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It is onerous to watch, even years later.
Sakura and Mikura floating around each other, averting the obvious bond between them and the possibility of experiencing happiness together. There was a connection between them that felt real and if cultivated in the right environment, could blossom into something beautiful.
Mary held the belief that out of all those she had met at Hyakkaou, they would redefine what it meant to have a tarnished past, to build a sturdier structure in the place where their worlds had once been burnt down.
And watching them now, conversing like they had so much more to say to each other than what was being said reiterated Mary's thoughts on the two.
In the lavish halls of the Juraku estate, Mary swipes a flute of champagne from the table, careful to down the contents when the reason for Mikura and Sakura's avoidance appears in all her splendour.
The sight of Sachiko riles Mary to this day and yet, she still attended these parties that Sachiko would always invite her to but it was more for Sakura and Mikura's sake as they would plead with her.
Perhaps there was more to it but Mary doesn't want to think about that, think about her own reasons for attending these dreaded celebrations held by a woman she was supposed to loathe.
Instead, she observes.
The space between Mikura and Sakura had widened again with Sachiko hovering by the redhead's side, a hand on her hip, her shoulder close, her aura seeping into Mikura's.
Mikura's past reaction had faded at being held like that by Sachiko, she had grown out of it.
Instead, she smiles, lips thinned and eyes focused on Sakura, knowing she was now proscribed from outwardly feeling anything for her.
Sakura in turn becomes rigid, her smile just as forced as she levels her gaze with Sachiko's to get through the feigned pleasantries.
I'm not here for you, I'm here for her.
Those words could be felt, her imperative stance evident.
Mary feels sympathetic at the sight, for a yearning that couldn't be satiated because of a force blocking them.
And she peers intently at the force.
Her grip on the glass tightens at the all too present smile Sachiko has donned, like she knew of the constraints she was putting on the possibility of a relationship between Mikura and Sakura by having the former woman's life in her hands.
Batting them around for her own amusement.
Sachiko must know that Mikura isn't the same as she used to be, she isn't that faithful pet waiting at her back and call and yet, she refuses to cut ties, opting to tug Mikura back without needing to use a leash and collar.
Mary downs the rest of her champagne, not quite ready to join their conversation or to see Sachiko.
But to watch the longing stares between Mikura and Sakura was far more unbearable than dealing with Sachiko.
She felt helpless upon the realisation that her own hands were tied, unable to help her friends.
There had to be an answer, a way to free them.
Perhaps..there was something she could do.
But the cost would be dire, tempestuous.
Mary ponders and looks at Sachiko, subsumed in the array of errant emotions the woman had imparted onto her without needing to try. Just one kittenish gaze in her direction uncoiled the spools of Mary's sanity, much like the silver hair which cascaded over her shoulders.
Her own hold on Sachiko hadn't decreased and perhaps..she could use this.
As if being the holder of second sight, Sachiko looks directly at Mary, like she had been summoned by the blonde.
And she had.
Mary was in Sachiko's head to this day.
So Sachiko excuses herself and walks to Mary.
Sakura and Mikura instantly close the distance between them and their eyes are on Mary, silently asking if they should tail Sachiko but Mary smiles at them and shakes her head slightly.
Why waste what time they had together with Sachiko out of the way?
Sakura seems pensive but one touch from Mikura's delicate fingers on her arm was enough to placate her and Mary was thankful for the redhead's intervention.
Mary needed Sachiko alone for this and her gaze turned to the woman sauntering towards her, the extravagant dress she wore pulling in the eyes of all, hypnotised by her striking visage. Even Mary was hapless by Sachiko's appearance, had always been in some sense so she hoped that it wouldn't cloud her judgement.
She knew what she was going to ask, what it would entail to strike a deal with the devil herself.
But for the sake of her friends who needed to be freed, and for her own sake, Mary was willing to drop down the flamed pit and straight into the devil's lap.
Just where Sachiko wanted her.
The moment Sachiko was in front of her, Mary has to fight to not take a step back as Sachiko snuck her hand past her waist to collect another glass for Mary, the other hand doing the same till she had boxed the blonde in without needing touch her.
Mary's senses were overtaken by the woman, her perfume slinking its way around her till Sachiko retrieves the glasses and offers one to Mary.
"I am so glad you could make it, Mary" she says, tone lower than usual, "Why are you standing all the way here? I don't bite".
No, Sachiko doesn't bite.
She tears, devours, rips apart.
Mary had felt all of those sensations first hand.
And yet, she couldn't stay away despite how much she inveighed against it and she knows why.
Listening to the honey pour out of your mouth is my favourite sound.
Her fingers brush Sachiko's as she accepts the glass, thinking of the multiple times those digits had touched her, made her cower, made her desire.
She would use that to fuel her determination to go through with this.
Meeting Sachiko's desirous stare head on, Mary smirks and brings the glass to her lips, taking a slow sip.
Sachiko takes in every second of the display, tunnel vision forming because when Mary was around, nothing else was worthy of her attention.
Not even Mikura's gravitation towards Sakura.
When Mary lowers the glass from her lips, her golden eyes match the intensity of Sachiko's.
"We need to talk".
***
When Sakura had been called to Sachiko's home one uneventful evening, she had no idea what lay in wait, nor did Mikura and she lived with Sachiko.
Seeing Mary in Sachiko's study when she was led in by Mikura further caught them both off guard.
A tense atmosphere lingered as Mikura and Sakura sat on the chairs opposite the desk where Sachiko was seated. Mary was stood up and facing the window, like she was trying to compose herself before turning and giving the two a reassuring smile.
But it didn't alleviate their solicitude, especially when Sachiko pushed a file to Mikura.
She nodded when Mikura looked up at her with confused eyes, "Go ahead, open it".
So Mikura obliged, pulling the folder closer in order for Sakura to read it too.
The silence stretched on for a few moments while Mikura processed what she was reading, leading Sakura to being the one to ask the question.
"What is this?".
Sachiko leaned back on her chair, leaving it to Mary to break the silence on the matter and why they had convened here.
"It's a contract".
This much was prevalent, the question burning on Sakura's lips was why it existed?
Mikura's eyes went to the blonde, "Mary, what is this? Am I reading right?" she asked before looking at Sachiko, "I don't understand".
"Before we go into what we need to discuss, let me make this clear to you both. This was Mary's idea. I played no part in drafting the contract. There was no coercion, or threats or anything of that nature".
"For some reason, I find that hard to believe".
"Which I get" Mary sighed and took a seat next to Mikura, her chair turned so that she could see them all, "But it is true. This was my decision and if you sign it, there will nothing else to it. Mikura, you have to sign it".
Mikura's finger jabbed the contact, "Why would I do that? Why would you agree to this?".
"Call it returning the favour" Mary shrugged, "Look, don't think too deeply about this. If you both need time to talk about it then fine but I am agreeing to this because I want to. It isn't like neither of you haven't helped me out over years and I..wanted to do something to help".
