"Toji stared at the ceiling, lying in his bed. It’d been three days since his wife had passed, and he was completely shattered. The colorful life he’d once shared with his wife and newborn son had suddenly become dull and miserable. He completely lacked the motivation or desire to do anything, including even taking care of his most basic needs. It was around 6PM in the afternoon that he heard a knock on his door. Quite frankly, he was going to just completely ignore it, until he heard your voice call out his name. With that, he stood up and walked to the door, revealing his worn out appearance as the door opened."

"Toji allows a small smile at her teasing insistence, warmth blooming in his chest at her touch."

"Alright alright, you've made your point," "he rumbles playfully, adjusting Megumi to cradle him in one arm as he reaches up to brush a stray lock of hair from Yan's face."

"Compared to when I first started in this line of work, I surely feel aged. But you've a way of making a man feel young again, it seems."

"His eyes soften as they hold hers, filled with gratitude and affection." "No matter what the years may bring, your spirit remains as bright and beautiful as the day we met. I'm a lucky bastard to call you both mine."

*Dipping his head, he captures her lips in a tender kiss, letting his

"Toji's free arm wraps firmly around Yan's waist, holding her close as he deepens the kiss softly yet sweetly. Her delicate touch anchors him in the moment, banishing any lingering shadows from his mind."

After a blissful moment, he draws back just enough to rest his forehead against hers, breathing her in as their hearts slow in tandem.

"There's my light," "he murmurs, gazing at her with a warmth normally hidden from all but those most dear."

<Baby Megumi snoozes on, undisturbed in the circle of Toji's arm>.

"Why don't you get some rest, dear one - I'll see to getting this little fighter to his crib." *Reluctant to part just yet, he steals one more fleeting kiss before letting Yan stand

"A bath sounds perfect," "Toji agrees with a tired yet content smile."

As Yan heads off to start the water, he wanders over to gaze down at Megumi's sleeping little face. "His strong features soften with naked devotion."

"You hear that, son? Mama's drawing us a bath, so you can get all clean and cozy for bed." "His lips quirk." "Not that you ever seem to stay that way for long, making trouble already just like your old man."

"Chuckling quietly to himself, he carries the babe towards the bathroom where Yan's sweet voice can be heard singing softly as steam rises."

Stopping in the doorway, Toji leans against the frame watching her with open adoration. His family - creatures of light in a world that had once

"Toji watches mother and son with undisguised delight, his earlier melancholy utterly banished."

"Nothing in particular," "he answers Yan's laughing question with a grin." "Just admiring the lovely view."

Crossing over to join them, he helps ease Megumi's tiny clothes off before placing a playful peck on Yan's cheek. Their boy burbles and kicks his chubby legs, bright eyes mistaking the soft contact for a new game.

"Tell you the truth, I was thinking how lucky we are," "Toji admits, meeting Yan's gaze with earnest affection." "After everything, to have this - you two are all I need."

*Gently taking Megumi, he lowers the babe into the warm water. Their son squeals in delight, tiny hands splashing

"Toji splutters in mock outrage as Megumi's enthusiastic splashing drenches him from chin to collar."

"Oh ho, think that's funny do you, ya little monster?!" "he growls playfully at their giggling son."

Before the babe can escape retaliation, "Toji swoops in, scooping up a double handful of bubbles then blowing them straight into Megumi's delighted face."

Yan's musical laughter joins their child's, and even stoic Toji fails to suppress a boyish grin as Megumi gurgles in blissful chaos.

"Teamwork, huh?" "he teases Yan, leaning over to press a kiss to her smiling lips." "Didn't think I'd ever be outnumbered like this."

*Gathering Megumi close once

"Toji watches Yan's ministrations with open affection, loathe to tear his eyes from his beautiful family. When mother and child are finished, he rises to join them."

"He's as sweet as his mother, that's for sure." "Wrapping strong arms around both Yan and Megumi, Toji presses a kiss to each dark head."

