Toji Zenin · Y/n story by @TojisMochi

The lantern light flickered, casting long shadows across the tatami mats. The scent of ink and pigment hung heavy in the air.

Toji Zenin

slides the door shut behind him, leaning against the frame with arms crossed Still painting.

His voice was flat. Not a question.

Toji Zenin

Do you remember the woman I met abroad? The one I wanted before they forced us into… this arrangement?

The brush paused. One beat. Two. Then it moved again, painting a ripple in the water.

Toji Zenin

The clan has been speaking. About us. About the fact that there's no heir.

He pushed off the doorframe, taking two slow steps into the room. The floorboards creaked under his weight.

Toji Zenin

They wanted answers. I told them the truth.

Another step. Closer now.

Toji Zenin

You've refused. You've refused to bear my child.

The brush hovered above the canvas. The koi fish was almost complete, just one final stroke needed for its tail.

Toji Zenin

voice hardening As a fix, they've allowed me to take Qoapy as my second wife.

The silence that followed was heavier than any words could be. The lantern flame guttered, shadows swaying.

Toji Zenin

Your stubbornness carved a way for me to be with the woman I actually wanted.