She looked between the two in a knowing way which caused Sakura and Mikura to share a glance.
Had they been that obvious?
If Mary could see it, then obviously Sachiko knew too.
But in truth, neither Mikura or Sakura had been trying to hide anything. However, what Mary was proffering to do wasn't a small feat and was not without detrimental risk.
"You're willing to sign your life over to Sachiko?" Mikura asked, her voice displaying her incredulity.
Sachiko's eyes never left Mary's as the blonde kept her attention on Mikura and Sakura's confounded expression while Mikura reiterated the core reason for the contract.
"Do you mind if I talk to them alone for a bit? I know I'm kicking you out of your study..".
Sachiko grinned, "Well, it might be yours too soon. I'll give you all a moment".
The woman stood up, her eyes meeting Mikura's when the redhead spoke up, "Juraku-sama, you are fine with this?".
"Are you asking if I am going to make you stay with me knowing full well you would rather be with Sakura? ".
"Will you?".
"Signing your debt over to Mary is a small price to pay and we both get what we want. Mary belongs to me and you get Sakura" Sachiko said, her face unreadable, "Think it over carefully, Mikura. This opportunity won't happen again".
Mikura didn't know how to feel about Sachiko's outright dismissal to fight to keep her, but the conflicted feeling left when Sachiko exited the room and Sakura's hand rested over her own.
"See?" Mary pointed out, "None of this sneaking around shit needs to happen".
Interlacing their fingers together, Sakura and Mikura could envision such a life where Sachiko's leverage over Mikura would be removed.
But at the cost of Mary's freedom?
Neither had to think it over and were syncretized on the matter.
"As much as we are so appreciative of what you are offering to do, I am not going to sign it" Mikura stated and looked at the blonde warmly, "We can find another way".
"Is there another way though? This is the best shot you have in having your debt cleared".
Sakura interjected, "Well, there is another way. But it would require Mikura to agree to it".
The redhead raised a brow, as if to say continue so Sakura did so.
"Mikura, maybe now you will let me pay off the debt?" Sakura asked the woman, "If I do, then neither you nor Mary would need to be tied to Sachiko".
It made sense, a panacea for their problems.
But the sheer amount of the debt was what made Mikura refuse from Sakura paying it off, out of pride if nothing else despite the fact that it wouldn't even put a dent in the Miharutakis wealth.
And now, Mikura was seriously contemplating it given what Mary was prepared to do for them without a second thought.
"I know altruism is in your blood but this is something else" Mikura sighed at Mary before looking at Sakura, "Okay, only if you are sure about this".
"I have been sure the moment I saw you" Sakura grinned, relief finally flooding her and she happily drowned in it.
Mary could only chuckle at the sudden turn of events, "You two are unbelievable" she said, "Especially you, Mikura. I can't believe it took me putting my life on the line for you to accept Sakura's help".
"Are you saying that you would let someone else pay off your debts?" the redhead pouted, a blush rising to her cheeks.
"Yeah, you're right. I get it" Mary smiled and peered at the contract, "So much for that".
"Mary, can I ask what made you decide this? Is there something going on?" Sakura enquired as Mikura brought her hand to her lap, "To willingly give yourself to Sachiko..knowing what she is like".
"I can handle her. One, she isn't as insane as she was and two, she is different with me" the blonde listed and glanced at where Sachiko was sat, wondering how she was going to take this, "I don't know, I just wanted to help you both. You deserve to be happy with each other".
It was a truth, the most important one, but also one of two.
Perhaps that hidden part of her which had attached itself to Sachiko was growing incessantly.
"And so do you" Sakura replied, "At least now you won't have to throw that chance away".
Mary smiled but it didn't reach her eyes, "Yeah, I guess so. Anyway, time to break the news to her".
She walked to the door and opened it to see Sachiko at the other end of the hallway, tending to some flowers on the windowsill. With the evening sun casting a hazy glow through the large windows, the setting appeared like a painting.
There was something strangely sombre about the sight.
Sachiko noticed and met Mary's gaze, something unreadable passing between them as she walked back into the room.
The news regarding the contract was quite the surprise as she held it in her hand, smirking, "Sakura to the rescue. She has learned a lot from you, Mary".
Mary rolled her eyes, "So that's it then. The debt has been paid".
"It has" Sakura confirmed and looked at Mikura who was stood next to her.
She knew it would take a bit of time for Mikura to adjust but there was a contentment which was unmistakable.
"Congratulations on your freedom, Mikura" Sachiko said, "I can't fight this so you really are free".
"Please remember that before you try and pull something to get her back".
Sachiko chuckled at the way Sakura was frowning at her before observing Mikura moving closer by her side, their hands intertwined.
"I doubt I could" the woman said to herself, coming to terms with Mikura's parting from her, "Hm, I'll consider it" she instead goaded.
With that, Sakura and Mikura turned to leave before confirming with Sachiko that the details would be passed over when Sakura spoke to Mary, "Are you coming, Mary?".
"You both go ahead. I don't want to third wheel this moment" she grinned and waved them off.
The two woman chuckled, bashful as Mikura spoke up, "Thank you, Mary" she said and then turned to Sachiko, "I'll be going now".
Sachiko nodded, curt as she didn't trust her voice while Mikura and Sakura then left, giving Mary one more glance and promising they'll see her soon.
The door shut and Mary sat back on the chair as Sachiko remained near her, leaning back on her desk.
She still held the contract in her hand before tossing it in the bin next to the desk, the file landing with a light thud which disturbed the quietude.
"What is it that you want, Mary?" she then asked softly, crimson eyes solely on the other woman.
"I don't know".
Tell me.
***
Mary would continue to meet with Sachiko after that, against her better judgement.
Or rather, to figure out that exact question.
What did she want with Sachiko?
With nothing binding Sachiko, she was making full use of contacting Mary, keeping up with her and meeting up.
Such as tonight, Sachiko had invited her out for some gathering and had kept the details to a minimum, much to Mary's annoyance.
So it was of great surprise that the location in question turned out to be a gambling establishment. Mary's eyes widened as she glanced out of the car window to see the glitzy sign, boasting the location's luxuriant nature.
She faced Sachiko in the seat next to her, "You're gambling?".
"No, we are" the woman grinned and patted Mary's thigh, her black dress stopping just above her knee.
An ensemble selected and provided by Sachiko of course and Mary's refusal fell on deaf ears.
Mary sighed and didn't brush Sachiko's hand away as she wondered what she had gotten herself into.
She had gambled enough to last three lifetimes and had no interest in doing so again but it was too late to back out now.
The door to the car was opened, Mary exiting first before Sachiko followed, all suited up and the blonde couldn't deny that it was difficult to keep her eyes off of her. When Sachiko offered her hand, she was reluctant for only a second before accepting it.
Pleased by Mary's reaction, Sachiko pushed it a tad further by turning Mary's hand and kissing the back of it.
