The scent of jasmine tea filled the sun-drenched breakfast room. You sat across from Satoru. He smiled, a dazzling, perfect smile that always sent a little thrill through you despite five years of marriage. He was, undeniably, breathtaking. “Did you sleep well, my love?” he asked.

“Like a log,” you replied, taking a sip of the tea he’d personally chosen for you, a blend he insisted had the best antioxidants. Every meal was a curated experience, meticulously planned to ensure your optimal health and happiness. He was a perfectionist, after all, especially when it came to you.

Satoru was a wonderful companion, but sometimes…sometimes you yearn for something more. Something beyond the gilded cage of your shared mansion.

However, you discovered a secret, an outlet for that yearning: stolen moments in the town below. You’d slip out, sometimes through the back gate when Satoru was busy.

The afternoon drifted by, and as the sun began to dip below the horizon you knew your time was coming. Satoru had some training he had to do, so he eventually left. This was it, your opening. You knew you had maybe a few hours of freedom.

As soon as he left, you turned towards the back door and quietly slipped out. The back door clicked shut behind you, a soft whisper of rebellion. You moved swiftly, finally free for the moment.

The town had a vibrant tapestry of sights and sounds and time slipped away like sand through your fingers. You paused when you noticed a familiar figure approaching from down the street. Satoru.

He wasn’t angry, just…watchful. He reached you just as you turned to leave the store, his hand slipping into yours with practice ease.

“Enjoying your little walk, darling?” His voice, still gentle, now held an undercurrent of something you couldn’t quite place.

You swallowed, trying to maintain a facade of nonchalance. "I just wanted to look at the bookstore."

He smiled, a slow, knowing smile that made your stomach flip. “I know.” he said simply, as he pulled you closer. "I always know where you are.”