Ruka Hiden : Tangled Paths, Love's Redemption

Twenty Nine

The rain had long ceased, leaving behind a soft, hazy mist that hung in the evening air. The sky was an overcast gray, with the occasional burst of weak sunlight filtering through the clouds. Kiba led Ruka down a quiet, tree-lined path, his steps heavy with unspoken emotions. The house they approached was modest but charming, nestled at the edge of a serene meadow. It was a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary, a place that seemed to exude warmth and promise.

As they reached the front door, Kiba turned to Ruka, his eyes reflecting a mixture of hope and regret. "I wanted to show you something," he said, his voice barely more than a whisper. "This is... was supposed to be our future."

Ruka's gaze followed his, and she took in the sight of the house, her expression a blend of curiosity and apprehension. Kiba fumbled with the keys, opening the door with a hesitant hand. The interior of the house was thoughtfully decorated, with touches that spoke of a future he had meticulously planned: a cozy living room, a kitchen with space for family meals, and three rooms prepared for children.

"This was supposed to be our home," Kiba continued, his voice trembling slightly. "I had everything planned out. We were supposed to be happy here, with three kids, living a life together. I even bought this." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a velvet box, opening it to reveal a beautiful engagement ring. It sparkled softly in the dim light, its elegance a stark contrast to the turmoil in Kiba's eyes.

Ruka took a deep breath, her eyes fixed on the ring. "Kiba, I—"

"I was going to propose right after the Fourth Shinobi War," Kiba interrupted, his voice cracking. "But I started doubting myself. I questioned whether I was worthy of you. I thought that maybe I'd just hold you back. I should have been honest with you about my insecurities, but instead, I let them drive us apart. I'm sorry, Ruka. I'm so sorry."

Ruka felt her heart ache at his words, her eyes beginning to glisten with unshed tears. The weight of Kiba's regret, combined with the pain of their separation, pressed down on her. The house, the ring, the future they had planned—it all felt like a bittersweet echo of what could have been.

"Kiba," she said, her voice trembling, "you're an idiot. I tried to tell you that then, but you wouldn't listen."

Kiba looked at her with a pained, yet affectionate smile. "Yeah, I guess I am," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "You're right. You were always right."

Ruka wiped at her eyes, trying to compose herself. "You're the only person I can see a future with. I was so confused, but now I realize that my future is with you. I want this—us—more than anything."

Kiba's eyes softened, and he reached out to cup her face in his hands. "I promise, Ruka, I'll do whatever it takes to make this right. I'll never let my insecurities come between us again."

Tears streamed down Ruka's face as she leaned into his touch. "I'm so glad you finally see that," she said softly, her voice filled with relief and affection.

Without another word, Kiba leaned in and kissed her, his lips gently brushing against hers. The kiss was tender at first, filled with the sweetness of rediscovered love. But as their emotions surged, the kiss deepened, becoming more passionate, a reflection of the years of longing and regret they had both endured.

They pulled away only when they had to, their foreheads resting against each other's. Kiba looked at her with an earnest expression. "I'm sorry for everything, Ruka. For not being brave enough, for not fighting for us sooner. I love you more than I can say."

Ruka smiled through her tears, her heart full. "And I love you too."