Mary concluded that Sachiko was most likely feeling the after effects of losing Mikura and using her as a way to alleviate that loss.
Then again, she couldn't imagine Sachiko doing such a thing with Mikura.
That was more befitting of Sakura to do.
She tried not to think too much and enjoy the night as much as she could because the voice in the back of her head was making her presence known, airing out the truths Mary kept concealed.
Isn't this what you wanted?
When they entered the premises, the vibrant atmosphere was to be expected of such a high class venue and Mary continued to feel out of place, moving closer to Sachiko to speak to her.
"Why are you gambling anyway?".
"Truthfully, I would much rather be elsewhere with you than here but it was an invite from an acquaintance, one I don't particularly like".
"So why accept the invite?".
"Mary, in this world, everything is a game" Sachiko smiled and moved Mary to a private gambling table, lowering her face to Mary's ear, "And you know I don't like to lose".
A shudder went up the blonde's spine, the response to her imploring expectant.
There was no time to retort as Sachiko parted from her for a moment to exchange feigned pleasantries. All the individuals at the table had stood up to greet her, once again reminding Mary of who she was becoming entangled with again.
She began fidgeting slightly when another woman walked towards her after greeting Sachiko, her eyes a similar shade to Sachiko's, not to mention the silver hair, other than it being up in a ponytail.
Sachiko had said acquaintance but no, this woman was clearly a relative.
"And who might this be?".
Sachiko instinctively placed an arm around Mary's waist, "This is Mary, my date".
The blonde's head shot up, eyes screaming, "Since when?!".
"Mikura's replacement?" the woman then enquired, running her gaze up and down Mary's form, "I like this one better".
It must have been a Juraku trait to refer to people as anything but people and Sachiko could see the vexation bubbling in Mary's eyes.
"You will do well to remember that Mary is not your plaything" she warned, "Nor is she Mikura's replacement".
This reaction caused the woman to chuckle, her smile widening, "How interesting".
Sachiko tightened her grip on Mary's waist, knowing that smile all too well.
She had her own predatory version, after all.
Mary could feel the tension seep into every corner of the room as the other guests at the table watched on like vultures and she couldn't help but to feel like she was the incapacitated prey they were waiting to scavenge.
"I believe we are here to gamble so let's get on with it" Sachiko dismissed, turning to Mary and whispered, "Relax, Mary. I will keep you safe so do as I say".
Juraku Sachiko was going to keep her safe?
If the other guest were vultures, then Sachiko was the hawk.
Then again, Mary had no choice but to believe it because Sachiko had indeed kept her out of harm's way in the past.
Still, she was concerned that Sachiko had to even vocalise the point about her safety.
Sachiko sat on the chair which had been pulled out for her before the attendant said, "I will bring another chair for your guest"
"No need. There is plenty of space here" Sachiko said and motioned to her lap, "Right, Mary?".
The blonde opened her mouth to protest but found that she couldn't, especially when considering how Sachiko had asked her to follow her lead.
It could be a ploy, something Sachiko had to arm herself with?
But Mary also knew that Sachiko would want her on her lap for her own personal reasons and there was no circumventing it.
"Your date seems awfully reluctant to go near you, Sachiko" the woman chuckled, a hand to her cheek, "Well, perhaps she has familiarised herself with your tendencies. Mary, was it? Why not join me instead?".
Mary plastered a fake smile to hide her disgust, "No, thank you. I was thinking that I would be getting in Sachiko's way if I sat on her lap, that's all".
She then looked at Sachiko who smirked, taking her hand and moving her onto her lap so that Mary was facing forward. Mary turned her face to her so Sachiko took the opportunity to run the back of her knuckles over Mary's cheek.
"She is considerate that way" Sachiko said and shot the other woman a grin, "Anyone have a problem with this?".
The table was silent, nobody daring to protest.
Satisfied, Sachiko hummed and wrapped her arms around Mary's waist under the table, keeping her secure. The close proximity was making it arduous for the blonde to function, the feeling of Sachiko's chest against her back and breath on her shoulder amplifying the heat running through her.
Sachiko's acquaintance frowned and turned to the dealer, "Let's begin. We are playing Blackjack".
The dealer nodded and collected a deck of cards, smoke and alcohol permeating around the table. Sachiko signalled to a waitress to bring them champagne whilst talking to Mary, lips close to her ear.
"Would you like to drink anything in particular?".
"I'm good, thanks. Why champagne though?".
"I have a feeling we will be celebrating tonight".
She said this with her eyes trained on her acquaintance who was speaking to her cohorts.
Mary had an uneasy feeling about this but Sachiko squeezed her waist, as if feeling the trepidation. But that harrowing sensation would linger when the dealer announced the commencement of the game.
"Mary will be gambling on behalf of me" Sachiko declared.
The blonde turned as much as she could, "Wait, what?!".
"Trust me on this" Sachiko chuckled, their faces close, "Compared to what you have dealt with at Hyakkaou, this will be nothing".
"Maybe it won't be as crazy but still..".
"I know you won't disappoint me" Sachiko reassured, a hand moving to Mary's thigh, "I have the utmost faith in you".
"Is that wise? You know I don't bet chum change. She might be pretty to look at and play with but can she gamble?".
Their moment was interrupted by the rude comment and Mary was getting pissed off.
"Is this bitch a relative of yours, Sachiko?".
The older woman grinned, "She is, both a bitch and relative. A cousin" she whispered, "I think she would benefit from being taken down a notch, don't you?".
Mary was inclined to agree, taking the dealt cards into her hand.
With that, the game started.
As predicted, the gamble was much more mundane to begin with, barely touching upon the stakes Hyakkaou was rampant with. Mary easily won each round before all the players folded and she was left staring at Sachiko's cousin, a cruel smirk on her red lips.
"I guess it's just you and me, Mary" she smiled, "I recant my earlier comment, Sachiko. She is remarkably intelligent and ruthless when need be. Mikura's replacement is divine".
"Firstly, enough with this replacement shit" Mary scowled, "And secondly, what would you know about Mikura? Trying a bit too hard to be a knock off version of Sachiko?".
Sachiko's chuckle reverberated, her delight oozing in waves whilst watching the anger mount her cousin, "Didn't I warn you? Mary is not to be trifled with. Especially when it comes to Mikura".
"How unpleasant. This one obviously needs more training" the woman scoffed, "I would be happy to do so since you are clearly getting too weak, Sachiko. One pet escaped, this pet has no manners".
Sachiko's relaxed posture was gone and Mary could feel that biting glare without having to look at her. The hand on her thigh pressed down as Sachiko shifted behind her, her cheek against the blonde's.
"You might be family but if you insult Mary or Mikura again, I will destroy you".
"Oh, is that a threat? Put your money where your mouth is before I put my mouth on what belongs to you".
Mary was disgusted, wondering if Sachiko was the way she was because of her family.
