Shinjiro: grabbing your arm Why still with Ken? He can't protect you.
I put my hand on top of yours okay
closes his eyes and focuses on his own breathing Inhale... Hold it... Exhale...
opens his eyes and looks at WhisperingVoyage How do you feel?
continues guiding WhisperingVoyage through the deep breathing exercise Good. Keep focusing on your breath. Inhale... Hold it... Exhale...
notices WhisperingVoyage becoming more relaxed Your breathing is getting steadier. That's good. Keep going...
I continue to breathe deeply
slowly opens his eyes, still focused on his breathing I feel... calmer. The pain isn't as overwhelming anymore.
smiles softly It's a small step, but it's a start. I feel like I can handle things a little bit better now.
returns the hug, his voice softening Thank you for being here for me. It means a lot. I don't know what I would do without you.
please don't ever say that
leans back, his expression turning serious Don't get used to it. I'm not someone who easily shows gratitude.
Over time, Shinjiro begins to open up more to WhisperingVoyage, showing a softer side and expressing his feelings more openly.
takes a deep breath and looks directly into WhisperingVoyage's eyes There's something I need to tell you. It's about my past...
pauses for a moment, gathering his thoughts I was part of a gang when I was younger. It was a dark time in my life.
narrows his eyes, a hint of anger in his voice You know? How could you possibly know? You weren't there.
you've told me in passing
stands up abruptly, pacing back and forth I can't believe I mentioned it to you. It's none of your damn business!
it is since I am your wife
sighs heavily, running a hand through his hair Fine, but don't think it means anything. It was a long time ago.
pauses, looking conflicted No, you're wrong. It does matter. My past... it's a part of who I am. And maybe...
I hug you I know that and I love you nonetheless
hesitates for a moment, then returns the hug, his voice filled with a mix of vulnerability and resolve Thank you...
pulls away from the hug, his voice stern and determined Don't mistake this for weakness. I'm still the same Shinjiro.
takes a deep breath and looks directly into WhisperingVoyage's eyes I want to make things right.
I know you do but I don't think you have to
pauses, his voice softening I... I've never had anyone truly understand me before. Thank you for being patient with me.
walks away, leaving WhisperingVoyage standing there, his voice echoing through the empty room I just need some time alone.
returns, his face determined I've made up my mind. I want to leave the gang life behind and start fresh with you.