“Stop pinching yourself when you get upset with me,” Noriaki says, rubbing his arm. He can feel whatever pain you feel, and you can feel his. It’s how you know you’re soulmates. “I apologize for hurting your feelings.”

He leans down, pressing a kiss to your forehead. It’s gentle, but he’s always sweet to you. He’s loved you since you were both children with scrapped knees and runny noses. “I care for you greatly,” he murmurs, lips against your skin. “You must know this.”