Chapter Text
“Shinobu~” Mitsuri drew the younger girl’s name out, a pout on her lips. “Can we take a break and go get some food, please? I'm starving."
Shinobu’s wooden blade was pressed up against Mitsuri’s, having cornered the older girl, but with their half a foot height difference it would have certainly looked the other way around. Mitsuri knew Shinobu never relied on strength in her fights with demons, but her speed still gave her an upper hand and made it easy to get the high ground in many fights. Mitsuri had barely seen her coming and hadn't been able to stop her from shoving her into a corner.
They had been going at this for what seemed like hours now and it was making her hungry, but Shinobu hadn't once mentioned stopping, and she hadn't wanted to upset the other. The Insect Pillar had come to her earlier that day and asked her to train with her, though she didn't quite give a reason. She knew Shinobu was an incredible swordswoman, but had always been insecure about her strength. Maybe that's why she wanted to spar, but each fight seemed to go one of two ways. Shinobu using her speed to her advantage and disarming Mitsuri, or Mitsuri accidentally overpowering Shinobu and immediately feeling terrible afterwards.
She had nearly cried once earlier after knocking Shinobu to the ground, causing a gash to bear its ugly face across the younger girl’s cheek. The tears would have fell, but Shinobu quickly assured her that she was okay and that it didn't even hurt. While Mitsuri hadn't been sure if she was telling the truth, the other had almost immediately recovered and requested to keep going. Of course their entire job was to fight, and she was used to occasionally sparring with some of the other Pillars, but seeing that she had hurt the other girl didn't sit right with her.
The gash had stopped bleeding now, blood smeared slightly across the girl’s pale cheek. Her breath was ragged as she stood in front of Mitsuri, her purple eyes flickering up to meet Mitsuri’s green ones. Her trademark smile took its place on her lips as she spoke, “Of course, I think I could use a break as well.” The younger girl took a step back, flicking her sword to her side. “Thank you Miss Kanroji for sparring with me. I greatly appreciate it."
“You’re very welcome, Shinobu!" Mitsuri’s own smile appeared as she dropped her own sword, heading over to put it away. Even with all her training, her body still felt tired after their sparring matches. Even if Shinobu didn't believe she was strong, she sure knew how to take a battle into her own hands. A reminder of how lucky she were to be on her side, she didn't want to know how the other end of her blade felt with the poison flowing through it.
“Pardon me, Miss Kanroji," Mitsuri jumped as she had turned around, Shinobu being directly behind her.
“Shinobu, you scared me!" Mitsuri whined, taking a step to the side as her face flushed red. She was always so quiet, and almost always somehow snuck up on her. She couldn't even count how many times the younger girl had scared her.
“My apologies,” she replied as she put her own sword away before turning to meet Mitsuri’s gaze, her smile still very present. “I forget you scare easily."
An embarrassed sigh escaped her lips at the other girl’s words, raising a hand to rub the back of her neck. "Don't remind me, you always seem to find a way to startle me like that.” Shinobu giggled softly at that and Mitsuri’s smile returned, her cheeks returning to their normal color.
“I do promise it isn't intended,” and her voice sounded so genuine Mitsuri couldn't even pretend to not believe her. "I will try to not sneak up on you as often.”
“Much appreciated.” Shinobu was such a good friend, Mitsuri really did get lucky when she joined the corps and had the other there to help her learn the ropes. She couldn't ask for a better friend. "Shinobu?”
“Yes, Kanroji?”
“Would you happen to be available to join me for lunch? I have something I’d like to discuss with you.” It was inevitable, a discussion that needed to happen and Shinobu seemed the perfect person to help with her issue. “Lunch on me.”
Shinobu’s lips seemed to press together as if she was thinking it over and for a moment, Mitsuri was worried she’d say no, but instead the other girl nodded. “Sure, I can tag along."
Her smile grew at the agreement to lunch, bouncing on her heels as her smile grew. “Awesome, let us change then I’ll meet you outside the butterfly estate?"
“Sounds good, I will see you soon then." Shinobu gave her one last smile before turning to leave. Nerves began to bubble up in Mitsuri’s gut, she really hoped maybe Shinobu would have an answer to what she should do. Otherwise who knew if she would ever be able to tell him.
—-------------
Mitsuri hadn't planned on taking as long as she did, wanting to simply change and head to the restaurant with Shinobu, but as she was changing, the idea of having a picnic instead of going all the way to town came to her and so she instead made her way to the kitchen and threw together some food she had on hand. When she was finally able to make it to the Butterfly Estate with the basket of goods, Shinobu was sitting outside, a book in her hands and an almost bored look on her face.
Mitsuri stopped in front of her and immediately bowed her head. “Shinobu," she began. “I apologize deeply for taking so long, but if you'd like, I have plenty of food if you'd still like to join me."
Shinobu looked up from her book, the bored look now replaced with her smile. “Don't apologize, please. It's perfectly okay.” closing her book, the dark haired girl stood, tucking the book under her arm. “I'd love nothing more than to still join you.” The gash from their training session was now cleaned up, simply looking like a nasty scratch now.
Mitsuri’s smile shifted to a grin as her head turned up, reaching a hand out to take the younger girl’s. “I hope you're hungry, because I packed tons of food for this.” Another giggle came from Shinobu and Mitsuri found her confidence growing as she led Shinobu to her favorite Cherry Blossom tree. While she found practically all of nature beautiful, she always felt drawn to this tree, and it was a spot the two girls spent plenty of time.
They're nearly there and Shinobu speaks up. “So you had something you wanted to talk to me about?" Mitsuri’s grip on the girl's hand tightened a little, looking back at her.
“Yeah, it's something that's been on my mind for a while now," she started as they stepped in front of the tree. “Something that has become really important to me and I'm hoping I could get your advice on.” Sitting the basket down on the ground, Mitsuri gently pulled Shinobu to the ground to sit in front of her.
“My advice, huh?" the other girl nodded as she crossed her legs. “I will try my best to give you the advice you seek." The way she always sounded so intelligent sometimes made Mitsuri jealous, it was something she'd always admired about the other Pillar.
“Well,” Mitsuri opened the basket and began pulling out food to try and keep her hands busy so they didn't fidget anxiously elsewhere. "It’s a little embarrassing honesty, please don't laugh.”
“I won't laugh, I promise.” Shinobu’s smile was always so calming, it made her want to tell her everything. Not that there was anything she hadn’t told her, it was a good thing she was so good at keeping secrets.
“Okay,” she sat the last of the food out, grabbing a piece of mochi and eating it before continuing. Maybe it was an attempt to stall, or maybe it was simply the fact she was so hungry after their sparring. "Well, as you know, I have a crush on Obanai.” Shinobu nodded, her gaze seeming to be locked on Mitsuri, but not saying anything, letting Mitsuri go on. "And I've had this crush on him for so long that I think it may be time that I finally tell him my feelings.”