"My treasures," "he murmurs huskily, cupping Yan's cheek to meet her eyes with naked devotion." "I don't know what I did to deserve you both, but I'll spend every day making sure you want for nothing."

"Taking Megumi, he cuddles the dozy babe close, breathing in that wonderful new baby smell." "Time for bed, little man. You've had quite the exciting first day, eh?"

"Toji gazes down at Megumi's sleepy face, touched as always by the overwhelming trust reflected there."

"Alright, you go on. We'll be along soon enough." "He smiles warmly at Yan, lips lingering on her graceful hand."

Turning towards the nursery, "Toji whispers soft nonsense as Megumi's eyelids flutter." "<Good boy. Time for sleep, ah? Dream of sunshine and laughter.>"

Laying their son in his crib, "Toji makes sure he's snug and content before perching on the edge to watch, guarding his peace."

[Yan and this life give me purpose I never knew I lacked. Each day a gift.]

Once sure of Megumi's rest, *Toji rises noiselessly to join his wife,

"Toji leans against the doorframe, crossing muscular arms as he watches Yan with hooded eyes."

"Out like a light before his head hit the pillow," "he murmurs, an undercurrent of pleased pride in his tone." "Our boy's jus' as tough as his old man, ain't takin' long to get settled in."

Pushing off to saunter closer, "Toji surveys the steamy bath with a rakish grin." "Seems you've got everything nicely sorted here while I was gone."

"Reaching out to gently gather Yan's waist and pull her against his bare, water-beaded chest, he presses a lingering kiss to her lips."

"Care to join me, darling? Water's fine..." *his teasing whisper trails off meaningfully as heated eyes ro

"Toji watches appreciatively as Yan turns from him, eyes devouring the subtle curves revealed as she undresses."

"[She'll be the death of me...]" "he thinks wickedly, reaching to loosely grasp his hardening length at the enticing sight."

When she faces him naked as the day she was born, desire burns hot and fierce in Toji's dark gaze.

"Fuck, woman, you're a gift from the gods," "he rasps hoarsely, closing the distance to graze intimate fingers boldly along her throat and collarbones."

"Now get in before I take you right here," "Toji growls playfully, smacking her shapely rear to urge compliance before following swiftly after."

"<Settle between my legs, darling, and let this bad boy wash

"Toji chuckles deep in his chest, rumbling beneath Yan as she relaxes against him in the steamy water."

"[Always so soft and responsive...my little dove knows just how to sing for me.]"

Sluicing damp arms around her midsection, "Toji nuzzles a kiss to the nape of Yan's flushed neck and blows there teasingly."

"Mmm, nothin' feels better after a long day than holdin' my girl," "he murmurs huskily in her ear, large hands gliding sensuously over her womb and thighs beneath the surface."

Dipping the soap to lather along her skin, "Toji massages gentle but firm as he cleans every sweet curve, occasionally letting his growing hardness press provocatively against her backside."

"Toji exhales roughly against Yan's neck as his throbbing length is squeezed between her tight cheeks, his hands stilling their sensual work."

"[Fuck, she knows just how to stir me...] Ever the tease, ain'tcha darling?"

Nipping her tender skin lightly in reprimand, "Toji's large palms smooth back up to fully encompass the soft mounds of her breasts, callused thumbs brushing over pebbled peaks."

"Reckon my girl likes havin' me good and hard for her..." "he growls huskily, giving the plump flesh an affectionate squeeze."

"Or maybe I should leave you achin' and let these sweet tits do all the talkin'."

*Toji's rasping whisper trails off meaningfully, warm breath

"Toji barks out a gravelly laugh, squeezing Yan's breasts teasingly at her shy retort."

"Aw, now darlin'...ain't no point in denyin' what we both want," "he rumbles in her ear, nipping the tender shell playfully."

"Besidesss...who was the one squeezin' my cock between these cheeks, hmm?"

"Toji says meaningfully, sliding a palm down her flat belly to gently part her thighs."

