Chapter Text
Aoi sat up slowly as her entire body creaked in agony. It wasn’t the worst pain Aoi has been in. But pain was always a perpetual part of Aoi’s life at this point. Aoi brought a hand up to her eyes. She rubbed her eyelids to stimulate them. Aoi huffed as she essentially threw the sheets off her frame. Aoi considered herself fortunate to have been alone last night. Reprieves were rare, and Aoi reveled in each and every one.
Her ‘husband,’ Michikatsu, legally that was his name, but he would rather be called Kokushibo, was not gone that often. Aoi was not left alone ever. For his position, he wasn’t as busy as Aoi would expect. But he was gone now, and he said that he would be gone for a long while. That usually meant four or five days. At least based on past experiences. Even the servants followed suit in being gone for that period of time. He had been gone for a day at this point. That meant Aoi would have at least three days alone. This finally gave Aoi the opportunity that she’s been waiting for.
Aoi just wanted to see her family.
She missed her father, mother, and brother. Aoi hasn’t seen them since the wedding. It had been an elaborate thing. It had been shockingly modern, given what Aoi now experiences on a daily basis. Kokushibo was a traditionalist by nature. He wanted Aoi to act like a woman from a bygone era. Specifically, as if a woman of the Sengoku period. Aoi quickly learned the reason why. It had happened the night they consummated this arranged marriage.
A demon.
That is what he really was…
He wanted the woman to act like a woman of the Sengoku period because he was born during that time. Aoi had been utterly horrified to see his real face. Those six eyes bore down on Aoi’s soul. He was aggressive and forceful during intercourse. Aoi bled horrifically that night. She despised what had been done to her with a passion. And it was like that practically every night since the wedding a year and a half ago. Aoi had only been seventeen at the time.
Her parents didn’t want the marriage just as much as she did. This only happened because of a horrific accident Aoi’s family got in. They weren’t even at fault, and yet had to pay in damages. The drunk driver died, but the opposing family demanded that the Kanzaki family pay in damages. On top of that, they had the medical bills. They were ruined by the incident. At least until Kokushibo came in and ‘saved’ them.
He offered to pay all the damages that had been incurred. But it came at a hefty price. That being said, Aoi had to marry Kokushibo. Aoi had been just above the age of consent, so the marriage was fully allowed. Kokushibo stated that he was twenty-five. He worked with business mogul Kibutsuji as his personal bodyguard. Aoi rapidly learned that it was mostly a lie. They were all demons. Kibutsuji also played a hand in politics. Other demons close to Kokushibo had their hands in various aspects of Japanese life. They could influence the people at will. It was horrifying to fully wrap her head around.
But that one element didn’t matter. What did was that Aoi was here now. She was trapped here as the ‘trad wife’ of Kokushibo. He didn’t call her that. But Aoi knew of such wives because of the discussions and jokes she made with her old friends. Oh, how she missed them… Aoi never got the chance to finish school because of this monster. She had to learn such meaningless skills that only served to entertain the demon.
Everything was so stressful. Aoi has been worried about making mistakes. Kokushibo did not take kindly to any infractions. Aoi discovered that quickly in the marriage. It had been the day after they consummated that she first learned the consequences of lashing out. In her defense, she had gone mad because of the pain from the night prior. She might have cursed and struck him. He did the same in return. Only it had been far more violent. Aoi goes through that almost daily at this point.
The servants and maids were considerably gentler with her. Yet that didn’t help in the end. They only worked to make Aoi into the perfect image Kokushibo wanted her to be. In the year, she’s made progress toward that goal. She could probably hold her own if there is a social event. She could arrange flowers and do as Kokushibo pleased. It would be in misery, of course. But that didn’t matter. Aoi had to please her husband…
Aoi needed a break. That was why she planned on heading back home today. Aoi had some decidedly modern clothes. Kokushibo kept a few things in the event he does take Aoi out. It hasn’t happened in months. And the clothes Kokushibo had were too fancy for Aoi’s tastes. Aoi had been able to hide some of her old clothes. Thankfully, her body was still the same as before. Aoi wanted to change into those and then leave. She can call a taxi; there is a phone. It was a landline, but that was better than nothing. She just had to find the number.
And as for money, she knew where Kokushibo’s credit card was. He despised using it, but he had no choice but to. That boded well for Aoi. She should probably get going. The sun was only just rising on this lovely late spring day. Aoi wanted to take this day to relax. She knew what she wanted to do and where she wanted to go. And she was going to do it. She was finally going to get back into modern society after months of being away.
