Archive of Our Own ^beta

In a metropolitan city where the density of its inhabitants was grand, the odds of running into past faces seemed unlikely.

But not impossible. 

The bustling square of Tokyo was already heaving with the morning rush of people going on with their lives. Traffic was at a standstill, the queues of citizens both in cars and on foot were at a bottleneck and yet, this was the norm.

It should have been impracticable to locate any familiar faces unless there was something distinctive about them, or they had a special presence in one's life prior.

For Sakura, it was both.

She found herself following the inescapable and vibrant head of red whilst she called back to her partners that she would meet them at the office. Something in her mind wouldn't relinquish the sight of the redhead whom had crossed her peripheral vision, all conversation falling to a standstill as she turned on her heels and pursued the individual.

Sakura was completely aware that this did border inappropriate, and it would undoubtedly be so if she was wrong, but she had to make sure.

So she picked up her speed, the fresh spring air sweeping around her, the cherry blossoms from the trees lining the park opposite floating with it.

Just a few more steps and Sakura had managed to close the distance between them before she called out, knowing that she would be heard this time.

"Mikura?".

The figure in front of Sakura stopped abruptly as people walked around her to continue with their journey, unaware of the one about to commence for these two women.

Slowly, the individual turned and faced Sakura.

That insouciant expression Mikura wore was as prevalent as ever but as soon as it dawned on Mikura as to whom she was looking at, a flicker of recognition ignited in her eyes.

"Sakura".

Sakura was relieved that she had been right and more so, how she had been remembered. It gave her the incentive to step closer to Mikura but not too much as if to cloister her.

She smiled, "It has been a while".

The redhead nodded curtly, "5 years to be exact. I guess that does count as a while".

Technically, it had been 10 years since they'd left Hyakkaou but any contact with Mikura had vanished in the last 5.

"Straight to the point as always" Sakura replied.

"I'm running late so I have to leave now. It was good to see you".

The tone indicated it was said more of a pleasantry as opposed to something she actually meant.

Mikura's entire countenance seemed off the more Sakura looked at her. She wasn't expecting this much hostility since they parted Hyakkaou on good terms and kept in close contact after.

But 5 years without any communication was a long time and who knew what had changed, for both of them.

Something stirred in Sakura's stomach which is why she reached out and stopped Mikura from leaving, "Wait a moment".

Mikura appeared listless, her long red hair fluttering with the breeze, "Yes?".

Sakura moved closer, enough so that Mikura had to look up at her.

"Is there any chance we can talk, Mikura? You disappeared with Sachiko after the last gathering 5 years ago and we never heard from you".

The mention of Sachiko seemed to detonate something in the redhead as Mikura's indifference shifted to vexation. Sakura had seen this look before but it was usually aimed at anyone who spoke ill of Sachiko.

"So? It isn't like my life revolves around her. Is that why you chased after me? Because she asked you to?".

Sakura was taken aback by the outburst and clearly Mikura hadn't intended to say anything, her eyes widening. She retreated immediately, her breathing laboured like that tirade had taken everything out of her.

Carefully, Sakura went to place her hand on Mikura's shoulder just so that she could position them out of the way as their discussion was attracting attention.

Mikura slapped her hand away before she could do so, "Don't touch me".

"I'm sorry" Sakura said immediately and removed her arm away, her mind working by the second to figure out what on earth was going on, "I wanted to move us to the side since we've gathered a bit of an audience".

Glancing around, Mikura had realised that Sakura was correct as the judgemental eyes of the onlookers were focused on them. The horrendous morning she had been having seemed to be reaching its peak and the exhaustion she was masked in continued to suffocate her. She quickly moved to the side and to the path which overlooked the river, taking the opportunity to collect her thoughts.

It wasn't as if the state of her life was Sakura's fault.

When Sakura walked towards her, Mikura apologised, "I didn't meant to snap at you, Sakura. Sorry".

"That is okay" Sakura brushed away, "Are you alright?".

"Just tired. You know how life can get".

"Yes, but are you sure that's all it is?".

"Hm? Oh, I'm sure".

Mikura didn’t elaborate more than that but the faraway smile unnerved Sakura.

If it was possible, Mikura seemed smaller than ever.

While she was as resplendent as Sakura recalled her being, there was an aura which seemed to be physically and mentally draining her. Her face was gaunt, like she was hardly eating and the subtle make up just about masked the sullen eyelids. Now stood closer, the sclera of Mikura's eyes were almost as red as her hair and there was an emptiness to her irises unlike anything she had ever seen before. 

All the alarm bells were ringing in Sakura's head and she could tell Mikura was looking for a way to cut this conversation short and leave.

Given her work attire, she must have been running late and the sentiments applied to herself as well.

Sakura wasn't willing to lose contact with Mikura again, however, "Okay. I don't want to keep you any longer but I do want to see you again. Your old number stopped working so may I have the new one, please?".

"How do you know it stopped?".

"I have tried on occasion to call after you disappeared, just on the chance that it was a faulty line or service".

This wasn't what Mikura was expecting to hear and yet, there was no deceit in Sakura's words or her countenance.

The intensity in her blue eyes had remained, added to her already sculpted features which had amplified over the years. She was just as striking as Mikura remembered, finding herself unable to look away

Why would Sakura want to keep in touch with her?

The notion baffled Mikura and she was so tempted to decline, to spare herself the trouble of being discarded again.

She couldn't handle anymore.

Yet, despite all the voices in her head warning her, Mikura found herself retrieving her phone from her skirt pocket, "Since you seem insistent" she murmured.

Sakura was concerned Mikura would decline so she smiled when the redhead agreed and exchanged her information with Mikura.

"Thank you" she said and took her phone back from Mikura's hand.

Mikura shrugged it off, "It's fine. Anyway, I really have to go now".

"Of course. It's good to see you, Mikura".

Again, Mikura found herself questioning the validity of that statement and again, there was nothing but veracity in what was said.

Sakura had always confounded her in many ways, at least that was consistent.

She wasn't sure what to say so she settled with, "You too. I have to go now" she added and stepped back before giving Sakura an unreadable look, "Goodbye".

Before Sakura could say anything, Mikura had left, her steps hurried and bag clutching to her side.

She wondered why Mikura would say that as her departing word as she watched the woman go. So many thoughts rallied in Sakura's brain, the positives of seeing Mikura again mixing with the negatives of her strange behaviour.

The outburst regarding Sachiko was particularly disconcerting, for that anger to be directed at her.

Mikura turned a corner and was now out of Sakura's sight but that was only temporary as Sakura had ever intent in seeing her again.

This entire conversation would plague her mind for the rest of the day.

The inner monologue surrounding Mikura's mind was similar, expect with more regrets.

Such as why she had to run into Sakura of all people, why she gave her number, why she wanted to break down in front of her.

Her heart was hammering in her chest as she approached a rundown building which housed several offices. The location was isolated and dreary, even by Japan's standards which was a given since the area was underfunded and ignored. Letting these offices was cheaper because of the conditions and risks.

Mikura stopped outside of the unit at the end and caught her breath while she opened the door to the cramped office, greeted by the employees who worked for her.

The only thing indicating to the remnants of the Sado empire was a sign outside the wall of the office entrance and one hanging from the ceiling near the reception area.

It wasn't much, but at least it still existed.

Mikura walked past her staff, the loyal few whom had chosen to remain in spite of the company's ruin and pay cuts till she made it to her office and closed the door, leaning back on it. 

What was left of the Sado business was clinching on by the seams and Mikura was desperately trying to keep it together after the deceit she had suffered, as well as the losses.

But each day was weighing on her and leaching off of her in every way.

She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to muffle the sob which was dying to escape as her wrists and arms burned underneath the material of her blazer.

It was just another day, nothing would change.

***

Mikura hadn't been expecting to hear from Sakura and it was a detail which perplexed Sakura when the redhead had confessed this, though she could understand Mikura's reasoning.

"So that is why you said goodbye".

The fork in Mikura's hand carefully moved around some of the food on her plate, her eyes glued to the arrangement as she answered.

"They are usually things that people say. 'We should meet soon' or 'Let's keep in touch'. At least, it's what I have seen so honestly, when you texted me, I thought I was imagining it".

"Well, you're not wrong about those sentiments being more of a platitude" Sakura agreed, "But I'd like to think you know me well enough to know that I don't make false promises".

Mikura met Sakura's eyes, the lights of the restaurant making them coruscant, bringing out the dash of grey in them. She had always mused on how Sakura had such lovely eyes and evidently that hadn't changed.

