Chapter Seventeen

As the morning sun rose over the water park called Umi no Oukoku, casting a golden glow across the colorful slides and pools, Hisashi and Xiangua found themselves immersed in the joyous atmosphere. The park is well known for the majestic and aquatic adventure is for family and adults.

They walked along the edge of the lazy river, the sound of cheerful laughter and splashing water filling the air. Hisashi, with her easy smile and laid-back demeanor, led the way, while Xiangua, her eyes sparkling with excitement, followed closely beside her.

They reached a spot where the sun's rays danced upon the water, creating a dazzling display of light and shadow. Xiangue suggested they take a break and soak in the sun's warmth.

They settled onto a pair of lounge chairs beside the pool, kicking off their sandals and stretching out their legs. Hisashi leaned back, closing her eyes, feeling the gentle caress of the sun on her skin, while Xiangua giggled as she dipped her toes into the cool water.

"It's so peaceful here," Hisashi remarked, a contented smile playing on her lips.

Xiangua nodded in agreement, her eyes tracing the playful movements of the children splashing in the nearby pool. "Yes, it's like a little oasis in the midst of the bustling city."

Hisashi and Xiangua, both women, sported bathing suits that reflected their individual styles and personalities.

Hisashi, with her laid-back demeanor and love for comfort, wore a simple yet stylish one-piece swimsuit. The swimsuit featured a classic design with thin straps that crisscrossed at the back, providing ample support while allowing freedom of movement. The deep navy blue color of the swimsuit complemented her sun-kissed skin, while subtle ruching along the sides stressed her curves in all the right places. Its modest yet flattering cut embodied Hisashi's understated elegance and practicality.

Xiangua exuded an aura of vibrancy and charm, which was reflected in her choice of swimwear. She wore a colorful bikini adorned with a playful floral print that seemed to dance in the sunlight. The bikini top featured a halter neck design, with bright pink ties that crisscrossed over her back, adding a fun and flirty touch to her ensemble. Paired with matching low-rise bottoms, the bikini showcased Xiangua's youthful exuberance and confidence, while its vibrant hues mirrored her infectious energy and zest for life.

"Ladies. I see you are enjoying the sponsorship of my deeds today"

As Yuri's warm voice greeted them, Hisashi and Xiangua turned to see the familiar figure approaching with a friendly smile. Hisashi returned the greeting with a nod, while Xiangua grinned and waved in response.

"We appreciate your generosity, Dr. Yuri," Xiangua replied, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she accepted the drinks he offered.

"Thank you," Hisashi added with a smile, taking the drink from Yuri's outstretched hand.

Yuri bowed respectfully before them, a gesture of humility and hospitality that was characteristic of him. "On the house, ladies. Enjoy your time here," he said with a twinkle in his eye before turning to leave them to their enjoyment.

Hisashi and Xiangua couldn't resist the allure of the crystal-clear pools. With laughter bubbling from their lips, they waded into the refreshing water, their playful spirits dancing like ripples on the surface.

Splashing and giggling like carefree children, Hisashi and Xiangua chased each other through the shallows, sending arcs of water spraying into the air. Hisashi, with her easy smile, playfully ducked behind a fountain, her eyes sparkling with mischief. Xiangua, her laughter ringing out, retaliated with a splash of her own, sending droplets glittering in the sunlight.

Suddenly, Hisashi made a break for it, her laughter echoing as she dashed across the pool's edge. The warm sun glistened on her skin, and the cool water droplets clung to her as she ran. But her playful sprint was cut short as her foot slipped on the wet tiles, sending her tumbling toward the water.

In a split second, before Hisashi could even register her fall, strong arms reached out and caught her in a firm embrace. Startled, Hisashi looked up to find Hen Akoto standing before her, his eyes filled with concern and surprise. Her breath hitched as she realized how close they were, his hands steadying her against his chest.

Hen Akoto's swimwear accentuated his athletic and muscular physique, showcasing his toned body with confidence. He wore sleek, form-fitting swim trunks in a deep navy blue, which contrasted beautifully against his pale skin. The fabric clung to his sculpted thighs and hips, emphasizing his strength and agility as he moved through the water.

With his bare chest exposed to the warm sun, Hen Akoto exuded a natural confidence. His defined muscles rippled with each movement, the light casting shadows across his chiseled torso. His wavy strands of hair, slightly damp, cascaded beside his face, framing his features with a touch of casual elegance. The long strands of his vibrant red hair, tied in a loose ponytail, trailed down his back, adding a striking contrast to the darker hues of his swim trunks.