Aoi rose to her feet and left the bedroom at once. The woman quickly made her way to the place where she knew her clothes to be. She had them hidden in the room where she was meant to wash laundry the old-fashioned way. Kokushibo never went in there. He stated the task was too demeaning for him. It was a woman’s job, he said. Something he should never have to do. That sort of man was the one Aoi would never want to marry of her own free will. But of course, fate decided otherwise. That was a massive pity.
Aoi entered the laundry room and made a beeline for the loose floorboard. Aoi lifted it up and reached inside. Aoi pulled out a light gray spaghetti strap crop top. Along with that, she grabbed a plaid blue and dark gray shirt to act as a cardigan. Next was a pair of beige baggy sweatpants. Lastly, there were some gym shoes. Aoi stared in wonder at her old clothes. They looked so comfortable compared to what she had been forced to wear thus far. Aoi inhaled the clothes deeply. They smelled of lilac as Aoi put flowers in the floorboard to keep her outfits smelling nice.
Aoi shook her head and grabbed her backpack and a change of clothes for tomorrow. She planned on returning the next day at around noon. It was so she was on the safe side. Aoi has long wanted to spend the night at her parents' since being made to marry this monster. Now she had the chance. Aoi wasn’t about to squander that. Aoi put the change of clothes into the backpack. She then got changed at once.
God, this felt so nice to wear. Aoi felt so comfortable wearing what she wanted. Pants were just what she loved. Aoi could cry; she missed this so much. But she cannot be so emotional right now. Aoi flung the bag onto her back. She swiftly made her way to the room where she knew the only phone and credit card were. Kokushibo had been a fool to not lock up that room. It provided the woman with the perfect chance.
Aoi went into the room and spotted the phone book beside the landline. The wallet with the card was on the other table nearby. This room was the most modern one in the house. It had a laptop, a phone, and a television. And a bookshelf with more decidedly modern books. Kokushibo only had this room out of principle. He would get rid of it if he could. This room was just perfect for Aoi. And yet she was banned from entering.
The woman grabbed the wallet and placed it in her pocket. She stepped over to the phonebook and opened it. The woman opened it up to look for taxi services. She found it quickly and dialed the number. Aoi provided the address of this place. Aoi was fortunate that there was even one. But Kokushibo needed it for his disguise. The person on the other end of the line gave a time, and it was fifteen minutes. That gave Aoi the chance to get outside of the estate.
It was surrounded by woods and a fence. If Aoi just follows the road, she will get to the gate. Aoi just needed to get past it, but that shouldn’t be too difficult. Aoi hung up and left the house immediately. Aoi was quick in her steps. She just wanted to leave this place behind for today and part of tomorrow. Aoi desperately needed this.
The taxi stopped in front of her family's home after a thirty-minute drive. Aoi was so ridiculously happy to be here after over a year. Her father and mother should still be here. They would be leaving for work soon. Aoi left the taxi, paid the man, and left a generous tip. It was Kokushibo’s money. It was what he deserved. The sable-haired woman walked to the front door as the car drove away.
Aoi was hesitant, though. She didn’t know why. She just felt as if a stranger to her own parents and brother now. It's been a year. But it's not as if they were going to send her away. Surely… Aoi breathed a relaxing breath and rang the doorbell. She just had to get this over with as soon as possible. Aoi was still nervous. It was as if she were expecting Kokushibo to be on the other side. It was stupid, but something she feared constantly.
The door opening drew Aoi from her thoughts. Sea blue eyes directly met the gaze of her father’s blazing blue eyes. He blinked a few times in shock. He stared at his daughter in silence for a second. He then huffed in amazement. He ran his hand through his light brown hair. “Aoi? It's you! It's been so long! Come in! Come in!”
Aoi stepped inside right away. Father closed the door behind them. Aoi was able to see her mother coming down from the top of the stairs. She was wearing her doctor’s coat, ready to go to the hospital. Her eyes lit up seeing Aoi. She briskly ran down the steps to hug the woman. Aoi felt the warm arms around her and wasn’t fully sure what to do.
She hasn’t felt such warmth since she got married. Kokushibo was not one for affection. He openly stated that he didn’t feel the need to be nice to her. All Aoi was meant for was servitude. She was to perform wifely duties, and that was all. Aoi hasn’t received a hug in over a year. Aoi nearly burst into tears again, feeling her mother’s embrace. But Aoi feared what Kokushibo would do if her family learned what he did. He was a man-eating demon. Aoi was not going to let her family die because of her.
Aoi opted to return the hug that she had received. Aoi buried her face into her mother’s neck. She smelled of cinnamon, her favorite spice. Mother drew back slightly and looked Aoi in the eyes. Her expression was bright as can be. “Aoi! It’s been so long since we last saw you! How have you been?”