"I suppose you always were a woman of your word. People change and we've not spoken in years. For all I know, you did mean it is a platitude and were being polite but obviously I was wrong".

Had Mikura always been this distrustful of others?

The thought ran through Sakura's mind as the hum of the others in the restaurant reverberated around them.

Sakura opted to pick a casual location which was both comfortable and open since Mikura could only meet her on a Saturday evening. They'd met outside the establishment despite Sakura insisting that she could pick the redhead up but Mikura reiterated on just meeting her there. At least she seemed less on edge than their first encounter, though this wasn't to say Mikura was completely relaxed and Sakura wanted to assuage her.

"I do apologise if it seemed like I was pushing you to see me, Mikura. If that's the case, then-".

Mikura shook her head, her blue eyes meeting Sakura's, "No, it isn't that. I just haven't seen anyone from the past in a while. Let alone you".

"Was it that unsuspecting?".

"Kind of? I assume you're a busy woman considering your family" Mikura shrugged, "With an organisation the size of yours, you taking the time to actually see me or even text me is surprising. I'm not exactly worth your time".

So much self-deprecating in the space of the 30 minutes they had been here and Sakura's worry was augmenting. While she wanted to get into the depths of what had happened over the last 5 years, she was careful to avoid it for now, lest she led Mikura to having another outburst.

She took a sip of her water since she was driving, "I should hope that me being here has proven otherwise".

It was certainly more than Mikura had been anticipating, letting her gaze wonder over the other woman dressed in a blouse and skirt, attracting the gaze over everyone around her.

"You know, Sakura, it did make me wonder if you chased down every red headed woman you saw" Mikura managed to quip, earning a chuckle from Sakura.

"Not quite. That aside, your red hair is very distinct" Sakura pointed out, taking in the longer locks in a low ponytail and to the side.

"Distinct?".

"In a word, yes. Maybe it was the case of myself being used to it, like the shade and so on. You're a difficult woman to forget".

To this, Mikura could only smile, but it was malefic and for Sakura to see it took her aback.

"Oh, it's possible. This much was proven".

The cryptic sentences further rattled Sakura as Mikura tugged at the sleeve of her own blouse, her fingernails now free of the dark blue shade, along with the accessory it matched.

Sakura wasn't sure how to continue with the conversation and the food was tasting more acrid by the second. Mikura had barely touched her own plate and whenever she ate, it felt like she was forcing the forkful of food down.

Mikura sipped from her glass as a distraction when realising how vague she was being and yet, Sakura hadn't pushed her so she decided, against her better judgement, to bring up the snake in the room. 

"You..want to ask about her, right?".

Her voice had quieted more so than it usually was to a level where Sakura had to read Mikura's lips.

"And about the last 5 years?".

"I do" Sakura said, not wanting to cloud Mikura's mind with esoteric responses, "But whether you wish to tell me is completely up to you. The last thing I want is to upset like I did when we first met again" she reassured, her eyes looking at Mikura's hand, the nails almost brittle.

She had a sickening feeling that Mikura's mentality may be of the same structure considering what she had seen so far.

So she pressed on, her commanding voice softening for Mikura, always for her, "If you want to tell me, I am more than willing to listen, Mikura, and should you not want to, then we can move on from this conversation".

"You really are still the same in so many ways" Mikura couldn't help but to comment, her hands going beneath to table, "Considerate".

Sakura wanted to ask if there was something wrong in being such a way but she had to remind herself who she was talking to.

Considerate was probably a foreign concept to a woman who had been paraded around on a leash and chain.

In a way, Sakura wanted to avoid any topic regarding Sachiko but talking to Mikura and not having her existence rerouted back to Sachiko was impossible.

"I can firmly say it is a trait I will not be rid of" she instead replied with, "So, it truly is up to you as to where this conversation goes".

Sakura had made this concise the moment they had stepped into the restaurant, keeping the conversation as neutral as possible.

If Sakura was willing to meet her halfway, then Mikura could try and push herself to do the same.

At the very least, Sakura deserved an explanation since she hadn't given up on trying to reach her and this thought lingered in Mikura's mind.

Perhaps there was a reason why Sakura had managed to walk back into her life because prior to this, Mikura was completely alone.

If Sakura was offering to listen, Mikura would try to utilise it.

Besides, it turned out that Sakura had been right about Sachiko.

"You usually referred to her as tasteless".

Sakura stood by that, "I did".

"You were right".

The admission caught Sakura off guard again.

For Mikura to be conceding to an insult directed at Sachiko?

It was surreal and Sakura's expression mirrored her internal thoughts because Mikura chuckled.

"Never thought you would hear me agree with you?".

"No, it would be easier for you to admit that you like Mary than speak ill of Sachiko".

"A fair comparison" the redhead scoffed, averting Sakura's eyes as the woman waited for an explanation.

One even she couldn't process to this day.

"I should have seen it coming, I guess. She was growing bored of me by the time we left Hyakkaou. So for her to leave me was bound to happen soon enough. I just didn't think she would do what she did".

Sakura noticed how Mikura avoided saying Sachiko's name, and now it made sense.

Her heart felt pinched at the array of emotions flashing over Mikura's face and she could tell how much control it was taking to remain calm.

Sakura couldn't believe that Sachiko had left Mikura.

Apologising felt facetious and she knew Mikura wouldn't want that either.

But it seemed like only the start of the story Sachiko had weaved around Mikura.

The parable Mikura would spill would be enough to shake someone like Sakura.

Everything which had happened had commenced 5 years ago, the point where Mikura had cut contact with everyone.

Sakura would find out that slowly but surely, this was Sachiko's doing.

First Naoko and Hakou, followed by Mary, then Sakura.

Sachiko precluded Mikura from contacting them, getting rid of her phone which had their details and replacing it with one she could monitor and would routinely check the device to ensure Mikura wasn't calling anyone.

It wasn't as if Mikura hadn't realised what Sachiko was doing and the hopeful part of her simply reasoned that this was Sachiko's way of keeping her close, so that they could be together without any outside influences.

Telling herself this was easier to admit than convincing her mind that Sachiko was going to wound her and leave her bleeding.

And when she did plunge the metaphorical knife into Mikura's heart, it was brutish, violent and twisted.

The extent of Sachiko's manipulation was revealed when she targeted the Sado business to obtain the debt Mikura owed her and through blackmail and coercion of Mikura's parents, she was able to retrieve the full amount through the mulcted means.

This left the business almost depleted of all funds and what was left, Mikura's parents liquidated and disappeared with after disowning her. They held her accountable for their fate and the fact that their own disreputable history was discovered by Sachiko.

Sachiko had orchestrated everything effortlessly to ensure that Mikura would be thrown off of the ledge, without anyone to catch her.

She severed any potential support Mikura could have sought, isolating her presence to a point where Mikura could have been a spectre.

She had turned Mikura's family against her, destroying what was left of their tenuous relationship to begin with.

Mikura was alone and that was exactly when Sachiko had left her to pick up the pieces.

Pieces that Mikura was barely gluing back together to this day, the shards cutting her fingers in the process.

This all occurred 3 years ago, when Sachiko had washed her hands off of Mikura.

It was Mikura's quick thinking and tenacity to exist which kept her from digging beyond rock bottom, barely hanging onto salvaging what she could which brought her journey to the present day.

She had sold the Sado estate and used the funds from that to save what she could of the business, clinging onto old contacts which she had to agree to deals that didn't always alight in her favour.

So long as the business remained afloat, even if the possibility of bankruptcy lingered around it on a day to day basis.

The downsizing of the office, the pay cuts of the few employees, the diligent monitoring of every yen which was incoming and outgoing.

Mikura was responsible for it all.

And the ones culpable for her downfall escaped unscathed, leaving the pressures and burdens on the scapegoat.

By the time Mikura had concluded the unconscionable timeline of events which had transpired since they had last spoken, Sakura had gotten up and rounded the table to sit next to Mikura. She was cautious to not get too close but she wanted the woman to know that she was here.

"So, you were right, Sakura" Mikura sighed, facing Sakura slightly, "She is tasteless".

Everything had connected together as to why Mikura seemed so worn out, so jumpy and just utterly defeated.

Sakura had just about managed to conceal her rage at what Sachiko and Mikura's parents had done, the stages of their disingenuous habits, the heinous nature of their behaviour.

They had left Mikura high and dry.

This time, an apology was required and it wouldn't be courteous or polite, just honest.

Sakura exhaled lightly and held Mikura's gaze, impressed by how well the younger woman was keeping it together because she  herself was on the cusp of releasing her frustrations.

