~*~

A MONTH LATER ~ AT A TEA SHOP

"Oh.........so that's why the other three are not at the butterfly mansion?"

Kaito nods in response, "Tanjiro and the other two left in a hurry, to some kind of district, what district was it?" He informs me, while he was in deep thought. He taps the edge of his tea cup, "Ah......the Entertainment District, under the Sound hashira's supervision."

Blinking in surprise from that information, "Lord Tengen of all people?" I question him, wanting to know I'm hearing right. "I thought he was on a mission already there with his wives.........but, why need three more aids?"

Kaito tilted his head, "His wives weren't there, but he almost too poor Miss Aoi without Lady Kocho's permission," he scoffs, sipping his green tea slowly. "Seriously it was chaos when I was just getting myself treated, when he barged in and took Aoi whilst in the middle of tending to me. All the girls all tried to stop him, and even Kanoe even attempted to stop him. I managed to stall him, when Tanjiro got there in time.........geez, what's Lord Tengen's deal?"

Chuckling softly I took a piece of Ohagi, and chewed onto it silently before swallowing it.

"He's........alot, I know that," I spoke softly, in more deep thought. "I know enough that under all that shine and flamboyant personality of his, he's a guy that wants to do good. He may be arrogant at times, but.........you need to remember he's from a family of Shinobi. Their lives were very dangerous on missions, and things were harsh......"

"Harsh, huh?" Kaito mulls, thinking more about how Tengen's life was different compared to everyone else's. Sipping my tea slowly I felt his eyes fall upon me again, "So, how come you can get along with everyone.........without having to put in so much effort?"

My cheeks flush in response, not particularly wanting to speak of things like that. It made me feel as if I was a likeable person, and could get anyone I want.

"That's because Lady Hayami is like the mother of the Hashira," A familiar voice, spoke up from behind me. Turning around I noticed it was Mitsuri, who was eating lots and lots of sweet dangos in hand. "I may not have known her for long, but she has something about her that just......calms everyone. Even if one of us dislikes her, which I hope no one does..........they'll still listen and respect her."

"The mother of the Hashira?" Kaito murmurs to himself, his jade green eyes meet mine with a look of admiration. 

"Well, i don't particularly like that term--" I say, with a wry smile. 

"Oh come on hayami, you deserve it at least," Mitsuri exclaims, before stuffing her mouth with dango. She began to muffle through her food, but I give her a raised brow to make her finish her food first before speaking. Once she swallows she gasps for air, "Sorry, what i was saying is......no one should dislike you unless they have a good reason."

Soon Kaito realises something and stood up drinking the rest of his tea, and quickly finished his sweets before bowing. "Apologies, I have my mission to go on.........thank you for morning tea Big sis!" He says, in a rushed manner. "I'll see you when I do!"

Mitsuri smiles widely, "Bye young Kaito!!!! with her cheery voice. "Do your best, okay?!"

He waves to us both before he makes his way out of the village, leaving me with Mitsuri which I have my own duties to do today.

Finishing my own hot tea in hand with gentle grace with the tilt of my hand, I place it down on the tray and stood up. The sun was slowly moving gradually in the sky, indicating my limited errands that I have to run. Though with how tired I've become not getting much sleep due to my nightmares again, I knew it's gonna hit me hard when it's night. Mitsuri happily ate her dango with a warm and rosy expression, that made this world feel normal at least on the outside. It was like a night of darkness wanting to drag you into the void of nothingness, to the day where people are safe by the rays of the sun.

~*~

Shop to shop, I began to run my errands.......

Pointing to material rolls in tailors stores to specific patterns, to getting new pairs of sandals seen I have ones that are worn out. All the necessities I needed which I never usually do, I would buy out of just restocking my wardrobe and things that are practical. Visiting familiar shop owners that recognise my face from time to time, or ones that I've saved from demons during the night. Though our job is meant to be secret, there are some that keep it on the down low and secrecy to prevent further loss.

"hmm.......maybe..." I murmur to myself; brows pinched together in deep thought. 

Glancing over the many pretty pins and charms that were displayed, none grabbed me due to their vibrant and red colours. My favourite colour was a natural green like jade, emerald, olive, lime and mint. I preferred natural colours than anything too vibrant to stand out, and it didn't feel right treating myself a charm or pin. 

"It's so hard to choose, so many choices......" The lady owner spoke up, breaking me out of my thoughts. ".......I only match my charms to the weather, so it could match the women's beautiful articles of clothing..........as it's almost Autumn soon. So currently I'm making orange and red toned ones......"

"What about green?" I question, turning to her in curiosity.

A soft smile graces the middle-aged woman's lips, "Now that's different, I would say it's a winter colour palette," She answers, mulling over the thought it. She lifts up a sheet of different colours and their shades. "It's a cool contrast with many shades of blue, and you seem to match winter colours. If you wish, I could put a request......if that's what you wish?.....Actually funny story, an intimidating young man came by.......and actually requested a green charm and another hair piece. The poor fellow was so nervous for a scary guy, it was heartwarming to see these days.......must be for a very lucky lady, so if you wish I can put requests for a piece....?"