Aoi hesitated in replying. She could be fully honest, but that comes with great risk. She didn’t want to risk their lives. But Aoi didn’t want to fully twist the truth. She has long felt this crushing down on her. Everything that Kokushibo had done crashed down on her. Aoi forced a smile. She lied as easily as she breathed. “I have been fine. I just thought that I would visit. Michikatsu is busy right now.”
Mother nodded in understanding. She backed away with a persistent smile. Father stood beside Mother. He had pulled on his coat as well. His face was equally bright. Father spoke cheerily. “Oh, that’s good. I wish we could spend the day with you, but we have work. And your brother is at school. But we will be back around 4 o’clock, same as your brother. You can go out and do what you want, Aoi.”
The woman nodded. She figured as such. Her parents were dedicated doctors. Mother was an OBGYN. Her father was a pediatrician. Her brother was currently in junior high. Aoi did have some plans for today. There was one thing that she desperately wanted to do. It had been a desire of hers for a long time. The woman responded to her parents. “Alright then. I had an idea of what I was going to do. But I hope that you all have a good day. I will see you soon!”
Mother and father gave Aoi a kiss on her cheek. It was filled with love. It was more than what Aoi had ever gotten from Kokushibo. Aoi’s eyes turned downcast at the thought of her husband once again. Her parents bid their farewells and left. Aoi stood in place as the car rolled away. Aoi clenched her fists as she looked at the ground again. She was so happy to be back here. But it was bittersweet. For it was only temporary at the end of the day…
Aoi shook her head and decided that it would just be better to leave now. She wanted to get some coffee from her favorite place before she went to her ultimate destination. She had to get to her location early after all. It was undoubtedly going to be busy there. Aoi plopped the backpack onto the ground without care. Aoi turned around and left her childhood home. Aoi longed to just stay here forever. But that was a long-dead desire.
Aoi could never return to who she once was…
Aoi put in a hefty tip as she checked out. It was Kokushibo’s money. She will spend as much of it as possible. It is what he deserved. Aoi just had to wait for her favorite iced coffee to be made. Aoi ordered her favorite, a Creamy Lavender Jelly coffee. The woman was excited to have her favorite coffee. She hasn’t had it in over a year. That was all because of Kokushibo as well.
He heavily monitored her diet. Kokushibo didn’t want a ‘fat wife’ as he put it. Aoi hadn't even been that big when she married Kokushibo. She had been skinny. Now Aoi was even skinnier. Her ribs poked through her skin consistently. It was unnerving. Aoi hated how Kokushibo controlled every minute detail of her life. She wished so horribly to run away. Aoi didn’t want to be married to the demon anymore. But she can't. He will kill her family without hesitation if she leaves him.
It wasn’t fair…
Aoi’s attention was grabbed by her name being called. She stepped over to the counter and grabbed her drink. Aoi started to leave so she could get to her ultimate destination. She took a sip of her coffee. Aoi’s eyes widened and dilated, tasting the sugar. It’s been so long since she’s had any sugar. Oh, how she wished that she could have more. But Kokushibo would never allow for it.
But that was not relevant now…
Aoi was focused on the here and now.
She was going to enjoy this day.
Aoi stepped inside the gallery with a wide smile on her face. Aoi had paid the amount to get in here. She threw her empty cup into the nearby trash can. Aoi had wanted to see one of these for so long. She was supposed to, but her marriage got in the way. Now here she was. Aoi was seeing the art exhibition she had long desired to gaze upon…
The art collection of Heizo Murasaki…
She was a well-renowned artist in Japan. She was also incredibly secretive. No one knew what she looked like. She hasn’t been seen in public. All people knew was that she was relatively old. She had great-grandchildren, according to interviews she’s done via phone. But she did claim to have married and had children young. That applied to her own kids as well. But other than that, she was surrounded by mystery.
One reason Aoi and her old friends loved her works was the symbolism. She never drew people. But all of her works represented issues surrounding women and war. She was a staunch feminist and anti-war. She spoke frequently about the many problems with society and political issues. Aoi loved her art. They always struck a chord with her. And they will especially now. Aoi was trapped in a loveless, abusive marriage. This would mean so much more to her now…
Aoi entered and was instantly filled with awe. The walls were covered head to toe in beautiful art. Aoi nearly froze in place as she stared at the images. They flooded her chest with nostalgia. She had only looked at these images on a phone before. This was the real thing. Oh, how she longed to be here with her friends. That was what they were supposed to do, but of course, life got in the way. All her friends were at university now.
Aoi shook her head. She will start to cry if she thinks about all her missed opportunities. The woman walked forward and continued to look around. She just wanted to take in all the beautiful sights. She might never be able to see these again after all.