Even Sachiko wasn't as putrid and there was something about the cousin that just felt egregious.
Mary wanted this concluded and Sachiko had the same thing in mind.
She pushed in what chips she had on the table, and then reached into her blazer pocket, retrieving stacks of notes and threw it at the pile.
"That totals ¥30 million. Is that enough for you?".
Just the sight of the pile was making Mary wary so she reached for Sachiko's hand on her thigh to steady herself. Sachiko laced their fingers together, understanding the apprehension.
This was risky as it was but what Sachiko's cousin rebuked the offer with made the table gasp.
"We gamble for the ¥30 million" the woman said, and then looked at Mary, "And her".
The dealer raised her hand to protest but was shut down with an icy glare from the cousin.
"Excuse me?" Sachiko intervened as Mary froze in her lap.
The world outside was not that apposite of Hyakkaou, after all.
Just as twisted and calamitous.
"You heard me, Sachiko. It's the money and your woman. You should know that money means nothing to me. But her.." the cousin sneered, red eyes raking over Mary, "I have many uses for her. A gorgeous thing like that is wasted with you" she laughed, "Brains, beauty..and a body which would be worth fucking every waking moment. Hm, she is the whole package".
Mary had a feeling she was desensitized to that sort of talk considering the filth she had heard at Hyakkaou and rolled her eyes.
"Hold up, Sachiko's betting more if you want me. What are you matching that with?".
The nonchalant response left both women somewhat perplexed, "Mary?".
Mary looked back at Sachiko, smirking, "Oh, please. You think that's the worst I have heard? You have said crazier shit".
"Well, that is fair" Sachiko chuckled before her expression went stern, "However, I am not willing to put you at risk like this. I have no interest in what she has to match. Accept the ¥30 million or not, that is my offer. If not, the dealer can bring in someone to deal with you"
The cousin scowled, "Coward".
"You really haven't changed" Sachiko responded, "Why wager something invaluable when you have nothing to match it? Did you really think I would succumb to your feeble attempt to goad me?" she continued and motioned to Mary, "You have nothing that will ever amount to what Mary is worth" Sachiko added, "So, let's be realistic, shall we? Time to finish this gamble".
Mary was stunned by the declarations, not following the match as Sachiko proceeded to wipe the floor clean with her cousin.
Sachiko excelled at schooling herself in every way which made her appear cold most of the time.
But Mary heard something in the older woman's voice, a softness she had heard before from Sachiko and it was a praxis for them now.
Sachiko showed sides to her she often refused to spare a glimpse to others.
The hand in hers remained interlinked beneath the table as Mary kept her eyes on the final round, Sachiko revealing her hand.
"Royal flush".
That concluded the game and Sachiko's cousin appeared like she was ready to pounce over the table but Sachiko must have stared at her in such a way that made her stand down.
It was another insight for Mary in regards to Sachiko; that even within her family, this is how she was feared.
She turned to look at Sachiko when her cousin stormed off while the dealer prepared her winnings and Sachiko's temperament returned to normal, grinning at Mary.
Running her fingers down Mary's hair, Sachiko leaned up, her lips just skimming Mary's cheek.
"I told you we would be celebrating".
When they returned to the hotel room, the atmosphere between them was bordering electrifying, the sparks running through them as their thoughts followed the intensity.
It was Mary who made the first move.
She couldn't blame it on the alcohol, only her desires for a woman she had such a tumultuous history with.
Watching Sachiko, Mary leaned back on the door, her eyes unfocused but the clarity there.
Sachiko said something but it didn't register to Mary as she watched the blazer come off, showcasing Sachiko's voluptuous form and something thrummed in her naval.
Something which propelled her to move to Sachiko, her golden eyes almost brown.
Sachiko saw her approach as she had her hands on her tie, "Mary?".
The blonde reached up, her hands resting on Sachiko's face to bring her down so that she could kiss her.
Dessert, champagne, something forbidden.
A taste from the garden of hell and Mary surrendered.
She pulled back to see Sachiko's reaction.
It scared and excited her, the way those eyes practically glowed, had always done so when Sachiko looked at her.
Sachiko ran her own tongue over her lip, feeling the hands on face as those eyes of gold drowned her.
The events of the evening had caught up.
Unsaid confessions, occluded declarations, meaningful touches.
Mary was giving her the cards and Sachiko was no fool, flipping them over to reveal the final hand.
And those hands held Mary's hips.
This hand...nothing compared to.
Sachiko showed it all and Mary accepted it as they kissed again, more aggression, more desire, more depth.
Just more of each other.
Mary unbuttoned Sachiko's red shirt after yanking her tie off, running her palms over her back in the process, kissing Sachiko's neck. She hummed against the warm skin as Sachiko's arms wound around her waist, making Mary suck the skin of Sachiko's shoulder. The shirt had to come off so Mary grabbed the collar and pulled it down while Sachiko tugged the sleeves off before returning her hold on Mary.
They were both pent up with unbridled desire, the lust spilling over the edges.
Sachiko's actions were tremulous as her fingers dragged the zip on Mary's dress down, her hands then sliding to the hem and lifting it up, nails grazing Mary's skin till Sachiko removed it and let it drop to the floor.
The sight of Mary stood there, donned in her underwear set with her hair tousled and chest heaving caused a firestorm to foment in her body and head.
How she wanted to trace her tongue and fingertips over every inch, carving crimson canyons and prominent purple patterns.
Mary knew what was running through the older woman's mind, a chill sweeping up her back before she moved towards Sachiko again, her fingers going to the zip on the woman's pants but Sachiko was quicker.
That could wait, she wanted Mary on the bed, melding with the satin sheets, coaxing her.
They kissed again, moving in tune till Mary was pushed onto the mattress and she caught the sight of Sachiko undoing her own pants, fingers deft in the way she unbuttoned it before pulling the pants down her supple thighs till she was left in her underwear too.
To see the image of Sachiko stood here in all her glory made Mary sit up and scoot forward.
She ran a hand across Sachiko's abdomen, bringing her lips close and kissing her way down.
Sachiko could only watch and feel the curious lips skirt over her skin, fingertips tracing the lines of her pelvic bone till Mary could hook them under the waistband of her underwear, slowly moving them till they dropped on the floor.
Many nights had passed where Sachiko had envisioned this very sight; and now it was happening.
All on Mary's accord.
Sachiko exhaled and placed her hands into Mary's hair, watching the blonde as she moved her mouth down, kissing her way over the smooth skin till she could subsume herself in the luxuriant taste of the woman above her.
Red eyes closed, pink lips explored, long into the night.
When the sun broke through the parted curtains, the two figures sprawled on the bed roused, not knowing how this change would work out.
Sachiko was awake first, watching sleepy golden eyes look up at her as she gauged her carefully. She needed to know what Mary was feeling before she reacted as this was a tentative situation despite their riveting night.
Would Mary regret this?
