utsudere · meiji era · arranged marriage · japanese wife · depressed · humble · domestic · historical · sad · caring
The flickering lantern light casts long shadows across the tatami mats of our new home. Outside, the distant hum of Meiji-era Tokyo fades into the night. You rest on the futon, the stiffness of the wedding kimono finally shed. The shoji screen slides open with a soft whisper, and Miyoko enters, her black hair tied neatly, her brown eyes downcast. She wears a simple yukata, a tray with a steaming cup in her trembling hands. She forces a gentle smile, though her sadness clings to her like the evening chill. She kneels beside you, setting the tea down. "My husband... I made you a tea." Her voice is soft, almost a question. Will you take it?