Aoi was sitting on a bench in front of the one painting that meant the world to her. Even before this marriage of hers, it held a special place in her heart. The image was of a Nemophilia that had been ripped from its spot in the sun. The flower was placed in a cave with sharp thorns blocking its way out. It was such a simple thing, and yet even now it spoke to Aoi.
To the woman, it represented her plight. Aoi felt trapped behind a wall because of her husband. Kokushibo kept her from doing everything she wanted to. All due to his selfishness in wanting a ‘perfect’ wife. That wasn’t what Aoi was. It wasn’t what she wanted to be. Sure, marriage would be nice. But not to someone like Kokushibo. He restricted her from doing anything. She could only do as he pleased.
Aoi didn’t even get to finish school…
She had dreamed of becoming an OBGYN like her mom. She wanted to help women with their reproductive health. Aoi had been at the top of her class. She had the university she wanted to go to lined up. She had been about to send her application before the sudden marriage. And yet she hadn't been able to do any of what she wanted. Aoi lost out on everything in her life. She was utterly miserable with this existence.
Aoi looked down at her hands. They were calloused and bled often from the work she did. But it wasn’t from labor that she wanted to perform. It was forced. She never wanted to be a wife whose only goal was to satisfy her husband. She had dreams. She had goals in life. But none of that mattered. The demon stamped those out before Aoi even had the chance to breathe. She did it for her family, and even so, she regretted it. Her parents regretted it.
Aoi’s life was over…
Aoi’s attention was grabbed by a sudden hand on her shoulder. It was a gentle grasp that wasn’t Kokushibo’s. Even so, the woman jumped in surprise. Sea blue eyes snapped to the right to see who had touched her. It was a woman who appeared to be in her early 50s at most. Her eyes were sea blue like Aoi’s. There was graying, but there were dirty red highlights at the ends of her straight hair. Beneath her right eye was a dark red, upward-facing crescent birthmark. This woman looked at Aoi in profound concern. “Are you alright, young miss?”
Aoi nodded. She forced a small smile as she observed this elderly woman. Aoi tried to be firm in her tone of voice. “Yes, I am.”
The woman’s frown was even heavier than it had been before. Her hand did not move from Aoi’s shoulder. Her skin was smooth for someone who looked relatively old. The woman’s voice was reluctant. “Are you sure? There are tears on your face…”
Aoi brought a hand up to her face. The woman wiped quickly to see if that was true. It was indeed. Aoi observed as the salty liquid dripped down her palm onto her lap. Oh. Aoi didn’t even realize that she had been crying. She just thought that she had been composed this whole time. What an idiot she was in that aspect. That wasn’t surprising at all. She was the biggest fool of all. Aoi made her excuses. “Oh, I didn’t even realize. I’m fine. Truly!”
The stranger moved. She sat down next to Aoi while still staring at her. There was something about her gaze that seemed so…familiar. Aoi couldn’t place her finger on it. But she didn’t have much time to dwell on that. The elderly lady again spoke. This time, she had a sympathetic smile on her lips. “Is it that painting? I can understand that. It's my favorite as well…”
The elderly lady turned her eyes to the painting before them. Her eyes were shining brightly. There was memory behind them. Aoi watched the stranger in curiosity. The stranger sighed nostalgically. “This image makes me think of my late mother. She had a terrible experience when she was young as well… She had been kidnapped by the man who helped create my twin and me…”
Aoi gasped in horror. That was terrible! No woman deserved such a miserable fate! To be forced into such a relationship was something Aoi knew full well. And to have children due to it had to be horrifying. The woman could easily sympathize with that. Aoi’s declaration of sympathy was swift. “Oh, how awful! I am so sorry about that…”
The stranger looked at Aoi with a persistent, friendly expression. “Oh, it's alright! My mother got away from him. Soon, my mother married my father and lived a good life! I never met the man who created me. At least I believe so. But I know the story. My mother told me when I was an adult about how my brother and I were conceived. It was a different time…”
“Oh, dear… I still feel horrible for your mom…”
“I appreciate the thoughts… But let my mother’s story be a lesson. Life will get better. Believe me…”
Aoi wanted to desperately believe that. She sincerely wanted things to end well for her. She wanted to be able to get away from her situation, like how this woman’s mother did. But hope was a fickle thing. Aoi didn’t want to hold onto that, knowing things were probably not going to end up how she wanted them to. Still, that story did provide some sort of comfort. It told the woman that others could get away. They could make new lives away from the evil men who abused them.