"We should have known something had happened" Sakura said, voice rigid, "I should have known. I am so sorry you had to endure what she did, Mikura, I truly am. It was unusual for you to just stop responding the way you did and that itself should have been a sign".

Mikura tucked back a strand of her hair behind her shoulder, mulling over Sakura's countenance and words.

It felt unusual to see it, the care, the guilt, directed at her.

"You don't need to apologise for what she did" she replied, "By the time I realised what she was planning, it was too late. In a twisted way, I deserve it".

"No, you don't" Sakura stated, tone defiant, "Nobody deserves this, let alone you. She took advantage of your reliance on her, boxed you in".

'Maybe. But I'm not innocent in all of this, I let her do it".

"Because you thought she loved you".

Mikura gulped lightly and pulled at the napkin on her lap, "I'm a fool, right?".

"We have all done senseless things for those we thought loved us like we did them".

Her hands stilled while her eyes met Sakura's, knowing full well as to whom Sakura was referring to.

There was a softness in her gaze when Mikura looked at her, an understanding gleaming over the surface of her cornea.

Sakura was the last person who would judge her, especially when it came to matters of the heart.

"So, no, it isn't foolish" she added, "There is a list of people who fit such a definition in your life, that's about it. You are still here, fighting for something that in your circumstance, shouldn't be standing after what they did. If anything, it is remarkable when it comes to your perseverance".

Mikura had always found the expression, kill them with kindness, to be ridiculous but at this moment, there was definitely some credence to it.

For 3 years she has had to remain stony, emotionless and guarded.

Yet, Sakura had managed to break the defences down with those words alone and Mikura was struggling to keep herself composed. So adjusted to being denigrated and used, Sakura's kindness felt anomalous, like it would hurt her.

And such sentiments had hurt her so Mikura forced herself to not allow her armour to be pierced, not yet.

"There was no choice but to be this way" Mikura shrugged away, hoping she hadn't exposed too much vulnerability to Sakura, "So, this sums up what has happened since we last spoke, Sakura. I can guarantee you weren't expecting all of this".

"No" Sakura answered with a shake of her head, "That would be an understatement. If anything, the only positive aspect I can take from what you have said is that you're here and we won't have to lose touch again".

This had Mikura sceptical, a red brow raising, "You still want to keep in contact?".

"I would like to but if you would rather we didn't, then I will not make you" Sakura stressed.

"I appreciate you saying so" Mikura said genuinely, pausing for a moment, "It..is good to see you again".

Something she did mean as the isolation Sachiko had caused contributed to wearing out her mind. The fact that this was the most honest conversation she had had with someone since her ordeal began still felt incomprehensible.

That Sakura was actually here, willing to be here.

It eased the pain, if only a minuscule amount, to remember what it felt like to be treated like a human being.

Sakura smiled, charmed by the woman's reserved admittance, "The feeling is mutual" she said, "This won't happen again, Mikura. You won't have to be cut off from us in such a manner".

"Wishful thinking" Mikura smirked.

"No, a guarantee".

The determination in those three words had Mikura unprepared, as did the way Sakura's eyes were set, ensuring this.

And in the recesses of Mikura's barricaded and tattered mind, she allowed a sliver of hope to sprout.

Once they were done with the meal, the two women had opted to go for a walk around the neighbourhood as they were immersed in conversation which seemed to flow easier now.

Every so often, Sakura would notice Mikura tug at the sleeve of her coat and she could tell that the woman wasn't aware of the fact that she was doing it.

"Are you cold?" she enquired, "We can head back inside somewhere if you would prefer?".

Mikura realised now as to how Sakura was looking at her hand tugging on her sleeve so she quickly forced herself to stop the action and buried her hands into her pockets instead.

"It isn't too cold so I don’t mind walking around" she insisted, waving off Sakura's concern with a small smile, "I haven't done this in a while".

"If you are sure" Sakura nodded, accepting the change in subject, not without a scintilla of sadness creeping in.

Mikura had missed out on too much and she could only begin to imagine the comprehensive list.

So they walked on together, watching the streetlights illuminate the darkening skies as the feeling of winter being left behind lingered.

The conversation shifted to Sakura's life which was as bustling as Mikura had expected but Sakura also had her own daedal trials to deal with.

"After my father passed away 2 years ago, I took over fully. My mother is currently not of well health either so I am trying to balance these aspects".

Mikura was saddened by the news and looked up at Sakura, "I'm sorry for your loss, Sakura, and about your mother's health. It must be difficult for you with so much going on".

She couldn't help but to wonder if Sakura had tried to contact her after the loss of her father too and Mikura knew the answer, much to her dismay.

What if Sachiko had been aware and not told her?

Mikura shook the thoughts away, not putting it beyond the woman to do this.

That aside, she wanted to comfort Sakura and she didn’t require Sachiko's odious presence to ruin that.

"Thank you" Sakura smiled, "There wasn't much time to grieve but we are managing. It's an odd feeling to this day but we do what we can to continue".

"It is the only way to move on" Mikura agreed, "Even though it feels impossible some days".

"And the temptation to just give up becomes more alluring?".

They looked at each other with understanding, a soft smile on their lips.

The two did have more of a camaraderie than would have been noticed upon first glance and their formative years had enhanced it prior to Sachiko cutting Mikura off.

Mikura couldn't envision Sakura giving up in any of her endeavours but considering the grief she had been subjected to, it was understandable.

"Tempting is definitely one word for it" Mikura said as they crossed onto a path heading towards the car park, "I feel like you wouldn't have a choice about it either".

"Maybe that is for the best" the other woman replied, "We are both here, aren't we?".

"It does feel like a silver lining".

Sakura smirked, "Try saying that with more enthusiasm, Mikura".

"Any more enthusiasm and the city will be covered in it" Mikura quipped back, "but I do mean it".

Sakura could hear the veracity in the quiet admittance and she couldn't draw her eyes away from Mikura.

As unfavourable and arduous as their lives had been, this moment was a much needed reprieve.

More so for Mikura, this much Sakura knew.

Sachiko's deception, the extent of it hadn't settled in yet but she was determined in keeping an eye on Mikura now, unwilling to allow her to fall again.

And engaging in this relaxed meander around the settling city was an apt start.

Reunited again, they would now have the time to continue building those bridges which had been unfairly burned out.

With night falling, Sakura had managed to convince Mikura to let her drop her off to her home.

While the city could be fairy-tale like in its scenic value, it didn’t make it any safer for a woman to amble through, especially at night.

The days will still too short and dawn set sooner than preferred which was the focal point of where their conversation turned.

"It's better this way to save costs" Mikura stated as Sakura followed the address on the sat nav, "Which is another reason why I'm glad that spring is here but if I stay late, I'll take the car".

"I can see logic in that, public transport would be relatively safer during the longer days and driving during the shorter would be better for then. How far is the distance between your office and home?".

Mikura was leaning her cheek in her palm, her elbow resting near the door, "It's an hour transit".

Calculating the time left on the sat nav, Sakura hummed in thought as the distance was similar.

"It's necessary" Mikura added, having an inkling as to what Sakura was thinking, "At least for now until the business is secured financially and then things can change and I can focus on more improvements".

Again, Sakura was astounded by how pragmatic Mikura was being, making sacrifices and planning ahead at this scope. To be knocked down the way she had been had evidently left its scars but sat next to her was a woman who refused to those responsible for them win.

She must have been wandering off in her thoughts on this as Mikura called out to her once they had stopped at the lights.

"What is it?".

Sakura snapped out of her daze and focused ahead once the light turned green, "I'm just in awe" she smiled, "After everything you have been through, you haven't let it slow you down. Even in those moments you wanted to give up. It's beyond laudable, Mikura".

"Not really" Mikura muttered, blushing slightly as she stared ahead but could see Sakura still smiling from her peripheral vision, "You would do the same".

"I would, I won't deny that" she agreed and turned into a slightly wooded area to see a cottage, "You did this alone, that's the difference so it is admirable. Are we here?".

The evening sky had highlighted the location in a way it seemed ethereal, the rustic but well kept cottage being enhanced like a silhouette. Fields of greenery surrounded the home while on the left side, a forest was in the midst of blooming again. Sakura could see the reflection of a stream cutting through in front of the property which led into the forest. Paved with white marble, the main path up to the cottage was lined with stones and potted plants. She could see Mikura's car parked up at the side of the building which passed over a stone bridge. 

In a word, it was idyllic. 

Sakura was mesmerised by the sight as her gaze roamed over the land, a sense of something serene hovering over her.

