Ninja Love Story

Chapter 6

The next morning was extremely busy, but everyone was excited. The maids and I worked together to prepare the feast for the banquet. I was just finishing a second relish tray when Yoshitsune came to check on the meal.

"You sure are working hard there, Sheeta," he said with kind eyes. 

"Good morning, Yoshitsune," I greeted him with a smile. "Yes, I'm trying to. This is your party and I want it to be successful."

"Thank you for that. Tonight there will be a gather of nobles and samurai who wish to defeat the Heishi Clan. I'm sure the preparations are tough, but I'm really counting on you."

"Oh!," I said with wide eyes, "I'll do my best to come through for you then."

Yoshitsune laughed. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to put extra pressure on you." I smiled at him as I curled another relish. 

"Let me sample one of these," taking the one I had just placed on the tray, he placed it in his mouth. His eyes widened slightly, "It's delicious!" he exclaimed. "Yes... it has a gentle flavor. How suiting, considering you made it."

I felt relieved as he kindly complimented me. How wonderful! These will be perfect for the party then. 

"The important things to entertain guests are good food and drinks. And of course, beautiful flowers like yourself, Sheeta." Yoshitsune said, not taking his eyes off mine.

"B-Beautiful flower?! Oh you're much too kind, Yoshitsune!" I was completely flustered, never having been complimented so honestly before. 

"There's no need to be modest. You're actually more beautiful than any mere flower." He said with a tilt of his head and another smile.

Before I could thank him again for his compliments, Hanzo came in with a stern look. He doesn't look too pleased... Did something happen?

"Yoshitsune, before the banquet starts, there's something I must relay to you." Hanzo bowed as he addressed Yoshitsune.

"Yes Hanzo. What is it?"

Hanzo leaned in and whispered something in Yoshitsune's ear. I saw his brow furrow in thought for a moment, but the expression passed. I wonder if it's something I'm not supposed to hear...? In order to not to bother the two of them, I tried to quietly extricate myself from their presence. It didn't work.

"Sheeta." Yoshitsune said to me.

"Yes...?"

"Would you join us as a guest to this banquet?"

Of all the things I was expecting to hear, that wasn't one of them. I was hesitant to accompany them; I didn't want to embarrass anyone by my lack of memory. "Are you sure you would like me there...? Are you really okay with that?"

"Gatherings are much more cheerful and enjoyable with beautiful flowers." He bowed deeply to me. Hanzo stood there, staring into space, not paying any attention it seemed. "Tonight, would you be our flower?" asked Yoshitsune.

How could I say no to that? I gave him my warmest smile. "I would be delighted."

Yoshitsune straightened and took my hand, and placed a light kiss on my knuckles. He smiled once more at me, then turned and left the room.

Hanzo was staring at me intently, making me instantly nervous. "Umm...?" I said quietly. I never know what to do when he stares at me like this... "Are you alright...? I asked finally.

"Have you fallen for Yoshitsune?" he asked frankly.

Completely taken aback, I heard my voice hitch. "What are you talking about?!"