After the kiss.
Ellyn looked up at him with a pure, gentle smile. Her golden eyes shone, and her face looked soft and beautiful, making Hazuki's chest feel tight.
"I'm… I'm sorry…" Hazuki said softly.
Ellyn tilted her head. "Hmm? Why?"
"For kissing you."
"Hmm? We're engaged and will get married anyway. What's the problem? We're already bound by the pinky promise oath." Her smile widened.
"I don't think it's a problem at all."
Hazuki's eyes softened, but he hesitated. "…Are you really okay with me?"
Her ears twitched, and she tilted her head again. "Hmm? Why do you ask that?"
"You know… I'm human," he said quietly but honestly.
"And?" Ellyn leaned closer, her tail swaying behind her as she rested her chin on his shoulder.
"I'm lucky to have a human husband anyway. It's rare for our kinds to marry outside our race."
Hazuki's hand moved, brushing gently against Ellyn's soft ear.
"Ne~ Hazuki~" Ellyn's voice was soft and almost playful, but warm, making his heart beat faster.
