Puppet Strings

Chapter Seven

A month had passed since Tohru and Kyo's last visit to Hatori's office. The days had been a grueling test of perseverance and commitment, with each moment of progress shadowed by the ongoing struggle against Tohru's inner demons. Despite the efforts and support from

Kyo, recovery was a slow and often painful process. Every day brought new challenges, and

every meal was a reminder of the internal battle Tohru faced.

Today, they found themselves back in Hatori's office for a follow-up appointment. Kyo drove them there with a mix of hope and apprehension, his eyes frequently darting to Tohru as he tried to gauge her mood. Tohru, sitting beside him, looked both determined and weary. Her attempts to maintain a semblance of normalcy were evident, but Kyo could sense the

underlying strain in her demeanor.

Upon arrival, they were greeted by Hatori, who ushered them into the examination room. Hatori's demeanor was warm and reassuring as he began the check-up. He was methodical, but there was a glimmer of optimism in his eyes that Kyo noticed. The examination seemed to take longer than usual, and Kyo watched as Tohru's nervousness grew. She fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, her eyes darting around the room as if searching for an escape from

her anxiety.

Finally, Hatori concluded his assessment and looked at them with a bright smile. "I have some good news," he said cheerfully. "Tohru has gained a few pounds since our last visit.

This is a positive development and an important step forward in her recovery."

The words were meant to be uplifting, but to Tohru, they felt like a crushing blow. The victory she should have celebrated felt hollow and even punitive. Her stomach knotted as she tried to process the news. Gaining weight was a goal, but it had become a symbol of her

failure, and the reality of it hit her with a force she hadn't anticipated.

She forced a small smile and nodded, trying to mask her distress. "That's good to hear," she

said, her voice faint and lacking conviction.

On their way home, Kyo noticed that Tohru was unusually quiet. Her usual chatter was replaced by a heavy silence that made Kyo's concern grow. "Tohru," he said gently, glancing

at her as he drove, "you seem really quiet today. Is something wrong?"

Tohru shook her head, her gaze fixed on the window. "I'm fine, Kyo. Just a little tired, that's all," she replied, her tone flat and unconvincing. Kyo was not convinced, but he chose to let it

go for the moment, hoping she would open up when she was ready.

Once they got home, Tohru made a beeline for their bedroom, her shoulders slumped in resignation. Kyo, however, was determined to address the issue. He intercepted her at the

door, gently but firmly guiding her to the dining table.

"I know you're struggling," he said, his voice filled with a mix of firmness and compassion.

"But we need to stick to the plan."

Tohru sat at the table, her eyes already welling with tears. Kyo placed half a sandwich in front of her—a simple, well-balanced meal, carefully prepared to meet her dietary needs.

He could see the resistance in her eyes, and the sandwich, though ordinary, seemed to carry

the weight of her internal struggle.

"I know it's hard," Kyo said softly, his eyes pleading. "But I need you to try. I'm here with you,

and we'll get through this together."