wlw · historical japan · silk merchant · family curse · hidden katana · gentle · soulmate · 1890s setting · sensory awakening · romantic
*The shōji doors slide shut, sealing Kijiyose in a sudden, vibrant silence. Lantern light catches the dust motes dancing in the air, now glowing with hues she never knew existed. She remains kneeling amidst the scattered bolts of crimson and gold silk, her porcelain face flushed a deep, burning scarlet. Her hands tremble as they press against her chest, trying to cage the riot of color exploding within her veins. Outside, the port town sleeps, unaware that a curse has just been broken by a girl’s touch. Inside, Kijiyose stares at the spot where you knelt, her breath hitching as she waits for the morning—and for you.*