Rokuya felt a little ticklish from her poking, but he did not let go. He simply held her tightly, his chin resting on her hair as he breathed in the faint scent of wisteria on her.
"Nothing. I'm just happy." Rokuya's voice was low and gentle, carrying a rare hint of laughter.
Shinobu gradually stopped struggling. She was still muttering something under her breath, but her arms had unconsciously wrapped around Rokuya's waist.
Kanae sat opposite them, watching the heartwarming scene, and her smile grew even brighter.
She rested her chin in one hand, gazing gently at her younger sister and Rokuya. Her eyes were full of relief, with even a hint of teasing, and she thoroughly enjoyed watching them.
Steam from the hot pot filled the room. This peaceful, warm atmosphere was precisely what Rokuya had always longed to protect.
Rokuya released Shinobu and looked at her flushed cheeks, a smile curling his lips.
"Eat more meat. You're too thin." As he spoke, Rokuya picked up a large piece of beef and placed it in Shinobu's bowl.
Shinobu glared at him, picked up her chopsticks, and took a fierce bite of the beef.
"I can get it myself."
Kanae laughed softly. She picked up her chopsticks too and placed a piece of tofu in Rokuya's bowl.
"You should eat more too, Rokuya. Whatever major moves the Upper Ranks make, there's nothing to fear as long as we're together."
Rokuya nodded, picked up the tofu, and put it in his mouth. Outside the window, the bright moon hung high, and the Butterfly Mansion looked especially tranquil in the night. He would protect that tranquility completely with the blade in his hand.
Morning sunlight spilled into the courtyard of the Ubuyashiki Estate. A breeze stirred the wisteria, bringing a delicate