She studied the other girl’s face to watch for any sign of a laugh, but instead she swore she saw the corner of her lips betray her smile for only a moment. So quick she is sure she actually imagined it. “You think you're finally ready?”
“Yes!” Mitsuri replied confidently, but then her head cocked to the side just slightly. “Well, no actually.” Shinobu raised an eyebrow at her so she continued further to explain. "See, I'm ready to tell him, but the problem is I’m not sure how to do it. I thought about just telling him, but everytime I go to do it, I just get flustered and say something entirely different. Then he asks me if I'm okay and I get completely embarrassed. So just saying it is kind of out of the question.”
“I see,” the younger girl simply replies and with a brief moment of silence, Mitsuri hopes she gets what she's trying to say, but Shinobu says nothing else.
“So I was hoping maybe you had some advice on how I could go about confessing," Mitsuri continued, earning a surprised look from the other girl.
“You want my advice on how to confess to Iguro?" Mitsuri nodded, feeling her face heat up at the question. It did sound a little ridiculous, but if anyone knew how to go about doing this, it had to be Shinobu. She was the smartest person she knew. A small laugh came from the younger girl as she spoke again. “Well, I can't say I'm that experienced when it comes to confessing feelings, but I can certainly try."
“Oh, thank you, Shinobu! I greatly appreciate this." Mitsuri bowed her head in thanks, even if the other hadn't helped yet, any kind of help was always much appreciated by the Love Pillar.
Shinobu picked up a rice ball and took a bite of it, her face a bit twisted as if she was deep in thought. Mitsuri took this as a sign to eat more herself, trying to pace herself, but finishing nearly three rice balls before Shinobu spoke again. “I know it’s a little straightforward, but you could try kissing him.”
Mitsuri nearly choked on her food, coughing as she raised a hand to cover her mouth, her face surely a deep shade of red now. "Miss Kanroji, are you okay?” With a quick movement, Shinobu leaned closer to her, reaching a hand out, but Mitsuri waved her hand quickly to dismiss her. The other gave her a worried look as Mitsuri regained her composure. “Sorry," she finally spoke after a few moments. “I'm fine. It's just, I uh,” if even possible, she swore she felt her face getting even warmer.
“Miss Kanroji, are you sure you're okay? You're incredibly red," and suddenly, Shinobu reached a hand out to place on her forehead. “And burning up. Are you getting sick?" Oh God, was she really this clueless? That's kind of adorable. The thought earned a giggle from Mitsuri and Shinobu gave her a very confused look.
“No, please don't worry about me, Shinobu," she replied, giving the other a smile as she reached up to grab the younger girl’s hand from her forehead, holding onto it now as she gently lowered it. She now saw a faint shade of red on Shinobu’s cheeks. Was she getting embarrassed? Better explain herself. “It's just, I've never actually kissed anyone before, so I wouldn't even know how to go about doing that."
“Oh.” She hoped the girl would say anything else, but once again she was being a girl of very few words. Why now?
“I know, as the Love Pillar you'd think I would have kissed at least somebody by now, but the truth is I never have and it's totally embarrassing,” she groaned, letting her head fall.
“What? Kanroji, no one expects you to have had romantic relationships just because you're the Love Pillar,” she turns her head back up slightly and sees what she believes a determined look on Shinobu’s face. "That's like expecting me to like insects just because I’m the insect pillar.”
Mitsuri’s eyes widened at what the other had said. "You don't like insects? But that's like your whole thing.”
“I like butterflies, and maybe a couple others, such as bees, but other than that,” she tilted her head to the side a bit and her body seemed to shiver, a look of disgust crossing her face for a split second. "I despise them.”
“No way,” Mitsuri was in disbelief, she'd always thought the other girl loved insects, but at least the butterflies weren't a lie. She was sure her whole world would collapse if the other had admitted to hating butterflies as well. "Mhm, but please don't tell any of the others. It'll practically ruin my reputation.” Mitsuri nodded, squeezing Shinobu’s hand gently.
“I won't tell a soul, thank you for trusting me enough to tell me.” Shinobu’s smile was back now, beaming up at Mitsuri.
“Anyways, back to your problem, if we can even call it that,” Oh right, this conversation was about her. “Truly no one expects such things out of you, it's okay that you've never kissed anyone before. A kiss isn't really something you have to think about, if you want to do it, and you believe the other does as well, you just go in for it. Lean in and simply kiss his lips.”
The way Shinobu explained it made it sound so simple, but imagining the idea in her head, seeing herself go up to Obanai and kiss him, well it all looked absolutely ridiculous. "What if I mess it up though? What if I miss his lips? What if I'm a terrible kisser? What if he hates me afterwards? What if-”
“Kanroji,” Shinobu took both of her hands now, squeezing them gently and regaining the older girl’s attention. "I know it’s a lot to think about, but you really are overthinking it.”
“I am?”
Shinobu nodded, a gentle smile gracing her lips. "Yes, if you want to do this, you'll need to ground yourself. Remind yourself everything is okay, and that it’s just a simple kiss. You could always go for his cheek instead if that helps.”
Mitsuri nodded for a moment before realizing, "No, I can't do that. I've kissed him on the cheek before, he wouldn't think anything of it. This is hopeless, I'll never be able to do it.”
Another emotion crossed Shinobu’s face that Mitsuri couldn't read. "What if you practice?”
“Practice?” her head cocked to the side just slightly. "How can I practice?”
“Well, if you'd like, I could be a stand-in for Iguro and you could practice confessing and kissing me?”she replied nonchalantly, like it was so obvious
Mitsuri’s eyes lit up at the thought. “Seriously, you'd do that for me?” Shinobu nodded. “Yes, please! Surely if I practice some, I could get it down.” Practicing something always gave her more confidence in her skills, so this sounded perfect. “You really are an amazing friend, Shinobu. I love you so much.”
That same red tint seemed to return to the purple haired girl’s cheeks, and Mitsuri hoped she hadn't embarrassed her again. “It's nothing, I just want you to not be so nervous going into this.” Shinobu moved her body, closing the space between the two girls just a little more. “The first thing you want to do though is make sure the time feels right, it's best not to go in for the kiss when the other is tense or if they seem like they're upset. While that's totally okay further into a relationship, going then for the first kiss could cause possible aggression.” the girl spoke, having Mitsuri’s full attention.
“You want to make sure you have their full consent as well, so don't lean in too quickly," Shinobu slowly leaned closer to Mitsuri. “Take it slow, keep eye contact, even if it feels awkward, and if he shows no sign of disagreement,” her voice was but a whisper now. “Close the space." Then Shinobu’s lips were against hers, moving gently. They were so soft, she wondered if all lips were this soft.
The kiss only lasted a moment, Mitsuri trying to take in the movements so she could learn, but then Shinobu leaned back, their gazes meeting once more. "Just like that.” Her voice was still soft, her eyes seeming to almost sparkle. Those purple eyes really were the most beautiful thing she had ever seen in her life, and she was sure if Shinobu were a guy, it would have been her that she fell for. She blinked, shaking the thought away.
