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WP's comment: Completely in tune with the festive spirit that’s so contagious in December, we get a warm fluffy chapter for Christmas (filled with some pages of smut of course).  Hokuto learns it’s more important than ever to treasure Chiwa through meeting a special guest during the holidays and Chiwa gets the stirrings of desire to become a parent?

Chapter 34

It’s Christmas eve and Chiwa stands in the middle of the freezing harbor wondering what on earth Hokuto was thinking asking her to come here.  She thought that they would be staying at a hotel this year since Christmas lands on a Saturday.  Instead, he has asked her to pack one day’s worth of clothing and a nice dress and wait at the harbor.  She looks around and notices couples and family strolling along with smiles on their faces despite the biting cold.  Suddenly she hears Hokuto call her name from the ship parked along the harbor.

Hokuto: I told you to call me if you got here.  I even boarded first.

Chiwa: Is this…a passenger ship?

Hokuto: Yea.  It’s our Christmas cruise ship.

Chiwa lights up thinking that it’s a holiday getaway on their own private ship.  Only in reality, she’s dragged around by a kid asking to be entertained.  It seems that Hokuto boarded in the first place to observe how their tourism department is doing and Chiwa just tagged along as a leftover.  Not only that, but a child of Hokuto’s old friend has taken a liking to Chiwa.  Because the man is a powerful figure and may be beneficial to the Mamiya Tourism department, Chiwa is left to take care of the older couple’s child. 

Here we meet Souta-kun, a boy of about six to seven.  He tugs on Chiwa’s coat and asks the slightly depressed Chiwa what’s wrong, and if she doesn’t want to play with him.  Determined to have fun since she’s on the ship anyways, Chiwa turns around and beams at Souta, taking him to play.  The two enjoy themselves doing various things like playing bingo and grabbing desserts at the buffet.  Meanwhile the couple chat to Hokuto, worried that they may have been too selfish to impose on his vacation.  Hokuto pauses as he watches Chiwa and Souta fight over the last slice of cake like children, “Even if you say so…as you can see…”

Souta kindly offers half of his cake to Chiwa as a little girl walks past him and trips, spilling her plate of desserts.  Souta turns back to Chiwa as if nothing had happened, but Chiwa asks him to apologize.  Souta mutters, “It’s not like it’s my fault.”  Chiwa glares at him pointedly as she helps the girl up.  “Then I’m confiscating the cake!  And the prize we won at bingo before too!” she scolds.  Souta whines, “No way!”  The older couple and Hokuto continue to watch in amusement as the scene unfolds.  Slightly embarrassed, Hokuto moves to tell Chiwa off.  Souta’s mom stops him however, saying that Chiwa is right and Souta should apologize.  Souta apologizes solemnly before he finds out that his cake disappeared.

Souta exclaims loudly, “What is this???  Why isn’t my cake here anymore?”

Chiwa grins sheepishly, “Ah, you caught me.”

Souta reprimands, “And you call yourself an adult???”

Meanwhile Souta’s mom says to Hokuto, “She was right then, but just now…”

Later in the night, Souta follows Chiwa and Hokuto back to their room.  Chiwa asks Souta, “Are you sure you can stay tonight?”  Souta nods yes enthusiastically.  Chiwa then says, “You sure you don’t want to be with your parents?  Just don’t cry later.”  Souta replies, “I won’t.”  Souta stares at Hokuto’s back a bit suspiciously and suddenly pops the question, “Why is this oji-san entering the room with us?”

(Note: Oji-san is just a polite way to call acquaintances of your parents.  It means uncle, but it doesn’t translate well in English because some connotations are missing.  Although Souta’s usage is appropriate, oji-san is used more for middle-aged men, say from mid-30’s to late 50’s.)

Chiwa stammers, “That’s because he’s my husband.”

Souta says, “I see…” while sizing Hokuto up critically.  Hokuto thinks, “Brat, if it weren’t for my job…”  Hokuto then tells Souta, “Souta-kun.  It’s getting late now, so why don’t we go sleep?”

Souta answers, “No way!  I’m not sleepy yet, let’s play some more.”  He points to Hokuto, “I know!  Oji-san, let’s play horsie!  Papa hasn’t played with me lately because he says his back hurts.”  Meanwhile Hokuto looks horrified to be asked of such a thing.  Chiwa interrupts worriedly and offers to play horsie with Souta instead, but Souta refuses because she’s too small.  Hokuto slaps on an overly sweet smile and agrees to Souta’s request.  “Of course, let’s play.  Oji-san is still young.”  Shocked, Chiwa tells him he shouldn’t force himself, but Hokuto orders her to go to the bathroom and stay in there.  He glares at her scarily, “Listen, don’t come out until I say so.  Absolutely not, got it?!”  Chiwa scurries away to the bathroom.

Souta falls asleep later in the night.  Hokuto wonders just how much his parents spoil him on a regular basis.  Chiwa asks him, “Do you not like children?”  Hokuto answers exhaustedly at Souta’s sleeping figure, “To like this… How about you?”  Chiwa ponders, “He’s cute and he expresses with his whole body how much he likes me.”  Hokuto sits back against the bed and tells Chiwa, “I express it too.  Even if it’s only in the bed.”  Chiwa blushes profusely and stammers, “It’s because you say things like that that you’re called an oji-san.”  Hokuto exasperates, “Not you too… Well, it was out of my expectations but it seems I don’t have a chance to express my love tonight…”

Chiwa: You just decided that on your own.

