Calming the Storm (Crimson Storm Chronicles Book 2)

by Yumoyori Wilson

"Then why did you do all the shit you did?! You love her, yet you made her cry over and over again. You broke her heart and walked away. You tried to kill her multiple times. Yet, here you are, actually crying that the woman you once had the responsibility to love and protect got fucking tortured till she could barely move before..." I trailed off, feeling my Kitsune at the surface ready to do something I'd probably regret.

  "There's always two sides to a story, Akihiro," James whispered. He lifted his hand, showing his wrist. I blinked, noticing the vivid mark on it.

  "You're..." I trailed off, now understanding what was going on. "Why didn't you tell her?"

  "I'm sworn not to. I was forced into this, Akihiro." He revealed.

  "What about if the person is killed?"

  "The person who I swore to is dead," he countered.

  "Then it shouldn't be in effect."

  "Well, I never have good luck. Something always backfires," James huffed, using his sleeve to wipe his tears.

  I took a calming breath, realizing I needed to think clearly. "You were in the forest with us," I disclosed.

  "Yes," James whispered.

  "And on the mountain when I rescued Crim."

  "Yes," He replied.

  "Ya. You really are Bipolar," I huffed, standing up from my leaned position to head back inside. I reached the door when he whispered. "Is she at least okay? She's not...dead, right? She'll live?" he asked.

  "Why don't you come see for yourself. My words aren't gonna comfort you." He met my gaze looking confused and shocked.

  "Why...are you letting me be close to her?" he asked, astonished by my calm behavior.

  I took another breath, deciding to say what I was thinking. "You could have killed Crimson at the Arashi palace when you guys raided it, yet you made an executive order to all the individuals not to kill Crimson. You kidnapped her and sent her off with two of your men to be rid of her, but you didn't leave. You followed them and watched from afar to see if Crimson would make it. You were gonna pull her out of the snow but heard Urufu's barks and hid. You waited to make sure she was alive and left when Malachi and the others arrived, not wanting them to sense your presence," I revealed.

  I turned my body to face him before I continued. "There were plenty of times you could have killed Crim. You lived with her for five years. If you had the intention of murdering her, you would have done it when she was a human. Even though Konashi tried his best to make her feel like nothing, there were times where you comforted her. What are the chances you were in the forest because you were scared that white-eyed lion would return and finish the job he was supposed to do before?" I asked.

  James looked away and I knew my hypothesis was right. "You do actions against your will and then try to ensure they fail so Crimson's life is saved. You do it because you love her."

  "How would you know?! I broke up with her in front of you."

  "Correct. But when you left, I signaled Quil and Yoshi to follow you. They heard your conversation stating you'd broken up with Crimson like he'd requested and would stay away from her. Then when you hung up the phone, you cried."

  James was silent, looking stunned by my words. "You...guys followed. You’ve known since then?"

  I nodded. "You cried for a while before you walked home. Even though you broke up with her, there's a picture of you and Crimson on the front screen of your phone and in your wallet. How do I know? You pulled it out when you were crying to stare at it, and instead of burning it or throwing it away, you put it back in the protective slot of your wallet."

  I sighed and opened the door. "Hurry your ass up, I don't want Crim getting cold."

  James didn't complain, following my lead as I made my way back into the room. I walked over and sat in the chair next to Crimson's bed, my body relaxed even though James had followed and stood next to me.

  My Kitsune had calmed down, and neither of us sensed evil intentions from him. He truly wanted to make sure Crimson was okay, but I didn't know how I felt about that yet.

  "How bad were her injuries?" James queried.

  "It'll take months for them to heal. Maybe a bit faster because she's a kitsune. They're more worried about her mental state. I doubt you know, but..."

  "I know. Erica told me herself," James admitted.

  "You met her," I snarled, my kitsune growling at the new,s but James sighed. "She needed something from my Master and was taunting me about what she'd done to Crimson. That's why I rushed over here after I'd texted you. I've been victim to that woman's form of pleasure and fun. I know the wounds they inflict. I get it." James turned his head to meet my gaze.