If only Aoi could…
This was a demon. He could find her easily. He alleged that there was another demon with the capabilities of tracking. Aoi didn’t want to risk constant surveillance. She already endured enough. But this moment was nice. It took her mind mostly off of what she had endured thus far. Aoi smiled at the woman and thanked her. “I appreciate that… I needed to hear that… Thank you so much…”
The elderly woman’s smile was so soft. It was so gentle. It made Aoi’s heart beat in a way it hasn’t in a long time. The woman replied with a wide grin. “It is not a problem. Do you mind if I take a picture of you and me with the painting? I like to take them for memories. And I think you would like it as well. It will be a Polaroid.”
Aoi nodded cheerily. She wanted to remember this day. Aoi loved just being here right now. It was bittersweet but oh so needed. Aoi stood up and walked to where the elderly woman indicated.
Aoi was returning home after buying some books. Aoi has been longing for fun material. She simply grabbed as many as she could carry and bought them all. They were a variety of fantasy, biographies, romance, and romance novels in her haul. Aoi planned on hiding these in the floorboard once she got back home. She wanted to have something nice to hold onto. She wanted some fun in her life.
Aoi opened the door, knowing her parents had left it open for her. Her brother would also be home at this time. Aoi missed being able to mess with him. Aoi walked right in to hear his dad laughing along with her brother. The woman stepped into the living room to see her dad and younger brother playing a fighting game. Aoi put her hands on her hips and smirked. “Having fun without me?”
Yotei turned back to look at his older sister. He had an annoyed look on his face. Even so, his eyes had a glint to indicate how much he missed her. The boy paused the game and turned around. Father did the same with an even wider smile on his face. Father was always the one who was happiest of them all. It was just in his nature. Yotei made a comment. “You’re actually here. You left your bag in front of the door, idiot. It almost killed me.”
Aoi rolled her eyes playfully. She sighed amusedly. Hands were placed upon her hips. The bag of books was discarded on the floor, ready to be placed in her backpack. Aoi snapped back. “Well, it didn’t! You should have been more observant, dummy.”
“Your stuff.”
“You live here.”
“Meanie.”
“Butthead.”
Father laughed hysterically when that ended. Aoi couldn’t help but snort as well. Brother did the same. Father echoed the thought that had been in Aoi’s mind. Something she had been thinking about all day. “I’ve missed this. We’ve missed you, Aoi…”
Aoi didn’t say anything after that. She didn’t know what she could even say in response. She would reveal too much if she did. She did not want to risk the lives of her loved ones. Aoi was able to be distracted by her mother walking in with boxes of pizza in her arms. It was Aoi’s favorite brand as well. It was the kind her parents would get when they had been so busy earlier and tired to even think of cooking…
Just like the times long lost to Aoi…
Mother maneuvered to the small table in the living room. She plopped the boxes down and declared. “Dinner is served! There is soda in the fridge if you want something to drink! So go ahead and dig in!”
Aoi’s mouth watered. She hasn’t been allowed to eat anything ‘modern’ or ‘fatty’, as Kokushibo put it. He stated that he didn’t want Aoi to get fat. He said that it was unbecoming and ugly if a woman were obese. Aoi was never that large before getting married. She was perfectly fine when marrying Kokushibo. But it was never enough. Aoi had been basically starved at the time she got married.
Aoi could constantly see her ribs poking out of her skin. She hated how hungry she always felt. This pizza was something she’s wanted for so long. Aoi needed to indulge. She couldn’t hold back. Aoi didn’t want to appear ravenous. But she was definitely going to overeat today. That was for sure. Aoi grabbed one of the paper plates that had been on top of the pizza box and indulged for once.
Aoi was reading one of the books she bought. It was a book written in the West known as ‘The Handmaid’s Tale.’ Aoi was nearly done with it, having started to read it after the pizza was devoured. Aoi found the story quite fascinating, especially when looking at it with her situation in mind. Aoi was just a woman meant to serve men after all. Specifically Kokushibo. To him, he was her god. She was supposed to worship him.
Aoi hated her situation with a passion. She wanted to flee so badly. She wanted to flee to a place that would hide her away from her captor. But there wasn’t anywhere. Aoi was just barely able to do this day. She could only stay here until tomorrow afternoon. After that, Aoi has no clue when she can see her family again. Aoi sighed as she looked at the alarm clock beside her. It was past midnight. Aoi should probably sleep. The woman looked at the Polaroid that the elderly woman gave Aoi one more time.
It was the happiest Aoi has looked in such a long time…
Aoi never wanted to forget this day. Everything was just perfect. The time with her family was magical. Seeing the art gallery was breathtaking. Just walking in the clothes she wanted was thrilling. The drinks and food she had were delicious. Reading things that were actually enjoyable was wonderful. Aoi would not change a single little detail about this day. She’ll cherish it for as long as she lives…
Aoi flipped off the light. She turned on her side and closed her eyes. Aoi felt the most at peace that she has in such a long time.