Hokuto: Ever since you’ve met that child, you haven’t been very nice to me.

Chiwa: Whatever.

Chiwa thinks that it is a bit of a shame not to jump into the bed with Hokuto tonight, but isn’t this just as nice?  This feeling with three people?  But she feels that Hokuto may get angry if she says it out loud, even if he had said in the past he wouldn’t mind having one.  Chiwa continues to look at Hokuto, wondering at what he really wants.  Hokuto asks if there’s something on his face since she keeps looking at him, and then hops off the bed to the shower.  Since Chiwa had already showered with Souta earlier and there’s nothing to do, Hokuto decides to go to bed afterwards.  Seeing at how unhappy Hokuto is about not having sex that night, Chiwa decides not to bring up the topic of children.

Having slept early, Hokuto gets up even earlier next morning at 5:30.  Souta wakes up too, saying Hokuto has been noisy and that it was too cold to sleep.

Hokuto says, “Too cold?  The heater is working fine, and it must be warm sleeping next to Chiwa.”

A lightbulb goes off in Souta’s head, and he asks Hokuto, “Are you…jealous?”  The two sit down across from each other and begin talking.  Souta apologizes for intruding on Hokuto’s vacation and knows his parents probably have asked Hokuto to take care of him for the night.  His parents had always listened to his requests because they pitied him.  Souta says that he knows his body is not as strong and healthy as other children, but he doesn’t think he’s a pitiful child.  We get a mini flashback of what happened earlier.  As Souta said, his parents had asked Hokuto to look after him.  They explained that Souta had been born with an illness that will probably not allow him to live very long, and that as parents, they wanted to fulfill as many of his wishes as possible.  Even if Hokuto had come on the cruise with his wife, the couple had asked him to be understanding.

Souta continues telling Hokuto that Chiwa was different because she didn’t patronize him.  Hokuto thinks, “Well, it’s because I haven’t told her about your condition.”  He asks Souta, “So is that it?  Is that why you like Chiwa so much?”

Souta answers carefully, “Honestly I can’t word it well.  I wonder why?  It’s just for some reason, I really like her.  How about you, oji-san?”

Hokuto replies, “Well there are a lot of reasons I like her.  But I’m afraid I don’t have one to properly put into words.  Before I realized it, I had fallen in love.”

Souta sulks, “Isn’t that what I just said?” before muttering “Even though you’re her husband.”

Hokuto ignores that and continues, “That’s why I understand you.  So is there anyone you like at school?”

Souta answers, “I don’t go to school very often.  My parents also didn’t enroll me in kindergarten.”

Hokuto looks at Souta, “So your first love is Chiwa then.  Just like me.”

Souta pauses and thinks a bit.  “So if we’re so alike, that means if I was an adult right now, I might have been the one who married Chiwa, right?”

Hokuto gets irritated, “What?!  Why you little…  That’s my…”

Souta interrupts, “That’s why I said if.  Geez, you’re such a child.”

A little later, the three sit down for breakfast.  Chiwa notices that Hokuto and Souta seems to have gotten along together, but both boys deny it.  She laughs and says, “It’s just when the two of you sit together like that, you give off the feeling of father and son.”  The two freeze in disgust.  Hokuto stands up, “Don’t joke around!  How can I be the father of this bratty kid.”  Meanwhile Souta cries, “You’re so mean Chiwa.  How can I even be related to this oji-san.”

Once they get off the cruise, it’s time to say goodbye to Souta and his parents.  Souta tells Chiwa he wants to see her again.  Chiwa says, “Of course we’ll meet.  I gave you our contact info, didn’t I?  How about we go on the same cruise next year?”  Souta looks emptily ahead, somewhat disappointed.  Maybe it’s because he doesn’t know whether he’ll live until next Christmas that he’s saddened.  Nevertheless he smiles for Chiwa, “Got it, next year.  I’ll be bigger then too.”  He looks at his parents, “Papa, mama, let’s go on this cruise again next year.  Be sure to register for it.”  His parents look away somewhat guiltily but promises Souta.  Souta then tells Hokuto, “I’ll be here next year too.  Until then, treasure her.”  Hokuto smiles, “I’ll be waiting.”

Walking back to city center, Chiwa asks for Hokuto’s bags.  She tells him that she’ll be heading home first and offers to take his luggage since he’ll be going to the office.  Just as she’s leaving, Hokuto remembers Souta’s words to treasure Chiwa.  Hokuto takes her hand and tells her he won’t be going to the office.  Chiwa asks, “Are you sure?”  He replies, “Let’s have fun.  Since it’s not a given that we’ll always see tomorrow.  Besides, today is Christmas.”  The two go shopping, watching movies, eating desserts, and jewelry browsing (Hokuto tells the salesperson seriously to wrap it all up, but Chiwa tells him her husband’s joking).  They come home with tons of presents, so many that Chiwa is dizzy with it. 

Hokuto: It’s alright once in a while.

Chiwa: (holds the bags close) But keep it at this limit.

Hokuto: Why, don’t you like them?  Is it…

Chiwa: No, it’s just that I won’t be able to hold myself back.  If I get used to you spoiling me, I might ask for more and more in the future.

Hokuto: (leans in to kiss Chiwa) Come.  I’m going to spoil you all night tonight.