  I could see the truth in his eyes. "I don't know if Crim will be the same woman you knew," I whispered.

  "I'm aware of that. No one would be the same. Doesn't matter how much they fake it. I tried…and failed. Crim didn't know what was happening at the time, but she comforted me. She didn't understand why I drank senselessly and needed her for the comfort...both physically and emotionally. Crim's going to have a hard time, but I'm hoping you'll be able to help her. You and the other assholes."

  "You know how to ruin a good statement," I grumbled.

  "Part of my ego," he mumbled.

  He reached out with caution, gently brushing Crimson's cheek with his finger. "Sorry Crim, love. I'll make it right somehow. Just focus on healing," James encouraged softly.

  He took a deep breath before he composed himself, moving away. He turned to leave but paused, pulling a small envelope out of his hand and placed it on the counter.

  "What's that?" I asked, watching him walk to the balcony door. James looked over his shoulder to meet my curious gaze.

  "One thing that helps Crimson heal when it comes to anything is art. If something bothers her, she spends hours drawing out her pain and feelings. With what happened, I don't think she's in the mindset to be near paint equipment, especially the sharp stuff," James stressed.

  He had a point. The doctor already told us to keep a very close eye on Crimson, especially in the early stages.

  "Staring at art will calm her down. I didn't get the privilege to take her to art galleries. She usually ended up going by herself. There's a famous art museum here. The envelope holds close to the amount to book the entire place out. You and your pals can pitch in a few Yen, so you can tell Crim you all pitched in," James suggested.

  "Why..." I trailed off when he looked away, opening the door.

  "The only reason Crim doesn't go to art galleries often is because the sound of people chatting always bothers her. No one is peaceful there, and it ruins her concentration. At least if it's booked, she'll be able to appreciate the artwork in peace. If I can...I'll check back again...but if not...well, the next time we see one another will be on opposite teams," James declared.

  He glanced over his shoulder with a sad smile. "I'll always love Crimson. Even if I'll be perceived as the bad guy. It's something I've accepted and will take to my grave. Just make her happy for me. That's all that matters. Sayonara, Akihiro."

  I watched him exit the balcony, closing it quietly behind him. With a last glimpse of his jacket, he was gone.

  I sighed, looking at the envelope of money, and reaching out to pick it up. I opened the flap and quickly scanned the amount and huffed.

  "Contribute my ass. It's only missing 60 Yen. Not even 60 cents in American money. Jeez."

  I placed the envelope down, looking at Crimson who hadn't even stirred.

  You'll get through this, Crimson. I know you will. I just hope I can do my part to help you heal.

  ~CRIMSON~

  "Crimson."

  I stared at the artwork before me, the floor-to-ceiling masterpiece pulling me in. The use of water paint was magnificent, and the artist was careful to make sure the colors that blended complimented each other.

  The image of colors made up a woman. She wore a long kimono that dragged along the floor, and her black hair blew in the wind, the long strands fading away into little petals.

  "Crimson."<
br />
  I wondered if the woman held the burden of the city that stood tall in the background behind her. She had a sword strapped to her waist, and though her back faced us, she stood on the mountain, peering down at the town that was painted in black. It left me curious if she was about to enter the place or if she was looking back one more time.

  "Crimson?"

  Did she want to change the city, but couldn't handle the pressure of it all? Did she want to bring peace to the land, but failed in her multiple attempts? Or had she conquered her mission and was looking at the accomplishment she'd made, hoping to move on to the next city and bring a revolution of change?

  A hand gently landed on my shoulder, but though the touch was tender, I flinched. I looked to my right to see Akihiro, his green eyes filled with regret as he pulled back his hand.

  "Sorry. I called your name three times," he admitted.

  "Oh...really? It's my fault, I was just lost in my thoughts," I confessed. Aki nodded, turning to face the large artwork.

