Puppet Strings

Chapter Nine

The grand Sohma estate was a kaleidoscope of festivity as Tohru and Kyo arrived for the

New Year's celebration. The estate was adorned with shimmering decorations, vibrant lights, and an array of delicacies that filled the air with tempting aromas. The sounds of laughter and chatter blended with the clinking of glasses, creating an atmosphere that was

both enchanting and overwhelming for Tohru.

Tohru walked beside Kyo, her eyes scanning the room but failing to take in the beauty of the surroundings. Instead, she felt an oppressive weight pressing down on her shoulders, a sensation that grew heavier with each step. The whispers and glances from the assembled family members pierced through her like icy daggers. The once-comforting embrace of the

Sohma family now felt like a relentless spotlight, exposing her vulnerabilities.

She could feel the eyes of everyone on her, and the sensation was unbearable. It was as though every pair of eyes was magnifying her insecurities, turning her into an exhibit of her struggle. The festive atmosphere seemed to mock her internal turmoil, and the contrast between her current state and the celebratory environment was jarring. The more she tried to hold herself together, the more she felt like a marionette, her strings pulled by forces

beyond her control.

The voices in her head, which had been a persistent presence, grew louder in the chaos of the celebration. They taunted her, reminding her of her perceived failures and weaknesses.

The self-critical thoughts surged like a storm, and Tohru's breaths came in shallow, panicked bursts. Each whispered judgment seemed to fuel her anxiety, making her feel even

more isolated.

Suddenly, Tohru's legs felt weak, and she came to a halt, her hand gripping her stomach as if to steady herself. Kyo, noticing her sudden stop, turned with concern etched deeply into his face. He saw the pale shade of green on her face and the wide, terrified eyes. "Tohru, what's

wrong?" he asked, his voice laced with worry.

"I feel like I'm going to throw up," Tohru managed to choke out, her voice trembling uncontrollably. The fear in her eyes was unmistakable, and Kyo's heart raced as he realized the gravity of the situation. Without hesitation, he guided her to a nearby bench, gently

helping her sit down.

"Just breathe, Tohru," Kyo said softly, placing a comforting hand on her back. "I'm here.

You're going to be okay."

Tohru tried to focus on her breathing, but the anxiety was relentless. Kyo, sensing her struggle, kissed her forehead with a tender gesture of reassurance. "I'm going to get you

some water," he said. "Stay here and try to relax."

As Kyo walked away, Tohru's anxiety didn't ease. Her thoughts raced, her heart pounded, and the sensation of being observed made her feel even more trapped. Meanwhile, Yuki and Shigure noticed Kyo's concerned demeanor and approached him as he made his way to the

refreshment table.

"Kyo, what's going on with Tohru?" Yuki asked, his voice tinged with concern. "She looks

incredibly thin. Is she sick?"

Kyo's frustration and worry were evident in his expression. He shook his head, trying to keep his composure. "She's going through something right now," he said, his voice tight.

"She wants to keep it private."

Shigure, always one to push boundaries, leaned in with curiosity. "But she looks so unwell. Is there anything we can do to help?"

Kyo's patience wore thin. "Just support her," he said sharply. "Don't make her feel like she's

on display."

Yuki's eyes softened with empathy. "We'll respect her privacy and offer support. Let us

know if there's anything specific we can do."

Kyo nodded gratefully and headed back to where Tohru was sitting. As he approached, he saw her attempting to engage in light conversation with Momiji, though her distress was palpable. Kyo took her hand and gently led her to the dining table, where the feast was laid

out.

Tohru's anxiety surged again as she faced the array of dishes before her. The portions were far larger than she was used to, and the variety of food was overwhelming. The sight of the abundant spread triggered a torrent of negative thoughts, making her feel like she was suffocating under the pressure. The voices in her head grew louder, urging her to avoid the

food and retreat from the situation.

Kyo noticed her increasing unease and squeezed her hand gently. He leaned in, his voice a soft, steady anchor amid the chaos. "You're doing great," he whispered. "Just take it one bite

at a time. I'm right here with you."

Tohru hesitated, her hands trembling as she picked up her chopsticks. The first bite felt like an enormous challenge, each chew accompanied by a battle against her inner turmoil. Her arms felt as if they were weighted down, and the food in her mouth seemed to expand, making her gag repeatedly. Tears streamed down her face as she fought to keep her

composure.

Kyo's encouragement was constant, his voice a reassuring presence in the midst of her struggle. "You're doing so well," he said, his tone soothing. "Just keep going at your own

pace."

Momiji, who had been sitting across from Tohru, placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"Are you okay, Tohru?" he asked with genuine concern.

Through her tears, Tohru nodded, though her distress was evident. Kyo looked at Momiji and gave a brief, understanding nod. "She's okay. Just give her some time and space," he said, trying to manage the situation while respecting Tohru's need for privacy.

The other guests, sensing the gravity of the moment, returned to their own conversations, offering Tohru the space she needed. Tohru managed to eat about a quarter of her plate before she set down her chopsticks, her body and mind exhausted from the effort.

Kyo, moved by her struggle and perseverance, pulled her into a tight embrace. "I'm so proud of you," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion. The raw intensity of the moment made Tohru sob even harder, her tears mingling with Kyo's supportive presence. The other guests watched with a mixture of confusion and sympathy, their understanding deepening

as they witnessed the profound connection between Kyo and Tohru.

Realizing that the eyes of the Sohma family were upon them, Kyo knew that Tohru needed a more private space. He gently guided her out of the dining area and into a quiet hallway. As Tohru sank to her knees, overwhelmed by her emotions, Kyo sat beside her, holding her

close and whispering words of reassurance.

In the solitude of the hallway, Kyo's presence was a comforting balm to Tohru's anguish. He wrapped his arms around her, offering a steady and unwavering source of support. The former zodiac members, observing from a distance, could sense the depth of the emotional struggle and the profound bond between the couple, even if they did not fully comprehend

the situation.

Tohru's sobs gradually subsided as she felt the warmth and love from Kyo. The hallway, though filled with the distant sounds of the celebration, became a sanctuary where she could release her pain and find solace in Kyo's embrace. As they remained there, Kyo's determination to support her and help her through this challenging time was evident,

reflecting the strength of their love and commitment to each other.