"Yes, this is it. A downgrade from the drafty mansion but definitely homely" Mikura said fondly as they parked up outside the gate, "And I wasn't technically alone. This house was part of the inheritance my grandmother left me, along with money".

"Your grandmother?".

"From my mother's side" Mikura elaborated, "It was the reason why I could sell the mansion. She kept it aside from my parents and once I was old enough, I had access to it. I always found it strange how she told me not to mention this to my parents but after what happened, it made sense".

"She knew your parents were capable of abandoning you".

It was a disheartening statement and Mikura's wan smile reiterated it as she looked over the peaceful landscape.

"I wonder what that must have felt like for her. To know that her own daughter was capable of doing something like this. But the more you dig around your parents past, the more disturbing information you discover. Information which could be used by other twisted individuals".

Sakura sifted through the additional history Mikura shared with her whilst taking in the woman's profile.

If Mikura's parents were as contemptible as they were, especially in regards to their treatment of Mikura, there were a lot of pieces adding up.

Particularly her attraction to vitriolic woman like Sachiko.

"That is a reflection of them, not you".

Gently, Sakura placed her hand on Mikura's shoulder, unable to not want to offer some form of comfort.

When Mikura froze however, she quickly moved her hand back, "I'm sorry".

Mikura grabbed Sakura's wrist and faced her, "No, that wasn't your fault. I just.." she sighed, "My time with her..".

"You don't have to say anymore".

Those broken sentences were enough to reference Sachiko's egregious treatment and it was another dagger of guilt burrowing into Sakura's chest. She didn't draw her hand away, letting Mikura decided what she wanted to do and whether she was ready for the physical comfort.

"When I think about it, about everything that has happened, it really is payback for my own treatment of people. I was exactly like her during my first year at Hyakkaou, I made others into house pets".

"Mikura, it will feel that way but let me tell you, this isn't the case. It was one thing to do what you did in order to survive, it's another thing to enjoy it like she did".

Sakura placed her other hand over Mikura's on her wrist, her fingers resting over Mikura's as the woman looked up into her eyes.

"The past is the past. You are not the same person and you most certainly don't deserve this, okay?".

Mikura exhaled, her breath shaky, emotions bubbling and with every second spent with Sakura, the wall she had built meticulously continued to tumble down, brick by brick.

"How do I get myself to believe that?" she whispered, "Everything she said about me, how I will be left alone and how leaving me was her freedom the night she left. It never stops".

Sakura seethed at knowing that Sachiko wasn't content in ruining Mikura's life, but had to get one more laugh in there before kicking Mikura to the curb.

An abhorrent woman.

Slowly, Mikura found herself leaning towards Sakura's shoulder after letting her hand go. Sakura waited a moment to see if this was something Mikura wanted, giving her time as her emotions erupted. Just watching the cautious action of her moving and observing her shoulder made Sakura wince, feeling the other woman's apprehension. 

Like she would attack her or shake her away.

Sakura couldn't envision such a concept so when Mikura finally rested her chin on her shoulder, the older woman felt her own heart steady.

She then carefully wrapped her arms behind Mikura, turning in her seat further till she could hold the sobbing woman properly.

Sakura looked out to the one place Mikura had left whilst running her hand up and down the redhead's back.

"Because she was wrong and even if those thoughts won't stop now, they will one day. I'll be here with you to make sure of that. You have my word, Mikura".

***

Mikura's eyes were growing bleary as the light from her laptop added to the discomfort she was feeling in her head.

She blinked rapidly in an effort to disperse the heaviness of her eyelids as she glanced to the corner of the screen to check the time, the numbers making her groan and place her face in her palms.

It was almost 10:00 pm and she had been at the office since 8:00 am.

With the fragility of another deal to tide over the company, Mikura was working over time, long after she had sent the rest of her employees home. If she could clinch this deal, it would ease the financial strain eminently so she would pour all of her efforts into finalising it.

As well as the coffee which she was running low on.

She sat back on her chair, closing her eyes just to rest them for a moment as the windows of her office allowed in the creeping night. The tranquillity was a blend of welcoming and jarring, especially in such a remote location like this but Mikura had adjusted and taken the necessary safety precautions, like ensuring the doors and windows were locked.

The woman knew she had to call it a night, lest she fell asleep behind the wheel but the small comforts of solitude weren't as lonely anymore.

Not since Sakura had managed to find her way back into her life.

The two had been meeting the past month whenever possible, along with communicating via phone.

It was an inexplicable experience for Mikura again.

But not an unwelcoming one so when her phone began to ring, it shook away the haze of her potential slumber. Her hand reached out, Sakura's name lighting up on the screen, along with luring a soft smile from Mikura's lips.

How long had it been since she had genuinely smiled?

One that wasn't for her employees, or for clients and partners?

It felt like a vague memory from 5 years ago and Mikura felt like she was out of practice but with Sakura, a semblance of the positive aspects of her personality were beginning to sprout.

She answered the call, being greeted with Sakura's comforting tone and concern blended into one, "Are you still at the office, Mikura?".

"Maybe?" Mikura replied wryly.

"Sounds like a yes to me".

"If I outright said yes, you'd get mad".

"And the maybe wouldn't result in the same?".

Mikura grinned, "Well, it worked since you aren't yelling at me".

"I would never do that, regardless of if I was angry or not" the woman stated and Mikura could hear the subtle indignation.

"I know, I was just teasing" Mikura offered apologetically.

Sakura wasn't Sachiko and the trauma the latter had caused was something Mikura was still trying to sift through, humour being one of those means, as well as another particular method for an outlet she had found.

She stood up and went to the cabinet on the other side of the room, collecting a bottle and glass before returning back to her seat.

"You always did have an interesting sense of humour" Sakura chuckled, sensing something off and tried to distract Mikura, "How was your day?".

"Hm, busy" the redhead replied whilst unscrewing the cap with one hand and pouring herself a drink.

"Coffee at this hour? It must have been hectic".

Mikura froze, the glass reaching her lips, "Was your hearing always that good?".

"When one had the role I did at Hyakkaou, it was required" Sakura reminded.

"Okay, that makes sense. Nobody could get on the wrong side of you, could they?".

"Not exactly. There was a particular and peculiar girl who had the gall to trick me into doing unscrupulous things to topple blonde haired transfer students" she jested.

Mikura laughed at that as the alcohol passed her lips, her eyes focusing on the amber liquid being highlighted by the screen light.

"She did do that, didn't she?".

"You might be familiar with her".

"I hope not, at least not anymore" Mikura said wistfully, "She did a lot of stupid things for the wrong person".

"Mikura, we both did" Sakura reassured, her mellow voice travelling down Mikura's nerves comfortably, "The past is the past, remember? And, should you know, I'm glad you reached out to me, even then. I think it allowed us to get closer despite our goals".

"Sounds like another silver lining to me".

"We seem to be filled with those".

Mikura could see Sakura's gentle expression, the curve of her lips, the hazy glow in her light eyes and the softness in them.

It was unnerving as to how much she had missed seeing Sakura like that, or at all.

Mikura didn't know if Sachiko had a methodology in who she cut out from her life and what order but Sakura was the last one, the one which stung the most.

She tried not to overthink it and sipped her drink before placing it back down on her desk.

Mikura had refrained from drinking in front of Sakura whenever they met, for both of their sakes and while she wasn't quite at the limit of it becoming a problem, she was dangerously close.

"Is that okay for you?".

"That they're just linings?".

"I should have been more specific" Mikura chuckled, "I mean, you're making all this time for me even though you have so much to do".

Sakura had grown familiar to Mikura insecurities over the last month and this was a pivotal one, her not being worthy of someone's time.

"This is more than okay for me, Mikura. I'll tell you that as often as you need to hear it" she confirmed, "I know it might not be easy for you to believe me but I will say it whenever".

"You're still too kind for your own good, Sakura".

"Maybe I am" the woman replied without any regret or hesitancy.

Something Mikura was grateful for, "Thank you".

It was easier to ignore the call of the drink with Sakura around to distract her, especially when she was feeling as lethargic as she was.

Throughout it all, Sakura remained on call with her.

From locking up, to heading to her car, to the drive home.

It wasn't as lonely as it used to be.

***

Sakura flagged Mary down when the blonde stepped into the cafe that they had decided to meet at during Mary's lunch break.

She walked up to the table and almost slumped down as Sakura smiled sympathetically, "Rough morning?".

"Every morning is like that at this point. Ririka is too lenient and that idiot sister of hers is an idiot" Mary grumbled and pulled the coffee towards her which Sakura had ordered, "Thanks for this".