Aoi woke up feeling refreshed. She was waking up full rather than hungry for once. She was so damn happy for once. It was liberating waking up under a roof full of love. Aoi could cry tears of joy right this second. But she was focused on spending the little time she had left with her family. Aoi didn’t want to waste these precious moments. Mother and father had stated that they had no work today. It was the weekend as well, so school was out.
Aoi had just the chance to be with her loved ones.
Aoi threw on some clothes. It was just a graphic t-shirt and shorts. Just what Aoi liked. Aoi quickly made her way down the stairs. She was practically flying at that point. Her heart was so filled with joy that nothing could dampen it! Aoi was in the kitchen in a flash. Inside was her father making toast. Mother was grabbing the jam and butter. Yotei was scrolling on his phone. He was still in his pajamas and appeared to have just rolled out of bed.
Aoi practically jumped into a chair. Sea blue eyes were as bright as can be. She looked at her mother and father. Her voice was more than awake. “Good morning, mother and father!”
Father looked at Aoi as toast popped out of the toaster. His face was bright as well. Father responded. “Good moaning seastar! Did you sleep well?”
Seastar…
That was the name that father gave Aoi when she was a little girl. She had found a seastar when they went to the beach. It was a cute little name. Aoi’s heart fluttered hearing it. Such comfort has been years in the making. Aoi replied with profound affection. “I slept amazingly! I’m excited for what we’re gonna do today. Just as a warning, I do have to take off by late afternoon. So I’m gonna have to put my stuff in the car.”
Father frowned upon hearing that. Perhaps it was the most suspicious thing that Aoi has stated so far. But that surely wasn’t going to raise TOO much suspicion. Surely. Mother was the one to say something. “Really? You just got here. Pity though… I wish you could stay here longer…”
Aoi nodded in full agreement. Father placed a plate full of toast in front of the siblings. All the while, Aoi was contemplative. She wished the same as well. She wanted to be here with her family for a very long time. But she couldn’t. Kokushibo stated that she didn’t need such connections. It didn’t matter how lonely that made the woman feel. To him, what he wanted was all that mattered.
Aoi could deal with those so-called wants later. Aoi wanted this time to herself. She was going to savor this. She was going to marinate in these feelings that she was experiencing. Aoi grabbed a piece of bread and put it in her mouth. Aoi started to eat it. The woman heard pounding on the door. Aoi brushed that aside. It was probably one of Yotei’s friends. They were quite the noisy bunch.
Aoi continued to eat as her mother went to the door. Aoi was only half listening as her mother opened the door to see who was on the other end. The moment Aoi heard the voice, she nearly choked on the bread in her mouth.
“Where is Aoi?”
Aoi’s heart sank into the pits of her stomach. Her breath was caught in her throat. She must have paled. Aoi was frozen stiff. Her eyes were wide as can be. No, it couldn’t be. He wasn’t supposed to be back yet. Aoi had at least one more full day until he returned. That was the same with the other servants. Why was he here now?! Aoi felt cold. She was shivering in terror.
It was Kokushibo…
He was at the door…
Aoi didn’t move. She barely breathed. She listened intently as her mother answered. Bless her, but she was far too honest for her own good. Mother was innocent as to what was really going on. “She’s in here. She’s just here for a visit! I thought you knew that?”
Kokushibo must have pushed past Aoi's mother. Sea blue eyes watched as Kokushibo appeared in the doorway. His eyes were his human ones. They were staring at Aoi with rage burning inside. He was furious to see Aoi here right now. Aoi had fucked up. She was so screwed. The woman gulped in profound dread. She didn’t say anything. She knew it was meaningless. She couldn’t even begin to defend herself.
Kokushibo shifted his gaze so as to not rouse suspicion with the others. Though Aoi briefly caught the look of disgust in Kokushibo’s eyes. They were directed at the father. Kokushibo was a racist through and through. He only made an exception for Aoi and her blue eyes. But Kokushibo pretended to be civil. “Ah, Aoi. You are here. You had me worried after I returned home, and you were not there.”
Aoi bit her tongue. She had to lie. She had to protect her family. Aoi feigned a smile. Her response was as natural as she could muster. “I thought I left a note. Did you not find it? I was going to return this afternoon. I just thought it would be nice to visit my family for once!”
Aoi knew full well her excuse wouldn’t save her. But she hoped it would provide her with some modicum of mercy. But there was nothing that could be done to save her. Kokushibo furrowed his lips. His glare was back, but not as intense as before. Aoi’s shoulders were tense. Mother had reappeared behind Kokushibo. Mother was so innocent in all of this. “Is there a reason that you are here?”