"Are you okay?" Hen Akoto asked, his voice gentle yet urgent as he helped Hisashi regain her footing. His grip on her arms was firm but careful, his eyes searching hers for any sign of distress.

Hisashi blinked in surprise, momentarily taken aback by Akoto's unexpected presence. Her heart raced, not just from the near fall but from the sudden awareness of how close they were. She could feel the warmth radiating from his body, the strength in his hold, and the way his damp hair clung to his face, making him look effortlessly handsome.

"I-I'm fine," she stammered, a flush rising to her cheeks as she steadied herself with his support. Her gaze flickered over his chest, taking in the way his muscles tensed and relaxed, and she quickly looked away, embarrassed by her own reaction. The realization that she was seeing him with so much skin exposed made her blush deepen, and she hoped the water droplets on her face could mask the heat creeping up her neck.

Hen Akoto's concern melted into a gentle smile as he released her, his hands lingering for just a moment longer than necessary. "Be careful, Hisashi," he said, his tone playful yet tinged with genuine care.

Hisashi nodded, unable to find the right words as she felt the lingering warmth of his touch. She was still processing the unexpected encounter, her heart fluttering in her chest. The playful atmosphere between her and Xiangua had suddenly shifted, replaced by a new, unspoken tension that left her both flustered and intrigued.

Xiangua, who had witnessed the entire scene unfold, approached them with a curious expression. "Takawara, what are you doing here?" she asked, her tone a mixture of surprise and delight.

Hen Akoto chuckled sheepishly, running a hand through his damp hair, the strands falling back into place with an effortless grace. "Actually, it was Yuri who invited me," Akoto explained with a smile, his gaze shifting to the newcomers as they approached. "And it seems we have more company."

Turning around, Hisashi and Xiangua spotted Alexander and Rose making their way through the crowd towards them, their faces lit up with excitement as they approached. The vibrant energy of the gathering seemed to draw them in, their smiles wide and contagious.

"Hey there!" Alexander called out, his voice filled with cheer as he greeted his friends. He waved enthusiastically, his usual laid-back demeanor replaced by the warmth of seeing familiar faces.

Rose, her eyes sparkling with delight, joined in, adding, "What a pleasant surprise to find you all here!" She beamed at the group, her happiness evident as she took in the scene. It was clear that the spontaneous gathering was turning into something special, a moment of serendipity that had brought them all together.

Hen Akoto's eyes landed on Yuri, who was standing nearby at the refreshment table, grinning as he sipped his beer. The knowing smirk on Yuri's face spoke volumes, and Hen couldn't help but shake his head, a smile tugging at his lips.

Oh, you sneaky fox, he thought, realizing that Yuri had orchestrated this meeting all along. The subtle planning and the effortless way Yuri had brought everyone together was classic him, always finding a way to create opportunities for connection.

Yuri sauntered over to the group, his grin widening as he saw the realization dawning on Hen's face. "Niko, why don't you show Hisashi around," Yuri suggested smoothly, his voice carrying a hint of mischief. "It's her first time here."

Hisashi glanced at Hen, still feeling a bit flustered from their earlier encounter. But there was something in the way Yuri had set things up that made her curious, a sense that this was more than just a casual invitation. She caught Hen's eye and smiled, the initial awkwardness easing as she saw the same curiosity reflected in his gaze.

"Sure, I'd love that," she replied, her voice steady as she tried to push aside the fluttering in her chest. The idea of exploring the event with Hen was both thrilling and nerve-wracking, a mix of emotions that made her pulse quicken.

Hen nodded, his own smile growing as he extended a hand toward her. "Come on, I'll show you around," he said, his tone light and inviting. As Hisashi took his hand, she felt a warmth spread through her, a connection that felt natural and easy despite the butterflies in her stomach.

As Hisashi and Hen Akoto strolled through the bustling crowds of the park, Hisashi couldn't help but notice the curious glances and admiring gazes directed towards them. Hen Akoto's commanding presence and striking appearance seemed to draw attention wherever they went, his tall frame and confident stride making him impossible to ignore. Hisashi, walking beside him, felt a mix of pride and discomfort at the attention, acutely aware of being in the spotlight simply by association.