Clearing her throat, she spoke quietly. "Seems simple enough.”
“Great, how about you try now. I can walk you through it again if you need.”
Mitsuri nodded, leaning away more from the younger girl. "Okay, so the two of us have been talking and you feel as though you're ready to go in for the kiss, what do you do?”
“I study your body language,” Mitsuri replied, her eyes flickering to different parts of Shinobu’s body. Her cheeks were still a faint shade of red, her eyes seemed to carry happiness in them, and her smile was still ever present. It wasn't anything she imagined Obanai looking like, but he had his own way of showing happiness as well. “Make sure you don't seem angry or possibly upset in any way.” Shinobu gave her a small nod. “Then I can begin to slowly move closer,” Mitsuri slowly leaned her body closer to the younger girl’s, her eyes staying focused on the girl’s face. And then- she stopped, only inches from her lips.
“Why'd you stop?" Shinobu asked, an eyebrow raised.
“Your smile, it fell a bit.” It had been just enough for her to notice, but she took that as a sign to stop.
Shinobu was quiet for a moment, but then her smile fully returned. “You learn quickly, don't you? Good job."
Ah, she was testing her and it seems like she had passed. Maybe this wouldn't be as hard as she was thinking. “Go ahead and continue from here, Kanroji.”
Mitsuri nodded, once again looking over Shinobu’s features just to be sure, this time an encouraging look seemed to be dancing in her eyes and so slowly, she closed the space and their lips were together once more. This time, Mitsuri took the lead, gently moving her lips against Shinobu’s like the other had shown her, but she felt like she was being more sloppy with it. As she was about to pull back to ask how she had done, Shinobu began to kiss her back. That must be her answer, she was doing well, yes?
Closing her eyes, she started to imagine the other as Obanai, leaning her body into the other’s as their lips moved softly against one another's. Her hand moved to rest against the ground at Shinobu’s side to balance herself and she felt Shinobu’s hand on her cheek now, cradling her face. The picture of Obanai she had in her mind faltered at Shinobu’s touch, her hand so incredibly soft against her skin. She felt a shiver run down her spine, but seeing as the kiss seemed to be going well, she didn't part.
Their kiss lasted for several more moments, their mouths opening just enough to get enough air to make it through, until Shinobu slowly pulled away. Mitsuri’s eyes fluttered open as their lips drifted apart, her body now leaning slightly above Shinobu’s. Her face was even redder now, and her breathing was ragged, similar to when they had finished training earlier that day.
Mitsuri’s breathing matched hers, their chests moving quickly as they each worked to catch their breath. They just stayed like that for a moment, staring into each other’s eyes as they got enough air to speak again. “Are you sure you've never kissed anyone before?" Shinobu spoke first, and Mitsuri now noticed Shinobu was leaning back on one hand, keeping herself balanced under Mitsuri, the other hand still gently against her cheek. “Because that certainly didn't feel like a beginner’s kiss to me.”
Mitsuri felt her entire face heat up again at what she would think was a compliment. “I haven't, I swear. That was my first time kissing someone.” Then the realization hit her, that was her first kiss. Her eyes widened a bit, but Shinobu didn't seem to notice or at least didn't ask. That had been her first kiss, and it was well, amazing. Were all kisses like that? It had been so addicting, intoxicating almost and she felt herself wanting to do it again, get lost in Shinobu’s lips once more.
“Well you could have fooled me," Shinobu spoke, her hand dropping from Mitsuri’s cheek to help her other hand keep herself balanced. Mitsuri took that as her sign to pull away, almost feeling disappointed in the loss of heat from Shinobu’s body. “Kiss Iguro like that and I don't think you'll have any problem showing him how you feel."
Mitsuri was sure all the heat in her body had now rushed to her face, and she forced a small laugh. “You think so?"
“Absolutely, that was amazing. You're a natural," she insisted, a grin beaming over to Mitsuri. That grin of hers was beautiful, addicting, and Mitsuri wished she could see it more often. “He'd be a fool not to be in love with you."
Mitsuri’s cheeks almost hurt from how big her smile had gotten. "Thank you so much, Shinobu,” she bowed her head. "I think I'm ready now.”
“I think so too, you'll do great, Mitsuri,” A small gasp came from the older girl as she turned her head back up to look at Shinobu, but she had now gone back to eating, seeming to not have noticed how the name slipped from her lips. Surely it had been an accident, but it made Mitsuri feel warm inside. Shinobu was so amazing.
They ate in mostly silence for the next twenty minutes or so, Shinobu occasionally humming in content as she ate the food Mitsuri had prepared. Mitsuri on the other hand was strangely quiet, eating her food much slower than normal. She hadn't quite noticed, but she hadn't been able to tear her gaze from the shorter girl, admiring small things about her as she ate. Like how the bits of hair not clipped back by her usual butterfly clip fell beautifully to frame her face, the purple ends slightly swaying with the breeze that blew around them. Or the way her deep purple eyes seemed to dance with so many emotions as they ate, not being able to pinpoint what each was. The way her smile complimented the rest of her appearance, a smile Mitsuri had only seen falter a few times since meeting her. Everything about her was just so beautiful, how had she not noticed it sooner? She was so perfect.
She was so lost in thought, she hadn't noticed the other was speaking until her expression seemed to change to worry and a hand reached out to grab Mitsuri’s shoulder. “Hm?" Mitsuri hummed out, blinking as all her senses seemed to kick back in.
“You had me worried there for a moment," Shinobu replied, her smile returning though not fully. “I was asking if you were finished already? You barely ate anything.”
“Oh uh," Mutsuri’s gaze fell to the food sitting between them, the food she had packed for herself barely touched.
“Are you feeling alright? This isn't about you feeling insecure about how much you eat again, is it? Cause I already told you-”
“No, no! It isn't that, I swear.” Mitsuri promised, waving her hands between them. “I was just really deep in thought. I guess I forgot what I was doing."
“I see,” Shinobu giggled softly and Mitsuri felt her heart pound faster in her chest. What was this? "Is it about the kiss again? I know you're nervous, but I believe in you. I know you can do it.”
No, it wasn't, but she couldn't tell Shinobu she had been sitting there admiring her the whole time. That would sound weird. "Yes,” she lied. "I guess even with practice, the nerves won't completely go away.”
“That's understandable, they probably won't until you finally do it.” Yeah, she was afraid of that. It would be okay though.
“I'm supposed to be having dinner with him tonight, I plan on doing it then.” Mitsuri explained, resting her elbow against her leg so she could rest her chin in her hand. "I do feel my confidence isn't as low as it was earlier, thanks to you, and I too believe I can do it, but my nerves seem to think differently."
