𝙏𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙚 | 𝐓𝐨𝐣𝐢 𝐅𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐨

- Chapter 37 -

Two months pass by, and things have been going relatively well. Helia and Toji have grown increasingly comfortable with each other, and their bond has grown stronger.

The initial awkwardness and nerves that once hung between them had begun to fade away.

Every conversation, every glance, every moment they spend together comes effortlessly, and the connection between them feels more genuine and natural than ever before.

Although their closeness had grown stronger and more intimate, the fact that Toji was the heir of the clan meant that they had to keep their relationship a secret.

They both know that the consequences of the truth being revealed would be terrible, especially given the rigid hierarchy and values within the Zenin clan.

But it doesn't deter either of them. Whether it's the quiet hours of the night, hidden training sessions, or snatched moments during the day in hidden places, they always find ways to be together.

It only adds to the thrill and excitement, making every stolen moment together feel even more special and precious.

[...]

Helia hums peacefully to herself as she cleans and sorts the books in the library, feeling content and happy in the peaceful surroundings.

Her mind is consumed by thoughts of the joy and tranquility that her relationship with Toji brings to her life.

Remembering the stolen moments they share together, the secret smiles, the whispered words, and the warmth of his presence all fill her heart with a sense of contentment and happiness.

Although his past actions and his previous demeanor may still linger in the back of her mind, the scars on her back making it impossible to forget, she can't deny the incredible change he has undergone.

Over time, she has noticed the significant efforts he has made to redeem himself, showing a level of growth and maturity that is undeniable. Seeing the positive changes in him and the sincere effort he's putting in to be better fuels her feelings for him.

Looking back on the time before Toji's transformation, it's hard to believe just how much he has changed. The person he was before was someone she would've never thought could possess kindness and gentleness.

Yet, seeing the way he's treated her with care, respect, and tenderness is proof of his incredible growth, and makes it heartwarming to witness his positive transformation.

Her thoughts are abruptly interrupted by a pair of hands covering her eyes and a familiar voice whispering playfully in her ear.

"Guess who it is..."

A knowing smile tugs at the corners of her lips as she instantly recognizes the mischievous tone and the hands that now block her vision.

"Hmm I wonder who it could be...?"

The playful sarcasm in her voice is unmistakable as she feigns ignorance. The familiar scent and the warmth of his breath against her ear serve as obvious clues.

She grabs the pair of hands covering her eyes and turns around, a smirk spreads across her face as she finds herself, without any surprise, face to face with Toji.

His eyes are filled with warmth and playfulness, and a hint of excitement dances within them. The moment their eyes meet, a smile spreads across his lips.

"Hello, beautiful." He says, his voice low and smooth.

"Hey..."

His smile widens at her response, and he steps closer to her, closing the gap between their bodies. He reaches out to gently tuck a strand of hair behind her ear, his fingers brushing against her skin, sending a shiver up her spine.