  I followed suit, returning my gaze to the beauty before me, hoping it would help give me the strength I so desperately needed. I glanced down at Aki's left hand, the one that had landed on my shoulder.

  I bet he felt bad, but my response wasn't his fault. He knew that...all the guys did, but just from a tiny peek at his expression, I could see it had wounded him.

  This whole process was hurting the guys, and I felt it would only get worse from here. My instincts hadn't been wrong before. I just wished I'd listen to them more. I wouldn't make that mistake again.

  I reached out slowly, ignoring the slight tremble in my hand, and I wrapped my index finger around his. He turned his head to look at me and peered down at my attempt to join hands.

  "Can I hold your hand?" Aki whispered.

  I slowly nodded, wanting to feel a bit of his warmth. I let go of his finger and his hand wrapped around mine. I held his hand as tightly as I could, as if he'd disappear and leave me alone in the empty museum.

  It wasn't like the place was empty due to a holiday, but Aki and the others somehow had the connections to shut the place down for the evening, allowing me to get a private view of the famous museum.

  I didn't feel like I needed it, and almost didn't leave my bed. Yet, now that I was here in jeans, a pink tank top, and my favorite leather jacket, I was kinda of happy I took their advice to go out.

  I guess being indoors for two weeks straight, wasn't much for 'therapy.' It wasn't like I didn't want to go out. It looked nice from the window, felt safe from afar. But going out meant clothes, fake smiles, interactions, and trying to be someone I knew I couldn't project right now.

  I couldn't be the strong, motivated Crimson. I was the broken Crimson who had to start from the bottom again. I'd have to climb up to be able to build my confidence and strength. The thought of it was part of the reason I stayed in bed.

  Starting from scratch after working so hard to build one’s foundation was hard. Especially when that foundation was oneself.

  "Akihiro."

  "Yes, Crimson."

  "What do you see in this painting?" I asked.

  Aki was quiet for a minute before he replied. "A strong woman who's either been through challenges and has finally conquered them, or a strong woman who is ready for a new beginning, knowing there are challenges up ahead. From her posture and the confidence that radiates off the image, she doesn't fear either."

  I nodded, squeezing his hand slightly. "Do you...think I'll be able to be like that? After...you know. Can I be confident and fearless enough to hold a sword and fight for what I believe in?"

  "Yes. You can."

  "But what if it takes me weeks...or months...or years?"

  "Allow your mind, body, and soul to take as long as it needs to heal, Crimson," Aki reassured me. I raised my head to see him peering down at me. "It's not a race. Healing takes time, and I and the others will be here the entire time."

  "How about if I never heal?"

  "You will."

  "You can't be confident about that."

  "I'm confident in you. You'll get through this Crimson and be stronger than before."

  "You don't know how I feel..." I trailed off, lowering my head to stare at our joined hands.

  "Not exactly...but I know." He whispered.

  "You know...as in..." I trailed off, lifting my head to see Aki's sad smile. He nodded, squeezing my hand back and turned his attention back to the painting.

  "Took 2 years to be able to fight without fear. 6 months of recovery. I took a few months just to be with my family back then...and well, I found a new resolve and decided to fight again. It was hard, but it became harder to hide and do nothing about it." Aki explained.

  "Do you have anything you regret?" I asked.

  "Not trying. I gave the people who broke me the satisfaction they wanted. It wasn't until my sword drove into their chests that they realized they had only made me stronger. In the end, I had the last laugh...and it's a glorious feeling to experience."

  "Thank you, Aki," I whispered, turning my head back to the painting as I absorbed his words. He was once like me...he knows how I feel...he knows.

  "Aki...Why did you bring me here?" I asked.

  "Someone told me staring at art helps calm you down and it's best when it's quiet. Thought it would be better than staying indoors today." He suggested.

  "Only one person knows about that." I pointed out.

  "I'm aware." He replied.

  I was quiet for a long moment, deciding this was the time to tell him.

  "James was in the forest," I confessed. Aki looked my way, and I turned my head to meet his gaze. He didn't look upset or concerned. He seemed rather calm which helped prompt me to continue.