“That's pretty normal, you just have to keep reminding yourself that everything will be okay.” It sounded easy enough. “And remember it's Iguro, anyone can see he cares about you quite a bit, I don't think he'd ever be upset with you for showing your emotions."
She thought that over for a second before nodding. “Yeah, you're right. I'm sure everything will go great." Her smile grew again and part of her began to look forward to the night to come, everything was going to work out.
More time passed and Mitsuri tried to focus more on eating now so she'd hopefully keep herself from staring at the other for too long again. One of them would occasionally say something, but their conversations were short lived for the rest of lunch. She didn't mind though, even in silence, she loved every moment she got to spend with the other Pillar.
Eventually, Shinobu broke the silence. “This has been absolutely lovely, thank you for inviting me out, and making such wonderful food.”
“Oh, not a problem, you're always welcome to join me for lunch, Shinobu.”
“I'll keep that in mind," the younger girl smiled, but soon a sigh left her lips as she began to clean up her mess. “Unfortunately, I do have to be leaving soon though. I have some work I need to finish back at the Butterfly Estate before night falls.”
“Oh,” Part of her was hoping they could spend more time together, but she knew Shinobu was a very busy woman and she couldn't keep her forever. “Of course, I won't keep you any longer then."
Shinobu gave her a warm smile before standing, holding a hand down to help Mitsuri up. She took it and with her help, stood up herself. “Please do let me know how your evening with Iguro goes, I'm rooting for you."
She nodded, her heart fluttering in her chest. Night would be upon them soon and it would be time to tell Obanai the truth. She was getting kind of excited. "I will, of course. Maybe I could stop by tomorrow morning?”
“Sounds good! I will see you then.”
“Perfect, I can't wait.” with that, Shinobu turned to leave. Mitsuri found her mouth opening again though. “Shinobu!?"
The Insect Pillar stopped, turning her head to look back at her. “Yes, Miss Kanroji?”
Not hearing her first name again from the girl was a bit of a let down, but she didn’t let that show. “Don’t work yourself too hard, okay?”
Shinobu’s expression shifted for a moment, surprised she was sure, but then she gave her a soft smile. “I won’t, I promise. Promise me though you won’t worry so much, okay?”
“I promise,” Mitsuri replied, beaming her usual smile at the other.
“Thank you, have a wonderful evening, Kanroji.”
“You do the same, Shinobu,” she watched as the smile on the girl’s lips seemed to grow before she turned and made her way back to her Estate. What a wonderful person, what would she do without her?
Mitsuri then made her way to the Love Estate to get ready for the rest of the evening, wanting to plan the night perfectly, but her mind could barely focus on the night to come. Now that she was alone, and away from the other Pillar, her mind only wanted to focus on one thing. The kiss they had shared, how soft Shinobu’s lips were against her own, how she wanted to just savor the kiss for as long as possible.
Would the kiss with Obanai be just as amazing? Surely it had to be. Obanai was the love of her life, it was going to be perfect.
Tonight was the night.
—————————-
Mitsuri was sitting across Obanai now, the two of them eating alone seeing as Obanai wasn’t a fan of eating with a bunch of random demon slayers or really any of the other Pillars. While Mitsuri did enjoy spending time with most of them, she also enjoyed alone time with this one in particular. Obanai had finished nearly all of his food while Mitsuri had barely touched any of hers, the nerves having found their way back into her system, but also she wanted to keep an eye on his expressions, make sure this was going the way she had hoped.
“Everything okay, Mitsuri?” Obanai asked, his gaze falling to her almost untouched food. “You’ve barely eaten.” Wow, never had she thought she’d hear that twice in one day.
“Oh! Yeah, sorry.” She gave him a smile before picking up some of her food. “My mind has just been all over the place today.”
Obanai was quiet for a moment, seeming to be studying her for a moment. Mitsuri found herself doing the same, yet her eyes kept flickering to his lips, admiring the scar there. She knew he hated it, and she didn’t blame him with the story behind it, but something about it drew her even further to him. She wanted to kiss along it, tell him she’d never let anyone hurt him ever again. She’d joined the corps to find a man stronger than her, but that didn’t mean she didn’t want to protect Obanai with everything she could.
“Mitsuri?” She blinked, her gaze returning to meet Obanai’s mismatched eyes, such beautiful eyes. Yet they weren’t quite as beautiful as Shinobu’s. Wait, what? Why was she even thinking that right now? “Huh?”
“You zoned out again, I was asking if you wanted to talk about it.” He had a worried look in his eyes and it made her heart ache, she hadn’t meant to make him worry.
“Yes, actually,” Mitsuri replied, leaning forward against the table between them. “I’m just not completely sure how to.”
“That’s okay, take your time.” Obanai gave her one of his rare smiles and Mitsuri had to return the gesture. He was so cute when he smiled. “I don’t mind waiting.”
Maybe this was it, he seemed to be in a good mood. He was smiling after all, and that was one of the tips Shinobu had given her; don’t go for the kiss when they seem upset. Mitsuri found herself leaning a little closer, her gaze falling to Obanai’s lips for another moment. It would be so simple, and she didn’t need to get carried away like she had earlier that day. Just a simple kiss, like the one Shinobu had first given her. Her body leaned ever closer, slowly, being careful not to crush the food beneath them. Then her eyes went up to meet those beautiful purple eyes once more, a deep gradient similar to what you’d see in an Insect’s. It was quite cool how Shinobu’s own eyes even represented those of her breathing style. She was so- Wait, Shinobu? Suddenly she pulled back quickly, blinking almost aggressively.
“Mitsuri?” Worried had found its way into his voice. His voice . Obanai was definitely the one sitting across from her, so why had she suddenly imagined it being Shinobu?
“What?” She asked, but she knew what. She probably looked crazy. “I-I’m sorry. I don’t know what’s going on with me tonight.”
“Mitsuri, please talk to me, I’m starting to get really worried.”
She nodded, opening her mouth to speak but no words came out. What the hell was going on? She had hyped herself up for this the rest of the day, was it the nerves getting to her? That had to be it, but even believing so didn’t stop the way her chest began to fall and rise quickly or the pounding she could hear from her heart. “Mitsuri-“
Mitsuri suddenly pushed herself up to stand, shaking her head. “I’m sorry, but I suddenly remember I have to go do Shinobu- no, something. I have to go do something. I’m sorry Obanai,” she quickly bowed her head, her face becoming incredibly hot. “Please forgive me.” Before he could get another word in, she was gone, her barely touched food being left on the table along with a very confused and slightly pissed off Obanai.
Mitsuri made her way back to the Love Estate, trying to regain control over her breathing with each step. Maybe she’d put too much faith in herself, did she seriously think she’d be able to just kiss him and everything would work out magically? What a ridiculous thought. That made sense though, her nerves just getting the better of her. Except for the part with Shinobu. The kiss hadn’t meant anything, so why was she thinking about kissing her again? She was in love with Obanai, not Shinobu.
