One Hundred Whispers

Whisper Two

"Please, don't leave."'

Those were the times when you felt lonelier that ever. You didn't do anything particularly wrong; you just took the blame for your lady in waiting. This brought a bit of an anger on you husband-to-be, prince Hakuyuu. He wouldn't lash out on you – rather, tell you eloquently that you were failure – different words, same meaning.

And those were the times when you would sit in calm library, looking out of the window, wishing that maybe royal family wasn't path of no return.

Ren Kouen sat by the small table, scrolls in his hands, looking at you. He didn't mean to stare, yet he couldn't help himself. Because those were the times when your smile was gone from your lips. And those were the times when he wished he could cheer you up.

But he didn't have words for you, he sighed as he turned to look out of the window. Involving himself with crown princess consort was out of question; and he was involved enough already. As you considered him your friend. Quite ridiculous, yet here it is.

You stole a glance at Kouen, he was looking out of the window, just like you were. Somehow it was comforting, his presence alone. He didn't need to say anything, his silent comfort was enough for you.

The sun began to set. He stood up, grabbing two or three scrolls with him. It didn't matter really.

Your lifted your head, surprised, that Kouen who was once sitting not too far away from you, now was a shadow in the hallway.

A whisper.

''Please, don't leave.''