As they approached the bar, the lively atmosphere of the park surrounded them, the sounds of laughter and distant music creating a festive backdrop. Hen Akoto moved to order refreshments, leaving Hisashi momentarily alone. She glanced around, taking in the vibrant energy of the crowd, when a young man, with a friendly smile, approached her.

"Are you alone, miss? Do you want some company?" he asked, his tone polite yet slightly hopeful.

Hisashi hesitated, unsure of how to respond. She wasn't used to being approached so directly, and the situation caught her off guard. Before she could utter a word, she felt Hen Akoto's presence like a protective shield, his gaze resting on her from where he stood at the bar. His expression was calm, but there was a playful glint in his eyes, as if he was amused by the scene unfolding before him.

Her gaze flickered towards Hen Akoto, who was now watching their interaction with a hint of mischief in his grin. The sight of him, so casually confident, brought a smile to her face, easing her initial discomfort.

Before she could answer the young man, Hen Akoto stepped in, his voice firm yet laced with amusement. "She's with me, don't worry," he said, his words leaving no room for misunderstanding.

The young man, taken aback by Hen Akoto's sudden interruption, blinked in surprise. The shift in the atmosphere was palpable, and he quickly understood the situation. Offering a nod of understanding, he backed away with an apologetic smile, giving Hisashi a respectful nod before retreating into the crowd.

As he disappeared into the sea of people, Hisashi's gaze lingered on Hen Akoto, a mixture of gratitude and amusement dancing in her eyes. She appreciated his intervention, the unspoken way he had taken control of the situation without making her feel powerless. With a silent nod of thanks, she turned back towards the bar, feeling a sense of relief wash over her.

Hen Akoto handed her a drink, his eyes sparkling with a playful glint. "You handled that well," he remarked, his tone light.

Hisashi chuckled softly, taking a sip of her drink. "Thanks to your timely rescue," she teased, her smile growing as they began to walk away from the crowded area.

They soon found themselves in a more secluded space, away from the bustling crowds, leaning against the shaded walls and benches. The sounds of splashing water from a nearby fountain provided a soothing backdrop to their conversation, the tranquility of the moment allowing them to relax.

"What if I didn't intervene?" Hen Akoto mused, breaking the comfortable silence between them. His voice was calm, but there was an edge of curiosity in his tone.

Hisashi glanced at him, her expression thoughtful. "I would have felt pressured to comply with the man," she admitted with a sigh, her honesty catching Hen slightly off guard.

"Pressured?" Hen Akoto repeated, his tone teasing as he arched an eyebrow. "You could just say no."

Hisashi rolled her eyes playfully, leaning back against the wall. "Oh, and leave the chance for you to bask in your manliness?" she retorted with a smirk, her playful tone making Hen laugh.

Hen Akoto chuckled, the sound rich and melodious, his laughter echoing softly in the secluded space. "Should I feel flattered by your compliment?" he quipped, a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes, the atmosphere between them light and easy.

As Hisashi leaned in close, her proximity sending a shiver down Hen Akoto's spine, she whispered into his ear, her breath hot against his neck, "I think you should tread lightly." Her words were laced with teasing, but there was a spark of challenge in her gaze.

Hen Akoto's heart skipped a beat, the playful tension between them thickening the air. He met her eyes, their faces just inches apart, and for a moment, the world around them seemed to fade away. There was an unspoken understanding, a connection that had grown stronger with each shared moment.

Hen's breath hitched slightly, the intimate proximity creating an electric atmosphere between them. Leaning closer, he met her gaze, their lips mere inches apart, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "What if I don't?" he asked, his voice low and filled with a mix of curiosity and excitement.

With a swift, almost instinctive movement, Hisashi closed the distance between them, her lips meeting his in a tender and passionate kiss. Hen Akoto's breath caught as he felt her hand glide up his chest and into the nape of his neck, sending a wave of desire coursing through him. The softness of her touch contrasted with the intensity of the moment, making the kiss even more electrifying.

Caught up in the heat of the moment, he responded eagerly, his lips moving against hers with a fervor that matched the quickening of his heartbeat. In that fleeting moment, amidst the secluded tranquility of their surroundings, Hisashi and Hen Akoto lost themselves in the intoxicating embrace of their shared passion. Each tender touch, each affectionate gesture deepened their connection, blurring the lines between friendship and something more.

