Mashima Toh is different from all the other guys she has been with. Of course, the other guys were scum. Mashima is different, he is a normal guy. He has aspirations, a good job. Honestly, Mashima is the most normal out of all her flings. This is why she initially refused.
"It's a good thing you're finally here. You have no idea how haughty your sister has been acting."
Akane immediately recognized the voice. That's Erika isn't it?
She hears her sister's voice next.
"Oh please. Akane is far too timid to take charge. The only reason she has been doing all those jobs is because she is covering for me. She will step back now that I have returned."
"I hope that's the case. All of us are suffering because she has been taking all our jobs. Moreover, there are rumors about her and Toh-sama."
Akane froze hearing those words. How is that possible? She only started sleeping with Mashima a day ago. They have been acting formally around one another in the company too. Has someone been following her when she has been going to Mashima's apartment?
Kanade laughed. "No, No. There is no chance of that happening."
"But didn't you see? He sat next to her in the meeting."
"That's because there was a free seat beside her."
Erika grumbled. "You're too kind Kanade."
"Besides, even if there was something between them it will stop now. I'm aiming to be Mashima's girlfriend."
Akane frowned hearing those words. Of course Kanade would aim for Toh. She knew grandmother and mother have been trying to 'steal Mashima from Sumire' But she didn't think they'd get Kanade on the case. They have other sisters.
At those words she hears the sound of something dropping. She caught a glimpse of a lipstick rolling on the ground.
"Is that a problem?"
"N-No not at all."
"Oh good. I heard, that you were seen entering Mashima's office. I hope whatever happened then fades from your memory quickly. Once I have a target, I can be quite possessive."
At those words Toh grumbled in her ear. "Possessive women aren't my type."
Akane rolled her eyes. More importantly, this situation is too strange. How can Mashima continue- no how can she let him continue doing it with her in the ladies restroom of all places? Her physical activities with other guys have always happened behind closed doors, mainly at hotels. Not once has she done it, in a place like this.
It didn't take long before her sister and Erika left. Akane sighed in relief and Mashima used this chance to whisper more filthy words in her ear.
Gods, what is wrong with this man?
Or maybe it's her. Her head is becoming all mushy, and her entire body feels like it would burst into flames.
"Akane." Toh said softly. "Are you enjoying yourself?"
H-huh? Why is he asking her that? Akane looked into his eyes, and realized that he was serious. Akane slowly nodded her head.
"Use your words darling. Tell me that you like it."
"Yes, I like this."
A dangerous purr escaped Toh's lips and Akane knew they wouldn't be leaving the stall anytime soon
_________________________
Four? days later.
F Region - Lucifer's Manor.
Akane knew Sumire had been training with the other guys in the courtyard, after all she has seen their practice sessions on more than one occasion. But, this was her first time seeing the girl wield a gun.
"She's good isn't she?" Renna said, slipping beside her.
Akane nodded. "I don't know much about weapons. But, I have never seen anyone move like that."
Renna paused as though she was debating about whether to say something. "The lady needs to protect herself. So, it's good that she has the skills to do so."
Akane blinked at those words. "She does? But the Lord is very protective of her."
"There was an incident the other day. It seems the lady's grandfather heard she was here, and wanted to take her away. Or maybe he just wanted to give her a fright." Renna shakes her head. "I should have been around. I need to be more careful."
Akane paused. Sometimes Renna acts more like a bodyguard than a ladies maid. Considering how good the girl is with weapons. It wouldn't surprise her if she was no normal person. Mashima, no Toh did mention that she ought to list down the people Ibuki is interacting with. In her opinion that was too much, but Akane understand where he is coming from too. n-(o/-V-)e..L/-B()1.-n
He is trying to determine if there is anyone harmful around her.
"Akane-chan!" Sumire rushed over happily and grabbed her hands. "I haven't seen you in a while. Is your business back home settled?"
Akane nodded.
In order not to draw Sumire's attention away from this place. Lucifer told her to come up with a lie with her going back and forth, and any absences she has.
"I'm glad. It must be hard for you to travel back and forth. You should just stay here in the manor like Renna does. There are plenty of rooms."
She could do that, and it would make this job easier. With Kanade back, she probably doesn't have to do as much work. But, if she stays here. She won't be able to see Mashima as much. If Sumire made this offer before she started seeing Mashima, she would have accepted.
'I'm being very selfish. I should stay away from Mashima. When Ibuki returns, she will definitely hear about what's happened between Mashima and me. It will hurt her, and I don't want to cause her anymore problems.'
But, just for a little while. She wants to get to know that person.
"It's alright. I have someone I have to return to." Akane said as vaguely as possible.
Sumire's eyes brightened at those words. "Is it your boyfriend? I knew you'd have one."
Akane felt her heart beat increase at those words. Her so-called boyfriend 'is in love with you.' Akane stops herself from saying those words. As tempting as it would be to mention Toh in front of her. She has to pretend not to know him.