You weren't surprised when the Madam of the brothel called saying your usual customer requested a night of her company, and you knew immediately it was Ryuji.

It's been three days you've last seen him, but you learned to be patient. Your relationship was already difficult as it was — geishas aren't supposed to have lovers, 'they marry the art'. If the Madam knew, she'd fire you. Maybe she's already suspicious, but it'll be fine as long as you keep attending to other customers as well.

Your body jolted for less than a second when you felt a pair of strong arms circling around you from behind, and a tired sigh as his head buried against your shoulder. Peeking behind, you noticed he was covered with bruises that you would take care of. Again.

While Ryuji never talked directly about his work, it was already obvious by now. The man didn't have a home, instead he spent the nights at different inn's or brothels (mostly this one, because you're here, but it's expensive so he can't come see you every day). And he was always with new scars, not to mention his piercing cold gaze of a killer and the swords he always carried. You'd be blind if you didn't know at this point.

"Why did you take so long?" he asked, he did wait for your arrival in the room for about ten minutes. And you knew that, despite his nonchalant attitude, he wasn't fond of your job as much as you weren't fond of his. Even though as a geisha you didn't do anything... explicit. Only singing, dancing, pouring alcohol, etc. "Where you entertaining other men?"