Mary chugged down half in the hopes it would drown out the idiocy of the morning and wake her up. Thankfully, Sakura had ordered her a strong variation, the bitterness giving her a much needed jolt away.

If only she could have added a dash of some heavy duty narcotics.

"You're welcome" Sakura chuckled, "I can only imagine the chaos it must be working with them".

"Chaos..understatement of the century" Mary sighed, "Anyway, forget about them for the time being. What's going on, Sakura? It sounded pretty urgent over the phone? Everything okay?".

With Mikura's permission, Sakura was now able to notify those close to them about Mikura's reappearance. Understandably, the woman was being extra cautious as to whom she contacted and let back into her life.

She refused to make those mistakes again.

So being able to tell Mary was definitely a start.

"I found Mikura".

The blonde's eyes widened as she leaned forward, "Wait, what? When? Where the hell has she been?".

Hell wouldn't have been a far off example when taking into account what Mikura had endured.

Sakura relayed the events of what had transpired, only sharing the details Mikura was comfortable with. It was better this way as Mikura herself could answer any questions Mary had directly, especially when it came to the details.

Mary listened on with rapt attention and her reaction was similar to how Sakura herself had reacted when Mikura had revealed what had happened.

Just with more profanities and censuring.

"Juraku really fucked her over, didn't she" Mary said, her fingers tapping on the table in frustration, "How the hell could she do that to someone who fucking literally worshipped the ground she walked on? I don't get it".

Sakura had wondered that since the very beginning, "It is Juraku's nature. But just like you, I was disturbed by how far she went to hurt Mikura..it's unfathomable".

Mikura's sudden disappearance had confounded Mary too as she and Sakura often confided in each other as to what could have happened. So to hear of the winding paths Sachiko had gone to in order to practically hold Mikura captive was sickening.

"It was blind luck that you spotted her, better than blind faith though" Mary said, "Imagine it didn't end up that way. How is she holding up?".

"I dread to think that too" Sakura admitted and stirred the spoon in her cup, not even wanting to ponder on that split second of a seeing a flash of red being missed, "As for how she is holding up, I'm relieved to say she is doing well, all things considering. Compared to when I first saw her, there has been a drastic change in the last couple of months. Enough for her to want to get in touch with you and the others".

"Working that Miharutaki magic?" Mary grinned.

Sakura smiled  at the blonde's jocular expression, "Is that what you're calling it?".

"Hey, I've seen it and it is fucking magic" Mary winked before becoming serious again, her features pensive, "Jokes aside, I'm glad that you've been there for her. After all that shit and being alone, who knows what else she has been putting up with".

"I feel like there is a lot more, excluding the strain Juraku has inflicted on her. But she isn't alone anymore, that's the main thing so it will be a positive boost for her to know we hadn't thrown her away".

"Unlike that asshole" Mary scoffed, "So, what happened with her family business? Please tell me she had something left after their fuck up?".

Sakura went onto explain how Mikura had been managing to keep her business and family name afloat, barely.

As expected, Mary too was shocked at how resilient Mikura had been to do what she had done. But she was also concerned when Sakura mentioned the weight of the strain which was almost visible on Mikura wherever she was with her.

"She immediately refused my help to contribute towards the financial side".

"I don't blame her" the blonde mused and took a bite of her lunch, pausing, "Her entire financial situation has been tied to other people, people who have screwed her over and left her with hardly anything. Mikura isn't gonna want to put herself in that position again, even if it's us offering to help".

"The trust is gone".

"Exactly. So, the direct approach won't work".

Sakura had expected as much and recalled the conversation with Mikura and the woman's polite yet vehement rejection of her help. There was a fight in Mikura's blue eyes, something primal almost and it was another insight as to how much damage had been caused to her.

The redhead's trust of other's was essentially non-existent now and it was miraculous that she had let Sakura in as much as she had.

Sakura knew it would take time and she would be with Mikura as the woman worked through it, regardless of the duration of the healing process.

If she could help Mikura attain some security at the very least, Sakura would hope to be able to provide it without encroaching on Mikura's independence.

"I can't leave things as they are. The location she is at is unsafe, Mary".

"What are you thinking?".

"I think she would be willing to accept help so long as we don't make her feel like she has no other choice" Sakura divulged, "I have the contacts, I just need her to accept them. Once that happens, Mikura has full control over what is discussed and I will stay back unless she asks for me".

Mary nodded in agreement, "That might be the best way for it. Considering what you've told me, it wouldn't take much to secure her business since she has basically done the ground work".

"Precisely, which is why all I would be doing is offering some additional contacts and nothing more".

"Want me to talk to her?" I mean I wanna see her anyway but maybe I can get her to think aboit it".

If there was one person who could reassure Mikura in being a trustworthy source, it was Mary.

There would be no doubt in Mikura's mind as to the blonde's intents, certainly given her feelings towards Sachiko. The two had become close friends which Sachiko could definitely have seen as a threat, hence why Sachiko had severed Mikura's ties with Mary.

It was long overdue for Mikura to reclaim what she had lost, be it in regards to her business or her friends.

"If you wouldn't mind" Sakura said whilst providing Mary with Mikura's contact details, "She won't say it directly but she is looking forward to seeing you".

"Sounds like her" Mary smirked, "Once she’s ready, we'll get the old group together".

Sakura was looking forward to it, to easing further normality into Mikura's life.

***

After a bit of cajoling from Mary, Naoko and Houko, Mikura had decided to accept their support, as well as Sakura's.

Her reunion with the Ougatou sisters was just as confounding as her reunion with Mary and there was a relief in Mikura's heart that nobody had taken her disappearance personally, like she had no interest in them.

The fact that they still wanted to be in her life, beyond the business aspect marvelled her.

They won't care whether you are dead or alive, Mikura, you were nothing to them.

These were words Sachiko had said to her and the woman's voice managed to crawl back into Mikura's head.

But a gentle hand on her upper back stymied any further thought as Mikura looked to the side to see Sakura stood next to her, offering a drink.

She smiled and accepted it while the ruckus from the reopening party continued to accrue.

It had been several months since Mikura had worked with the others to lift the Sado name back to its pedestal.

Spring and summer had passed by in the blink of an eye and yet, Mikura could recount every moment.

Of obtaining another piece of her life back, an ebullience which had been impeded

The new office was in a safer location, closer to the inner city and much more spacious. Gone were the days where Mikura felt like she was being watched, or having to walk down the narrow alleys and streets which offered no security just to get to work. 

Recently recruited employees mingled with the old as the celebrations went underway in the lively environment which was decorated for the occasion.  

Mikura smirked as Houko and Kurumi pestered Mary, other familiar faces present for her revival like Naoe, Ririka, Nadeshiko, Tsuzura and Itsuki.

It felt surreal.

So much that Mikura worried if she closed her eyes and opened them even a second later, all of this would disappear.

But the hand on her back remained as she leaned in closer to Sakura's side and it kept her grounded, conveying to her how she wasn't going to wake up to a lost illusion.

Sakura had been there from the second they had rekindled their connection and she didn’t take over or pillage anything of Mikura's, be it business related or her personal life.

She just stood on the side-lines, ready to extend a hand whenever Mikura reached for her.

And all of it culminated to this moment.

"Hey, you can both stand there looking cute another time!" Naoko yelled, "This sake isn't going to drink itself!".

"Yeah, she's going to drink it all" Mary laughed as Naoko pouted at her.

Observing as to how drunk Naoko was, Mary did have a point as the woman stumbled and had to be caught by Tsuzura before she stumbled over.

"Who would have thought she is a spilling drunk" Mikura said with a shake of her head as Sakura chuckled beside her.

"Let's join them" she indicated, "This celebration is much needed and you of all should be celebrating".

"Are you encouraging me to have fun?" Mikura asked with a sly grin, "Seems like the opposite of what the head of the Beautification Committee should do? Naoe will scold you too".

"If you're implying that I am incapable of letting my hair down, well, I have news for you" Sakura laughed and took Mikura's hand in her own, "Prepare to consume your words".

Mikura let herself be swept away, holding onto Sakura's hand as she watched the taller woman lead the way. She knew that none of them were exactly as the same as those days.

But the facets of their personalities which did remain, she was grateful for.

Especially Sakura's.

So she let herself lower her guards further, trusting Sakura and everyone else.

The night went on as the celebrations continued and it would be one to recall, well, if the alcohol hadn't completely burned them out.

Mikura was feeling the effects of it and clung onto Sakura so the older woman led them to Mikura's office for a breather. She opened one of the windows to let the refreshing autumnal air circulate the room after placing Mikura on the couch.

