4

856 24 9
                                    

The interior of the private jet was sleek and polished, a stark contrast to the delicate presence of the reader beside Yujiro. As they settled into their seats, she gazed around with wide eyes, absorbing the luxurious surroundings.

"Is it always like this?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, as if speaking too loudly might shatter the moment.

"Depends on who's flying," Yujiro replied, his tone casual. He leaned back, arms crossed, exuding an air of confidence that filled the space. "But for me, it's standard."

She nodded slowly, still taking in the details. Yujiro watched her, fascinated by her cautious movements. She traced her fingers along the armrest, barely applying pressure, as if afraid it might break.

"Do you travel often?" she asked, turning her attention back to him.

"More than I'd like," he admitted, a hint of a smile forming. "But this is different."

Her eyes flickered with curiosity. "How so?"

"I'm not just here for business," he said, leaning forward slightly. "I'm here for you."

Her cheeks flushed, and she looked down, nervously playing with a strand of her hair. "I didn't think... I mean, I didn't expect you to—"

"Doesn't matter what you expected," Yujiro cut her off, his tone firm but not unkind. "Oliva trusts me to keep you safe. This isn't a job I'll take lightly."

She blinked, her unfinished words hanging in the air as Yujiro's steady voice filled the space. His directness left little room for hesitation, but there was something almost reassuring in the certainty of his words.

She met his gaze, her expression serious. "I appreciate that. I really do. I just hope I don't become a burden."

Yujiro's brows furrowed slightly. "You're not a burden. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. Yours are just different."

Her smile returned, a hint of warmth lighting up her features. "Thank you. I want to be strong. I want to experience things."

"Then let's start with this," Yujiro replied, motioning toward the window above. "Look at the clouds. They're not as soft as they seem."

She looked up at the window, eyes wide as they soared above the landscape. "It's beautiful," she breathed, a genuine awe in her voice.

For a moment, Yujiro felt a flicker of something unfamiliar. Watching her experience the world, even from above, stirred something deep within him. It was a reminder of the simplicity of joy, something he had long since forgotten.

As the jet cruised through the sky, they shared small conversations—about her favorite foods, her dreams, and the things she hoped to see in Japan. Yujiro listened intently, finding himself intrigued by her spirit, despite her fragility.

"Do you think I'll be able to handle living there?" she asked, her voice laced with uncertainty as they headed to their destination.

Yujiro glanced at her, his expression firm. "You'll handle it. Living somewhere new isn't about being ready; it's about adapting. You'll find your way."

She nodded, taking in his words. "I'll try to remember that."

As the jet made its way to Japan, Yujiro felt a surge of anticipation. This journey was only the beginning, and with each moment, the challenge she represented became more enticing to him.

———————————

Next Update: 10/2/2024

In His Arms | Yujiro Hanma x ReaderWhere stories live. Discover now