Pursing my lips glancing over the, I still didn't feel right treating myself something.

"I'll be sure to think about it, thank you for giving me a few options," I bow politely; before picking up the rest of my supplies i've bought.

"Well come again, dear,"

~*~

Finally after a while I check my list, and crossed the last thing off......

"Alright that's everything, time to head home," 

Heading down to the edge of the village, I make my way over to a small little bridge feeling like something or someone watching me. Obviously it was no demon, sensing no malice but something lively. Paying no mind to that feeling, I continue heading back to my estate to go have a nap before my night patrol with Mitsuri.

After what seemed like twenty minutes carrying my bags, I could sense this presence. Glancing behind I couldn't see anyone, as my brows raise in confusion. 

"Guess......I'm just tired," I spoke to myself, rolling my aching shoulders. Almost close to the main path that leads between my estate and one of the Hashira's place, I turn to my left and resumed heading home. 

"Awrf....."

Pausing in my steps at a small sound, I hear the rustling of the trees blowing in the air as the leaves started to change.

"Hmmm?" lifting my head, I glance over my shoulder only to see a small little puppy. It was a very dirty little Shiba Inu. The tiny little thing padded it's way up to me, giving me short small barks. "hmmm, you lost....?"

Bending down I placed my things down, before picking up the tiny thing in the palms of my hands as if it fits perfect. 

It's little nose nuzzled into my cheek abruptly with a small whimper, before it gives me small licks here and there. With a warm chuckle I pull it away from my face, and gazed upon the small stray gathering by no collar and matted fur. Glancing around for any sign of anyone looking for a missing pup, it's small bark brings my attention back upon it. Knowing I won't be able to be around as much due to my duties as a slayer, my heart couldn't pull away from it. 

"Why did you have to come now, me, of all places?" I coo softly, with a pout. It's small little ears were flickering, and it's tail wagging which it was a sign it was comfortable. "Don't do that to me, you know those eyes always work on me....."

The little Shiba Inu whimpers, nuzzling into my hands and began to lick my wrists and palms.

"Can't believe you've been following me this whole time," I murmur softly, before standing up tall and tucked it against my chest. With a frown at the state of the pup, it doesn't seem to have a home or even an owner to claim it. "You know what, I think I might have something for you at home........."

Lifting my bags in one hand, I held the pup against my left chest to keep it safe and secure before making it back home.

~*~

AT THE DRAGON's ESTATE

"There you go, all fresh and clean....."

Grabbing a small towel I dry it's fur gently around the small little white fluff ball, and cleaned it's ears and around it's face to make sure there's no gunk. Once I was done, I check over the small Shiba-Inu as I nuzzle the small thing. "Well, you must be hungry........." I coo softly, before placing her down. 

Walking towards the kitchen along the verandah, the small fur ball padded it's tiny small feet and legs behind me. 

Making up a small bowl of milk I placed it on the stone floor in the kitchen, as the pup hungrily laps it up. It surely wasn't fed properly, and judging by it's size it be only a month or two months old at the moment. Sitting down on the edge of the wooden floorboards, my eyes fall upon the small pup while it laps everything up. What do I do? I'm a Hashira, and a slayer that barely stays at the estate unless I need to sleep or train, or even at Sanemi's estate.

"You're really gonna make it harder for me, ya know?" I murmur, with a small smile. It's been a while since I found something different, and so adorable to take on. "Being all cute, with needs......baths.....food......cuddles......and so much attention."

The little pup continues to lap up the milk hungrily, as my fingertips pat the soft clean fluffy fur that felt so so soft. 

"Hmm........might need to name you," I chuckle softly, only for the sound of bells chiming outside with the brush of someone's hand. 

Heavier footsteps approach me from behind as I lean my head back to see him, "Who are you talking to, love--?" He questions, when his attention is cut short when he spots the small pup immediately. His eyes widen before he bends down to the small thing, "Where did you get such a fluffball from?"

That's right, Sanemi has a huge love for dogs. Specifically fluffy animals, as he's told me of his past of fostering animals such as rabbits and cats. He's told me a few stories, but the way his eyes light up at the sight was actually endearing and adorable.

"Well, I was coming back form the village doing my errands," I began, while seeing his large finger caresses the small pups head. "I felt like something or someone following, and by the time I was almost home......this little one made itself known."

Sanemi was in absolute awe at the small fluff ball, a side I'ver rarely seen him do seen it's something he doesn't speak or show anyone. 

"So no home, huh?" He assumes, sitting down beside me while watching the pup lapping the rest of the milk. "Geez, it's like......a month or two months old at least......."

"I know......" I murmur softly, feeling his hand wrap around my waist and pulled me in. Leaning my head against his shoulder, he pressed a gentle kiss to my temple. "......what name seems to match this little one?"

"Hmmm......now that's tough, I'm not good with names," Sanemi admits, with a light scoff. His fingers massage my chubby hips in soft small ministrations. "It's white, and soft......maybe a winter sort of name? Yuki or Kaida........what about Yumi?"