The two proceed to have fantastically passionate sex, and in Chiwa’s opinion, more passionate than usual even if they weren’t doing anything out of the ordinary.  Chiwa asks Hokuto to stop, but he says, “I told you I was going to pamper you.  If I don’t do it now, when should I do it?  So stay still and let me pamper you.  I’m going to love you with all of myself tonight.  All of me.”  Chiwa distinctively feels all of Hokuto, and she’s so overwhelmed with his words and actions that tears spill over.  Hokuto stops for a second to ask why she’s crying.  Chiwa says, “I don’t know…it’s just… I love you.”  She smiles up at him, “I love you very much.  Just having you here by me makes me happy.”

Chiwa reflects that her wish may be modest, but it’s also a very extravagant thing to ask for.  She wishes that she’ll always be next to Hokuto, and to continue living the miracle of being loved by the person she loves.  It may be extravagant, but since tonight is a holy night, she’ll try wishing it upon the stars.

Hokuto holds her close and asks, “So what do you think about adding another member to our family?”

Chiwa replies, “Is it because of Souta?”

Hokuto says, “I think I want a boy.”

Nervously, Chiwa responds, “Even if you say so right now…”

On new year’s, the couple get ready to see Hokuto’s family.  Chiwa frets about her appearance, not wanting Hokuto’s relatives to say anything bad about him again.  Hokuto threatens to leave her behind as she checks over her appearance in the mirror once again.  He says, “Chiwa, there’s not going to be a new year’s party.”  Chiwa flips around surprised.  Hokuto continues, “He…my father is gravely ill.”  The chapter closes with darkness.

Chapter 34 end.


Whisperpuppies's commentary: Did anyone else go “kyaaa” at the interactions between Hokuto and Souta?  I cannot wait until Hokuto and Chiwa have children, and yes, a tiny Hokuto would be nice.  I’m having a ball imagining how the two boys would treat each other and how Hokuto would deal with a mini version of himself.  Chiwa would probably turn out to be a good mother too.  All the lovey-dovey scenes and dialogue make me feel so warm inside.  But putting that aside, I feel like Chiwa is still holding back quite more so than Hokuto is in their relationship.  There are still a lot of moments where she is unable to voice her thoughts to Hokuto in this and previous chapters.  I mean, I get that she doesn’t want to be insensitive about the children-issue as she had been in the past when she told him she should be a good wife and just bear children for the sake of bearing children, but damn woman, how many years have you been married now?  Is it that hard to ask your husband what he wants?  But I admit, your love is still blossoming into something more beautiful each and every chapter.  It’s even more meaningful now that we’ve gotten the evil ex-boyfriends and girlfriends and excessive work hours out of the way.  These are moments where I feel the situation is more realistic and the author is able to show us the small mechanisms at work for their marriage.  It’s honest, and frankly it speaks out more to me than any other plot devices.  And drumroll please….We’re finally going to get a move onto the mysterious death of Hokuto’s mother and possible reconciliation with his father.  I can’t wait!

_Thank goodness for this chapter!  More things are thrown out into the open as Chiwa finally steps up from her meek role through the series.  

Chapter 33

The chapter opens with Asahina asking if he needs to see Chiwa back home from work.  Since the stalker incident last time, Hokuto has placed Asahina in charge of guarding Chiwa’s safety.  Chiwa reassures that there’s no need to, but Asahina frets that Hokuto may kill him if he fails to protect her.  Chiwa asks, “Does Hokuto happen to hold your weakness or something?”  Asahina tells her, “Of course not!  It’s just that we’re on the same boat now.”  As Asahina walks her to the taxi stop, he worries, “You know how I talked about Michelle Hartz’s president Shitara last time?  Since she went out of her way to tell me about your situation and instigated other things, I wonder if she has something to do with it.  I feel like she has a lot of malice towards you…or I might be over-thinking things.  It’s just a possibility.  But I wonder why she would hold any ill will torwards you?”

Hesitantly, Chiwa answers, “Well, it’s just that she’s Hokuto’s ex…and she has some opinions about our marriage.  She doesn’t think that I’m suited for Hokuto.”

Asahina looks up in understanding.  “So that’s what it is…” he continues before remembering he has done something similar in the past.  Asahina tells her to be careful returning home and to not try to solve everything by herself.  He reminds her to discuss with her husband and wishes her luck with resolving the issue.  Chiwa thanks him for his kindness, but she still doesn’t feel that she can discuss with Hokuto.  After all, she doesn’t know what Shitara’s presence means to him, and furthermore, he hasn’t been in a merry mood ever since the stalker.  The first thing that Hokuto ever says to her when returning home is “So you’re safe today too.”  He’s been so worried that he’s been getting dark circles under his eyes.  He still thinks that someone from his family is responsible and has already put a tap there, but it’ll take time before he gets any results. 

Chiwa interrupts his speech and tells him now is not the time to focus on these things.  He needs to turn up some results at work after his promised one year.  However, Hokuto continues, “Anyways I already have a plan, since if nothing further happens the police won’t take action.  And by then, that would be too late.”  Chiwa reproaches, “But there’s nothing we can do beyond this point.  That’s why…”  Hokuto pats her on the head, “Well, you may be right.  We can just sit and wait for them to slip up.”  Turning around pissed, he continues, “But I won’t be satisfied with that.  I will take them on.  And win at that!”  Chiwa despairs inwardly that because of this, Hokuto may just fail at work.  She had even told Shitara that she won’t be his obstacle in any way.  But it seems that Hokuto still hasn’t thought Shitara may be behind any of this.  It’s hard to turn doubtful eyes towards one you’ve loved in the past after all.  So this may just be her chance to get her move on.