"Reckon my girl's the real pervert for gettin' so wet already."

Nuzzling kisses along the curve of her neck, "Toji's fingers stroke fondling passes through her slick folds with deliberately light, fleeting touches."

"So how's about we quit this fl

"Toji's breath hitches as Yan prevents his withdrawal, gripping his muscled arms with surprising strength."

"[Fierce little dove...knows what she wants and takes it.]"

Chuckling gravelly at her flush and shy headshake, "Toji slides his hand back into place between her thighs to resume his fleeting caresses."

"Don't gotta tell me twice, woman..."

"He growls approvingly in her ear, nipping the shell as his fingers slowly circle and delve, learning every sweet spot that makes her sigh and squirm against him."

Focusing his touch there, "Toji pleasures Yan thoroughly with skillful strokes, his arousal pressed snugly to the curves of her ass."

"That's it darling, ride my hand like you ride

"Toji watches intently as Yan loses herself to his skilled ministrations, her heavy sighs and squeeze of his muscular arms spurring him on. The sight of her flushed and needy stokes his burning arousal to new heights."

"[So fucking perfect...my beautiful girl coming undone just from my fingers]"

He thinks possessively, stroking ever faster as her inner muscles begin to flutter and pulse around his digits. Leaning in to scrape his bearded cheek against her throat, "Toji rumbles into her ear:"

"That's it Yan, let go for me. I want to feel you come."

*As she approaches the precipice, Toji inserts a third finger to piston in and out of her slick heat, the friction of his calluses against her swollen nub sending her flying over the

"Toji inhales sharply at the sight of Yan coming undone in his arms, her lithe body shuddering through waves of pleasure."

"[Fuck, so beautiful...]"

Slowly withdrawing his slick fingers, "Toji presses delicate kisses along her throat and shoulders, allowing her to catch her breath."

"There ya go darling, breathed into ya nice," he rumbles against her flushed skin.

Once her trembling subsides, "Toji turns Yan in his embrace to meet her hazy gaze, his steel-blue eyes alight with heated affection."

"Damn woman, never cease to amaze me...got any more tricks up that sleeve o' yours?"

*He teases with a playful nip to her kiss-swollen lips, hard length twitching eagerly between them as his own

"Toji growls low in his throat as Yan guides his turgid length to her slick entrance, hands gripping her hips to hold her steady as she slowly sinks down onto him."

"[Fucking hell woman...so tight, so wet for me...]"

Gazing up at her beautiful, blushing face, "Toji watches avidly as pleasure overtakes her features with each delicious inch she takes."

Her light moans and tight squeeze of his shoulders stoke the flames coursing through his veins, barely hanging onto his restraint as her silky heat sheaths him to the hilt.

""Fuck," Yan..."

*He rumbles roughly, fighting the urge to buck up into her. Toji runs his calloused palms up her sweat-slicked sides, thumbs sweeping over her peaked n

"Toji groans low in his chest at Yan's words, feeling her heated breaths gust against his neck as she clings to him."

"Ya don't gotta ask me twice, darlin'."

*Wrapping her securely in his strong embrace, "Toji begins to rock his hips in slow, shallow rolls, easing Yan into the motions."

"Just like that, breathe for me...let me know if ya need me to slow down," "he rumbles softly close to her ear."

"Deliberately dragging his throbbing length almost completely out before sliding gently back in, Toji sets a languid, intimate pace designed solely to build her pleasure."

"His hands sweep up and down her arched back, fingertips tracing every curve as their bodies unite in primal rhythm."

"You feel so

"Toji feels a primal surge through his veins as Yan lifts her head to lock eyes with him, her request stirring his already smoldering desire."

"[As you wish, darlin']"* he growls, voice thick with unchecked longing.

*Lifting his hips in counterpoint to meet her movements, "Toji obediently begins to pump upwards at a brisker pace, seating himself fully within her clinging heat with each merciless thrust."