Shinobu…
Her face appeared in Mitsuri’s mind again; her short hair drifting in the slight breeze as her amethyst eyes stared up at Mitsuri, a pink tint to her cheeks that caused the wound there to seem even darker, and her lips blowing out quick breaths that tickled Mitsuri’s skin. She hadn’t minded though, Shinobu had been helping her after all. Such a kind friend she was.
Mitsuri had stopped in her tracks as the moment they shared replayed in her mind, and it took her a moment to realize her breathing had returned to normal. This all felt so strange, she had never been so flustered when thinking of Shinobu before, and the kiss had only been to help her confess to Obanai, so why was this all happening now? Did she have feelings for Shinobu?
No, that wouldn’t make sense. If she had feelings for the girl, they would have been known to her before a kiss. Besides, Mitsuri didn’t like girls. Well, she did, but not like that. She was here to find a strong man to marry, and that was Obanai. Obanai, the amazing guy she just left all alone back there. Obanai, the guy who had helped her so many times no matter how difficult or ridiculous the task was. Obanai, the strong Pillar who she had fallen head over heels with many moons ago. Obanai.
She closed her eyes, taking in a breath as she tried to picture the future she had pictured so many times before. The future where demons no longer exist, and she can live happily with the love of her life. A short, black haired figure in a striped Haori stood in front of her, his mask absent and a smile on his face. How she loved that smile so much. He lifted a hand to caress her cheek, the taller Pillar leaning forward to press her forehead to his. Neither of them spoke, they didn’t need to. Even the silence held the many words of admiration they carried for each other.
Her eyes opened, feeling tears threaten to spill from them. That was the future she had envisioned for herself, the future she had wanted since she knew how to want anything, and Obanai fit so perfectly there. Yes, because Obanai would be the one she admits her feelings too, because he’s the one she has feelings for.
She turned on her heels and began walking away from the Love Estate. She had to apologize to him, explain everything and maybe try the kiss again. No, she just needed to come clean and admit her feelings. Skip the whole kiss thing, just be honest, use her words. Yes, that’s what she needed to do.
So why was she walking towards the Butterfly Estate?
——————-
Upon arriving, Mitsuri made her way inside, taking a look around to see if she could spot Shinobu. She wasn’t here to confess or anything, she does not have feelings for her. She was just simply here to let her know how terribly the dinner had gone, and hope maybe she had another suggestion. Maybe one that wouldn’t have her turn into a flustered mess.
“Miss Mitsuri?” A voice called out, causing her to turn and meet the gaze of the young slayer.
“Ah, Tanjiro,” Mitsuri gave him a smile as he came towards her. “How have you been?”
“I’m doing good, just checking in on Inosuke, he got himself hurt ramming into a tree too many times,” the young boy sighed, glancing back to the room behind him. “I thought he would have learned with how many times Aoi has scolded him for it. Maybe I should let Miss Shinobu know what’s going on.”
“That may be smart, Shinobu can be strict about those types of things, so he may listen to her.” Mitsuri replied, wanting to ask if the other had seen her, but didn’t want to change the subject to herself.
“Oh he would,” Tanjiro confirmed, turning back to the older girl. “I think he respects Miss Shinobu, and she may even scare him a bit, he doesn’t want to upset her.”
“Makes sense, she can be pretty scary,” She joked with a teasing grin.
Tanjiro nodded. “She can, but I know she means well. Oh, Did you happen to be looking for her? I noticed you seemed to be looking around for someone when you came in.”
“Uh, yes actually,” Mitsuri wasn’t sure why, but she felt her cheeks start to warm up. Stop it, darn it. There’s no reason for this. “Do you happen to know where she is?”
“She’s in her study,” Oh great. “And well, I know she usually wants to be left alone while in there, but you should stop by. I’m sure she could use the company, she’s been locked up in there for a few hours now.”
“No, it’s fine. I wouldn’t want to bother her,” Mitsuri tried not to let her disappoint show, but Tanjiro seemed to see right through her.
“Miss Mitsuri, I seriously think you should stop by,” he insisted, his smile faltering a bit. “I know you think of it as bothering her, but I don’t think anyone should have to be alone this long. I’d go by there myself, but I need to keep an eye on Inosuke, and besides you two are much closer. I’m sure she’d appreciate it.”
Well, she had come by to talk to her, maybe a quick stop wouldn’t hurt. “Okay, I’ll go by there and check on her. Thank you, Tanjiro.”
“Of course! Let Miss Shinobu know I said hi, please.”
“I will.” And with that he turned from her, making his way back to the medical wing. If Shinobu was busy, should she really be bothering her with her love life again? Probably not, but she could at least go check on her.
Making her way to the Pillar’s study, she gently knocked on the door. A moment passed before; “Come in!” Mitsuri pushed the door open, slipping inside to find Shinobu sitting at her desk, several stacks of paper neatly stacked across it with several others sprawled out in front of her. Shinobu turned her head to look at the intruder, smiling when she noticed it was Mitsuri. “Ah, Kanroji, I wasn’t expecting you so soon.”
“I mean, it is nearly eight.”
Shinobu blinked. “Is it really? Huh, guess I lost track of time.” Typical. Shinobu was always so lost in her work, she’d been late several times to their outings or even training.
“Are you-“ Shinobu cut her off before she could finish.
“How’d the dinner go? Did you do it?” Her eyes seemed to twinkle with wonder and Mitsuri felt her heart start to speed up again.
“Uh well, not exactly.” She replied, rubbing the back of her neck and wincing as Shinobu’s smile faltered just barely.
“What do you mean? I thought you were ready?”
“I thought I was too, but I just…” I saw your face and panicked. Ugh, shut up. “I couldn’t do it. I was so close too, but I panicked and couldn’t follow through. I’m sorry.”
“Sorry?” her head tilted to the side in confusion. “Kanroji, what on earth are you sorry for?”
She felt tears start to build in her eyes, but she tried blinking them away, her gaze falling to the floor. “You put so much faith in me and helped me so much, but I let you down. You helped me all for nothing. I failed.”
“Kanroji-“
“I thought after earlier, there was no doubt I’d be able to just confess, but even with all the confidence and practice, I still couldn’t do it, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to do it. I’m a-“ before she could get the words out, arms wrapped around her, pulling her into a hug. Damn Shinobu’s ability to be so sneaky.
“Don’t you dare say those words, I won’t allow it.” The shorter girl practically ordered, holding her in her arms. “It isn’t true, so what if you couldn’t kiss him? Or confess? There’s always another time. You don’t have to beat yourself up just because you weren’t able to do it this time.”
Mitsuri sniffed, wrapping her arms around the younger girl to try and ground herself. “But how many more times will it take? I’ve already tried so many times, I thought I could finally do it this time.”
“I don’t know, dear, but you don’t have to rush it,” her voice was quiet, surely trying to comfort Mitsuri and it was working. Her body seemed to relax a bit, but her thoughts still rushed around.