With determination, Chiwa calls Shitara at the office, hoping to meet and talk it out once and for all.  But she starts to get cold feet when Shitara changes the meeting place to her flat.  Chiwa’s at a loss of what to do, and furthermore, there’s nothing but her gut feeling to support her accusations.  She half-wishes that her accusations are false and half wishes that they’re true since after this, her image can only worsen in Shitara’s eyes.  Heck, even Hokuto may be affected and she may be sued for defamation.  Chiwa closes her eyes and sighs.  She thinks, “There’s nothing I can do now since I’ve already took the first step.  Let’s get on with it!”

Inside, she explains to Shitara her accusations, but Shitara only smiles that there’s no proof.  Chiwa stammers, “But…you do think that it’ld be better if I just disappeared, don’t you.  That’s why…”

Shitara cuts in, “Ridiculous!  I thought you had something important to say, but what do you think I am?  It’s true that I don’t really like you, but you do realize I could sue you for your false accusations, right?” 

Chiwa begins to choke up on her words.  “But I won’t sue you because it’ll just be troublesome for Hokuto.  Now please go home.  This has been a waste of my time,” Shitara says coldly.

Just as Chiwa wonders whether she was too rash, someone rings Shitara’s door bell.  It turns out to be Hokuto, who has gotten word that his wife had went to her place.  Once Shitara lets him in, Chiwa asks Hokuto how he knew she was here, since she hasn’t voiced her thoughts.  She’s probably afraid that she’ll look like a jealous and petty wife in front of his eyes.  Hokuto ignores her and speaks directly to Shitara instead.  He confronts her, “So you were the one who instigated things with Asahina, telling him of our contract marriage.”

Shitara answers, “So he told you, didn’t he.”

Hokuto continues, “So that’s why she(Chiwa) didn’t tell me, probably thinking it’ll just annoy me.”    

Shitara asks, “So you doubt me too?”

Hokuto says, “I thought your actions were strange.  Purposely telling her of our past, and purposely handing me documents detailing her relationship with Asahina.  I didn’t want to think you were that type of woman, but there are just too many things pointing to it.  I don’t know what your reasons are, but everything you did just spoke ‘I-want-to-separate-Chiwa-from-you’.  So what do you have to say to that?”

Shitara pauses, but admits to Hokuto’s accusation.  “That’s right.  Things would be better if that girl just disappeared.  That’s all, so what?”  The couple are taken aback by her blunt words, and Hokuto begins, “What…are you thinking?  It’s too late…we’ve split…”

Shitara butts in, “Don’t get the wrong idea!  That’s the part I don’t like about you.  You’re throwing away your work and walking in so nonchalantly just because of this girl!  Why did you become like this?  If only she wasn’t here…you…the you I knew…”

We get a flashback of when Shitara was still with Hokuto, discussing his upcoming marriage to Chiwa.

Sitting on the bed, Shitara asked, “Marriage?”

Hokuto replied, “Yea, with some girl I’ve never met before.  It’s grandpa’s whim.  He told me that if I didn’t accept, I’ll be forced to resign from my position.  What does he think I am…”

Shitara: So you’re going to accept?

Hokuto: Of course.  I don’t know what kind of girl she is, but I give her enough money, she probably wouldn’t complain.  To not give her any unnecessary excuses, I won’t cheat on her either.  At any rate, I’ll be a good husband.

Shitara: Haha, you mean a convenient one.

Hokuto: I suppose.

Shitara: Then that means we have to end our relationship, don’t we.  If it’s you, it’ll be alright.

The flashback ends here, and Shitara says somewhat emotionally, “I accepted it.  If you continued to be as you were then…but after marrying this girl…Please return back to the way you were!  Don’t negate what you were, what I knew.”  Tears start flowing from Shitara.

Suddenly Chiwa asks, “Then why did you split up with him?  You love him as much as I do, right?  Of course if you didn’t, we wouldn’t be married.  But I don’t understand why you split up.”  Chiwa’s outburst gives Shitara a pause, but she answers back, “What…are you saying?  I had to pull back to open up Hokuto’s path.  Even if that unexpectedly helped you.  See, unlike you I understand Hokuto the best.  I didn’t want to become his burden and I didn’t.  Don’t even try to compare yourself to me.”

“No, we’re the same,” says Chiwa.  With more confidence now, “I love Hokuto, and that’s why I want to become his strength.  I always think that, even if things don’t go well.  Isn’t that what you thought too?  That’s why we’re the same.”

Shitara retorts angrily and moves in to slap Chiwa, “As if you knew anything about…”

Hokuto covers for her and gets hit instead.  Blood starts flowing freely from his cheek after Shitara’s nails grazed him.  Hokuto tells her that if she still wants to harm someone, to harm him instead since Chiwa has nothing to do with it.

Defeated and crying once more, Shitara says, “How easily you say this now.  I had no choice back then.  If I had said I didn’t want to break up, what would have happened?  At that time, he would have just thrown me aside.  But that was the him that I loved.  I won’t hate him for it because I wanted him to be that way.  It’s just…I don’t like sappy breakups.  That’s why I broke away smoothly.”