Her little tears and breathy whispers stoke the fire in his loins, raging now as their flesh slaps together in a carnal duet.

*Gripping her ass firmly, "Toji flexes his hips in a particularly deep plunge that draws a hitched sob from Yan's kiss-swollen lips."

"<Fuck, so

"Toji rumbles intensely with primal satisfaction as Yan falls apart atop him, her muffled cries and wanton rolling spurring him ever closer to climax."

"[Megumi's a heavy sleeper, darlin'...let me hear that sweet voice of yours]," "he growls roughly in her ear, nipping at the sensitive flesh."

"Losing himself fully in the burning rapture of their carnal coupling, Toji locks gazes with her hazed eyes and redoubles his ferocious pace."

No longer holding back, he slams upwards with utter abandon, pistoning into her velvet sheath with punishing urgency as her walls flutter desperately around his pistoning length.

*The room fills with the sound of their frenzied lovemaking as Toji feels Yan's climax rip through her

"Toji feels his own end nearing as Yan shudders violently around him, her siren song of pleasure pulling him recklessly towards the precipice."

"<Fuck, me too darlin'>,*" "he growls through clenched teeth, blue eyes burning fiercely into hers."

"Taking her face in his hands, Toji captures her cries with a searing kiss as their tongues dance in a primal tangle."

"Pounding up into her with ruthless abandon, he swallows each of her ecstatic cries, determined to push them both cleanly over the edge."

""Let go for me, gorgeous...I wanna feel you cum]"" "he pants raggedly against her parted lips."

*With a roar, Toji slams upwards one final time as his release explodes through him in molten waves.

"Toji sucks in solid gulps of air as Yan presses their sweaty, heaving bodies together post-climax, the sensation mutually primal and fiercely intimate."

"[Back at you darlin']," "he rumbles affectionately, nine lives melting into her embrace for a sweet post-coital kiss."

"This long kiss is softer now, casual and easy, as their urgent fever subsides to lazy prohibitions."

"As they part, Toji smiles against her lips, sensing the compatibility deep between them even amidst their loss."

"Breathing heavily but contentedly, Yan rests her forehead gently on his and gives him an adoring grin, battered and bruised hearts now resting somewhere within each other."

"Toji lifts a hand to gently cup Yan's cheek, thumb grazing tenderly over her skin in a soothing caress."

"Don't apologize, darlin'...I know that pain all too well," "he murmurs huskily, blue eyes conveying deep understanding."

"What we have right here is more precious than anythin' else. You, me, little Megumi - we're a family. Nothin' can change that."

"Leaning in, Toji places a lingering kiss to Yan's forehead, hoping to chase away her demons with affection."

"Let's not dwell on what can't be. Instead, we'll focus on enjoyin' each moment we do have, yeah?"

"Sliding both arms around her, Toji draws Yan close again with a gentle squeeze."

"Toji tenderly brushes a few errant tears from Yan's cheeks with his thumbs, pressing a soft kiss to her lips in understanding."

"There now, darlin'. Much better." "he rumbles with a slight smile, wanting nothing more than to ease her sorrow."

"Gazing at her quietly as she takes steadying breaths, Toji waits patiently for her sniffling to subside."

"Let's get you cleaned up and warmed, yeah?" "he suggests gently, hands moving to wipe away the remnants of their passion from her delicate skin."

*With utmost care and affection, Toji washes Yan thoroughly but reverently under the warm bath water. Comforting her not with empty words but solid, grounding touch, hoping to soothe and exalt her spirit in

"Toji embraces Yan's small form securely in his arms, leg nestled warmly between hers beneath the cozy blanket."

"Night, darlin'. Sweet dreams," "he rumbles lovingly, pressing a tender kiss to the top of her head as she nuzzles into his chest."

"Gazing fondly at little Megumi's sleeping form, Toji feels solace knowing his family is safe and content after such an emotional moment. Shielding them both fiercely with his body, he offers Yan absolute protection and comfort as she rests."

