𝐄𝐙𝐄𝐊𝐈𝐄𝐋 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐞'𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

28

By the afternoon, the doctor came by to sign Akira’s discharge papers. She looked healthier, with a brightness in her eyes that hadn’t been there last night. Her father was nearby, gathering her things with a look of relief, though his gaze occasionally drifted over to me—curious, perhaps still uncertain, but grateful.

Akira sat up, and I instinctively reached out to help her, but she gave me a look that said she didn’t need it. I chuckled, admiring her fierce independence.

Mr. Shimizu returned with a faint smile and nodded toward the door. “The car’s waiting. Let’s get you home.”

Akira glanced at me, her eyes holding mine. “Come with us.” It wasn’t a request; it was a command. I couldn’t help but smile.

I nodded, my heart steady. “Yes, Akira-san.”

Her father led the way as we left the hospital. Stepping outside, the crisp air felt refreshing, and a hint of color returned to Akira’s cheeks. The driver opened the door, and Akira slid into the back seat, reaching out for me to join her. I settled beside her, feeling the warmth of her hand as she gently intertwined her fingers with mine.

The ride was quiet, each of us absorbed in our own thoughts. Mr. Shimizu would glance back now and then, a cautious but accepting expression on his face. I could tell he was still weighing his trust in me, yet seeing Akira’s calmness seemed to reassure him.

When we reached her home, I helped her out of the car. She held onto my arm as we walked to the door, her touch light yet comforting. Her father unlocked the door and gestured for her to sit and rest.

“Do you need anything, Akira?” I asked, my voice soft.

She shook her head, a small smile on her lips. “Just…stay a little longer.”

Mr. Shimizu cleared his throat. “Thank you for helping her, Ezekiel. I… don’t fully understand what’s going on, but I’m grateful.” His voice softened. “If having you here brings her peace, then you’re welcome.”

I nodded, humbled by his words. “Thank you, sir. I’ll make sure she’s all right.”

He gave me a final, appreciative look and quietly withdrew to the kitchen. Akira settled into the couch, sighing as she leaned her head back, her hand still gently holding mine.

She looked up at me with a vulnerability I hadn’t seen before. “Ezekiel… I think I need answers, eventually. But right now, just… thank you. For everything.”

I leaned closer, meeting her gaze. “I’ll give you answers, Akira. Whatever you need, whenever you’re ready. I’m here.”

She closed her eyes, seeming to finally release the last bit of tension she’d held onto. The burden she’d carried was beginning to lift, and I silently promised to stay by her side for as long as she needed.

🤍🤍🤍

Mr. Shimizu graciously invited me to stay in their home, a gesture that felt more meaningful than mere hospitality. I knew it was a significant step for him, trusting a man he barely knew with his daughter.

"Our house isn’t that big, Eze. Are you sure you’ll be okay?” Akira asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Hearing her call me by my name, so naturally and openly now, was something that struck a chord within me. It had a warmth to it, a closeness I hadn’t felt in a long time, and I found myself cherishing each time she said it.

“It’s perfectly fine, Akira. Really, no need to worry,” I reassured her, a smile playing at my lips.

Mr. Shimizu looked me over thoughtfully, his gaze assessing. “So, Ezekiel, what do you do for a living? My Akira-san hasn’t told me much about you,” he asked, his tone mild but curious.