“I just want him to know how I feel,” she whispered, gently burying her face into Shinobu’s neck. “But after tonight, he probably hates me.”
“I don’t think that man could ever hate you,” Shinobu replied, stroking the taller girl’s back.
“You don’t know that, I ran from him tonight. I couldn’t even talk to him.”
“And?” Shinobu pulled away, a hand moving from her back to cradle Mitsuri’s cheek, their eyes meeting. “If he hates you for something as simple as that, then he’s not right for you anyways.” She knew Shinobu was just trying to help, but those words stung. “Maybe this was my fault.” What?
“Shinobu, how could any of this possibly be your fault?”
“I told you to kiss him, didn’t I?” She sighed, her gaze leaving Mitsuri’s, and Mitsuri found herself begging in her mind for it back. “Maybe I was having you be too forward, expecting you to move too quickly.”
“Shino-“
“No, I shouldn’t have jumped that far forward, I should have told you to start smaller.” Her eyebrows furrowed together and Mitsuri was pretty sure she was getting angry at herself. She pulled the shorter girl back to her, her fingers curling slightly into the girl’s haori, earning a gasp from the other.
“Please don’t blame yourself, Shino,” she pleaded, tears continuing to roll down her face. “It isn’t your fault,” Yet wasn’t her face the reason she ran? No, stop that. Shinobu wasn’t the one to blame. “I asked you for advice and you gave it to me.”
“I gave you shitty advice,” the girl mumbled, pushing the top of her head against Mitsuri’s shoulder. “Kissing him before admitting your feelings.” She scoffed, a hint of hatred bleeding through her tone. “What a stupid idea.”
“Shinobu,” Mitsuri’s voice cracked slightly, her grip tightening. “Please stop, I didn’t come here to let you know your advice failed. I came to ask you for more advice.”
Another gasp from the younger girl. “What?” She pulled back again, but Mitsuri didn’t allow her to go too far. “How could you possibly want more advice from me when I failed the first time?”
“You didn’t fail, I did.” Mitsuri argued, still trying yet failing to blink her tears away. “It’s my fault I couldn’t go through with the kiss, but it was amazing advice, anyone else would have been able to do it. That’s why I want to try something else.”
Shinobu stared up at her, her purple eyes seeming to twinkle with tears. She should have left her alone, now she had made someone she cared about cry. How could she be so cruel? The Love Pillar; making people cry when she was supposed to be spreading happiness.
She was sure the other could see the determination in her eyes, practically begging her for help. Shinobu sighed, blinking a few times before speaking. “I suppose you could try gifting him something, or maybe making him his favorite food. A gift to show your admiration for him.”
“A gift?” Mitsuri’s smile seemed to find its way back onto her face and her eyes lit up. “Shinobu, that's a brilliant idea!” Without thinking, she placed a kiss on the younger girl’s cheek, just above the scratch she was sure would scar, earning a small wince from the girl. “See? You have the best ideas, Shino!”
Shinobu gave her a smile, though there didn’t seem to be much emotion behind it. She still seemed upset. “I guess so.”
“No, seriously.” She pulled her back into the hug, nuzzling her face into the younger girl’s neck. “I’m going to finally do it, I’m going to confess all thanks to you.”
“I hope so,” the other replied, chuckling. “Take too much longer and my faith in you may dwindle.”
Mitsuri gasped, pulling away to look at the younger girl, but Shinobu had a playful smile on her face. “How rude, I thought of all the people, you’d never lose faith in me,” she huffed.
“Then it looks like you better prove that bit of doubt wrong,” Shinobu poked a finger into Mitsuri’s cheek. “The clock is ticking, Miss Kanroji.”
Her eyes widened and she pulled away from Shinobu. “You’re right,” she placed a fist against an open hand. “I should go buy the gift now and-“ A yawn cut her off and suddenly her body felt heavy. “I should-“
“Kanroji?” Shinobu gave her a worried look before a small smile appeared on her lips. “All that training from this morning catching up to you?”
Mitsuri groaned softly. “Yeah, I think so.” Then her stomach growled. “And I’m starving.”
Shinobu giggled, covering her mouth to hide the playful smile that tugged at her lips. “How about you stay here for the night? I can have Aoi fetch you something to eat and then you can rest.”
“Yeah, that sounds wonderful.” Mitsuri smiled as Shinobu gently took her hand.
“Come on, I’ll show you to one of the guest rooms.”
Mitsuri hummed in response as Shinobu practically dragged her out of the study and towards an empty room. The Estate was huge, much bigger than the Love Estate, which made sense given this is where several slayers stayed, especially when injured. Shinobu was so kind allowing them to have a place to call home here.
Shinobu opened a door, switching on the light and then leading Mitsuri to the bed. Mitsuri immediately sat down, her drowsiness beginning to kick in more and more as the seconds passed. With everything going on, she hadn’t realized just how tired she was. “Would you like me to fetch you something to sleep in? You’re still in your uniform.”
“Yes please,” Mitsuri mumbled, her eyes feeling heavy.
Shinobu gave her a warm smile before making her way out of the room. As soon as she was gone, she couldn’t help but deny the warmth of the bed any longer, curling up on top of the blanket and letting her head hit the pillow. She knew she should wait for Shinobu to return, but sleep was too tempting and by the time the Insect Pillar returned, Mitsuri was already out.
——————-
“Obanai~” Mitsuri drew out as she took a seat across from the serpent pillar, sitting a plate between the two of them, a plate of Tororo Kombu. “I made you something to eat, it’s fresh and made with all the love I could give.” Mitsuri smiled, leaning forward against the table as Obanai took a peak at the food between them, a look of confusion crossing his face.
“I was also hoping I could talk to you, explain what was going on with me the other night.” Mitsuri continued, her confidence that had drifted away now full force through her veins. “See the thing is; I really like you, and I have for quite some time. In fact, I think I may be in love with you. I know that sounds kind of ridiculous, but it’s true.” Mitsuri mused, her smile only growing. “You’re so strong, and caring, and you always know just the right thing to say.” Yet, he wasn’t saying anything now, just staring at the plate between them. She didn’t mind, he didn’t seem upset so she continued. “You’ve always taken care of and helped me anytime I needed it. You’re just so amazing.” She found herself gushing, her words just spilling from her mouth in the way she had always hoped it would happen.
“You’re also incredibly smart, I mean the way you can make practically any medicine to help out the corps, or the way you utilize your sword to administer poisons you create in order to kill demons. It’s amazing.” What was she saying? That didn’t sound right. “You’re always taking care of others, and I admire that so much. I wish I could help out as much as you do.” No, Obanai was a fighter, sure he was helping by doing so, but he didn’t really help out others. Not in the way her mind was trying to tell her. “I don’t know exactly when it happened, maybe when you kissed me under that tree, but I do know I’m in love with you. Every part of you.” She tried to stop herself from speaking, but no matter how hard she tried, the words continued to flow like a river. “You make me laugh, and feel so loved, I was honestly confused at first when I realized I was in love with you, not sure those were the exact feelings I had, but now I know and I want to be with you, if you’ll have me.”
