A Breather Before the Storm

Chapter 5

The atmosphere in Kimiko’s lavish sitting room was unusually relaxed, though the underlying tension of recent events still lingered. Zane sat sprawled on a velvet armchair, staring up at the intricate chandelier while Kimiko leaned casually against the grand piano, a rare smirk tugging at her lips.

“You know,” Zane began, breaking the silence, “we’ve been cooped up here for days. Feels like we’re in some sort of gilded cage.”

Kimiko raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. “A gilded cage with excellent food, soft beds, and a personal staff to cater to your every whim. Really sounds like torture, Zane.”

He rolled his eyes. “That’s not the point. I’m saying we should take a break. You know… go out. Do something normal.”

Her smirk faded, replaced by a sceptical look. “Normal? With everything going on? That’s not exactly wise, Zane. You’ve got people hunting you, in case you forgot.”

“That’s exactly why we should go,” Zane countered, sitting up. “We need a breather. If we stay locked up, they’ve already won. Let’s call it… a date. You pick the time; I’ll pick the place.”

Kimiko blinked, her cheeks faintly colouring before she quickly composed herself. “A date? You’re serious?”

“Completely,” Zane said, grinning. “Unless you’re scared.”

She scoffed, narrowing her eyes at him. “Fine. But I’m picking the restaurant. You’ve got terrible taste.”

Zane groaned dramatically, leaning back in his chair. “No way. You always go for those spicy places, and I’m not trying to burn my tongue off again.”

Kimiko smirked, her amber eyes glinting. “You liked it last time. I remember you asking for seconds.”

“I was being polite,” Zane shot back, a mock-serious expression on his face. “This time, we’re doing it my way. No spice.”

“You’re such a baby,” Kimiko teased, though her tone was warm. “Fine. I’ll let you choose—this time.”

“Good,” Zane said, standing. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to head back to my place and grab some clothes. Can’t show up to a date dressed like this.”

Kimiko frowned, her playful demeanour fading. “You’re not seriously thinking of going out there alone, are you?”

“It’s just a quick trip,” Zane said dismissively. “I’ll be back before you know it.”

“No,” she said firmly, moving to block his path. “It’s too dangerous. I’ll send Yamada. Tell him what you need, and he’ll bring it.”

Zane sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Kimiko, I appreciate the concern, but I’m not helpless. I’ll be fine.”

“I’m not taking no for an answer,” she replied, her tone unyielding. “If you insist on going, then Yamada’s going with you.”

Zane looked like he was about to argue but stopped when he saw the resolve in her eyes. “Fine,” he muttered. “But he stays in the car. I don’t need a babysitter.”

“Deal,” Kimiko said, stepping aside. “But if anything happens, I’m holding you both responsible.”

Moments later, Zane and Yamada were in a sleek black car, pulling away from the mansion. Zane stared out the window, his thoughts a mix of excitement and irritation.

From a distance, concealed in the shadows of a nearby alley, the veteran watched them leave. His sharp eyes followed the car as it disappeared down the street, a grim smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.