It's been two whole weeks since Riko and Hakane's first talk through the screens now. Riko is now more guilt ridden than ever, with how sweet Hakane's texts are and how almost everything he says sends chills down her spine and how Ryuko's affections reminded her of the wrongs she's doing to him, how she's secretly hoping he might never find out and how she reassures herself that she's just helping herself from boredom... Does he deserve this? What am I doing to him? Why am I doing this? Well... I just feel bored and he wouldn't mind would he? It's probably just for a while until I grow out of this, right?...
Ryuko lately had noticed Riko trying to distance herself. Whenever he tries to give her affection, a hug, a kiss, call her by a sweet name, she would try to push him away telling him she doesn't feel like she was in "the mood" which he did not understand. The subtle signs that could point to her being unfaithful were eating his mind like a brain eating parasite, but it could also be about her and her sister Hime's relationship after their mother died. He simply layed on the bed thinking and trying not to jump into conclusions... For now.
It was Monday, Ryuko rushes from the front yard through the living room to the bedroom Honey, have you seen my keys?... Riko? Riko was in the kitchen putting together his lunch, lost in thought until she heard her name, she responded What is it Ryuko?
Ryuko walks into the kitchen with a slight panic in his eyes as he couldn't find the missing car keys. Did you see where I put the keys yesterday, love?
Riko tried to retain the memory of where her husband had left the keys last night as she stuffs Ryuko's lunchbox, the smell of fish and salad fresh and, dare joke, fishy, walking towards him she hands it over. I think you left them in the bathroom hanger last night, honey. Hearing this Ryuko was relieved, he entered the bathroom door not wasting anymore time and grabs the keys from the bathroom hanger right next to the mirror.
Thanks, honey. Riko blushed at his gesture, a little unnoticed guilt in her eyes. No problem, Sweetheart. Ryuko gives her his casual kiss and goodbye, running to the car, opening the door then leaves. Riko stands at the verandah waving him goodbye Come back safe, darling. She whispered.
Riko was left alone at home once again... She turns to her right walking towards the house, strolling to the living room, her phone lying on the table next to the sofa. With hesitation she picks it up, she plops on the sofa, swiping through texts sent by Hakane, one reading I know it's hard to believe through a screen but I deeply regret leaving you Riko... I could've stayed and give you more than just plain affection. But I understand your situation with Ryuko, I still love you. I promise I'll do whatever it takes to please you again when we meet .
She feels a pang of anger paired with slight guilt. She immediately replies I'll see what I can do. She couldn't believe it. What on earth had she just said? Why did she say that? Why is she so desperate for something that was supposedly wrong, and why is she trusting the very person who broke her heart all those years ago, all of a sudden?
Riko sat there in confusion, doubt and guilt. The memories she had shared with Hakane resurfaced, his whispers, his attention and his supposed love for her are burning brighter again but... With an unholy intention. Her thoughts drifted, torn between her marriage, her husband and the man who now wants to re-establish with her... But she's too desperate, she craves something far more exciting than this marriage and she wants it now, but the consequences of shattering Ryuko and her marriage would be devastating.
Riko stood up then sighed, her hand to her forehead as she lays her device on the living room table and walks back to her housely chores. Trying her best to ignore the thoughts and emotions warring inside her...