Obanai’s face twisted in confusion, his eyes finally meeting hers. “That’s sweet, Mitsuri, but if I’m being honest, I don’t really feel the same way.” Mitsuri swore she could feel her heart tear in two as the other spoke. “Don’t get me wrong, I like you and all, but only as a friend. That’s all I’ve ever liked you as. I’m sorry.” Mitsuri blinked, was it everything she had said wrong? Why had she even said all of that? None of it was true. Not about Obanai, except the part of her loving him. “And I wasn’t going to say anything, but it doesn’t seem you know me very well.” Huh? “I appreciate you cooking for me, but I don’t like Tsukudani.”
Tsukudani? No, that wasn’t right. Her gaze fell to the plate, the plate she swore she had filled with his favorite noodles, but sure enough it was full of Ginger Tsukudani. “What? No, I didn’t-“
“Oh my gosh, how did you know that was my favorite?” A different voice came from Obanai now and when Mitsuri looked back, Shinobu had taken his place, a smile on her face as she eyed the food. “I haven’t had it in months, I’ve been craving it for so long. Thank you, Mitsu.” Mitsuri felt her heart pounding in her chest. Was this some kind of cruel joke? What was going on? Where had Obanai gone? How did the food change? Why was Shinobu calling her Mitsu?
“I know you very well, Shino,” A smile made its way to her lips, words she hadn’t meant to speak coming through. “As I said, I’m in love with you, and I wanted to treat you to your favorite to show you how much I care about you.” No, no. This was all wrong. Yet as Shinobu gave her the most warming smile she had ever seen, she felt her heart flutter, love blooming within. Love? Is that what this was? That’s what her mouth said it was, her brain and heart too.
She found herself leaning across the table, closing the space between them to press her lips to Shinobu’s, the two sharing a quick gentle kiss before she pulled back. “I hope you feel the same way.”
“Are you kidding?” Shinobu grinned, pressing her forehead against Mitsuri’s. “Of course I love you, Mitsu. I always have.” Then it went black.
——————-
Her eyes flew open and she had to quickly shut them again as the light from outside the window practically blinded her, causing her to throw and arm over her face. What on earth was that dream? Had she really been admitting feelings to Shinobu? That she was in love with her?
Was she in love with her?
“Kanroji?”
Mitsuri jumped at the sudden voice, removing her arm to look at the culprit.
Shinobu’s normal butterfly pin was absent, her hair falling just above her shoulders, it was messy and she looked like she had just woken up. Or like she hadn’t slept at all, her eyes seeming to look tired. She looked beautiful like that. “Shinobu.” She whispered, not being able to get her voice any louder.
“Hey, glad to see you’re finally awake. You slept like a rock.” She teased, a playful smile on her lips. “Aoi made breakfast if you’re hungry, which I’m assuming you are since you fell asleep before we could feed you last night.”
She felt her cheeks heat up, her hand raising to cover as much of her face as she could. “Sorry about that, I guess I was really tired.”
“No need to apologize, there’s plenty of food in the kitchen for you now. Eat as much as you’d like.” She knew what she really meant was as much as you need, Shinobu was always hounding her to eat the actual amount she needed to eat, which was much more than any of the other Pillars. There was no way she could let her know she had barely eaten the night before or she’d get an earful.
“Thank you, I’ll head down there now.”
“I’ll join you, I was just about to head that way myself, but I wanted to check on you first.”
“Great!” Oh dear, Mitsuri wasn’t sure she could spend any alone time with the other Pillar right now, not with that dream fresh in her mind. What if she said something stupid? Something she didn’t mean? She wasn’t actually in love with her, was she? After one meaningless kiss?
——————
Mitsuri could feel her stomach growl as she saw the food laid out on the tables in front of her. It all looked so delicious and she was ready to just dive in. Shinobu handed her an empty plate, giving her one of those beautiful smiles she always had. Her hair had since been put into its normal style, the purple clip sitting neatly in her hair. “Dig in while it’s still fresh.” Mitsuri nodded, watching as the shorter girl moved to make her own plate, not putting much on it before taking a seat at the empty island.
Mitsuri filled her plate with a little of everything before taking a seat across from Shinobu, the younger girl already having started on her food. “You must thank Aoi for me for all of this, it all looks so delicious.”
Shinobu nodded after swallowing a bite of her food. “Sure, I can let her know. I’m sure she’d appreciate hearing your praise.”
Mitsuri grinned before digging into her own plate, and never had food tasted so good before. The pancakes were so fluffy, and covered in honey. They tasted incredible, she didn’t know Aoi was such an amazing cook. They’d have to make a meal together sometime, to treat the other demon slayers. It would be a feast to remember.
The two girls ate in silence, Mitsuri savoring every bite of food she could. She’d lost count just how many pancakes she had eaten, but as she finished her last one, she let out a sigh, gently placing her chin in the palm of her hand. “I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy in my entire life.”
“Was it that good?” Shinobu asked with a soft giggle.
“Mhm,” Mitsuri hummed out. “Most delicious thing I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating.”
“Well, I’m glad you enjoyed it, surely it’ll give you the strength and energy you need to get through the day.” Mitsuri nodded, her smile at its fullest. “I wish I could stick around longer, but I must do my rounds for the morning. Inosuke is still in from last night and I heard he and Tanjiro had something they’d like to discuss with me.”
“Oh, is that so?” Mitsuri asked, acting as if she knew nothing of it. “Wonder what that’s about.”
“I’m not sure, but I’ll let you know when I find out.” Shinobu promised, standing from her seat and taking her plate to the sink. “Don’t worry about cleaning up, I’ll take care of it later, okay?”
“Oh, Shinobu, I don’t mind cleaning up. You already do so much.”
“Please, Miss Kanroji, don’t you worry about it. I don’t mind at all.”
Mitsuri huffed softly in defeat, her eyes locked in Shinobu. “Fine, but can I do something to thank you guys for the meal?”
Shinobu shook her head, her smile growing ever so slightly. “A thank you is all that truly matters, as well as a promise to not eat so little at dinner again.”
Her eyes widened. “How did you-“
“I have my ways, Miss Kanroji, so please do eat the proper amount that you need. I don’t want a repeat of last time.” Mitsuri’s face once again became red, her eyes turning away from Shinobu. Why did she have to care so much? “Kanroji?”
“I promise,” she muttered.
“Promise what?”
“I promise I’ll eat the proper amount from now on.”
“Thank you, dear. Please don’t think of this as nagging or being rude, I just care about you incredibly so and don’t want to see you hurt. You understand that, don’t you?”
Mitsuri nodded, her gaze slowly returning to Shinobu. Tanjiro was right, she was kind of scary when she got like this.