"In the dim moonlight filtering through curtains, Yan looks so peaceful cradled against him - a far cry from her sorrow earlier."

*Smiling softly to himself, Toji sinks into the pillows, rubbing Yan's back until her breathing evens into slumber.

"Toji rouses swiftly at Megumi's cries, instinct kicking in automatically. Rubbing the bleariness from his eyes, he sits up carefully so as not to jostle Yan still sleeping beside him."

"Shhh, it's alright now son..." "he soothes gruffly but gently, already swinging long legs over the edge of the bed."

"Crossing to the crib in two strides, Toji leans down to softly scoop Megumi into his arms. Cradling the tiny, squirming bundle protectively against his bare chest, he begins to softly bounce and shush his distressed son."

"There, there...Pa's here now. No more tears." *he rumbles quietly, rubbing slow circles over Megumi's back as he walks the room in an attempt to calm the

"With a soft, knowing sigh, Toji glances down at the hungry babe in his arms."

"Someone's askin' for supper, ain't that right?" "he murmurs, tenderly disentangling tiny fistfuls of his shirt from Megumi's grasp. The child rewards him with renewed cries of protest at being denied."

"Gracefully lowering himself to sit beside Yan's still-sleeping form, Toji adjusts Megumi gently in the crook of one arm, running a calloused thumb over one chubby cheek in an attempt to soothe."

"Hush now, son. Pa's gettin' ya fed, see?"

"Leaning down, he places a kiss to Yan's temple hoping to rouse her slowly."

"Wakin'

"Toji smiles softly down at Yan as she stirs, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to her lips."

"Mmhm. Our boy's hungry," "he murmurs, brushing a lock of hair from her eyes tenderly."

"Rocking Megumi gently in his arm, Toji nods towards their son." "Think this lil' guy's lookin' t'feed from his ma."

"His own gaze remains lovingly upon Yan, seeking to soothe any lingering traces of sleep from herfeatures."

"Get yourself comfortable, sweetheart. I'll fetch ya some water, then we'll see about settlin' this one down, hm?"

*With that, Toji rises fluidly to place Megumi in Yan's doting arms. Unable to resist, he le

*Toji Returns quietly from the kitchen, water in hand. He pauses in the doorway, gaze softening at the sight before him.

Yan sits propped against the headboard now, Megumi tucked contentedly at her breast. Though no milk flows, the child sucks eagerly, sounds of hunger fading to sleepy, suckling noises.

Yan herself seems swaying on the threshold of sleep once more, swaying gently as she fights to keep heavy lids open for her son. Ever the protector, Toji's heart swells at the devotion of his family.

Stepping softly, he places the water on Yan's bedside table then sits beside her, supporting her weight with a sturdy arm.*

"Rest easy now, darlin'. I've got you both," *he murmurs, pressing

"Toji huffs out a tired laugh at Yan's words, watching fondly as she eases their son from her breast with some difficulty."

"That so, eh? Seems the lad's got himself a strong set o' teeth too."

"Rising, Toji trails after the pair, casting an appraising eye over mother and child as Yan settles Megumi in the kitchen, still suckling quietly."

"Appreciate the enthusiasm, son, but best save that nip for when yer ma's feedin' ya proper," "he says gently, tapping the babe's cheek with a knuckle."

"Leaning past Yan to retrieve a bottle and tin of formula powder, Toji begins preparing the milk with practiced hands."

"Get yourself situated, love. I'll take over feedin

"Toji glances up from mixing the formula, gaze softening at the tender scene before him. Mother and child sit peacefully entwined, Yan's gentle ministrations coaxing soft noises of contentment from little Megumi."

Finishing with careful, practiced hands, Toji tests the warmth of the bottle before speaking low and soothing.

"There now, little man. Time t'let Mum rest those tired breasts a'hers."

"Stepping close, he eases the bottle's nipple into Megumi's receptive mouth, chuckling quietly as the babe releases Yan with a sigh to latch hungrily onto the substitute teat."

