Chapter 14 - Sleepover

  Hand in hand, we enter the reception area, heading toward the elevator and my family’s apartment. I’m doing my best to stay relaxed, hoping my calmness will influence my tense partner. Tracing a circle with my thumb on the back of her hand, I give her a wink and a smile of encouragement. She responds by giving my hand a gentle squeeze, showing she’s okay despite the slight tremor I can feel. Alone in the elevator, I wrap her in a comforting hug as the doors close. She leans into the embrace, and we share a quiet moment, which I hope helps ease her nerves.

  “I’m okay, love. It’s just this place is kind of amazing, and you live in the penthouse here? It’s one thing to be told that, and I think I believed you, but it feels surreal now that I’m here.”

  Looking into her eyes, I raised an eyebrow with a smile, “So it’s not because you’re nervous about meeting my family?”

  “Ah, no…”

  Her assurance might have been more believable if she wasn’t trying to bury herself in my chest just after saying it. I can’t see her face from this angle, but I can tell the tips of her ears are a little pinkish. My girl really has her cute moments.

  “Babe, I’m really happy that you’re here, and my family is looking forward to meeting you. It’s just Mom and me tonight, so please relax and enjoy yourself as much as you can.”

  The elevator ride continues with a quiet sense of excitement shared between us. Arriving at our floor, I hold her hand and lead her through the front door, where Mom is waiting in the dining room.

  “Mom, I’d like to introduce you. This is Kato Sakura.” Instantly, Mom greets her warmly with a hug and a smile, pressing a motherly kiss on her cheek. Sakura’s eyes widen in surprise, and she freezes for a moment, clearly not having expected this.

  “You truly are a beautiful girl. I see how my daughter fell for you. Please treat this place as your home in the future and call me Mom. Or Vala’s Mom.” There’s genuine warmth in Mom’s words, assuring my partner of her sincere welcome.

  While I knew Mom would be welcoming, a part of me was also a little nervous. It is the first time I introduce a girlfriend to my family, so I guess it’s normal to feel something? But it is a little unexpected how much it means to me that Mom likes her. And vice versa. Perhaps my relationship with Sakura is not the only new one? There’s also my relationship with Mom, as a daughter. I decide to shelve these thoughts for now, in favor of supporting my partner.

  I sense Sakura’s nervousness but she stands firm. “Pleased to meet you, Vala’s mom. I’m Kato Sakura, your daughter’s girlfriend.” A flash of respect passes through my mother’s eyes, resonating in our bond. Even if Sakura had chosen not to disclose the nature of our relationship, she would still have been welcomed, but maybe not with the same level of respect. Her straightforward declaration aligns perfectly with my family’s values, and I silently thank the goddesses as I don’t think this first meeting could have gone any better.

  “So, am I perhaps meeting my future daughter-in-law? Nothing would make me happier, Sakura-chan. Please enjoy your stay with us tonight.” Mom kisses her cheek before leaving us, as Sakura blushes at the mention of ‘daughter-in-law’.

  I let out a groan. Mom’s already comfortable enough to start teasing my girl. Or does she truly already consider her a daughter-in-law? I find I actually like that, and Sakura seems pleased by the comments too. Even if her smile is slightly strained. Yep, I’m not the only one weirded out.

  The difference is, I know my family can see into the future; I wonder how she would react if she knew that?

  With the introductions out of the way, I find myself needing some fresh air. On the balcony, we look down on the city as it darkens, and the skyline reveals its beauty. Holding her from behind, I rest my chin on her shoulder as we quietly observe the world together. The fading sunlight leaves a soft glow on the horizon as the city lights come to life for the evening.

  “So what do you think, Sakura? It’s quiet compared to the rest of the world, and you can see everything from here. This is one of my favorite places. The skyline looks amazing with the city lights glowing brightly at night..”

  She leans back into my arms as we enjoy the view and each other’s company.

  “Vala, I think I’m starting to understand more about you, how you view the world, and why you draw instead of listening in class. It feels like a completely different world up here, and things like school and other worries I normally have don’t matter as much. I still don’t understand how you can answer every question while drawing, though. Do you study in your free time? But why would you not just study in class instead?”

