𝙏𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙚 | 𝐓𝐨𝐣𝐢 𝐅𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐨

- Chapter 32 -

Nighttime descends upon the estate once again, and Helia prepares herself for another training session with Toji. The routine has become a familiar part of her life, and she knows what to expect.

However, after her conversation with the head maid and her own reflection about Toji's past, there's a sense of nervousness in the air as she makes her way to the designated training area.

Her mind is filled with conflicting thoughts. On one hand, her curiosity and sympathy for Toji's past make her want to ask him about his childhood. But on the other hand, she's unsure if it's a good idea to bring up such a sensitive topic.

She knows Toji's demeanor and his tendency to keep people at arm's length, and she wonders if broaching the subject of his childhood might push him further away.

Taking a deep breath to steady herself, she steps into the training grounds. Toji is already there, standing with his arms folded, waiting.

The sight of him brings back the memories of their previous training sessions. His expression is as usual somewhat distant and indifferent, yet there's a hint of expectancy in his eyes as he waits for her to approach.

Toji had been experiencing a subtle uneasiness when around Helia since the night of the party. He couldn't quite put his finger on the reason, and it unsettled him a bit.

The thought of seeing her makes his heart race, and he finds himself secretly wanting her attention and company even if it made him nervous for some infuriating reasons.

As she approached him, his face maintained its usual indifferent expression, but there was a hint of tension in his stance that he tried to hide. The thought of being nervous around her was unwelcome, and he silently reprimanded himself for feeling this way.

He deliberately avoids making eye contact with Helia, afraid that if he looks into her eyes, he might let his guard down even further.

"Hello!" She tries to sound as friendly as she can, especially if she wants to ask him about his past.

He nods in response, mumbling a somewhat stoic greeting.

"Hey. Ready to get started?"

He keeps his voice steady, trying not to give away the turmoil of emotions he's feeling inside. Toji stands there, arms folded and waits for her to reply.

She nods. "Yes, I'm ready."

"Good. Let's get started then."

He gestures for her to begin training, continuing to keep his tone cool and indifferent.

[...]

As the training session unfolds, Toji observes her progress and notes the improvements she has made since they began to train.

Her increased speed, strength, and agility have not gone unnoticed. While Toji doesn't show it outwardly, a small flicker of pride and admiration sparks within him as he witnesses her dedication and growth.

The training session draws to a close, and both of them are visibly winded and sweaty.

"Not bad." He remarks coolly. "You've improved a lot since we started. Keep it up."

A hint of surprise flickers on her face as he praises her, and he notices it. Toji wasn't known for handing out compliments easily, yet he couldn't help but acknowledge her hard work and improvement.

"Thank you!" She says with a large smile.

He gives a slight nod, maintaining his stoic demeanor.

"Don't mention it. You've put in the effort, and it shows."