Lin Ao had not expected Suzuki Masami to react like this.
"Masami, I didn't say I was going to abandon you."
Lin Ao gently hugged Suzuki Masami. Sasaki Nozomi, who had still been laughing her head off on the floor, stopped too. She stood up and likewise went over to hug Suzuki Masami.
"What I mean is, from now on, you can live the life you like, understand? A free and unfettered life, where you don't have to obey the Black Ferry Family's orders, don't have to obey my orders, and don't have to care about every word other people say."
Lin Ao spoke softly, then picked up Sasaki Nozomi and tossed her to the side.
Hugging is fine, but you still won't behave!
Suzuki Masami raised her head. Seeing Lin Ao right before her eyes, she realized she was being held by him and instantly broke free of his embrace.
"I'm sorry, Master, I..."
Dirty...
Suzuki Masami believed she was someone covered from head to toe in "filth," unworthy of enjoying Lin Ao's embrace.
Suzuki Masami lowered her head, her expression somewhat dim.
Lin Ao felt a wave of discomfort in his heart. He had seen Suzuki Masami's humility and her refusal to acknowledge her own worth.
He reached out again and pulled Suzuki Masami tightly into his arms.
"From now on, remember this. You are yourself, and you belong only to yourself."
Lin Ao whispered beside Suzuki Masami's ear.
Suzuki Masami's body trembled, and her tears flowed even more fiercely.
"Thank you, Master."
After a long while, she slowly raised her head, a resolute light flashing in her eyes.
"Exactly~ Masami, Master means he wants you to live the life you want. Of course, if you're willing to stay by our side forever, that's fine too."
Sasaki Nozomi