its my first story
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hardShips
Romanceshinobu is a girl from a wealthy family. her parents have always been eager to find partners for their daughters. but to their luck their eldest daughter kanae has already found a husband. but due to her short temper their second eldest daughter shi...
