As the battle continued, Lily watched, her heart pounding with terror. She could see the desperation in Kenji's eyes as he fought for his life, knowing that he was losing ground.
"You have betrayed me, Kenji." Ryuji hissed. "I shouldn't have let you live the first time, but I was weak. I was right to banish you." Ryuji's voice dripped with venom. "It would seem your disloyalty knows no bounds."
Kenji's eyes widened in shock, recognizing the futility of his situation. Despite his earlier confidence, he now realized that his fate was sealed.
Ryuji's face softened slightly, his eyes filled with sadness as he spoke. "You had such potential, Tanaka. It breaks my heart to see how far you've fallen."
Kenji's face twisted in bitterness, his lips curling into a cruel smile.
"If I must die, then so shall you," he hissed, thrusting the knife at Ryuji.
Ryuji's eyes narrowed in determination, his body moving like liquid fire as he expertly dodged the blow. His right foot lashed out, connecting with Kenji's jaw with unimaginable force. Kenji's head snapped back, his body slumping limply onto the floor.
Ryuji stood over him, his eyes full of unyielding resolve. With the threat neutralized, he turned his attention back to Lily, who was still held prisoner in the chair, despite her best efforts.
Seeing the cold glint in Ryuji's eyes, Lily's heart skipped a beat. She had seen that look before - the look of a predator about to claim his prey.
"You were always a prize worth having, Lily Thompson," Ryuji murmured, a hint of admiration coloring his voice. His eyes bore into hers, making her feel as though she were melting under his gaze.
Lily's heart pounded in her chest, her cheeks burning with embarrassment as she tried to look away from those piercing eyes. She couldn't help but notice the intensity of his presence, the raw power that emanated from him, like an undulating wave crashing upon the shore.
Ryuji walked slowly towards her, his eyes locked onto hers, as if he were trying to peer deep into her soul.
As enthralling as his gaze was, Lily could not ignore the carnage around her. The death. The violence. "Ryuji," She said. "Let's get out of here."
Ryuji did not miss the fear in her voice.
He wanted to protect her, but he also craved her passionately. His hands traced gently along her trembling shoulders, comforting her while also igniting a fire within him. He could taste her sweet desire for him on her lips, and it made him yearn for more. The scent of her perfume mingled with the heavy odor of blood, creating a haunting yet tantalizing mixture. Ryuji could hardly contain his hunger, knowing full well that this sort of situation could happen again. That was what it meant to love a yakuza.
Lily swallowed hard, trying to steady her nerves.
Ryuji untied her, his hands moving gently and quickly to free her.
Lily felt her legs wobble beneath her as she stood up, grateful for his support. Taking a deep breath, she attempted to calm her racing heart. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice hoarse from fear.
"Let's go home." He said.
SIXTEEN
Less than a week later, Ryuji and Lily were married.
The wedding ceremony took place in a traditional Shinto style, followed by a reception in Ryuji's home. The atmosphere was filled with a blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting the couple's unique relationship.
During the reception, friends and family mingled, exchanging well wishes and celebrating the newlyweds. The food, prepared by skilled cooks, consisted of a variety of authentic Japanese dishes, providing a delightful feast for all present.
The reception was small with only Ryuji's closest family members, many of whom were yakuza members as well.
Lily had never been around so many powerful men and women in her life, but she tried her best to fit in, albeit nervously.
Ryuji, on the other hand, seemed completely at ease with his surroundings, greeting everyone warmly and sharing stories about Lily's adventures in Tokyo.
Lily did her best to speak to everyone and thank them for coming.
Kaede, Ryuji's mother, caught her eye and beckoned her over.
Lily hesitated for a moment, feeling somewhat anxious, but eventually gathered her courage and walked toward Kaede. While sometimes their relationship was strained due to communication challenges and cultural differences, it seemed to be going better than she thought it might.
"Thank you for hosting our reception," Lily said to Kaede, attempting to break the ice.