“Perfect, now I must be going. Feel free to stay as long as you’d like, you’re always welcome around here.” With that, Shinobu made her way to the other wing. Mitsuri hid her face in her hands, trying to suppress a groan working its way up her throat. This was bad, really bad.
————————-
Ignoring what Shinobu had said, Mitsuri spent the next half hour cleaning up the kitchen. She knew Shinobu would be busy for the next few hours with patients and probably end up getting lost in her work again that the dishes would end up being done by someone else before Shinobu remembered they had been used in the first place. She was smart, but also incredibly forgetful. It was kind of adorable. She was putting away the last dish when a voice caused her to turn from her work.
“‘Miss Kanroji, good morning.” It was Aoi, dressed in her usual uniform, carrying an empty tray she was sure she was coming to fill with food or maybe water.
“Ah, good morning Aoi,” Mitsuri smiled, putting the final dish away. “How’s your day going so far?”
“It’s okay, Mr. Zenitsu is in our care again, and he’s been doing nothing but complaining, but other than that, it’s going rather well.”
Ah yes, Zenitsu did seem to complain quite a bit, but he seemed like a good kid, that entire group did. “Can’t say I’m surprised there.” Mitsuri joked, drying her hands on a towel. “How’d he get hurt though?”
“Oh the usual, got into a fight with one of the other slayers after they barely looked Miss Nezuko’s way.” Aoi rolled her eyes. “That boy is far too jealous.”
Mitsuri winced at the thought, having seen one of those fights break out before. Zenitsu would always start them, but never was he the one to finish them. “Hopefully someday, he will realize just how stupid he looks picking those fights,” Aoi added.
Misturi hummed in agreement, nodding her head. Aoi walked over near her, reaching into a cabinet to grab a pair of glasses then began to fill them with water. “Oh!” Mitsuri suddenly remembered she had been wanting to speak with Aoi. “I wanted to thank you for the breakfast this morning. It was delicious.”
“Huh?” Aoi looked over from the water to Mitsuri, a confused look on her face. “Oh, I wasn’t the one responsible for making breakfast this morning. That was all Miss Kocho.”
“Wait, what?” Her eyebrows furrowed together. “But Shinobu said you were the one who made all the food.”
“Well, I’m not sure why she would tell you that,” Aoi replied, sitting the glasses on the tray she had brought. “She was up at practically the crack of dawn preparing it all, I was worried she hadn’t gotten any sleep at first, but she swore she had gone to bed early so she could get up to cook it all.”
“So she…” her voice trailed off for a moment, the tables of food from before flashing in her mind. “She made all of that?”
“Yes, Miss Kocho is quite the chef when she wants to be, you should feel special,” Aoi insisted, turning to her now. “It’s very rare that she cooks for anyone, even herself, she must really care about you.”
“Yeah, I guess so,” Mitsuri’s voice had gone quiet now, the entire morning suddenly feeling much more special to her. Shinobu had gotten up early to make all that food, just for her? But then she practically went straight to work and insisted on doing the clean up herself. Why was she doing all of this for her? Did she still feel bad about telling Mitsuri to kiss Obanai? Surely not.
“Well, I must be returning to work now,” Aoi said, shaking Mitsuri from her thoughts. “Have a nice day, Miss Kanroji.”
“Yes, of course, you do the same Aoi.” Mitsuri bowed her head to the younger girl as she left, and then she was alone again. Alone with her thoughts, alone with the dream from the night before finding its way back to the front of her brain.
Mitsuri always believed that dreams were your brain trying to show you just what you wanted, what you truly dreamed of. What you desired, but that thought had seemed impossible when she woke up this morning after admitting in said dream that she was in love. Not with Obanai, but with Shinobu.
Taking in a slow breath, she closed her eyes, her hand gripping onto the counter to ensure she didn’t fall. Obanai’s face appeared before her once again, the same vision she always saw when she thought about her future. His same smile, the usual way their foreheads touched lovingly. She didn’t open her eyes this time though, allowing the moment to continue.
As seconds ticked on, she was sure this was useless, neither of them speaking or moving. It was like a moment in time had frozen, but eventually;
“I love you, Mitsuri, you know that, right?” It was Obanai’s voice.
Mitsuri didn’t respond, only a simple hum sounding from her lips. “Good, and I also want you to know I am so happy for you. I would be lying if I said there wasn’t a part of me though that wished I were the one you were marrying today.”
Mitsuri pulled her head back to look at Obanai, his smile having only grown, but there was a hint of sadness to it. “I know, I know, not the time, but my love for you never did die out completely. Though now I wonder if it had been platonic love this entire time.” He lifted a hand to move a strand of stray hair from her face, their gazes meeting once again. “I guess I was getting jealous of the wrong people,” he chuckled. “She really is a lucky woman, damn Kocho.”
Mitsuri raised a hand to flick his shoulder. “Watch it, that’s my wife you’re talking about.”
He scoffed, rolling his eyes playfully. “She isn’t your wife yet, and even once she is, I will still say so just to spite her.”
“You’re ridiculous, Obi.”
“Well, yeah, but don’t tell anyone else. It’ll ruin my reputation.” Why did those words sound so familiar?
“I like butterflies, and maybe a couple others, such as bees, but other than that I despise them.” Shinobu?
“No way,” her own voice then echoed, but the words didn’t come from her mouth. “Mhm, but please don’t tell any of the others, it’ll practically ruin my reputation.” Suddenly Obanai was gone, and Shinobu once again had taken his spot much like the dream. Her face was just inches away from hers.
“Why’d you stop?” Shinobu asked, a confused look on her face.
Mitsuri didn’t respond, but no that wasn’t right. She had replied that day, she had explained that it was the way Shinobu reacted that caused her to stop, which then earned a good job from the younger girl.
“I-” the single letter made Mitsuri realize she was in control, unlike the scene from before. “I don’t know,” she simply replied, her eyebrows furrowing together. Why had she stopped?
“Mitsuri, if you don’t want to do this, we don’t have to.”
“No, I- wait did you call me Mitsuri?” Shinobu never called her that, except once by accident. In that same conversation.
“I think so too, you’ll do great, Mitsuri.” It sounded like the voice had come from Shinobu, but her lips hadn’t moved quite yet. “Isn’t that what you want me to call you, or how about Mitsu?” Shinobu asked, leaning closer to her. “I’ll call you whatever you want,” she whispered before closing the space between them and pressing her lips to Mitsuri’s.
Her eyes flew open and she was back in the Butterfly Estate, still completely alone. She raised a hand to gently touch her lips, much like she had done after she kissed Shinobu. The kiss just now had felt so real, all of it had, even though it was all so jumbled up. Was this just her emotions messing her with? No, she wasn’t sure anymore.
Even though Obanai had apparently not been with her in that vision like she had originally thought, they both seemed so happy. Obanai was genuinely smiling and Mitsuri was getting married, not to him, but to… oh god.
She was falling in love with Shinobu.