Watashi no Shiawase na Kekkon - Volume 1 - Chapter 10

Chapter 10 - First date

"E-Erhm... Where are we going today?"

After the two boarded the car and went about their journey to the Imperial City, Miyo suddenly realised that she had no idea where they were going. And hence, her question.

"Ah ah, I guess I didn't say... We'll be heading to my workplace first."

"Yes... !?"

(His workplace...!?)

If one thought of the workplace of a military man like Kiyoka, it would definitely be the Headquarters of the Imperial Army.

Although Miyo had never seen the place with her own eyes, she did hear that it's a vast piece of land equipped with various military facilities. It's a place that feels intimidating to an ordinary person.

Miyo heart wasn't prepared to go to a place like that and her hand started to tremble from the anxiety.

"Ah, no... don't look so scared, I'm not going to the military headquarters."

Even while operating on the steering wheel, Kiyoka was able to accurately sense Miyo's nervousness and surprise. A faint wry smile formed on his lips.

"Eh... but isn’t that your workplace?"

"Ah ah, an army personnel may not necessarily always be working at the headquarters. Since it's a little far from the heart of the Imperial City, there are several branches scattered across the city. In particular, the Anti-supernatural Special Task Force that I serve as the leader is different even in the army. Therefore, the base of our operations is set in another place in the Imperial City, and not at the headquarters. It's not that big a facility, so you needn't be so nervous."

Even with her lack of education, Miyo had heard the name, Anti-supernatural Special Task Force, back at the Saimori house.

And it can be easily understood that the unit was not large as it's mainly composed of the few, rare ability user and people with Paranormal Vision.

If that's the case, Miyo heaved a sigh of relief.

"Anyway, we're just going there to leave the car, nothing else. We probably won't meet with the other members either."

"I-Is that so?"

The use of cars was only beginning to spread in the country. Even if one manages to obtain one, there were limited spaces to park. Hence, if they wanted to move around the Imperial City, they'd have to park this car somewhere, or it'll get in the way.

While they were having this conversation, they had arrived at the first destination. Although there was a security guard at the entrance. When Kiyoka stretched his head out the car, they were simply let through without facing any resistance. As expected of a commanding officer.

(For some reason, this looks kind of an elementary school building.)

The building used to house the Anti-supernatural Unit seemed to make use of some Western architecture. The size and outward appearance of the building, as well as the training grounds, were just like a school compound. If one was told that this was an elementary school, they might actually believe it. Its appearance blended in well with the cityscape.

Though of course, the people on the training grounds were not children, but fully grown adults in military uniform.

"Well then, let's go."

After stopping the car in a suitable location, Miyo and Kiyoka started walking towards the entrance they had just passed through.

However—

"Aiya~ Taichou?"

Looks like they bumped into one of the members.

"...Godou."

"Taichou, aren't you off duty today?"

"Ah, I am off duty. I am only here to leave my car."

"What on earth~"

Kiyoka shared a brief exchange with the member he referred to as Godou. Then Godou took a glance at Miyo causing her to tremble involuntarily.

"And what about the lady? Who might she be?"

"My companion. Don't pry."

Kiyoka cut him off with a curt reply. However, Godou didn't seem to mind it or perhaps he was used to it as he simply responded with "Hmm"

"Well, whatever, please don't forget to come to work tomorrow, Taichou."

"Of course. More than that, you should return to your post quickly. Stop wasting time, dilly-dallying."

"Hehe, understood. Then."

Miyo was a little lost to what was happening, but she bowed lightly to Godou who was about to leave.

When the two of them resumed their walk, Kiyoka spoke up.

"That man just now is Godou. He's also an ability user with Paranormal Vision. I guess he can be considered my aide."

"Ye..."
"Though I don't really want to give him that."

Thinking of that easy-going disposition of his made Kiyoka's expression turn sour.

As they walked on, they eventually arrived at the city, where the sounds of the hustle and bustle of the streets, that they didn't catch while they were in the car, could be heard.

Even after a long time, the unique atmosphere of the city made Miyo feel even more excited than expected.

"Is there anywhere you want to go?"

"Eh?"

Miyo was shocked. She didn't expect him to ask for her wishes.

"Or anything you want to buy... Is there nothing?"

"N-No, nothing in particular."

Her plan for today was just to accompany Kiyoka. Miyo had long lost the desire for anything, so when she's asked for what she wanted, nothing came to mind.

Seeing the troubled expression on Miyo's face, Kiyoka unwittingly chuckled. His smile was so beautiful it would inadvertently make people fall in love at first sight.

"I see. Then will you accompany me while I shop?"

"Yes."

Spring was in the air. The weather was moderately warm, perfect for a stroll along the streets.

Nicely dolled-up people filled the streets, the trams, various shops and amenities. Everything felt fresh, and yet at the same time, nostalgic to Miyo as she unconsciously became fascinated by the sights. Meanwhile, Kiyoka watched over her with a gentle expression.

"Are you having fun?"

"Ah... I-I'm so sorry! I-"

Miyo lowered her head embarrassedly. That wouldn't do. She became so engrossed in the sights when she was just a servant who's supposed to be accompanying the master.

(I must have looked like such a country-bumpkin... Ah, I'm too ashamed to show my face...)

Despite being a person who had lived in the Imperial City, her actions must have brought Kiyoka shame.

"Don't worry, enjoy the scenery as much as you like. I, no one will scold you for it."

"But."

W-Was that really ok?

It was already conspicuous for him to be walking around with a woman like Miyo, or maybe more so, embarrassing.

Then, a large hand gently patted her on the head.

"It’s alright. You don't have to worry about being a bother to me. I was the one who invited you out after all."

"..."

"Ok?"

"...Yes."

From his face, to his hand and voice, they were all incredibly gentle.

...However, despite the gentleness, Miyo still felt an undeniable pressure which compelled her to nod her head in response.

"Ah, but don't stray away from me."

"Yes, I will be careful."

"Good."

His pace was very slow and Miyo knew it for her. Kiyoka's kindness caused the urge to cry well up in her once more.

What part of this person was ruthless and unfeeling? He's clearly such a kind and gentle person.

If Miyo had anything that could make her worthy of being with this person, she would definitely stay by his side.

However, her ability to do that brought another bout of self-loathing.