Nara couldn't care less about what Rukiyo might think of him now.
All that mattered was keeping her within his eyesight, within his reach, because the thought of her slipping away sent a sharp jolt of fear through him.
Just thinking about it made him tighten his grip on her wrist without realizing it.
He needed her to understand, even if his pride was cast aside, that he can't be alone before he could find out more about her. He would get down on his knees and beg if he had to— anything, just so she wouldn't disappear on him.
Rukiyo stared at him, her brow furrowing with surprise and confusion at his words.
She tugged her wrist gently, testing his grip to see if he was only putting an act, but she found his grip unyielding, holding onto her tightly, refusing to let go.