Chiwa looks down somewhat ashamedly.  Shitara continues, “If you want to contact the police, go ahead.  I won’t run or hide.  I understand that you won’t change now, even if I removed her.”

Without contacting the police, the couple leave quietly.  Hokuto tells Chiwa he’s going to return to the company, but Chiwa tells him to wait.  She slaps on a cute bandage filled with hearts on his cheek, before Hokuto pulls it off saying he can’t wear something so lame.  She tries to follow him back, making excuses that her company is next to his.  Chiwa feels that she shouldn’t leave him alone, now of all times.  She calls his name out one more time.  He turns, and plants a kiss on her before leaning over her tiredly.  He explains, “It was easy.”

Chiwa: Huh?

Hokuto: Unlike you, she knew when I wanted to be left alone.  Even if we didn’t meet because of work, she wouldn’t cause any trouble.  We had known each other for a long time.  She knew what I wanted to do and understood me.  She was my ally.  But today was the first time I saw her tears.  I never knew that she can even cry over something.  In the end, I was the one who didn’t understand her.  Even if I tried, I failed to.  Just me…

Chiwa looks away from his confession and tells him, “I…I may be annoying and unable to read your feelings, and it’s not easy to be with me, but I still want to stay by your side.”  Everything is warm and heartfelt until Chiwa tacks on, “Furthermore, you’re a pretty troublesome guy.”

Hokuto pulls back, “How can you say something like that at this time?”

Chiwa apologizes, “Ah, sorry, it just slipped out.”

Hokuto reprimands, “Try to read the situation a bit!  I see…so you’re saying that an annoying you fits perfectly with an annoying me, aren’t you.”

Chiwa blushes and stammers, “Eh?  Ah…no, wait…”

Hokuto walks away, sighing, “Whatever, I’m going to buy myself a proper band-aid”, leaving Chiwa to chase after him.

Chapter 33 end.

Whisperpuppies's commentary: I’m so glad that this chapter is different from the previous one…or the one before that.  It gives me hope that this story isn’t just a regurgitation of the same event over and over again.  I love the fact that Chiwa has finally taken the initiative to confront Shitara, and that things have begun to air out and resolve with the rivals.  Yet somehow I think it would be more fun if Hokuto hadn’t interrupted the confrontation.  Chiwa should put in her share of the effort to make this marriage work without Hokuto always acting the hero to save the day.  Of course, I suppose that without Hokuto entering, we wouldn’t have seen that Shitara is not a one-faceted cold-hearted bitch that she was in the previous chapters.  In fact, I’m starting to hate her less and sympathizing with her.  I don’t agree with her actions, but I get where she’s coming from.  I just wish that the author would give Chiwa just a bit more character development.  It’s getting there, and she’s being more open about her feelings, but there just needs to be an extra push.  Hokuto on the other hand, is always developing.  Now, if only they would just pop that baby I was mentioned beforehand, or dig into Hokuto’s mother’s death…

_Chapter 32

The chapter opens with Chiwa driving Hokuto to work, which now happens to be right next to Chiwa’s workplace.  But since Hokuto was being his usual self, he didn’t deem it important enough to tell her beforehand.  At home, Hokuto asks Chiwa if she was working overtime, since he saw that her workplace’s floor’s lights were still on late into the night, but she answers that it was only Asahina and Sakuraba.  Excited, Chiwa asks if he always looks at her building, but he says only from time to time.  Chiwa feels happy that they work so close together now.  With him nearby, she feels more motivated to work harder.

The next day, Chiwa goes shopping with a coworker.  However, as they walk along, an ominous bicyclist from behind crashes into Chiwa, pushing her to the floor.  He speeds away without apologizing.  Her coworker is anxious, but Chiwa says that it was her fault since she was in the middle of the road.  Her coworker says that it looks more like that he was aiming for her.  She helps Chiwa up to get her treated back at work. 

Chiwa informs Hokuto that night, to which he asks, “Again?”  It seems that Chiwa was almost run over by a car earlier too (though this scene was not explicitly shown).  He looks worried and distressed, but Chiwa assures him that it was only a scratch and it was probably her fault anyways for blocking the bicyclist.  Hokuto angrily tells her to be more careful from now on.  A little surprised, Chiwa apologizes.  Hokuto realizes he said too much and apologizes.  He tells her, “I had wanted to say that I’m glad you’re unhurt.”  Chiwa looks a bit crestfallen, since she has once again made Hokuto worry about her. 

The next day, Chiwa walks hurriedly through the streets, stopping to hide behind a wall.  She turns back and looks around to see who’s following her.  Seeing no one though, she thinks it’s probably her imagination.  However, the mysterious man continues to follow her once she walks away.  Later in the day, Sakuraba tells her that she can leave once she finishes up.  As she’s leaving, she looks back behind her and thinks, “Hokuto’s probably still at work.  I’ll return home first.  Do your best!”  Chiwa rushes down towards the stairs at the metro station, but suddenly, a hand pushes her down.  She skids a bit, but manages to land safely.  Bewildered, she turns around to see who it was, but could find no one.  Immediately, she flashes back to the time when she was kidnapped and wonders if someone really is targeting her.  She returns to the office and asks Sakuraba if she could stay there even if there’s no overtime work.  Sakuraba hesitantly agrees and Asahina looks worried and confused.  She waits by Hokuto’s car until he gets off from work.  Hokuto’s a bit surprised to see her, but she lies that she was working overtime, since their company have just entered a hectic period.  She asks him if he wants to go eat somewhere, since it’s the first time they’ve gotten off work together.  Hokuto answers, “That’s alright, but I prefer your home-cooking.”  Chiwa blushes at his sweet words, and tells him that she’ll start tomorrow.

