Genya's words brushed lightly across Kurenai Yuhi's heart, sending a shiver of tingling warmth through her along with an intense sense of embarrassment.
Yet they also stirred a secret thrill, the fluttering excitement of being utterly possessed and cherished.
Her cheeks burned scarlet, and she almost wanted to burrow beneath the covers.
"You... go to hell!"
All she could manage was that feeble curse before burying her face in the crook of his neck.
Genya laughed. He knew she had understood, and had felt the unquestionable declaration behind his words.
Kurenai stayed nestled against him for a while before suddenly remembering something and murmuring softly.
"You weren't... talking about... Asuma Sarutobi, were you?"
Genya raised an eyebrow, neither confirming nor denying it.
"Oh? Is he persistent?"
Kurenai recalled the Third Hokage's son. He had indeed shown clear interest in her once. He was easygoing and capable, too.
But she had never felt anything special for him. Later, he seemed to have realized that himself, and with missions keeping him busy, his interest had gradually faded.
She answered vaguely.
"I suppose... but that was all in the past."
"The past?"
Genya repeated the words, lifting her chin to make her look at him.
"Now and in the future, he has nothing to do with you. Remember that, Kurenai."
Kurenai looked at him, at the possessiveness and seriousness in his eyes, then nodded gently, her voice barely louder than a mosquito's buzz.
"...Mm."
Genya smiled, lowering his head to press a tobacco-scented kiss to her lips.
Kurenai walked into the bathroom on unsteady legs.
Water washed over her skin, carrying away some of her exhaustion while making her all the more aware of the marks that forceful young man had left on her.
She looked at her flushed face and the