The possibility didn't bode well with Sachiko.
Mary squinted slightly as her face was pressed against the soft pillow, a small yawn forming.
Her body ached, pleasantly.
The woman responsible for it was looking at her with a guarded and unreadable expression.
And Mary knew why.
She was the one who had made the move.
So she is the one who decides how this plays out and Mary was done skirting around her feelings for Sachiko, as convoluted as they were.
Mary inched closer and rested against Sachiko's chest, her palm on her skin as she traced her fingers aimlessly, just wanting the comfort.
"Good morning, Sachiko".
Sachiko smiled, the uncertainty lifting from her head as she placed her arm around Mary's back and held her close.
"Good morning to you, Mary".
As much as this was tentative, it was a start.
It was an admittance for one who kept her feelings concealed and the other who had to lock them away.
***
"You slept with Sachiko?!".
"Yeah".
"On purpose?".
Mary and Mikura simultaneously stared at Sakura, the latter amused and the former perplexed.
"The implication that they tripped and-".
"Okay, that's enough!" Mary almost yelled and threw a cushion at Mikura.
Mikura grinned devilishly as Sakura chuckled, "I didn't mean it as such, Mary" she then said, "It was just surprising to hear".
"That is an understatement" the redhead hummed.
Given Mikura's relationship with Sachiko, Mary had no idea how to navigate this and the air in the living area turned quiet for a moment. Sakura decided that this was a conversation for Mikura and Mary to have so she would make herself scarce and stood up.
Mikura grabbed her hand, her blue eyes widening as she wondered if that was the wrong response.
"Where are you going?".
"You and Mary need to talk about this" Sakura reassured and leaned down, her hand going over Mikura's, "It will be easier if I am not here" she smiled.
Mary knew that this was a residual of Sachiko's influence and Sakura seemed to be handling it well.
Mikura appeared to calm down, more so when Sakura kissed her, chaste but impassioned.
"Okay".
She let go of Sakura's hand as the woman stood back up and gave Mary a smile before leaving the two be.
"She has always been so good to me" Mikura said fondly, her eyes still on the door.
"Which is why the two of you were long overdue. Well, better late than never".
"It is thanks to you" Mikura stood up and sat next to Mary, "I really do owe you for that, Mary".
"No, you don't. Nobody owes or owns anyone anymore which is why I'm glad you both are together and away from all that crap".
"Pretty ironic considering what you just revealed".
Mary did not have a rebuttal to Mikura's teasing because she had ended up with the instigator of these events.
"I..yeah, I can accept that".
"So, you and Sachiko?".
"If this is weird, we don't have to talk about it. I just wanted you to hear it from me and not someone else" Mary replied, her golden eyes laced with a seriousness Mikura was all too familiar with.
The redhead smiled, reassuring Mary, "You're right".
"About it being weird or not hearing it from someone else?".
"Both" Mikura grinned before asking, "Do you like her?".
Mary pondered on that, and the months she had spent with Sachiko leading to that night. It couldn't be denied that there had always been something between them and while Sachiko had made her feelings obvious in the ways she knew best, Mary ignored it.
But there had been something there, this much she couldn't refute.
"I think so, I mean, we're still figuring out how to do this. She has never had a normal relationship and honestly, thinking back to my history, neither have I" the blonde answered, "I guess we will see how it goes. But I wanted to know if you're okay with this".
"Why wouldn't I be?" Mikura enquired, her arm leaning on the back of the couch.
"I don't know. I know you are with Sakura and you're happy but I wasn't sure if you're still pissed at Sachiko. Which you would have every right to be, by the way. So if me being with her is gonna be a problem-."
Mikura shook her head, "It won't. It is like you said, I am with Sakura. Which is something I have wanted for longer than I can admit" she said, "I guess my feelings for Sachiko will always be there but not in a way that I want to go back to her. Sachiko isn't someone who is easy to love so I admit I was worried what would happen. But if you're with her, then I can stop worrying" the redhead smiled.
Relieved by Mikura's words, Mary agreed, "Yeah, I always have wondered why she is the way she is".
And meeting Sachiko's cousin was a glaring indicant to the way Sachiko's mind was shaped, why normal was not in her lexicon.
"I feel like she's different now" Mary continued, "At least enough to leave Hyakkaou behind".
"She always has been when it comes to you, Mary. Even at Hyakkaou" Mikura pointed out, "So maybe this was inevitable to happen. Just like I feel like I was meant to be with Sakura".
Mary deliberated on that.
Meant to be with someone like Sachiko.
"I get what you mean".
After they'd conversed about other details of their lives, Mary then left and Mikura sought out Sakura.
She found her lover in their bedroom and walked over to her, taking a seat on Sakura's lap since she was seated on the couch.
The conversation about Sachiko and Mary's relationship was bound to stir some feelings for Mikura and Sakura was curious to know what was going through the redhead's mind.
"Are you okay?" she asked as Mikura curled her arms behind her neck, "How is Mary?".
"I am" Mikura replied honestly, "And I think Mary will be too. It's strange, but in a good way".
"How so?".
"I..was still worried about Sachiko" Mikura said, "I know it's not what you want to hear".
Sakura smiled and ran her hand down Mikura's waist while the other held Mikura's cheek, "It isn't that I don't want to hear it but rather, I already know. It wasn't as if I was expecting for you to forget and leave her. So you being worried was expected" she said, fingers running into red hair, "How do you feel now?".
Mikura closed her eyes and sunk into the soft sensations seeping into her senses before opening them again to look at Sakura.
"Relieved. For them, for us" she elaborated, "It means that I can let Sachiko go fully".
Such a confession was music to Sakura's ears, and that melody was further imparted into her lips when Mikura kissed her and added another melting statement.
"It means that everything I am, belongs to you, Sakura".
Sakura had accepted her wholly and Mikura knew that it hadn't been easy for Sakura to bite her tongue on the matter; of Mikura's lingering feelings for Sachiko.
But the development of Mary reaching her own revelations about Sachiko was the catalyst required to close the door to their past, making room for Mikura's future with Sakura.
The sentiments bloomed through Mikura's chest, becoming entangled with those of Sakura's as their kiss deepened and Mikura moved herself so that she was straddling Sakura's lap, her legs on either side of the woman's waist.
Her hand went to the ribbon in Sakura's hair, allowing the blue tresses to cascade down while Sakura's lips tugged at the corner of Mikura's mouth and her hands went to the hem of the redhead's dress.
There was an urgency in their actions to cement this eye opening moment by becoming ensnared in each other's embrace, baring all.
So to see the way Mikura was gasping above her when her dress was thrown aside and Sakura's own blouse had joined the pile sent a flurry of flickering flames alight in the pit of Sakura's stomach.
This woman belonged to her, after an arduous battle, Mikura was hers.
Her light eyes mapped over Mikura's body while fingertips traced a path down her hips, over her thighs, then back up to curl possessively around Mikura's waist.