"Atta boy. Drink up for Daddy now."

*Pressing a kiss to Yan's brow, he murmurs "Lean on me

"Toji cradles Yan close with one strong arm, supporting her weary form against his solid strength. With his free hand, he continues gently guiding the bottle for their son, watching the babe feed with tender eyes."

"No arguments there, darlin'," "he rumbles low, pressing an understanding kiss to Yan's hair." "You just focus on restorin' yourself. Leave the wee beastie to me tomorrow."

*Meeting her sleep-heavy gaze, a trace of humor lifts Toji's lips. "An' no bites fer poor Mum's teats, ya hear?" "he mock-chides their son softly."

"Sweet dreams now, love. Off t'bed with ye," "Toji encourages, already coaching Megumi through the last pulls of milk from the bottle's teat."

"Shouldering open the bedroom door with practiced finesse, Toji enters to find Yan already tucked cozily beneath the blankets."

"There's my girls," "he rumbles warmly, lips quirking as Yan blinks up at him sleepily despite her waiting."

"Crossing to lay their sated son in his crib, Toji pauses to brush a tender kiss over the babe's downy head before turning back to the bed."

"All fed and sleep-ready," "he reports, slipping off his outer layers and sliding beneath the sheets to draw Yan into his welcoming arms."

"Rest now, love. I'll be keepin' watch," "Toji murmurs, pressing a loving kiss to Yan's brow as she curls into the shelter of his embrace."

"

"Toji chuckles softly at Yan's scolding tone, though his eyes gleam with weary affection for the strength of her care."

"Only if ye promise the same, stubborn woman," "he murmurs fondly, giving her no chance to argue as he pulls her flush against the solid warmth of his chest."

"Winding both arms securely around her, Toji sighs into Yan's hair, finally allowing the day's troubles to unwind from his frame as he feels her body relax into comfortable trust against his own."

"Sweet dreams, Yan," "he whispers, closing his eyes and gifting a lingering kiss to her crown before settling back into the pillows, safely anchored and content simply to rest with his beloved family close."

As morning light steals through the windows, "Toji stirs languidly from blessed rest, blinking open drowsy eyes to take in the sight of the new day's first light gilding Yan's peaceful features."

Quietly unraveling himself from her limbs without waking, "he leans to press a whispered kiss to her brow before rising soundlessly from their bed."

<The room is hushed but for Yan's soft breaths and Megumi's occasional snuffling from the crib.>

Stealing to their son's side, "Toji peers down at the babe with a tender smile, watching miniature hands flex and stretch in dream." Luckier than most, "he thinks, heart swelling near to bursting at the gifts before him."

"Toji returns Yan's warm smile, eyes softening at the sight of her stretching form in the sunlight. Watching her get out of bed and move through her morning routine with the grace of a contented cat, he can't help but feel blessed anew by her presence in his life."

"As Yan returns to the bedroom, he rises from where he's been gazing down at their son, turning to face her with a gentle grin."

"Mornin', love," "he greets warmly, sweeping her close for a lingering kiss that has sparks waking in his bones."

"Sleep well?" "Toji asks, brushing a thumb over Yan's cheekbone as he holds her close."

"Toji chuckles, running a hand down Yan's arm appreciatively before following her gaze to their son."

"Think that answers that question," "he observes wryly as Megumi's protests begin in earnest."

"Nodding in amused agreement to her suggestion, Toji watches fondly as Yan gathers the supplies, cooing softly to soothe their babe's tears."

"There, none o' that now, " "he croons, stroking delicate knuckles as Megumi quiets under his mother's practiced ministrations."

"Such a skilled mama," "Toji praises gently, pressing an approving kiss to Yan's temple as the messy job is completed efficiently."

"Now, what'd'ya say we feed this little man, aye? Then decide

"Toji watches the exchange with quiet amusement, stroking their son's downy head fondly as Yan attempts to placate him."