Hisashi's free hand found its way to the hem of his pants, her fingers teasing the fabric with a slow, deliberate tug. The sensation sent a surge of heat through Hen's body, his blood rushing as he felt the intensity of her touch. He let out a soft groan, the sound escaping his lips as Hisashi moved closer, her breast pressing against his chest. The proximity and her touch ignited a fire within him, a desire that was both thrilling and overwhelming.

Just as the moment seemed to deepen further, a voice cut through the charged air, jolting them back to reality. "Guys."

As Yuri's voice cut through the moment, Hen Akoto was snapped back to reality, the warmth of Hisashi's lips still lingering on his own. Cursing softly under his breath, he stepped back, his expression a mix of frustration and embarrassment. He turned away, his hand pressing against the wall for support as he tried to collect himself.

"Have I missed anything?" Yuri's voice held a hint of amusement as he approached, his gaze flickering between Hen Akoto and Hisashi, who were both visibly flustered. Yuri's presence was both a relief and an annoyance to Hen, who was still grappling with the intensity of the moment that had just been interrupted.

Yuri walked over to Hen Akoto, his tone shifting from playful to concerned as he noticed his friend's obvious discomfort. "Well, I'm sorry I cut into your special moment there," Yuri said, a smirk playing on his lips as he leaned closer to Hen. "I just needed a word, oh Jesus, are you—?"

Hen Akoto shot his friend a glare, his irritation evident in his voice. "Shut up, Yuri."

Yuri's expression softened, his concern clear as he took in the scene before him. "Wow, it's bad," he whispered, his tone sympathetic. "I didn't know it was like this."

Turning his attention to Hisashi, Yuri spoke gently. "Xiangua was looking for you," he said, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder as if to guide her away from Hen Akoto. Hisashi's face was flushed, a mixture of emotions playing across her features—embarrassment, confusion, and something deeper that she wasn't quite ready to confront.

Relieved that Hisashi was being led away from the situation, Hen Akoto exhaled slowly, the tension in his body gradually easing. He watched as Hisashi walked away with Yuri, their figures disappearing into the crowd, leaving him alone with his thoughts.

Sinking onto one of the nearby benches, Hen Akoto closed his eyes, trying to calm the tumultuous emotions swirling inside him. The intensity of his reaction had caught him off guard, and he was struggling to reconcile the desire that had flared up so unexpectedly. He had experienced sexual responses with women before, but never in such a public place, and the realization unsettled him greatly. As he sat there in the quiet solitude, he couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered in the air, wondering how he would face Hisashi after what had just transpired.

First Meg, now this, he thought, the irony of the situation not lost on him.

After a few minutes of solitude, Yuri reappeared, his footsteps light as he approached the bench. "I am in awe at this," he remarked, his voice tinged with amusement.

Hen Akoto's glare softened as he listened to Yuri's teasing remarks, his friend's mischievous smile contagious despite his lingering frustration. "Did you plan this?" Hen Akoto's tone was half accusatory, half amused, as he regarded Yuri with a raised eyebrow.

Yuri chuckled, settling beside him with a grin. "Well, I sponsored the event, but I never knew my friend would exhibit such high levels of testosterone," he quipped, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Hen Akoto shook his head in disbelief, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "Sure, let's invite Niko to a place where the girl he can't figure out shows up in a bathing suit and kisses me. You know my dilemma," he replied, his voice laced with sarcasm.

Yuri laughed, his amusement unapologetic. "Well, she looks good in a bathing suit," he remarked, his grin widening.

Hen Akoto half-glared at his friend but couldn't help but smile back. "She sure does," he admitted with a soft chuckle, the memory of Hisashi's kiss still fresh in his mind.

Yuri nudged him playfully. "See, you should be more thankful for the opportunities I offer," he teased, his tone light and teasing.

Hen Akoto chuckled, shaking his head at Yuri's teasing remarks. "Next time, give me a heads up, please," he quipped, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Yuri laughed heartily. "Like that would make any difference to Mr. Beast here," he replied, his grin widening mischievously.

Hen Akoto rolled his eyes playfully. "Don't start," he warned, though a smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

Yuri leaned in closer, his tone conspiratorial. "Do you think she'll give it a name too?" he teased, his eyes dancing with amusement.

Hen Akoto groaned, knowing full well where this conversation was headed. "Yuri!" he exclaimed, his voice tinged with exasperation, though he couldn't suppress the laughter bubbling up inside him.