  "He gave me the red crystal. He told me he was a puppet, and I needed to see who was pulling the strings. I feel like we're missing something," I admitted.

  "Hmm," Aki replied.

  "Aki."

  "Yes, Crim."

  "I still love him..." I lowered my gaze to the floor in shame. "James...I still care about him. He kissed me...and I kissed him back. I'm sorry," I apologized.

  Even though two weeks had passed, I couldn't continue living with the guilt. I needed to tell someone, and I figured with Aki revealing something so personal, he and the others deserved the truth.

  "Why are you apologizing?" Aki asked.

  I looked up at him, not realizing tears were running down my cheeks until he reached out, pausing when he was an inch away.

  "I'm going to stroke your cheek," he warned. I nodded, and he reached out to tenderly rid of the tear that rolled down my flushed cheek with his thumb.

  "I'm apologizing because I still love James," I elaborated.

  "We know."

  "Huh? What do you mean we know?" I questioned, not understanding what he meant. He didn't remove his hand from my cheek, gently rubbing his thumb against my skin. It reminded me how much I missed his comforting touch, just like the others.

  "We knew you still loved James. With us, we had our time to accept Storm's death and separate our feelings. It might not have been enough, and I can't vouch for the others, but for me...it kinda felt it wasn't meant to be. It might sound rude or insulting to Storm, but it wasn't as hard for me to move on. But for you, with everything that happened, you haven't really got a chance to sort your feelings," Aki pointed out. He gave me a small smile as he continued.

  "Not to mention, you have a forgiving heart. You'd rather give someone a second chance than crucify them, but that's based on their actions, both past and present," Aki explained.

  "Aren't you mad?" I asked.

  He shook his head. "No."

  "I thought you guys hated him."

  "We do...but if it wasn't for Mr. Bipolar...you wouldn't be standing here with me," he revealed.

  "Why not? What did he do?" I asked.

  None of us had spoken about what had happened that day. Everyone avoided the topic at all costs when I was around, and I'd bee
n too tired to care. Now that we were on the subject, I wanted to know.

  "Itsuki had put a tracker on your hair ornaments. We were close to finding your location, but she broke the one with the tracker on it. There was no way we'd find you in the allotted time we'd predicted, but then I got a text with your exact coordinates from a person who'd had a conversation with...you know who," Aki revealed.

  "He...told you where I was," I commented, feeling astonished.

  "We found you just in time and ended up doing a blood transfusion in the car. It was enough to get you to the palace and get the best treatment. Quil traced the message and it came from James’ old phone. The one he had when he still dated you."

  "He left his trail on purpose?"

  "To be honest, I don't think so. If he still loves you...he probably knew something was going on and looked into it himself. Guess when he realized you weren't with us and we were searching in the area that woman was in, everything clicked."

  "What do I do...I mean, if....just by chance, if he's a part of this crazy ploy and isn't an enemy but a victim...am I allowed to love him again? Won't you and the others hate me?"

  Aki gave me a sympathetic smile. "Can I hug you?"

  "Yes," I whispered.

  He gently wrapped his arms around me. I took a few shaky breaths, needing a second to adapt to his hold before my tense shoulders relaxed.

  "I'll never hate you, Crimson. I can't explain everything, but let's just say you're stuck with me now. If you think James is worthy of your love again, I'll support you. Though I won't sleep in the same bed as his ass. He can sleep on the floor, right next to Urufu, just in case she needs to give his balls a test trial."

  I snickered and began to giggle. It was the first time I'd laughed since the incident. "That would be funny," I snorted.

  "I miss your laugh," Aki commented. We pulled back to stare at one another.

  "I miss you..." I confessed. "I miss the others too. I...just need a bit more time."

  "Take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere, remember?" Aki reminded.

  "You'll tell me the details when I'm better?” I asked.

  He nodded. "Ya. I promise."

  "Do..." I trailed off, unsure how to word what I was thinking.