To get home early to start cooking the next day, Chiwa has to return alone.  She’s still scared, and wishes she can skip from door to door.  Any door is fine, as long as she’s safe.  She lights up when she spots a taxi.  However, she freezes when she has to pay the fare.  It amounts to 3150 yen (approx. 41 USD), and she realizes it isn’t a very economical way to get home.  So the next day, she waits by Hokuto’s car again and lies that there was overtime.  Hokuto fires back, “Overtime?  What are you saying?  I saw that your floor’s lights were all turned off at 9 pm.  What exactly are you doing?  I don’t like it when people lie to me.”  Flustered, Chiwa says, “I just wanted to go home together since we work so close.  Can’t we even do a small thing like this?”  Hokuto dismisses her childish reason and tells her to properly return home by herself tomorrow.  Chiwa doesn’t want to lie to Hokuto, but she also doesn’t want to cause him further unnecessary trouble. 

The next day, Asahina tells Chiwa and Yoshioka (coworker) to go home early.  A big typhoon is heading north, and it’ll probably hit during rush hour and stop the trains.  Still rattled by the earlier incidents, Chiwa doesn’t want to go home early.  She tries to make a lame excuse by saying that she can’t possibly leave when Asahina and the others are still working hard.  Asahina reassures her that he and the others can still stay a night somewhere even when the trains have stopped.  (Translator’s Note: Asahina probably refers to capsule hotels, which are literally small enclosed capsule spaces people can stay the night after they miss the last train [usually because they’ve stayed out partying too long or are really drunk].  While these hotels cater to both men and women, generally more men stay in them.  Some can be located in more seedy areas, and women may not feel as safe.  Look it up on Google.  :D)     Sakuraba also tells her to go home early, since it’ll be troublesome for her if the trains stop.  Dejected and unable to refuse their kindness, Chiwa can only head home.  Asahina looks worriedly at Chiwa for her strange actions.  Chiwa calls Hokuto from a phonebox, informing him that Sakuraba gave her permission to return home early because of the typhoon.  Hokuto tells her to be careful on the way back.  Chiwa tries to gather the courage to tell Hokuto what’s bothering her, but she loses steam and also tells Hokuto to be careful.  After she hangs up, Hokuto looks worriedly at his phone. 

While clinging onto her umbrella as the cold rain whips around her, Chiwa reassures herself that everything will be alright.  Even a stalker wouldn’t take action in such weather, and she’s probably just over anxious about things.  But suddenly, a man in a dark cloak approaches her from behind, causing Chiwa to freeze up.  “Excuse me, but could you tell me some directions?  If you could please turn around…” he says.  Chiwa realizes that this is it.  It may only be her intuition, but this is it and she needs to run.  She ignores him.  He continues, “Umm, hello?  Why are you so weary?  Don’t be rude…”  Chiwa turns pale with fright and drops her umbrella as he reaches out for her.  She wonders why she’s being targeted and starts running.  But just then, Hokuto kicks the man and rushes towards Chiwa.  Asahina beats the stalker comically with his umbrella over and over again.  However, the stalker runs away.  Chiwa is surprised to see Asahina in such a place with her husband.  Asahina tells her, “I thought you were acting strange, seeing as you didn’t want to go home.  This happened earlier too, so I wanted to contact the president.”  Hokuto starts, “So this also happened earlier.  That’s why you were waiting for me.  You dummy!  Why didn’t you tell me the truth?”  Teary-eyed, Chiwa mutters insensible things.

Hokuto: I can’t hear you!  Speak up!

Chiwa: I didn’t want to worry you unnecessarily!

Speechless, Hokuto stares at her. 

Chiwa: It’ll be so annoying if something like that happens again.  Just like that time…I don’t want to hold you back…

Hokuto slaps her soundly.  Meanwhile, Asahina watches in shock.  Chiwa is bewildered, until Hokuto drops to his knees and holds her, burying his head in her waist. 

Hokuto: Why do you still not understand?  If something had happened to you, I probably won’t be able to live with myself. 

Hokuto is trembling with fright, and most likely relief also.  Chiwa apologizes.  What she thought was best for Hokuto always ends up hurting him.  Asahina starts explaining to Chiwa, “I understand your feelings, but you should discuss matters with the president more.  Even if it’s a big responsibility, the president had told me that he lost someone close to him in an accident.  It’s not strange that he’s more sensitive about your safety than others.”  Hokuto looks annoyed at his words.  It’s ok if he says this himself, but being told by others is irritating.  Ignoring Asahina completely, Hokuto turns to Chiwa and tells her, “That’s right.  There’s no one else who’s more worried about you than me.”  Embarrassed for being ignored, Asahina excuses himself by saying that there’s still more work to do in the office.  Chiwa thanks him for everything, and Asahina waves goodbye.  Hokuto is a little dismayed that he now owes Asahina another favor.  He asks Chiwa, “Did that stalker say anything?  Like that customer from when you were still in the cabaret club?”  Chiwa shakes her head.  Hokuto continues, “I thought for a moment that it may be related to someone in my family again.  Like that stupid cousin of mine.  But I guess there isn’t anyone now who would be happy to hurt you or me.”  Chiwa looks down on the floor and thinks of Shitara.  She thinks to herself, “There’s only one person, only one name that floats up as to who wants to hurt me.  To be more exact, wants to put me far away from Hokuto.  But if I tell Hokuto, he’ll…”

Hokuto tells Chiwa they should go back home before they catch a cold.  He grabs her hand and tells her, “It’ll be alright.  I won’t let you be in any more danger.”  However, Chiwa looks far away as she thinks, “Hokuto’s sharp.  So he probably already knows what I’m thinking.”  Chiwa nods absently at his words, and they return home together.  She looks more dejected than ever though, and Hokuto probably doesn’t realize.