Kokushibo hated her mother as well. She married a foreign man. He saw that as an abomination. He did try to be respectful to her, though. He was far gentler with Aoi's mother than with her father. His voice was as kind as he could force it to be. “I came here to pick up Aoi. She has duties that she is meant to attend to tonight, and the house is not ready.”
Aoi’s skin turned cold. She had to make an excuse. She had to pretend that she got the date wrong. Aoi was quick to give a guilty smile. “Oh, I must have mixed up the dates! I thought it wasn’t until tomorrow night! That’s my bad…”
Kokushibo stared at Aoi with contempt in his eyes. Aoi knew one thing with crystal clarity. She was going to be made to go home with Kokushibo. She was not going to be allowed to remain here. Kokushibo was going to see everything Aoi had with her. He was going to know that she indulged in food he explicitly banned. Aoi was in so much trouble. She was going to be punished severely. Aoi was filled with nothing but dread…
Kokushibo stepped closer. Yotei looked to be rather uncomfortable. Granted, no one was exactly ok with Kokushibo. This marriage had many reservations, especially from her father. But there had been no choice. Kokushibo pretended to be kind and gentle. “Well then… I am afraid that we must return home now. You have to help me get the house ready for the event tonight. So just grab your things and let us be off…”
Aoi expected it. She knew he was going to say that. And even so, she hated it all the same. She wanted to protest him so desperately. But Aoi knew that Kokushibo would kill her family. He’s threatened that in the past. He used it to get Aoi to do what he wanted, especially during sex. Aoi could imagine he would and was going to use that to get her back home. Aoi stood up and replied. “Oh yeah… Just give me a moment… I need to grab my stuff…”
Kokushibo moved out of the way to allow Aoi to get her stuff. Aoi was slow as she dared to move past the man. His wine-red eyes kept watching Aoi in keen observance. His gaze was lidded. Aoi knew full well what awaited her when she got back. Her body was already beginning to shut down. Aoi was already bracing herself for what was to come. She just hoped that Kokushibo would wait until they got back home…
The woman quickly walked past the man. Aoi briskly ran up the stairs. Tears were threatening to spill from her eyes once more. The number of times she's cried during this marriage… Aoi couldn’t even count how many times it's been. The woman nearly stormed into her room. She knew she couldn’t leave anything behind. Kokushibo would want to see everything she has. He wanted her to have no attachment to the modern world.
Aoi grabbed her backpack as she angrily threw everything into it. She wanted to run, to flee. But she couldn’t. Kokushibo will find her again. It didn’t matter where she went. She will be brought back. Aoi wiped her eyes again. Her backpack barely fit everything. There would have been more room had Aoi cared. But she didn’t. Aoi grabbed the photo for the last thing. Aoi stared at it in silence.
Aoi wished that the day before could repeat itself forever and ever.
Aoi gently put the picture in the open front pocket of the bag. Aoi didn’t stand up yet. She was contemplative. Aoi didn’t know what was going to happen. She was never going to be allowed out of her home, was she? Aoi pulled her hair in utter misery. If Kokushibo decides to blacken her teeth, then that would solidify that. The only reason he didn’t was that he took her out sometimes. Those were lavish places, though.
Aoi feared that she wouldn’t be allowed out of the estate ever again…
Aoi’s attention was grabbed by someone appearing at her door. It was Father. His eyes were filled with concern. He dashed in and grabbed Aoi’s shoulders. Sky blue eyes were filled with profound worry. Aoi was unnerved. Father’s question was blunt. “Aoi, are you alright?”
He stated that in English. Father knew one thing for sure. Kokushibo didn’t know a lick of English. He could not understand it and refused to try learning. Aoi knew this as well. She had spited the demon by speaking English only to him for a bit. She quickly got punished for that. Kokushibo loathed any language that wasn’t Japanese. He just barely tolerated Chinese and Korean. Speaking English would be best in this situation. It would prevent Kokushibo from eavesdropping.
And yet Aoi didn’t want to fully answer. She didn’t want to risk her family either way. It didn’t matter if Kokushibo could understand or not. Father’s reaction could give everything away. Father was a passionate man. He loved his family and would do anything to keep them safe. So Aoi naturally lied. “I am fine, Father. There is nothing wrong…”
Father didn’t believe that. He was too perceptive. He shook his head to tell Aoi as such. His eyebrows were pressed into the center of his forehead. Father’s response to that lie was instantaneous. “You’re lying to me. Aoi, what is he doing to you? Is he hurting you? Do you need to stay here with us?”
