Chapter 21 — Decisions

After weeks of hard work and dedication, the duo finally stood back and admired their handiwork. 
"We did it," Raeleanore said, wiping a bead of sweat from his brow. "Look at that, a big wall, a house, and a conservatory to boot. Not bad for a couple of wanderers, huh, Kas?"
Kasumi nodded, a proud smile on her face. "Not bad at all. And don't forget the shrine. It's beautiful."
Raeleanore chuckled, slinging an arm around Kasumi's shoulders. "Can't forget about the shrine. Our little sanctuary, huh?"
Kasumi leaned into his touch, her gaze on the shrine's delicate carvings. "It's more than that. It's a symbol, a place where we can reflect and give thanks."
Raeleanore's smile softened at her words. "You and your rituals. Always so devoted."
Kasumi elbowed him gently in the ribs. "Hey, don't act like it's a bad thing. I take my faith seriously."
Raeleanore pretended to be wounded, clutching his side dramatically. "I know, I'm just teasing. Besides, it's kind of charming, in a dorky sort of way."Kasumi looked out at their new home, a sense of peace washing over her.
"You know, I was just thinking..."
Raeleanore shifted his gaze to her, a curious look in his eyes. "Yeah? What's on your mind, Kas?"
Kasumi took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts.
"This place... this life we've built here, it feels like a choice, you know?"
Raeleanore nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Yeah, I get what you mean."
"We chose to leave our old lives and build something new here, together."
Raeleanore's gaze shifted back to the house and the shrine. "We took a chance, and look at what we've accomplished."
Kasumi smiled, her eyes shining with determination. "But it's not just about the shelter. It's about making a home, a family. Something that's ours, something that no one can take away from us."
Raeleanore's expression softened, understanding the weight behind her words.
"You're talking about... family," he said slowly, his eyes meeting hers.
Kasumi nodded, a soft smile playing at her lips. "Yes, a family. A real family. With you, and maybe... well..."
Raeleanore's eyes widened slightly, a mixture of surprise and tenderness crossing his features. "You're thinking... kids?"
Kasumi's cheeks flushed at his words, but her determination didn't waver.
"Yeah, kids. I know it sounds crazy, especially considering our past. But... I can't help but think about it, you know? A family with you, here in this new home..."
Raeleanore was silent for a moment, absorbing her words. He looked out at the house again, then back at her, his expression unreadable.
Then, slowly, a smile spread across his face, genuine and hopeful. "You're serious about this, aren't you?"
Kasumi nodded, her eyes locked on his. "Completely serious. I know it's a huge step, but I'm tired of running and hiding. I want stability, a sense of belonging. And I can't think of a better future than one with you, and maybe... with a little version of us."
Raeleanore was quiet for another moment, his mind clearly working through the implications. Then, his smile grew even wider, tinged with a hint of nervousness. "I never thought I'd say this, but... I like the sound of that."
Kasumi's eyes lit up, a mixture of surprise and happiness in her gaze. "You do?"
Raeleanore nodded, the nervous expression still there, but his commitment was evident. "Yeah, I do. It's crazy, I know. But... god, you make me want things I never thought I'd want."
Raeleanore's words hung in the air, the reality of their conversation sinking in. They were really talking about starting a family, about settling down and building a life together. And the thought both terrified and exhilarated him.
Without a word, he stepped closer to Kasumi, his gaze holding hers, his voice dropping to a soft whisper. "You know I'm not exactly father material, right?"
Kasumi's smile turned coy. "Neither am I, but... we can figure it out. Together."
Raeleanore chuckled softly, his hand gently cupping her cheek. "You always have an answer for everything, don't you, Kas?"
Kasumi leaned into his touch, her eyes softening with affection. "Only when it comes to things that matter."
Raeleanore's thumb traced her jawline, his expression tinged with both desire and uncertainty. "And this matters, more than anything."
Kasumi's breath hitched slightly at his words, her heart fluttering in her chest. "It does," she murmured, her eyes never leaving his.
Raeleanore's hand moved to the back of Kasumi's neck, pulling her closer. "You drive me crazy, you know that?"
Kasumi's gaze flickered to his lips, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "You're not so bad yourself, Casanova."
Raeleanore's thumb traced her lower lip, his voice dropping to a low, sultry whisper. "Shut up and kiss me, woman."
Kasumi didn't need more coaxing. In one fluid movement, she closed the gap between them, her lips crashing into his with an urgent passion. Raeleanore's arms encircled her, pulling her body flush against his, his mouth moving hungrily over hers.