/End chapter 32

Short Commentary: I’m beginning to wonder how long the author is trying to drag out this story.  I mean, I love this series (what with the pretty art and more mature themes than shoujo manga) , especially the start, but lately the chapters are a bit repetitive.  It’s always Chiwa who’s getting into trouble and waiting for Hokuto to save her.  She doesn’t really stand up for herself either, not to Hokuto nor the other characters who’s trying to wreck her relationship.  Of course, she’s done it a few times, and I was bloody excited when she told Shitara to back off from Hokuto at the hospital, but she’s retreating time and time again.  Every time she reaches an epiphany that they should be honest with each other at the end of one chapter, she goes back to being a timid mouse at the start of the next.  Be more gutsy girl!  Or I might completely turn off on you and your marriage struggles.  On the other hand, I feel like the author hasn’t dug much into the juicier parts of the story, like Hokuto’s mother’s death.  She’s thrown it out there since the very beginning, but seemed to have forgotten all about it.  Please, please let us know what happened, if only a silver of the truth. I think it’s about time since we’ve gone at least 10 chapters not touching on the subject.   It’ll make things a whole lot more interesting.  Oh, and pop a baby too.  Surely they must have created one by now, considering all the sex…  I wonder how Hokuto will be as a father..hehe, probably not a very good one.   I don’t really mind long stories, and the author can write 50+ chapters if she wants.  I’m in for the ride as long as it’s captivating.  

_Translator: whisperpuppies
Scanner: Shmook

Chapter 31

It’s already 2 o’clock, and Chiwa continues to stay up to wait for Hokuto’s return.  She begins dozing off until she’s interrupted by the loud clang of the door.  Hokuto has finally returned, but he’s so tired he collapses on the floor.  It seems that Hokuto has become busier ever since he switched divisions, but it’s too late to do anything about his choice now.  She tells him to go bathe first, but he tells her to go sleep instead.  Chiwa mutters that if she leaves him alone, he’ll probably fall asleep in the bathtub.  As Chiwa picks up after Hokuto, she wonders if what he’s doing now is ok.  After all, he’s the only one working hard for both of them.  She walks up to the bathroom, only to find him asleep again.  After bathing, Hokuto wants to have sex and climbs on top of Chiwa. 

Chiwa asks, “Are you sure?  We haven’t done it in 2 weeks, but I think it’s better if we go to sleep tonight…”  But Hokuto glares at her, and she concedes.  Her worries fade away as she gets in the mood, but Hokuto ends up falling asleep on her belly once more.  The next morning over breakfast, Hokuto tells Chiwa, “I was just tired last night.  It’s not like I’ve been aging or anything…and it’s not your fault either.”

Chiwa tells him, “But I didn’t say anything…”

Hokuto leaves for work, and Chiwa tells him if might be better if he doesn’t drive, seeing as how he’s so tired these days.  But he reassures her that he’s fine and leaves anyways.  She understands that he doesn’t want her to worry.  However, she later receives a call from Souma, asking her to come down to the ground floor.  Hokuto once again has collapsed, whether it was from the drinks he had after the business reception or just fatigue.  Together, they escort him back to the flat.  When he awakes, Souma tells him that she has canceled the appointment for next afternoon because of his condition, but Hokuto only gets angry. 

Hokuto: What were you thinking?

Souma: But it’s just that we won’t do as well with you in such a condition…

Hokuto: Even though you’re under my grandpa in name, you’re my subordinate.  Since when did you ascend to the position to…

Chiwa: Stop saying things like that Hokuto!  I was the one who asked her to do so. 

Hokuto: Don’t do…such unnecessary things.

Chiwa is a bit shocked by Hokuto.

Souma:  President, since you’re already of age, I thought I would hold back on saying this, but I can’t do so anymore.  You still don’t understand, do you?  What your wife means?  And anyways, you’re actually below me in status now!

Hokuto:  Souma!

Souma: You may fire me if you wish, I won’t complain or regret at all!  I’ll be leaving now, so please rest up until tomorrow!  Goodbye.

Chiwa thinks Hokuto’s being unnecessarily cruel to Souma, since she has always been watching out for him.  Hokuto, however, disagrees, saying that they’re ganging up on him and ousting him of his job.  Chiwa then argues back, “First of all, why do you have to be the one who works hard?  Isn’t it strange?  It’s for the both of us.”

Hokuto: (flustered)  Then tell me, what can you possibly do?!

Chiwa: But…Isn’t there anything I can help you with?