  “Yes?” I didn’t see this question coming, so please let it slide. I don’t have a way to answer without talking about Valkyries or lying, both of which make me uncomfortable. Fortunately, she seems absorbed in the view. Perhaps I can escape this with Operation Subject Change. “So, how do you feel about a simple meal of omurice? I can make a few different meals, and I want to cook with my girlfriend tonight.”

  She looks at me with a mixed expression, “I love omurice, but can I cook tonight instead?”

  “Okay, but can we cook together next time?”

  I receive a kiss on the cheek before she makes herself at home in the kitchen. So much for Operation Housewife; the confident look on my girl’s face suggests she probably knows her way around the kitchen better than I do. Well, marrying someone who can cook would definitely be a bonus.

  Marrying, huh?

  Unbidden images come to mind—Sakura and I in bridal gowns, walking arm in arm down the aisle. Traditional white, or perhaps a bold red? I find myself lost in the fantasy of our wedding, picturing the joy on our faces and the beauty of the setting. The thought of us standing together, exchanging vows, fills me with a sense of rightness, like this is what my life is meant to be.

  My mind starts to question why we moved to this city, why I went to this school. I know Grandma organized it, but was it all just so I could meet Sakura? Though the answers are still unclear, I begin to feel much less conflicted about the fate and choices in my life.

  I head back to the lounge, gently guiding Mom’s hand to my hair. It feels good; she has a way with her hands, and I feel the tension start to melt away.

  “Thanks, Mom.” I want to ask her about the daughter-in-law comment earlier, but I change my mind. Maybe she can only give me clues, and maybe she already has, in a way.

  “Something on your mind, sweetheart?”

  “Hmm, all good, Mom. I was politely kicked out of the kitchen because Sakura wants to make tonight’s meal by herself.”

  I get a smile from my mother as she continues to run her fingers through my hair.

  “Your girl has her own pride and she wants to be your partner and equal. You both are similar to each other. As you strive to impress her, she in turn will try to impress you. Remember that while you are close, you need room to move. Make space for her, she will feel most comfortable if she can stand by your side.”

  I get lost in my thoughts, simply enjoying the time spent with Mom.

  Snap.

  My eyes flicker open to see Sakura capturing the moment with her phone. When had I drifted off? I raise an eyebrow and chuckle, “So, is dinner ready, babe?”

  “Yes, love… Now, help me set the table and grab the drinks, please.” She offers me a hand to stand up, and I follow her into the kitchen.

  “Your cooking skills are impressive, babe. I haven’t tasted it yet, but it looks and smells delicious. I can bring it to the table if you’ll plate up.”

  Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

  “Hmm, service for table one. Their order is up!” A smile finds its way onto my face. She hasn’t fully relaxed yet, but she’s definitely more herself.

  As I carry the plates to the table, I feel a playful pat on the butt.

  Surprised by the sensation, I lightly stumble but manage to keep the plates steady. Okay, maybe she has fully relaxed and is feeling quite at home. It’s a shame I can’t return the gesture since my hands are full and Mom has just walked in. I shoot Sakura a look, which she counters with a smile.

  Her cooking really is better than mine. And while I’m proud of my girlfriend, it’s still a bit annoying when Mom points it out. However, the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal together seems to melt away any lingering tension. It hasn’t been long, but there’s already a comfortable vibe in the air.

  After finishing up with the dishwasher, Mom heads to the lounge, giving us some privacy.

  Planning what to do next I ask Sakura, “Would you like to go for a walk, or would you prefer to stay here? We could watch a movie with Mom or just relax in my room.”

  I can tell she’s considering her options, that familiar slight frown appearing, which I recognize as her thinking face. “I’m a little curious about your bedroom and the clothes you have mentioned I can borrow.” Ah, I remember back to the first day, I did say something about being the same size and being able to share clothes. She hadn't seemed too phased at the time, but there’s a big smile on her face now.

  “Make yourself at home, babe. There’s nothing exciting about my room, but you’re welcome to have a look around.”