Collecting a bottle of water, Sakura then went to the woman and sat next to her and offered her the refreshment.

She watched on fondly as Mikura drank, her cheeks ablaze and eyes lidded.

Accepting Kurumi's proposal for a drinking contest would be something Mikura would regret in the morning, if she wasn't already doing so now.

The soft smile on her lips answered that question as Sakura leaned in, "How are you feeling? Do you need anything?".

"It's warm, Sakura".

"That would be all the alcohol in your system".

Mikura giggled at that as she sat up and grabbed the edge of the couch, "At least I won".

Sakura would use the term loosely, even if Kurumi was currently passed out with Itsuki, the two asleep in one of the other offices.

Sakura held up a finger in front of Mikura's eyes, "How many fingers am I holding up?".

The redhead hummed, squinting and blinking in a way which made Sakura stifle her laughter.

"3! No, wait.. 21? It would help if you kept your hand still cause that's cheating".

"Yes, you certainly did win if you can't see how many" Sakura grinned.

"Mean" Mikura grumbled as her fingers went to the buttons of her black blazer and she started to undo them, "Too hot".

Beneath the blazer, Mikura was wearing a sleeveless top, white in colour and loose fitting. As it wasn't cold enough yet, the woman utilised what was left of the weather which was at a comfortable temperature because it meant she could wear as many layers as she wanted.

Sakura would find out why that was as her eyes scanned over Mikura's wrists and upper arms.

"Mikura".

The grave tone made the redhead look up from fixing her top and meet Sakura's eyes.

Realisation dawned on Mikura as to what Sakura had seen and she quickly turned her wrists inwards and pressed her arms to her side but it was too late.

Sakura moved her hand to the woman's, stopping herself immediately when she saw Mikura quail, moving away from her.

"I'm sorry" Sakura quickly uttered, unable to form anything else as what she had viewed stuck to her mind.

She could still see the scars curving around Mikura's upper arms, indentations she couldn't hide. Notable against Mikura's skin, the dark welts and lines stuck out like the moon on a cloudless night.

Thinking back, Sakura hadn't once seen Mikura reveal her arms during the summer despite how sweltering it became. She wore loose blouses and skirts which ended at the knees but never had she exposed much else.

So many questions formulated in the older woman's head and each of them led back to one answer.

An answer which conjured the nausea in her stomach.

Sakura remained quiet and gave Mikura all control of what happened next, what was discussed.

Mikura couldn't look Sakura in the eyes as her hands gripped her knees, shaking slightly and it pained Sakura to see. She was desperate to reach out, to reassure Mikura that this changed nothing and how she would be here.

Instead, Sakura let her words cover what they could, "I'm here, Mikura. Whatever you are thinking right now, please know that".

Mikura wiped at the tears accumulating with the tissue Sakura had offered her which revealed the canyons on her wrists.

These scars were permanent, repetitive, barbaric and not self-inflicted.

Mikura sniffled and grabbed her left wrist, still unable to look at Sakura but she could feel her next to her, a presence she had adjusted to. She wouldn't be surprised if Sakura did decide to distance herself after this but in her heart, Mikura was aware that Sakura wouldn't run, not when she made promises.

Still, she wasn't expecting anything else from Sakura since this was her own fault, for staying with Sachiko for as long as did. The callous voice repeating this kept conquering her and the woman it belonged to had made sure of it on a physical and mental level.

"She wanted to ruin me so that nobody else could have me after her".

Ruin her.

The sentence sent a thrashing wave of disgust through Sakura.

She couldn't even bring herself to repeat what Mikura had confessed and all she could feel was unadulterated rage.

"What used to be comfortable stopped being that way. She became more violent towards me.." Mikura added quietly, "Whenever she touched me after she changed, it was..painful. She wouldn't stop, no matter how much I begged her, or cried and bled. She just kept going and going".

Sakura's heart broke, "I'm so sorry, Mikura".

The urge to reach out lessened more so but much to Sakura's surprise, Mikura extended her hand, as tremulous as it was.

She had finally looked at her and Sakura reeled back her anger for the time being because what Mikura needed now was someone to comfort her, someone to be with her.

So she gently took Mikura's hand between hers, her fingertips slowly brushing over the scars.

"She could never ruin you".

Mikura heard the whispered words, her mind fluctuating between pushing Sakura away and pulling her close.

She didn't want to be judged or pitied, this was her comeuppance.

"Nothing can ruin you, Mikura" Sakura said, her eyes meeting the teary blues, "Whatever she has done..that shame is on her. I know I can't say anything to take away the pain of what she has done but I’m going to try, okay? I'll be here for you if you let me, even if it takes time".

Mikura's lips trembled at the admission so she clutched Sakura's hands and leaned forward when Sakura stretched out her other arm, letting the woman know that she was here to hold her.

All of her restraint and fears ejected freely as she fell into Sakura's embrace, crying into her shoulder, "I couldn't stop her, Sakura" she wept as her hands gripped Sakura's back, "Even now, she is in my head, telling me how I am responsible for what happened. How I deserve to live and die alone".

Sakura increased her hold around the smaller woman, her eyes staring ahead and if Sachiko was stood in front of her, she would cease to breath.

The more she learnt about Sachiko's reprehensible treatment of Mikura, the more Sakura believed that there had to be something out there which would make Sachiko suffer as much she had made Mikura.

If justice existed, Sakura would seek it out for the woman in her arms.

"She was wrong, wasn't she?" Sakura softly said against Mikura's hair, "We are all here for you and you won't have to experience anything like that ever again".

Mikura's shaky cries quietened ever so slightly at this fact.

She wasn't alone.

If the arms around her and the noise from outside the room was anything to go by, Sachiko's repellent predictions for her had been thwarted.

***

A few weeks had gone by since Mikura's revelation and exposure of the full extent of Sachiko's depravity.

Sakura had been fearing the possibility of Mikura locking her back out again but to her relief, the opposite had occured. The distance between them had been receding, as if a suffocating layer concealing the redhead had evaporated and with it, granting Sakura more access.

They saw more of each other and with the stability of Mikura's business, the woman was finally given the opportunity to step back and breath, to not feel like she was constantly racing against the clock, clinching deals and working outlandish hours. 

Each time Sakura saw her, it was as if a fragment of Mikura's essence had found its way back home, fitting into place.

Such as now when the two women were returning from an evening out with Sakura's employees after a major partnership had been stabilised. Mikura had played a significant role in it, using the services of the Sado business to provide an enticing incentive which simply couldn't be refused on. The charm offensive was at its peak and everyone in that room was swept away by Mikura's reserved yet inviting pitch.

Glancing at Mikura, Sakura could notice the visible tinge of something so ebullient, so captivating that it was illogical to look away.

Which was hazardous in numerous way since they were walking along the winding path heading up to Sakura's estate.

How wrong Sachiko had been, how she had underestimated Mikura entirely. 

It was the first glimpse those in Sakura's life had of this mysterious woman whom had altered something in their boss, bringing her back to life after the string of tragedies. 

To observe the two working in synchronicity, so in tune and creating a series of stepping stones to boost each other whilst the meeting went on.

There couldn't have been a more apropos definition of synergy. 

It was a way to reiterate to Mikura that nothing had changed and if anything, Sakura was willing to entrust her with such plans. 

Sakura smiled to herself as Mikura talked animatedly about their day, going quiet when she realised Sakura hadn't said anything as they arrived at the door which the woman had opened for her.

"Sorry, I've been going on" she grinned wryly.

"You don't have to apologise, Mikura" Sakura chuckled, "After everything you have done to help me, you have every right to feel the way you do".

"I think I should be saying that to you" the redhead retorted and looked around, the architecture of the interior just as refined as the exterior, continuing the traditional theme, "Oh, it's beautiful here" she marvelled, dark eyes taking everything in.

Sakura couldn't stop herself, her eyes unable to observe anything but Mikura in awe.

Mikura's presence in the Miharutaki estate had rendered its beauty obsolete, incomparable to her.

She allayed her wondering thoughts and motioned for Mikura to join her.

"Let me show you around".

They took off their shoes before Sakura led them into the building, the winding hallways staring back as staff hurried around, ensuring that Sakura and her guest were seen to. She politely dismissed them, not wanting to overwhelm Mikura and take her back to a time where she was ensnared by loneliness and negligence at the hands of her parents. 

She could see the relief on Mikura's face and was rewarded by a hand slotting into her own, small and warm, seeking solace with hers.

Sakura's steps almost merged at the gesture and she couldn't help the eruption of butterflies dancing around in her chest, the rapid beating of their wings matching the pace of her own heart.