If I'm honest I wanted it to be meaningful, and somethin that would make it more personal in my opinion. 

"Maybe.....Aki, it means Autumn......" I suggest softly, with warm smile. "It will remind me that I first met her in the beginning of Autumn......under the Autumn leaves."

Sanemi chuckles and nuzzles the side of my head, "Perfect, something significant and memorable then," He rubs my arm, before he pecks my cheek. "How about, I stay over tonight.....you take tonight off? I know you've not once taken a break, so I'm here and I'll make sure you'll get the proper rest.......especially with our new family member."

Blinking in surprise by his acknowledgement, "Wow, you accepted my adoption rather quickly........are you only wanting stay over, because Aki is here....?" I question, with a teasing grin. "......Just so you can spoil her with cuddles....?"

He scoffs, "I also came over here, because I want to spend time with my love," leaning over, he pressed a soft lingering to my lips with eyes of a man in love. His eyes flicker down to little Aki who began to sniff and nuzzle Sanemi's large hand, "But, I get this cute thing as a bonus......."

This side of him was really making me see a new version of himself, and it did wonders on my heart heavily.

"Alright, well how about I start preparing dinner while I'm at it?" I suggest, pushing myself up to my two feet. "You'll look after her, m'kay? Also remind me to get a collar, and get her name engraved into it in case she wanders off......."

He nods while scooping the tiny thing into his large hands, as Aki fits perfectly into his palms in a snug hold. 

"Will do, my love," He replies, while nuzzling the small pup with his nose.

~*~

"So.......we gonna talk about it, or...?"

Sanemi couldn't help but snicker in response while I was laying on my futon, with little Aki nestled against my plush chest and laps at my chin a few times . Aki whimpers and nudges me, but you could easily tell the pup was slowly getting exhausted. My hands reach up and scratch behind her fluffy ears, "Could you maybe.....make a small bed, with a few soft blankets for now," I murmur softly, and pressed soft kisses to it's small cute face. "I'll have to make another trip and buy some necessities........a proper bed, a collar.......pet food......"

"Seems you're accepting your fate, and using your expenses for something you love," Sanemi smirks; kneeling up to his knees, he immediately goes over to the corner of my bedroom and grabbed some blankets. He patted it down and fluffed it up, "It suits you........."

With a breathy chuckle, my fingers gently caressed it's small snout with my thumbs with deep smooth strokes.

"It's just........since I was little, we were forbidden to have pets," I admit, recalling the past. The turmoil that dwells inside me still remains, but finally being able to have something I wanted. It was strange, but relieving at the same time. "However I adored Shiba-Inu.......beautiful breed of dogs, so.......knowing you love them too, I will adopt this one so we both heal a part of ourselves with this cute thing...."

Sanemi hums in agreement, "True........" before he reaches over lifting the small pup, that was succumbing to sleep. Once he lays the pup in the corner for the time being, he crawls back over and scoops me up into his arms. His arms wrap around my back, and settles between my thighs and his chest against my stomach. His large hands sit comfortably around me, as his face nuzzled into my plush chest and kisses my exposed flesh tenderly. ".....I'm proud of you, ya know.......taking in little Aki."

Smiling tiredly I yawn, "Hmm......I forgot to ask how your day has been,"

He chuckles and massages my flesh tenderly, "Well, had a mission......and then went into the nearby village and bought a few things," he lists out, explaining about his day. He seems to have remembered something and pushed himself back onto his two feet, grabbing a small paper bag and brought it over and settled down between my thighs again. "I bought you something, which was hard to find........I'm not good with this kind of shit--"

Opening the small bag there was a green rope like scrunchie, with a small jade green pin with a tassel at the end of it.

"Wait........you, Nemi.......you know you didn't have to get me anything, right?" I remind him, but he pinches my chubby side and rests his head on my chest. "Ow--"

"I wanted too, dumbass......." he mutters, with a subtle pout. ".......I know they weren't in season, but I requested them."

Soon realising when he said that my eyes widen, remembering the woman from the jewellery store earlier. Mentioning a young intimidating man requesting something, as my face softens in response. Holding the two items in my hand, I admired the beautiful jade scrunchie and pin that glimmers under the dim light.

Pushing his hair away from his temple, "Thankyou......I'll cherish them," I murmur softly, pressing a soft kiss whilst closing my eyes. "You've done so much already, just you being with me is enough......"

A heavy ragged sigh leaves him leaning into the kiss, before he sank into my body more feeling his large heavy weight against me like a blanket. Threading my fingers through his silvery hair, I place my gifts to the side and sank into my futon under his comforting weight. His thumbs drew small mini ministrations in my hip dips, as his breath slowly synchronises with my own. The silence was comfortable for a moment, before he presses another kiss against my collarbone tenderly.

"Love you........"

"Love you too......"

-----------------------------------------------

Hey guys!

Thankyou so much for reading! Were at the start of the entertainment district Arc, but my character won't as involved with the season. She will be more involved in the swordsmith arc, so get ready for that in the future!

Stay safe and stay hydrated!

~ Little Bean