Hokuto: And why did you cancel my meeting tomorrow?  I know you’re worried about my health, but I can’t stand you doing things like this.  If you’re so worried about our future, it’ll be better if you do nothing at all.  Just be mature and wait patiently.  You know nothing about my job anyways.  Well, maybe a little now…

Chiwa: (about to break into tears) FINE!  That’s right!  I can’t do anything.  I stepped in and did something unnecessary.  Since I don’t want to be a hindrance, I won’t do anything!  That means everything surrounding you.  I won’t do your laundry, or clean up after you, or cook for you!  I will do absolutely nothing for you!

Hokuto: Do…do what you want!  I’m used to living alone anyways.  It’s no big deal!

Chiwa: Is that so?  Then do your best, ALONE!  I’m going to sleep back in my original room.

Hokuto: Fine!

After their argument however, Chiwa is very down at work the next day.  It has been three years since they married, but she didn’t something like this to happen.  She knows that it’s an important time for both of them, but she was just really mad back then.  But on a deeper level, she’s sad rather than irritated because Hokuto’s words ring true.  He doesn’t need her help.

At home, Hokuto stares disappointedly at his own pile of laundry.  He thinks, “It’s alright.  If I don’t have enough underwear or shirts, I can just buy more.”  When he sees Chiwa gathering her own laundry, Chiwa runs away and scurries back into her room.  He opens his bedroom door, only to see it a mess.  He shoves away the dirty clothing and plunks down onto the bed.  Meanwhile, Chiwa leans against her door and keeps worrying about Hokuto.  She wants to leave him alone, but is unable to.  She wonders if he did his laundry, and if he’s eating properly.  She knows that it’ll be easier to return to normal if she apologizes, but she can’t help but think back to his words, that she knows nothing about his job.

The next evening, Chiwa joins her coworkers for a drink after work, leaving Hokuto to fend for himself at home.  When the clock strikes 11, he begins to wonder why she hasn’t come home yet, since tomorrow’s a workday.  Meanwhile, Chiwa is singing karaoke with her colleagues, wondering how many days it has been.  He hasn’t touched her, much less ask after her.  But it’s not like either of them have left the house.  They’re still living together. 

A while later, Souma talks to Chiwa on the phone.  It seems that Souma is doing most of the taking-care of Hokuto now.  Chiwa apologizes, since he’s making Souma buying him extra clothes.  But Souma tells her not to worry, since it’s apparent that Hokuto doesn’t appreciate the value of Chiwa.  Chiwa thinks that it’s not because of that that started their argument.  However, Souma continues on.  “He needs to start behaving and realize that he’s not living by himself anymore.”  That word strikes Chiwa though, that he’s alone.  She realizes that no matter how much she feels slighted, she shouldn’t leave him alone.  She thanks Souma (which of course leaves Souma confused since she doesn’t know what she did) and hangs up.  Chiwa declines her coworker’s invitation to another night out and returns home.  She thinks, “I need to hurry and go home to clean and do the laundry.  And if he’s willing to eat, I need to make his favorite food.  Even though the things I can do are not much, that’s fine.  I need to do whatever I can for him.  I cannot be the one to let go of his hand.”

Hokuto returns home, prepared for another night of being alone.  However, he finds Chiwa’s note on the table for his dinner.  He spins around and finds her hiding behind her door. 

Chiwa: You’re early.  Welcome home.  Umm…it’s just as I wrote on the note…so goodnight.  (shuts the door)

Hokuto: (pushes open the door) Hey!

Chiwa: I cleaned your room too.  (shuts the door again)

Hokuto: (pushes the door open again) HEY!

Chiwa: I also did your laundry……(silence)… Ah, so you weren’t hungry then.

Hokuto: No…(pulls Chiwa in for a hug) I’m at the limit.  I know you’re frustrated.  Whether there’s a deadline or not, or changes of winning or not, I’ve been pushed to the limit for both time and energy.  But I couldn’t admit it, that I don’t have enough strength on my own, or that there’s only so much one person can do.  So please lend me your strength.  Without you, I won’t be able to overcome this.

Chiwa: Alright!  I get it Hokuto!  I’ll do anything!  I’m sorry that I canceled your meeting…that has been on my mind ever since.

Hokuto: Ah, that?  Never mind about that…

Chiwa: I’m so glad.  What should I do for you?  You can tell me anything!

Hokuto looks down at the hopeful Chiwa, and he finally understands Souma’s words.  The ones about Chiwa’s value and worth.  He asks her to start taking care of him again, just like it used to be.  Chiwa is a bit disappointed though, since it was the same as before.  Hokuto then interrupts, “Then…why don’t you take me to work tomorrow?”

Chiwa: Huh?  You mean, the car?

Hokuto: Yea, then I can sleep during that time.

Chiwa: Is it alright for me to drive?

Hokuto: Yup.

Chiwa: I don’t really get it, but ok.  Anything else?

Hokuto: (leans in for a slight kiss)  I want to…get revenge for last time.

Chiwa: (looks up) Alright…but really, I didn’t mind last time.  (Mostly referring to him falling asleep during sex)

Hokuto: (lifts Chiwa up into his arms) Be a bit more considerate, I minded a lot.

Chiwa: Ah…(as he carries her to the bedroom) Hokuto?

Hokuto: Yes?

Chiwa: I have a wish.  Please think of me when you’re troubled.  I may not be able to help you anything, and it may be quicker for you to solve your own problems, but I’ll always be here to help you.

Hokuto: Understood, wifey.