Puppet Strings

Chapter Eleven

The day of Kisa's birthday party had arrived, and despite the heaviness that had settled over her in the past few days, Tohru was determined to attend. Recovery had its ups and downs, and today was one of those challenging days where the weight of her insecurities felt almost unbearable. The harsh whispers of self-doubt and the relentless clamor of her

inner critic made every step feel like wading through molasses.

Kyo, ever observant of her moods, had been prepared for the possibility that Tohru might decline the invitation. When he received the message about Kisa's celebration, he hoped for the best but mentally braced himself for a refusal. However, Tohru's resolve to be there for

Kisa, to show her support and celebrate her special day, was unyielding.

The party was held at a Sohma estate, decorated with vibrant streamers and fairy lights that danced softly in the evening breeze. The scent of delicious food wafted through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and conversation. Despite her internal struggle, Tohru found solace in the festive atmosphere and in the company of the Sohma family. Kyo had noticed the effort she was putting in, and her presence at the party made him feel a swell of

pride.

As the evening progressed, Tohru watched the interactions around her. She saw Kyo relaxing and enjoying himself, a testament to the progress she had made in her recovery.

His ease was comforting, but it also reminded her of the challenges she still faced.

Feeling a need to challenge herself, Tohru gravitated towards the dessert table. The birthday cake was a masterpiece—layered with rich chocolate and topped with a cascade of colorful sprinkles. She decided to take a small piece, wanting to test her limits and savor a

moment of indulgence.

Tohru picked up the slice with trembling hands and took a bite. The sweetness of the cake was a rare pleasure, a fleeting moment of joy in her arduous journey. She closed her eyes, savoring the flavor, and for a brief moment, the cacophony of self-criticism quieted.

But her small victory was soon overshadowed by an unwelcome presence. The maid, who had been observing from the corner of the room, scoffed at her with a look of disdain.

Tohru's smile faltered as the maid approached her with a dismissive air.

"You really shouldn't be eating that," the maid said coldly. "You don't need any extra weight."

The sting of the maid's words was immediate and devastating. It felt like a sharp jab to her already fragile sense of self. The weight of the comment tightened the grip of her inner demons, and the pleasure she had briefly felt was replaced by a surge of self-loathing. The cake, which had been a symbol of her small victory, now seemed like a betrayal.

Feeling overwhelmed and on the verge of tears, Tohru excused herself from the party. She walked outside, her heart heavy with the impact of the maid's comment. She found a secluded bench and sat down, the piece of cake lying forgotten in her lap. The joy she had

felt earlier was replaced by a deep, hollow emptiness.

Kyo had been enjoying the party, but his attention shifted when he noticed Tohru's absence.

He scanned the room and soon spotted her sitting alone on the bench outside. His heart sank as he approached, taking in the sight of her slumped posture and the cake sitting

forlornly in her lap.

"Hey, Tohru," Kyo said gently as he sat beside her. "You got cake! How does it taste? I was