  I watch as her eyes roam around the room; she seems torn between the walk-in wardrobe and the ensuite before deciding to investigate the bathroom.

  “You have an ensuite bathroom, and it’s huge! So, you use a bed instead of a futon, and it’s a double. My parents would never buy me one of those. Apparently, I need to be an adult first because kids don’t need one. So, am I sharing this bed with you tonight?”

  After giving her a hug, I sat down on the bed.

  “That’s entirely up to you, babe. I’ve got a futon ready for guests, but as my girlfriend, you’re more than welcome to share my bed. It’s big enough for both of us, and I’d love to have you stay. There’s no pressure though; setting up the futon is no trouble at all.” I’m secretly hoping she’ll choose the bed, but honestly, it’s no issue either way. It’s her first time staying over, and my priority is making sure she feels comfortable.

  She seems rather excited, but I can’t remember the last time I slept in a single bed. My old body needed more space, so I opted for a double out of habit. I’ve always had an ensuite, both as an adult and as a child. In hindsight, it was probably due to Mom’s aversion to males, so having my own bathroom makes sense.

  “What? No way! I’ve never slept in a double bed before, and I’m really excited about it. There’s no need to waste time setting up a futon, and we can cuddle! Honestly, I couldn’t be happier right now.”

  Her slightly panicked tone, at the thought of not sleeping in my bed is both amusing and heartwarming. “Give me a moment, babe, and I’ll get you a towel.” I might be overly sensitive, but did she stiffen for a moment when I mentioned the towel? Noticing my own tension, I take a breath before heading to the linen cupboard to find the fluffiest white towel I can.

  Upon returning to Sakura, I place the towel in her arms, and gently kiss her cheek. “You head in first, babe, and I’ll wait for you out here.” As she holds the towel up to her face, I see her eyes peeking at me from over the top.

  “Um, thanks love. I won’t be long.” She walks quickly into the shower, and I catch a glimpse of the pink tops of her ears, while feeling my own face heat up.

  By the time Sakura returns, thankfully, my blush has subsided. I offer her a wink as I pass by, but my gaze briefly snags on a stray droplet of water as it trails down her collarbone, then vanishes into the cleavage barely concealed by her towel. The scent of her freshly washed skin mingling with my soap fills me with warmth at both the sight and smell. I find my lips desperately want to follow it. “The bedroom is yours, babe. Feel free to help yourself to anything in the wardrobe,” I manage to say, a bit hurriedly, before retreating to the shower.

  Facing the mirror in the bathroom, I catch sight of my flushed face, my heart pounding harder than usual. “Come on, Vala, keep it together. It’s her first night over; there’s no need to rush.” Logic tries to prevail, but a strong desire for her still simmers beneath the surface. I briefly imagine being close to her, then shake the thoughts away. I finally undress, opting for a cooler shower to calm myself.

  Clearing my mind and letting the sensation of water flowing over my body distract me with all the new sensations of being a girl, I take a deep breath and then slowly release it.

  I really like Sakura, and she feels the same about me. I don’t need to rush anything, but perhaps I can offer her some encouragement while respecting her boundaries. A plan begins to form in my mind, and by the time I step out of the shower, I feel confident again.

  Wrapped in a towel, I open the bathroom door to find Sakura relaxing on the bed, propped up with pillows, wearing a pink camisole two-piece. I give her a wave before turning towards the wardrobe. I need to do this now while I’m still feeling confident. Opening the wardrobe, I casually let my towel slide to the floor, eliciting a gasp from behind me. I take my time getting dressed, selecting a similar camisole set in red. As I slide my top on, I twist slightly offering a glimpse of my chest. I can feel her eyes on me, watching my every move. An involuntary smile forms on my lips before I force myself to calm down, running my fingers through my still-damp hair, and returning my towel to the bathroom.

  Leaving the bathroom, I notice Sakura with a flushed face, her gaze fixated on the ceiling. Good, we are on the same page emotionally. I take a final look at her face, reminiscent of my own flushed appearance in the bathroom mirror.