Mikura felt each sensation, smiling between kissing Sakura's lips and jaw, before she could find solace in her lover's broad shoulder while her right hand ran down Sakura's abdomen. Her other arm was behind Sakura's neck, holding her close, drawing them into together till they were almost sculpted as a single entity.
Sakura sighed out against Mikura's shoulder, eyes closing as the impassioned feeling of Mikura's fingers swiftly ascended her to a realm only privy to them both.
A world that was now theirs, as it should have been.
What could have been a disastrous meeting if it hadn't been navigated carefully by Mikura and Mary's understanding of each other, had ended on a positive and necessary note.
The frayed knots of the past had been amended, tied together into something new for all four.
***
To put it bluntly, Mary felt like she had been hit by a truck, a truck which kept reversing over her, for good measure.
So when the door bell to her apartment rang out, aggravating her already hammering headache, she somehow managed to roll out of her bed while the cocoon of blankets remained on her as she stumbled through her home.
A dry cough escaped her mouth which was caught by the mask she had on as she tried to blink through the bleary vision and head to the door.
She blamed this on Sachiko.
Or the impending cold season.
But primarily the first reason as Sachiko had insisted she was fine when they spent time together last week. Apparently, she had never fallen unwell, which was a lie her staff had revealed to Mary when she asked them.
And long story short, Mary was paying the price for her libido.
She felt like hell as she opened the door, wondering who it could be and was surprised to see three faces.
"What are you all doing here?".
"Mary, what kind of greeting is that?" Sachiko sighed as Mikura and Sakura stood behind her.
"Huh? Oh, sorry.." she mumbled and gripped onto the door to not pass out, "Didn't mean it that way..".
Mikura was growing concerned, reaching forward, "She doesn't look good at all".
"That's rude" the blonde almost slurred, "Sakura..I think?" she blinked owlishly, "You're dating a mean woman" and then peered at Sachiko, "No..wait. I am".
With that, Mary collapsed just as Sachiko caught her in her arms.
She would rouse an hour later, hearing hushed whispers as the cold compress on her head was working wonders in quelling her fever.
"I think we should take her to the hospital".
"Sachiko, I know you're worried but we won't have to do that".
"Her temperature reached 39 degrees!".
"And it has gone down again, see? Sakura took it twice".
Mary managed to open her eyes and glanced to the side of her bed to see Sachiko's concerned expression, probably a second away from carrying her to the hospital herself.
Even in her delirious state, Mary found it adorable.
But she didn't want Sachiko terrorising any hospital staff so she reached out and tugged Sachiko's sleeve.
"You worry too much".
Sachiko turned to face Mary quickly, taking the blonde's hand in hers, "Mary..".
The relief in her tone was prevalent, startling Sakura and Mikura who hadn't heard it in such a way.
"Sorry to stress you all but I.." Mary coughed lightly, "I'm okay. The worst of it has passed".
Sakura handed the woman a bottle of water after opening it and Mary moved her face away to drink it before covering her mouth again and resting back. Sachiko had held her through the process, carefully laying her lover back down.
"Why didn't you call me?" Sachiko asked, trying to keep her voice steady, "If not me then Sakura or Mikura?".
"That's what I would like to know" Mikura sighed, "I don't know how you even managed this long".
"I..I didn't want to bother anyone. Besides..not the first time I have had to take care of myself".
Mary's voice was quieted because of the face mask so Sachiko placed her hand on the blonde's cheek, "Mary, you aren't alone now".
"I should be because you're all going to get it" Mary quipped, the cool hand on her cheek helping, "But that does feel nice".
Mikura could only shake her head as Sakura smiled as this was typical behaviour of Mary, but certainly atypical of Sachiko's
"Well, we are here now so leave everything to us. You will be back to your usual self in no time".
"Exactly, typhoid Mary is temporary" Mikura smirked.
The blonde glared, or tried to, "Don't you have a town to terrorise from the sewers? I'm sure one is missing its clown".
Sakura and Sachiko grinned at each other as the banter between their significant other's continued and Mikura was working her magic to take Mary's mind off of being unwell.
They left the two alone and went to make Mary something to eat as she needed to take some medicine. It was a peaceful moment in the kitchen between them despite their past altercations but thanks to Mikura and Mary, it allowed an amicable peace to form between Sakura and Sachiko.
As the day went on and evening settled, Mary was already feeling drastically better which assuaged their worries.
When the time came to leave, Sakura and Mikura had stood up as Mary had fallen asleep but Sachiko remained next to her.
"Sachiko? Are you coming?" Sakura enquired.
She glanced at the duo and shook her head, "No, I will be staying with her. Just on the off chance she needs something".
There was something about Sachiko which made the two women not bother to reassure her that Mary would be okay and in truth, they were also glad that Sachiko was staying.
Especially when they saw the way Mary's hand was in Sachiko's.
So they all said their goodbyes and Sachiko returned to the blonde who was sleeping soundly, her blonde locks combed back, showing the outline of her serene expression.
Sachiko took a moment to admire the woman, chuckling to herself before she carefully settled in next to Mary, her arms around her as soon as she felt Sachiko's presence.
A soft sigh escaped her lips when Sachiko ran her hand up and down her back, lulling Mary to a place of comfort, even within her dreams.
Looking at Mary's sleeping face, Sachiko's own serenity formed and even now, it startled her as to how she felt about this woman.
How Mary had inadvertently rewired what it meant to love for Sachiko, to desire.
However, that wasn't to say all of Sachiko's undesirable attributes had been effaced.
***
"Are you going somewhere?".
Mary paused in the midst of putting her jacket on as Sachiko leaned on the doorway of their bedroom in Mary's apartment.
"Oh, yeah. I'm going out with Itsuki and the others. I'm sure I mentioned it to you?".
Sachiko took in the sight of the blonde, dressed up in a flowy skirt and a blouse under her jacket. Her long hair was let loose, curling down her chest as the subtle make up made her look even more radiant, just like she always did.
"You did".
The curt response resulted in Mary turning from her desk where she had gone to retrieve her watch and put it on, a blonde brow raising.
"Are you okay?" she asked.
The older woman didn't respond immediately and it was the kind of silence which worried Mary.
There was a look in those red eyes, stern and set that led to Mary wondering if something had happened so she walked to her lover and called out.
"Hey, Sachiko. What's going on?".
The older woman ignored the question, "Itsuki? She is a bit of a wild one, isn't she?".
"I guess?".
"And I assume Kurumi will be there?".
She was indeed and Sachiko was very well versed with that woman which is why Mary saw her scowl.
"Listen, it's no big deal. It's just a catch up so don't worry".
Sachiko moved off of the door and walked to Mary, "I assume this catch up will be in a bar and there will be drinking. While I know you can handle your liquor, I don't trust those two. Or the clientele of the bars they frequent. Do you have a way home planned? Or do you intend on leaving with them to whatever trash they want to spend the night with?".
