By the time Ayari and the child had fallen asleep, Shin finally came out of the room.
Night had already fallen. Kushina was still waiting for him in the living room, but Shin ignored her and went alone to the front courtyard to finish his remaining work.
At this hour, the clan grounds had grown much quieter. The staff had all left, leaving only Samui to keep Shin company.
The night outside grew darker and darker. Samui sat in a chair nearby, so sleepy she was nearly dozing off.
A sudden set of footsteps startled the drowsy Samui awake. She looked up and saw a servant delivering tea and pastries, then paused in slight surprise, because the person who had come was not Ayano.
"Samui, you can go home now." Shin's voice rang out at that moment.
"Yes, Lord Shin."
Samui bowed, turned, and withdrew. When she reached the door, she could not help glancing back at the red-haired woman standing beside Shin.
The office remained very quiet. Kushina did not dare interrupt Shin while he worked. After setting the tea on the desk, she stood silently to one side.
After reviewing the final document, Shin stretched lazily. A pair of slender, delicate hands reached over at just the right moment and gently kneaded his shoulders.
This woman was rather perceptive.
Shin thought to himself, closing his eyes and leaning back in his chair as he enjoyed her massage. From his shoulders to the top of his head, he felt her fine fingers slip through his hair, their cool touch against his scalp.
"Shin..." Kushina, standing behind him, could not help speaking up as she watched him rest with his eyes closed.
"Mm."
"You... promised me before that you'd make sure Minato and I stayed safe."
"Isn't he fine right