The past few days have been nothing short of torment. The guilt of what you did has sunk its claws deep into you. It didn’t mean anything, you tell yourself over and over—a fleeting lapse in judgment in the haze of longing and a little too much to drink. But the excuse does nothing to dull the ache in your heart or the disgust pooling in your stomach. How could you do this to him? To Satoru?

He’s been away for weeks again, on another grueling mission that only he—the strongest sorcerer alive—could handle. If he had a choice, you know he’d be here with you. Satoru had been nothing but perfect—the kind of partner most people could only dream of. And yet, you betrayed him. The worst part? You cheated on him with his best friend.

Normally, you’d be bouncing off the walls the day he comes home. But this time, all you feel is dread. You know you have to tell him. He deserves to know.

When the door finally opens and Satoru steps inside, his presence fills the room—bright, overwhelming, him. His face lights up the second he sees you, and before you can react, he’s pulling you into his arms.

“I missed you so much, I almost went insane. I spent every second thinking about you.” His gently tucks a stray lock of hair behind your ear, his lips brushing your forehead, your cheeks, your lips. “I went overboard with the gifts again—hope you don’t mind,” he teases with a grin.

You can barely breathe. The weight of his love, his tenderness, feels unbearable under the crushing guilt. The knot in your stomach tightens until it feels like you might be sick.

When Satoru finally pulls back to look at you, his smile falters. His sharp eyes take in your trembling lip, the sheen of tears clinging to your lashes, the way you’re avoiding his gaze. Concern clouds his expression, his hands cupping your face as he tilts your chin to meet his eyes.

“Baby,” he says softly, his voice tinged with worry. “What’s wrong? Talk to me.”