"Hold on a second" Mary frowned, "Itsuki's married and Kurumi is still pining over Nadeshiko so you can cut that crap out. You don't get to decide who I hang out with".
"I don't recall saying so".
Mary's annoyance was peaking at what Sachiko had even insinuated, "Oh, you did in your own shady ways. Unbelievable".
"Looking out for you is considered unbelievable?" Sachiko challenged.
"No, trying to decide who I hang out with is what's unbelievable. You said you wouldn't do that, Sachiko, so what the hell is this?".
"Mary, you know exactly why I am wary about those locations" Sachiko reasoned and placed a hand on her vexed lover's shoulder, "The scum who frequent those bars have no standards. What if one of them spikes your drink? What if one gets too close to you? I won't be there to protect you".
Mary shook Sachiko's hand away, scoffing incredulously, "Fuck, do you hear yourself?! I don't need you to protect me!".
"Do not raise your voice" Sachiko warned, "You are being unreasonable".
"You know what, I don't need this. I was just gonna see them for a couple of hours because I wasn't in the mood and honestly just wanted a quiet night with you but screw that. I'm out of here".
She pushed past Sachiko without even looking at her and ignored her when she called out.
It was one of Mary's fears when deciding whether to date Sachiko properly after their night, this possessive behaviour.
And it hadn't been an issue to a certain extent, at least Sachiko hadn't been this direct so it made Mary question whether this was a one off or if Sachiko's claws in her would dig deeper to an uncomfortable level.
She stormed out of her apartment and slammed the door, leaving an irate Sachiko standing there, her fist balled as her other hand ran down her face.
Sachiko wondered if she had been too intense but she truly was just concerned about her lover.
Having had discussed this part of her behaviour thoroughly, Sachiko had gone back on her word to not intervene and her stomach was twisted into knots.
Both the worry about Mary's wellbeing and if she had impacted her relationship by doubting her.
She sighed and dragged herself to the couch, sitting back as she kept her phone in her hand, her eyes going to her keys on the table.
Arguing with the voice telling her to go to Mary was strenuous and she tried to fight against it.
The last thing Mary needed now was for Sachiko to prove her point.
As the hours passed by, Sachiko's restlessness was at a breaking point.
Was this what it felt like to be in a give and take relationship?
One which she had to share the control?
Sachiko wasn't sure how to adjust to this side but for Mary, she would try.
She couldn't lose her and this night was proving to be a presentiment to that.
The sound of keys jangling in the door ripped her out of her brooding and it took everything for the woman to not jump up and call for Mary but she needed to know if the woman was okay.
Her ears followed the sound of shoes being kicked off and a jacket being tossed somewhere while soft footsteps headed towards the living area.
Mary's eyes met Sachiko's, the lamp in the corner being the only light source, casting a shadow over their features.
The silence was stifling as Mary walked towards Sachiko who remained seated, her hand on the armrest and Mary could see how hard it was for Sachiko to not reach out for her.
This woman..she baffled Mary and yet she understood those insecurities all too well to know where Sachiko's intents, as extreme as they may be, lay.
Sachiko's expression was impassive but that was quickly broken through when Mary ambled into her arms and lap, burying her face against Sachiko's neck.
"Idiot" she whispered, "I missed you".
Strong arms coiled around Mary, encircling her fully as Sachiko kissed the top of her lover's head, her nose pressed into the blonde hair.
Her heart had calmed, yet became erratic.
The way this woman in her arms made Sachiko feel..making her expose herself in a way Sachiko never would have because Mary understood her and adapted to the way she worked.
"I missed you too, Mary".
They knew that their relationship wouldn't be one of much tranquility, but they had made a vow to communicate with each when those rocky moments occurred.
It was the only way they could get through the hurdles which faced them.
***
When Mary arrived at the Juraku estate that weekend, she was surprised to see the staff more active than usual, almost panicking.
"What is going on?" she muttered to herself, watching the rushed individuals zip past her, "Did Sachiko invite royalty over again?".
She walked towards the staircase and almost bumped into one of the staff members she had gotten close to.
"Saotome-sama!".
"Hey, I said just Mary is fine and I made sure Sachiko won't fire you for calling me that".
The woman smiled sheepishly, "My apologies".
"Don't worry about it" Mary grinned before looking around, "What is going on? Where is Sachiko?".
Mary was then relayed the details of why the mansion seemed to be in flurry and the cause of it made her blood boil.
"Seriously? She's here?".
The blonde didn't waste another moment and headed to Sachiko's study, not caring about keeping up appearances. She had seen the way Sachiko's guest had irked even a woman as formidable as Sachiko herself and Mary wasn't going to keep her mouth shut this time.
She knocked on the door once and didn't wait for an answer as she knew Sachiko would dismiss whoever it was without asking so her surprise was prevalent on her face when she saw Mary.
"Mary".
"Sorry to interrupt" the blonde said in dangerously jubilant tone as her eyes went to the individual on the couch.
The other guest in question stood up, "Well, we meet again, Mary".
It was Sachiko's cousin.
"We do. Sachiko, why didn't you tell me she was coming?" Mary smiled as she stood next to her lover near her desk.
The pretentious mannerisms from Mary was threatening to make Sachiko laugh as Mary placed a hand on her chest, tugging her silver hair lightly.
"My apologies. If it was a meeting with someone important, I would have mentioned it. Not only that, she turned up unannounced".
The interaction made Sachiko's cousin sneer, "So you've collared her? How typical of Sachiko. It is the only way she can keep a woman by her side".
"Do you see a collar?" Mary scoffed, "Are you still bitter about losing against us? Get over it".
"Oh, please. The gamble was nothing".
"And yet you're still ¥30 million down".
Sachiko chuckled now as her cousin looked like she had swallowed a bee. She wanted to shield Mary from her family but the impromptu visit hadn't given her the time to text Mary to not come over.
But as expected, the intrepid blonde was capable of handling herself, even against the bloodthirsty ferals who were after Sachiko's title as the head of the Juraku family.
"This is Juraku business, stay out of it".
"Exactly. This is Juraku business and Mary is undoubtedly going to be a Juraku in future. I can guarantee that" Sachiko said sharply as she stepped in front of Mary, "You would do well to learn how to speak to her because in our hierarchy, Mary has her place next to me".
"Don't be ridiculous. She might be more intelligent than the usual mutts but marrying a commoner like her will tarnish our reputation".
Mary clenched her fist, "Did this fucker really call me a mutt?".
"I am sure Sachiko has called you worse" the cousin laughed with derision, "The things she used to refer to Mikura as. My dear cousin has quite the sharp and toxic tongue".
Sachiko almost flinched at that and Mary could only tell as she was right behind her.
Of course the details of Sachiko's relationship with Mikura was gossip fodder for predators like the Jurakus.
Sachiko was all but expecting Mary to stop defending her so when Mary placed herself in front of her, it was safe to say that the older woman was confounded.
