Chapter 36: Parting is such sweet sorrow

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Quick note, play the music when you reach the Morning timeskip.

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April 1867

"Okay, I think that's enough patrolling for today" Heisuke announced causing me to sigh in relief.
"That's a relief, I'm so tired right now I feel like I could just pass out and sleep right here on the road"
"Where's that enthusiasm you had three years ago?"
"It left me when I realised all the hardships that come with being a Shinsengumi member...Still I wouldn't trade this job for any other job in the world"
"It's good to hear that" Heisuke smiled and I smiled right back. "It's kinda hard to believe we've been together for three years now. Your company is so enjoyable that I guess the days just seemed to fly past me"
"Aww, arigato Heisuke. I find your company most enjoyable too"
"And the plus side to you joining us, I get to have the pleasure of seeing you in your uniform"
"Nani?"
"It may be hard to believe, but you grow prettier every time I look at you"
"Y-You're just joking around...!" I awkwardly laughed it off, but Heisuke wasn't ready to drop it just yet.
"I'm not actually. Every time I look at you, I fall in love with you even deeper. And I know that I will never feel this strongly about another woman for as long as I live"
"H-Heisuke..."
"I love you Chiyeko. Now and forever" Heisuke stopped walking and pulled me into his chest before his lips connected with mine. I enjoyed the kiss until I heard the whoops and cheers of the 8th Division men around us. Which reminded me that we were out in public. I pushed Heisuke away with a very bright blush on my face.
"We can't do this now! Not with everyone watching!" I whisper-yelled.
"Why not?"
"Because it's embarrassing!"
"At least this way everyone in my division will know to keep their hands off you"
"Oh Heisuke, you know I only have eyes for you" I rolled my eyes as I hugged him tightly. "Now, let's get back to headquarters so I can give my best nakama a big long hug"
"Who's your best nakama?"
"At this point in time? My futon"
"Makes sense" Heisuke chuckled. "Well let's go my tired angel"
"Please don't call me that..."
"I'll take your suggestion into consideration" As we walked, my mind wandered. Heisuke's right, these three years seem to have zoomed by...I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for Heisuke. He introduced me to the Shinsengumi as well as saved my life. I want to do something to show him my appreciation. I know! I'll buy him that sake he loves so much!
"Hey Heisuke, can we make a stop at the sake store?"
"Sure, but why?"
"That's for me to know and you to find out"
"Okay...?" We reached the sake store and the rest of the 8th Division continued back to the compound whereas Heisuke kindly waited outside for me to be done. Okay, I've got the sake but I feel like this on its own isn't enough..."Hey Chiyeko? You in there?"
"Huh?" I blinked and looked at Heisuke.
"I asked if you needed to go anywhere else?"
"Oh, iie. I'm all done"
"Then let's get back to headquarters"
"Right" As we walked, a candle lit inside my mind. I could write him a note! To convey my thankfulness and appreciation for all he's done for me! "That's it!"
"What's it?"
"Oh gomen, I was just thinking out loud"
"I think your lack of sleep is messing with your brain"
"Maybe. Maybe not. Now let's go!" I grabbed his hand and quickened the pace we were walking at.

When we arrived back at headquarters, I put the sake bottle in my closet. I went to my desk to retrieve my writing brush, but realised that I had no paper. Sighing, I left my room and went to the chief's room. I knocked on the door, announcing my presence before sliding the door open. "Ah, Kawaguchi-chan! What brings you here?"
"Ohayō Kondou-sama! I was wondering if you had any paper I could have?"
"Of course, let me just get a sheet for you" He went to his desk and took a slip of blank paper from the stack on his desk. "If you don't mind me asking, what is this for?"
"I'm going to write a note to Heisuke, I want to try and repay him for everything he's done for me"
"That's a wonderful idea. Though if I may offer a bit of advice, I'm sure Heisuke feels that you being with him is repayment enough"
"Huh...I never thought of it that way" Kondou-sama handed me the paper.
"There's always more than one viewpoint Kawaguchi-chan, remember that"
"I will sir. Arigato gozimasu" I bowed and left his room. As I was walking back to my room, I found my vision started to blur. What's happening...? I suddenly lost my footing and stumbled forwards. I was falling, but a pair of strong arms caught me before I hit the floor.
"Daijōbu Chiyeko!?"
"I-I'm fine...just fine" I stood up, but my legs were shaking greatly.
"Iie, you're not fine" Heisuke scooped me off my feet and carried me to my room. "Get some rest Chiyeko"
"But I've got to do something quickly..."
"Whatever it is, it can wait. Your health and wellbeing are more important"
"But what about the Commander? I doubt Hijikata-san would be happy if he found out I was resting during duty hours"
"I'll take care of him. Plus, I think he'd prefer you sleeping than messing up because you're exhausted"
"Hmm...I don't know, I feel like I can stay awake for a few more hours..."
"What good will that do anyone? Iie, just rest. Besides, I kept you up last night making out with you so it'll be me Hijikata-san shouts out if he gets mad"
"Are you sure?"
"I couldn't be more sure Chiyeko. Please rest"
"Okay...You win. I'll rest"
"Arigato" Heisuke lowered me into my futon and covered me with the blanket. "Sweet dreams Chiyeko" Heisuke gave me a quick peck on the lips before leaving. Unsurprisingly, I fell asleep quite quickly.

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