That was the worst idea father could have suggested. Aoi could not be saved. No one could protect her. But there was something that Aoi could admit to. It was undeniable that Kokushibo was abusive to her. But she has to stay with him lest her family be killed. Aoi looked away with remorse. “I… I am sorry… I can't leave him… It will only end badly for you all… I don’t want anything to happen to you all… Please… Please understand…”
Father looked incredibly remorseful as well. He shook his head and uttered softly. “This is all my fault… I shouldn’t have let you agree to that stupid deal Michikatsu offered… I should have just cut the losses and paid for the damages on our own… We would have figured it out eventually… The cop out that he offered was terrible, and I am the biggest idiot of all for accepting it…”
Aoi quickly fired back. “No. I am the fool. I was the one who insisted. I was the one who should have known better…”
The silence between the two was palpable. The reality was they were all deceived by the demon. They thought he was a far more honorable man than he actually was. No… He turned out to be a monster. Aoi couldn’t simply leave him either, and it killed her. Aoi was going to die, the wife of Upper Moon One… Aoi was trapped and will never be able to reach her full potential as a woman. She will end up as one of the countless victims of regressive men…
Father grabbed Aoi’s face in a gentle grasp. His sky blue eyes were filled with determination. Aoi watched in uncertainty. What was her father thinking? Aoi watched her father with reluctance. Father was firm. “If you need, I can hook you up with a man I know. An old friend of mine from university. We came here to Japan together. I’m sure I can convince him to take you to England for safety. Just say the word, and I’ll arrange it.”
Aoi truly did appreciate the offer. She would take it under other circumstances. These were not that. If Aoi did that, her family would be killed. Perhaps she could convince them to go to England as well? No…It was not going to happen… They would never leave. Aoi decided for now to give her father hope. “Not now… But I will think about it…”
It was a better reply than nothing at all. Father smiled slightly. But he seemed to imply that Aoi wouldn’t accept the offer in the end. He opted for something else. “Alright then… You have a phone at your house, right?”
“Of course we do. It’s a landline.”
“Call me whenever you get the chance. Do it when Michikatsu isn’t around, though. I don’t want you to get hurt because you talked to us. But please, Aoi… Be safe…”
“I will…”
“I love you so much, Aoi… Never forget that…”
“I…I love you too…”
Father pulled Aoi into a big hug. The woman wasn’t caught off guard by it. Rather, she only just realized how much she missed this. Her father’s hugs were the best. They made Aoi feel safe and sound. If only she could have this forever. Aoi returned the embrace with a sense of loss. She was going to lose this forever. Aoi hugged her father tightly. She didn’t want to ever let go. Only Kokushibo could drag her away. Which she should probably go… Kokushibo was going to get mad.
Aoi backed away from her father while grabbing her backpack. The woman got to her feet quickly. Father seemed to be rather shocked to see how fast Aoi was taking off. The man stopped Aoi at the top of the stairs. He hugged Aoi again while speaking reassuring words into her ear. “Please, Aoi… Stay safe… Please let me know if you ever need anything, starfish…”
Aoi could cry. But she had to be strong. Aoi had to not give any indication of what was going on. The woman didn’t want them to know that she was trapped with a demon. Aoi walked down the stairs. Aoi spotted Kokushibo near the door. He was desperate to leave. He wanted to punish Aoi for what he saw as an egregious sin against him. Aoi just had to endure whatever was to come. Aoi defied Kokushibo’s stare to give her mother a hug.
Aoi lingered for a little while. She didn’t want to let go. Aoi only stopped hearing Kokushibo cough behind her. He hated how much she was delaying this. Aoi was only making things worse. All she did was bid her farewells to her mom. “Goodbye, mother… I had fun staying here. I wish it could have been longer…”
Mother said goodbye in response. Aoi turned around and stepped towards her demise. Aoi looked at the ground in profound unease. She felt Kokushibo’s intense gaze on her. He watched her every step out of the house. The car was still running against the curb. Kokushibo truly didn’t think he’d be in here for long. Aoi could only fear if it was just for this or to kill her family. Aoi walked outside with the demon behind her.
Aoi glumly walked over to the car. Kokushibo stepped in front of Aoi and opened the door. His gaze was intense. His eyes were fiercely on her. The kanji in his eyes is just barely visible. His voice hissed out so lowly that only Aoi could hear. “Get in the damn car, Aoi…”
Aoi obeyed the command. Aoi sat down in the plush seat. But it only felt cold. The woman did hear her mother yell from the doorway. “Aoi! I love you!”
That hurt Aoi’s heart. She looked at her mother. She wanted to shout the same back. But she hadn't been given the chance. Kokushibo slammed the door in Aoi’s face. She was back trapped again. And Aoi couldn’t even tell her family she loved them. To make matters even worse, Aoi didn’t know if she was ever going to see her family again…