Gone was the solicitude regarding Mikura closing herself off because with each moment spent in each other's presence, something concrete was forming, a bond so fitting that it should have existed years ago.

And it probably would have done so had Sachiko not had uprooted Mikura from Sakura. 

***

Sakura pulled up in front of Mikura's home, the woodland area looking picturesque due to the late autumn weather.

Every time she came here, she felt a sense of serenity.

Maybe because it was Mikura's location of sanctuary, a place which made her happy and that was all Sakura wanted for the woman.

What had been conversed about during each moment of Mikura's vulnerabilities lingered and served as a purpose to add to Mikura's happiness. As tempting as it was to dwell on what Sachiko had done, Sakura knew the best thing to do was help towards Mikura's recovery, especially since she had let her in.

The shift between them was inescapable, tentative.

Mikura encouraged her to hold her more, to be touched without blenching. Their physical boundaries had slowly but surely started to recede and it was all on Mikura's terms which fit with Sakura's.

This development continued, blending their feelings before they both took the leap after an afternoon out together with their heads in the delicate clouds and hearts running over the crisp fields. 

Sakura smiled at the memory as she opened the wooden gate and walked up the pathways. Her boots crunched under the autumn foliage, the sound melding with the wind as a zephyr passed through her.

Yet, she was immersed in warmth as her lips still tingled from when they had first kissed.

The two women were lost in a meander around Mikura's property as the sun began to set and their fingers were intertwined when they came to a small creek babbling away. It was here where their conversation paused as they held each other and Mikura lifted her hand to brush away a leaf which had landed in Sakura's hair. Neither could deduce who leaned up or down first, all that could be recalled was the feeling of lips pressing, chaste yet impassioned. 

Just the two of them in the middle of forest which was bathed in golden sunset, bringing the autumnal scenery around them to life. The birds chirping in the distance could be heard as they fled, ready to depart from the upcoming winter but for Sakura and Mikura, there was no need to flee, be it in a metaphorical or literal sense. 

A promise which passed between them when their lips parted and smiles formed in place, the hue of contentment dusting their cheeks as they embraced each other.

The many kisses which followed made Sakura feel exactly the same.

She knocked on the door and waited a meagre few seconds before it opened and she was met with the dazzling sight of Mikura.

Her vocal chords forgot its instructions while her mind tried to pick up the pace, the discordant messages fumbling over each other.

The bouquet, stop gawking at her and give her the bouquet.

Much to the dismay of her brain, the instructions were not registered.

"Sakura?".

A hand on her cheek and the velvety timbre of her name being called out was the perfect combination to snap her out of her stupor.

"Ah, I'm sorry" Sakura managed, "You..".

Mikura grinned and pulled Sakura into her home with one hand as she closed the door with her other.

Tongue tied Sakura was one of her favourite versions of the woman.

"I?".

"You are beguiling" Sakura said as she leaned down, kissing Mikura softly, "I'm so lucky to be with you".

Not have you, be with you.

Mikura couldn't forget that Sakura also had the ability to leave her in the same speechless manner.

Her lips tinged again and the hand on Sakura's arm held on tighter, "I don't think it is good for my heart to be with you when you tell me things like that. Which is ironic because you definitely are good for me" she laughed.

"I'm glad to hear, Mikura. I would hate to be responsible for hurting your heart".

Sakura's expression further rendered Mikura immobile, just so soft, for her.

And those words, honest, for her.

"Can I sit down before you make me fall, please?".

"Since you asked so nicely" the older woman chuckled, "These are for you".

Mikura accepted the beauteous bouquet, her reaction to it forming now because really, when Sakura was in the room, she didn’t want to look at anything else.

But inspecting the bouquet showcased Sakura's inner beauty and how well she knew Mikura, conveying it through the language of flowers.

At the centre of the arrangement, a cluster of japanese primrose stood tall from the green stalks, the vibrant purple petals of each flower drawing the piece together, soft to the touch against Mikura's thumb. The sentiments of long lasting love was tangible in each flower, in its scent, in the way they had bloomed for this occasion. And here they were, being presented to her by Sakura without any hesitation.

Surrounding this, two rows of star shaped magnolia added a stark contrast to the previous flowers, the gleam of the white petals heightening the elegance of the bouquet. Its symbolism conveyed natural beauty and Mikura could feel her grin form to cover up the heat of her cheeks and Sakura's knowing chuckle was making it impossible to keep at bay.

The third layer encompassing the arrangement consisted of a variety of blue hydrangeas, the numerous shades adding a captivating texture to it. The petals seemed to curl over each other, dark hues of blue mixing with the light, much like their eyes. Gratitude, this was the emotion being expressed and Mikura glanced up at Sakura, the woman she was thankful for the existence of.

Mikura was entranced by the bouquet and the connotations of the resplendent flowers, some which weren't even in season and it made her deliberate of the lengths Sakura had gone to just to present this to her.

"Oh, wow" Mikura managed, her dark eyes lighting up further and now teary, "Sakura, thank you.." she managed, "They're so beautiful. You know, I did ask for you to let me sit down first before making me fall and speaking without words counts" she smiled, "Look at how gorgeous these are".

Sakura heard the catch in Mikura's throat as she brought her hand up, brushing it beneath Mikura's eyelid. 

How they pale in comparison to you.

She smiled at the thought as Mikura's small fingers delicately held the expertly crafted gift.

"I'm pleased you like them" she said instead, content with how happy her lover was.

"Love them" Mikura corrected fondly, exhaling against the palm near her face, "And you".

The two were unable to resist another tender moment to depict the scope of the happiness they were feeling right now, their lips meeting in a paced manner, just feeling and nothing more.

It went on longer than either were expecting, not that they had any complaints, though a familiar scent sneaking its way in from the kitchen caught Sakura's attention.

"Speaking of which, it smells delicious in here, Mikura".

The compliment never failed to light up Mikura's eyes, "Thank you. I hope it'll taste as delicious because I cooked our favourites".

"It always does" Sakura reassured as she followed Mikura into the kitchen, passing the dining room which was decorated to match the ambiance of the mood and season.

The flames of the candles flickered gently while the dimmed lighting enhanced the homely feeling, the plates and dishes laid out, calling out to her.

As one would have expected given Mikura's circumstances, the woman had retrieved her independence and had to do things on her own accord so cooking became one of the necessities which eventually became something she enjoyed.

The first time Sakura had tasted Mikura's cooking, she was in awe, like a while new pallet had been unlocked for her.

"I can't wait for you to try the dessert" Mikura said enthusiastically as she collected a vase and proceeded to carefully place the bouquet into it, "It is a new recipe, kind of, but I hope you'll enjoy it too".

Mikura then moved the vase to the windowsill near the sink, switching it around till it was at the centre and the rays from the sun seemed to bring the arrangement to life.

Lost to the feeling of domesticity with the woman she wanted to build a life with, Sakura stepped forward just as Mikura's feet touched the floor again and she wound her arms around Mikura's waist.

Mikura froze, just for a second and Sakura knew not to take it personally.

It was a process, one she would walk through with Mikura.

The redhead settled back against her chest, her face tilting to the side and upwards to look at Sakura while her hands rested above Sakura's.

She smiled, pressing her lips over Sakura's jaw, "I love you, Sakura".

It felt like every other conversation could wait because telling Sakura that she loved her, being able to feel that kind of love again took precedence.

And to hear Sakura return the sentiment after kissing a scar on Mikura's exposed shoulder had Mikura melting. To show herself to Sakura like this, to not feel the insecurities numb her brain at letting Sakura see everything was something Mikura couldn't have fathomed.

Her body shuddered pleasantly and the thrill amplified when Sakura said those words to her.

"I love you too, Mikura" she said, her lips brushing over Mikura's lips this time, "So much".

Dinner could wait while they basked in each other's company.

By the time they were able to detach themselves from their embrace and tuck into the scrumptious meal Mikura had created, their conversation continued they sat across from each other at the dining table.

Mikura was relieved to hear that Sakura's mother was improving, her health reaching a stable point.

"She should be returning home by the end of the week if all goes to plan and she stops being a stubborn woman who insists she can leave tonight".

"I can see where you get it from" Mikura teased and earned a small pout from Sakura, "But I'm so pleased to hear that she has made improvements and can return home soon".

She reached out with her free hand and squeezed Sakura's hand in support.

The gesture was appreciated as Sakura smiled, "It will be reassuring to have her back at home. She is too busy worrying about me and how I am coping with everything".

"Well, you do prefer to keep it to yourself in order to not stress anyone else" Mikura pointed out, "So I don’t blame her".