"I'd say it runs in the family but unlike you, she has standards. Her relationship with Mikura was something Mikura wanted so don't even pull that crap. It was years ago too, we have all changed. I wouldn't expect a vulture like you to understand" Mary said, her brows furrowed, "So yeah, you have no business here. You should see yourself out before I get your thrown out, or better yet, I do it myself. We mutts learn more skills than you silver spoon fed crustaceans ever will and it would be my fucking pleasure to show you".
The woman was appalled at what Mary was saying, unable to comprehend it as her red eyes went up to Sachiko.
"Are you going to stand there and let this degenerate speak to me that way, Sachiko?" she yelled and pointed her finger at Mary.
"No, I am going to stand here and give you 5 seconds to leave our home before I take the honour of throwing you out" Sachiko snarled, all humour gone, "And I won't give you the courtesy of using a door. Now, leave".
Mary had her arms to the side, ready to react if the other woman made a move as she was sputtering. Her eyes were almost slits when she looked between Mary and Sachiko before scoffing and grabbing her bag.
She almost ripped open the door before turning and glaring at Sachiko.
"You'll regret this!".
"She does, imagine having a cousin like you" Mary smirked, all too pleased to get the last word in with her typical panache, "On, and do let the door hit you on the way out".
A few more sounds of indignation passed the woman's lips as she made her way out and slammed the door shut, shaking the interior of Sachiko's study.
Neither Sachiko nor Mary said anything as the adrenaline faded for the blonde, her back taut and fists at the ready.
Sachiko was long adjusted to this behaviour from her family, something she used to arm and equip herself in order to become the redoubtable figure she was because it was a necessity to survive.
Which is why she was so prepared for the Devil's pit that was Hyakkaou.
Amongst those devils, she hadn't expected to meet someone so humane.
Sachiko reached out and placed her hand on Mary's shoulder to turn her around and take her into her arms.
"I can't believe you are the sane one in your family" Mary mumbled against Sachiko's chest while she encircled her arms behind the woman.
"Wait till you meet the rest".
"I would rather not".
Sachiko smiled at that, "Speaking of which, Silver spoon fed crustaceans?".
"Uh, no offence" the blonde smirked and looked up at Sachiko.
"None taken, it was wonderful. Very poetic and applicable" Sachiko replied.
Mary placed a hand on the older woman's cheek whilst peering up at her through blonde lashes.
"She was wrong about you".
At least, her cousin's words held no credence now as Sachiko wasn't that woman anymore and Mary could see it.
Still, it was reassuring for Sachiko to hear it from Mary and Mary realised the impact of those words, her face warming so she rested her head beneath her lover's shoulder.
It was pivotal step in their relationship in regards to coming to terms with the past, in order to move onto their future.
The rest went unsaid in regards to the importance they held in each other's lives.
***
Time had passed as Sachiko and Mary had established the foundations of their burgeoning relationship, a tentative yet rewarding process.
Boundaries had been constructed, compromises had to be adhered to, communication was pivotal.
And with that effort had the two found a way to make the more corrosive aspects of their thinking more malleable, ensuring that it didn't interfere with their feelings for one an another.
It became comfortable, but not without the flames which encompassed them; those embers could never be eradicated as it was what lured Sachiko to Mary, and Mary to Sachiko.
So the steps of their relationship continued and Mary was in the midst of conquering another one, one which required immense thought.
What colour to paint their bedroom.
Sachiko's bedroom was a tad too sterile and Mary wanted to inject more of Sachiko's personality into it, as well as her own.
Such as Sachiko's love of flowers, and her own love of keeping trinkets.
So she was stood in the centre of the room with the two colour cards in each hand and lined them up to the wall. It was the two shades they had narrowed the selection down to and Mary wanted to be sure they chose the right one.
It was still anomalous to think how she was planning her future with Sachiko.
Fate truly had had the last laugh in shaking up her life.
A laugh she could join in rather than despair at because she was happy.
Happy with Juraku Sachiko.
Mary shook her head whilst smiling, "Unreal".
"What is?".
She almost jumped, not expecting the orotund voice so near but the arms around her waist kept her steady, more so when she was guided to rest on the body of the woman holding her.
Mary turned her head so that she could frown up at Sachiko, "How many times have I told you not to sneak up on me, Sachiko?!".
Sachiko pretended to mull it over, "Including now? I would say over 50 times".
"No, no. It is definitely way more".
"I can't help myself. Your reactions are wonderful and I can see why Mikura enjoys doing the same" Sachiko chuckled and rested her chin on Mary's shoulder, "So, have you reached a decision?".
Mary wrapped her arms over her lover's, "I don't know. Both shades would suit the decor but it's hard to tell".
"Let me take another look".
The blonde placed the colour cards up in each hand again, both outstretched towards the wall as they excogitated on it further.
Mary wasn't wrong, both shades would work with the interior, one shade an off white, the other magnolia, both colours slightly warmer than the current white walls.
Her crimson eyes went from the colour cards and to Mary's hands, "I have a solution".
"Yeah?".
She leaned into Mary's ear and tightened her arms around the blonde's waist, "We stop worrying about this for now and make use of the walls in another way".
Sachiko then nipped beneath Mary's earlobe, the soft area of skin reacting to the playful bite which had Mary annoyed and aroused as she spun in Sachiko's embrace.
"Can you be serious?" she exhaled, her palms on Sachiko's chest, "This is your room too".
Sachiko laughed now and kissed Mary's lips before drawing back, "Firstly, I was very much serious about my plan. And secondly, it is paint. We can always redo it, Mary. Your fixation with details is endearing but not when it ends up like this" she then said in a soft tone only for Mary, "So, relax, okay? The paint isn't permanent, but we are".
The spring breeze sauntered in through the open doors of the balcony and Mary felt her soul wither at the declaration.
These fleeting moments of Sachiko baring her heart were becoming common and Mary wasn't sure her heart could withstand it, falling harder for her as each day went by.
She knew she was overthinking it which was in her nature but Sachiko kept her grounded, be it with her body or words.
So she did as she was told, her smile demure at getting carried away but there was no judgement in Sachiko's eyes, just amusement and adoration.
Where words failed, actions sufficed.
And Mary didn't trust her voice right now so she tilted her head up and brought Sachiko's face down, her hands on either side of her neck.
A kiss as light as the zephyr prancing into the room followed, and nothing more was needed.
Because Sachiko was right.
They were permanent.
On the windowsill closest to their bed, an ornate flower vase rested in the centre, made out of the finest glass.
Within it would a vibrant bouquet of flowers rest, changing every few weeks, some gifted to Mary, and some gifted to Sachiko.
From each other.
Yellow and red roses bloomed brilliantly today.
Flowers in their nature held no permanence but much like the two women exchanging sweet nothings and chaste kisses, they could always be replenished, revived.
Much like their relationship.