  I gently close the bathroom door, just enough to let the light inside spill out into the room. I flick off the bedroom light, bathing us in the soft glow that seeps through the partially open door. This dim illumination, neither fully dark nor bright, gives the room an intimate feel.

  As I settle beside her, Sakura turns to face me, her movements inviting as I bring my face close to hers.

  Before I can speak, she gently places her finger on my lips while looking into my eyes. Raising an eyebrow, I return the gesture, placing my own finger on her lips. They are soft and plush as I gently caress them. She opens her mouth and the tip of her tongue grazes my finger. Rolling onto my back, I observe the faint gleam of saliva before closing my eyes and bringing my finger to my own mouth, licking the same part she did.

  Lying still, I feel her gradually move closer until the length of her body touches mine. I feel the softness of her breast brushing against my arm as she leans over. Cracking my eyes open slightly, I catch her studying my face. Pretending to sleep once more, she tickles me gently beneath my arm, causing my body to squirm involuntarily as I fight back laughter.

  “Vala, can you please look at me?”

  Opening my eyes, I see my beautiful girl, appearing a bit more serious than during our earlier tickling. She seems slightly hesitant. I smile warmly as she takes her time to find her words.

  “Ah, before, when you were getting dressed… were you teasing me? Or was it something else? I’m sorry, it’s just that I don’t quite know.”

  Wrapping her in my arms, I lay her head on my chest and gently run my fingers through her hair.

  “Sakura, can you hear my heart?” I feel her nod against me as she relaxes into my embrace. “It’s beating this fast because of you. Ever since the day we met, I’ve wanted you. I’m trying to be considerate of your feelings and want to avoid rushing things on our first night together. I wasn’t trying to tease you earlier; I simply wanted to show you that I’m okay with this, with you, if you are, too, Sakura.”I shift…shiftily. "And maybe I did enjoy teasing you. Just a little. Even if that wasn't the point."

  She giggles at me and I feel the vibrations of it in her chest against my arm. It almost makes me miss her next question, even though her voice is as serious as before.

  “Ah, Vala… I want to hear it. How have you wanted me? What are you okay with, with me? I’m not trying to embarrass you, love, but this is important.”

  As she lies there with her eyes closed, I continue stroking her hair. Considering her question, I realize a straightforward answer might be best.

  “Sakura, I’m attracted to you in every sense, including sexually. There’s a lot I hope to explore with you. And if there’s anything you’re curious about or want to try with me, I’m open to it. I’m looking forward to it, but please don’t feel pressured; I’m in no rush.”

  Her voice is barely above a whisper, soft and inviting, “Can you take off your shirt, love?”

  Holding her in my arms, I sit up; she shifts slightly, positioning herself on my lap as I grasp the bottom of my shirt. Her gaze intently follows my every move, her breath quickening with each inch of skin revealed. After removing my shirt, I lay back down, feeling her eyes, like a gentle caress, moving over my body.

  Taking her hand, I place it on my breast, over my heart, as I continue to gently look into her eyes. I pull her down into my embrace, kissing her lips before placing her head once more upon my chest. Her lips meld against my skin, peppering little kisses across my breasts before she slightly raises her head to suckle on my nipple. The warmth of her lips feels nice, and the tip of her tongue sends a gentle shiver through me. My heart skips a beat at first from the newness of the sensation, but over time, I find myself relaxing, enjoying it.

  Sakura’s warm breath on my skin becomes slow and rhythmic. Watching her content face, which looks like it could drift off to sleep at any moment, I can’t help but giggle. I caress the back of her head a little more, and she sheepishly smiles at me in response.

  “I didn’t realize just how wrecked I am, Vala. Sorry.”

  I return the smile, gently wiping a sleepy tear from her cheek. “Then let’s rest. Fun can wait until tomorrow.”

  “Mm.”

  “Good night, babe.”

  “Night, love.”

  She lets her face drop onto my chest again, and I almost shiver as her lips graze my nipple, her breath stiffening it. I watch as she slowly drifts off to sleep, softly stroking her hair before closing my eyes and joining her.

  Eventually.

  It's a bit difficult, what with the tickling puffs of air from her nose.