"I guess that was a habit from before so I can't deny that. Though, my mother did say something interesting the other day".

"Oh?".

Sakura held Mikura's curious stare, "She has noticed how there has been something different with me, since spring. Perhaps I had closed myself off more than intended after you left and my father died. So, she said she could rest knowing that there was something else driving me to continue, someone else. I..told her about you, about us".

This was news to Mikura and while she felt anxious, wondering if she could ever live up to the standards of being with the heiress of the Miharutaki line, there was something more prominent she felt.

Relief.

To know that she had been able to give back to Sakura.

More than often she wondered if she was doing enough by Sakura's side, repaying her, even though Sakura had made it clear that theirs was not a relationship of that kind.

But to know how Sakura's mother had noticed the changes in Sakura and the way she smiled more, along with how emotive she seemed was music to Mikura's ears.

If she could contribute to this, then it reassured the redhead that she was doing something right.

"How did she take the news?".

Sakura grinned, the motion of the flames between them reflecting in her eyes.

"She can't wait to meet you, Mikura".

"Does she not question your taste in redhead's with blue eyes?" Mikura chuckled.

"What is to question? The one I am with is far more beautiful and brilliant and one I cannot wait to spend the rest of my life with" Sakura replied easily as Mikura blushed, "That and, she regrets putting me in a situation where I had no choice in regards to my choice of spouses".

"I didn't know she did" Mikura said softly.

"Nor did I until after my father passed, they both regretted it when they found out what had happened. While he took it to the grave with him, my mother told me. So, if you are worried about whether she will like you or not, there is no need to be, Mikura. You treat me better than anyone else ever could".

The well of emotions in Mikura's chest was overflowing at what Sakura had revealed.

While she couldn't have been there for Sakura during the time of her father's passing, she could be here now, for Sakura and her mother.

She would be eternally grateful that Sakura could still love her parents and Mikura herself did so the more she heard about them.

Sakura had made it evident that her family was Mikura's.

She stood up from her seat and rounded the table as Sakura watched her, turning in her seat when she saw that Mikura was coming to hold her.

So much emotion in those once vacant eyes, all being revealed with patience, understanding and time.

Mikura curled her arms behind Sakura's neck as the woman pressed her face against Mikura's abdomen, her arms wrapping around the redhead's waist while her eyes closed, sinking into the warmth of Mikura's body. 

She leaned down and rested her chin on Sakura's head, her lips kissing the blue strands while she felt Sakura exhale. Her fingers ran down the ponytail, watching the dark locks fall between her fingers and Mikura wondered, if this was the haven people often spoke of when in love. 

Having had been burned once by such a concept, Mikura was sceptical, unable to adapt to the way she and Sakura were getting closer earlier on in their reunion.

But this was different, incomparable to what she had with Sachiko.

Being with Sakura felt like home, felt like closure.

With each passing day, the two were revealing more pieces to each, watching in astonishment as they connected.

***

During the early hours of the night when the two had headed to bed, Sakura was awoken by movement coming from her left side.

Thrashing, to be specific.

Sleep dispersed immediately as Sakura sat up and looked up to see Mikura in a state of distress through the light of the moon which had crept in through the curtains of their room. Panic flooded her system as she gently held Mikura's arms to steady her while she called out to her.

"Mikura, it's okay" she said in a hushed tone, "You're dreaming".

No, this was clearly a nightmare, one Mikura couldn't wake up from.

Sakura carefully tried to rouse Mikura as the woman began gasping, murmurs of protests escaping her lips.

"No.." she repeated, "Juraku-sama".

This was the first time since they had met that Mikura had said her name and it seemed just as cruel how it had to be in the midst of a nightmare.

Sakura gently placed a hand on Mikura's cheek, "Wake up, Mikura. Please".

It was undignified enough how Sachiko still lurked in Mikura's behaviour and habits which she was trying to break, so for the woman to be taking over the time Mikura was meant to rest was unforgivable.

Sakura kept talking to her, coaxing her lover awake and much to her relief, Mikura's blue eyes flew open as she reached out.

"Sakura!".

"I've got you" she whispered, heart beating as rapidly as Mikura's as she clung onto her, "I'm here, Mikura, I'm here".

Mikura caught her breath as Sakura lifted her slightly so that she could take her into her arms properly, pressing the trembling woman to her chest. Mikura's hands in turn gripped Sakura with fervour, as if making sure she really had her.

They were mapping out Sakura's back before moving up to her shoulders, clutching onto her solid form as Mikura moved back enough so that she could see Sakura once she had calmed down enough.

"I'm sorry for waking you".

The tremulous voice broke Sakura so she ran her hand down Mikura's back as the other cupped her cheek, "You have nothing to apologise for, Mikura. Are you okay? Is there anything you need me to do?".

Mikura let her exhausted body collapsed against Sakura's shoulder, "Just stay with me, please".

"Always".

It was something Mikura wouldn't have to ask twice.

Sakura settled back onto the headboard whilst Mikura remained on her chest, her fingers running through the red hair while she felt Mikura's body uncoil from the tangle it had been twisted in to. She would wait as long as need be for whenever Mikura was ready to talk about what had happened.

Sleep had evaded them both so they sat there together in the tenebrous room after Sakura had switched on the lamp. She would have assumed Mikura had fallen back to sleep had it not have been for the grip the redhead had around her waist.

It wasn't the first night they had slept next to each other but this was the first time Mikura had woken up like this.

Sakura was ensuring that the steps they took were tentative, allowing Mikura to set the pace which is why she was in no rush to actually engage in intimacy. Mikura was still adjusting to sleeping next to someone else again, somewhere she didn't have to keep an eye open with, just in case.

And this was exactly why they were pacing themselves, in order for Mikura to work through the trauma she had suffered.

"It's strange.." Mikura spoke up, her voice quiet but distinct, "This used to happen more often and I would wake up alone here".

Sakura kissed the top of Mikura's head without interrupting her but she couldn't stop the thoughts of what Mikura had divulged.

Of Mikura waking up like she had done, with pure fear in her eyes, calling out the name of the woman whom had inflicted so much malevolence on her and nobody to reach out for.

"I wouldn't be able to fall asleep again unless I drank" she continued, "It was the only way to settle my head enough and block everything out which is why it became a habit. I didn't want to but it was the only way I could sleep through the night".

And with the discovery of this vice, the drinking had spilled into her daily life, another facet she was working on controlling.

"Even now, the temptation to do just that is there but not as strong as it used to be" Mikura relayed, "I don't want to let her win, Sakura".

Mikura tilted her head up so that she could look at her and a part of her always expected judgement and pity but there was none.

Just the look of adoration and understanding.

"She hasn't won" Sakura reassured, "I can guarantee this. It doesn't matter how long it takes for you to accept it because you can take all the time you need. But I promise you that one day, you will be able to look at yourself and say, 'I'm the one who won because I am still here'" she said gently, her thumb brushing over Mikura's cheek, "And when that day arrives, I will be right there with you".

"Have you always known just what to say?".

Sakura could feel the beating of the redhead's heart, along with the smile bestowing her.

"You and I both know it hasn't been always" she chuckled, "But isn't that how everything goes? We change, for better or worse. And this here.." she signalled to Mikura, "Is a woman who is striving for better. I'm so proud of you, Mikura, I hope you know that".

She needed to say it, needed Mikura to understand how far she has come, even prior to them meeting again.

The words Mikura was used to were spiteful, cruel and belittling, the praise just as torrid.

So Sakura was determined in helping Mikura learn and adjust to a different lexicon, one which was composed up of love, understanding and kindness.

Even if the tears formed now, just like they were doing in the corner of Mikura's blue eyes, those tears represented acceptance, that it was normal to feel this way.

She placed her hand over Sakura's as Sakura moved her face down, reading Mikura's lips and kissed her.

Regardless of the trials ahead, or the nights which would follow a similar routine, it wouldn't be a deterrent to persevere, for each other, for their relationship.

Almost a year had passed since that fateful meeting beneath the cherry blossom trees during a busy morning in a dense metropolis.

While perfection was an illusion, it was the fluctuating reality of life which often alluded to what perfect actually meant.

Stability, contentment, reason, health.

If one could obtain a combination of these notions, then this is what could be defined as finding perfection.

For Sakura and Mikura, their lives continued to play out in an upwards trajectory whilst facing the perilous hurdles of their own responsibilities.

They thrived from the strengths of their individual nature, imparting it into their relationship whilst tackling the weaknesses together, as deleterious as they may be.

Such was the unpredictability of life.