"Such a spirited lad," "he thinks proudly."

Aloud, he notes, "Looks like someone's got something on his mind. Here now, let me take him while you prepare his bottle."

"Carefully relieved from Yan's embrace, Megumi snuggles against his father's chest with a plaintive mewl as Toji rises, swaying gently to soothe the babe."

"There, there, little man. Mama's gettin' your supper. No need for fits," "he says gently, meeting Yan's eyes with a lingering look of warmth and gratitude for the moments of ease she provides."

"Toji watches the exchange with gentle, understanding eyes, resting a warm hand on Yan's lower back as she soothes their son at her breast."

"Aye, quite the determined lad," "he murmurs softly, pride deepening his tone as Megumi's suckling turns eager and intense."

At Yan's soft gasp of discomfort, Toji's face furrows slightly, ready to intervene if needed. But seeing the babe begin to calm at her murmured reminder, his expression relaxes once more.

"He knows where home is," "Toji observes softly, rubbing her back comfortingly as Megumi drinks his fill."

"True love, that," "he praises gently, brushing knuckles over Yan's cheek with a small smile before pressing a loving kiss to her brow."

"

"Toji nods understandingly at Yan's observation, gaze thoughtful as he watches their babe nursed contentedly in her arms."

"Even without milk, he finds solace in your embrace, dear one," "he replies gently."

"The warmth of your body and sound of your heartbeat are as mother's milk to him. It soothes what's deep inside, calms him in a way nothing else can."

"Reaching over, Toji rubs Megumi's back rhythmically, smiling as dark lashes flutter at the comforting touch."

"There's comfort to be had just in being close to the one who's loved you since before your first breath. I reckon he knows as much, even so small."

"Meeting Yan's eyes, he takes her hand warmly."

"Toji regards Yan with quiet understanding, knowing she refers to his late wife."

"Aye, much the same," "he replies softly, gaze growing distant as bittersweet memories surface."

"Megumi's strong, just like his mother. Even as a babe at her breast, he seemed to draw strength from her, find calm."

"Reaching out, Toji gently strokes their son's fine hair, face softening with sorrow and love."

"She had a way about her, could soothe any fear or pain with just a look, a touch. Our boy knew deep safety in her arms."

"Meeting Yan's eyes once more, he takes her hand warmly."

"Now he's found that safe harbor again, with you. And I'm grateful."

"Toji's eyes meet Yan's, softening as he sees the loving smile warm her face. At her sweet words, he returns her tender kiss gently but fully, pouring all the depth of feeling he holds for this wonderful woman into the meeting of their lips."

"And I love you," "he murmurs when they part, pressing their brows together as her hands find their way to his strong shoulders."

"More'n I ever thought to love again, after...you pulled me back, lass. Given me a home I'd near forgotten the feel of."

"Glancing with open fondness at little Megumi latched contentedly to her breast, Toji covers her hands with his own larger ones."

"Thanks to you, our boy'll grow in a house filled with nothin' but love and

"Toji smiles softly as he watches their son nursed contently at Yan's breast, little Megumi's tiny breaths and suckling noises the only sounds breaking the warm quiet of the moment."

"Aye, he'll want for nothing with you as his mother," "he murmurs to Yan, deep voice gentle but filled with assurance."

"You've a way with him, lass—can soothe any fuss or fear like it's second nature. And he knows, deep as breath, he's loved and cherished within these walls."

"Reaching out with careful affection, Toji softly sweeps his large knuckles over their babe's round cheek, feeling the softness of new life beneath roughened skin."

"We'll give him the home and family he deserves, you and

"Toji and Yan gaze upon little Megumi with warm smiles, charmed by his curious exploration and the bond so clearly felt between mother and babe."

"He's a joy to behold, your son," "Toji rumbles softly to Yan, pressing an affectionate kiss to her temple."

"With you to guide him, I've no doubt he'll grow into a fine young man - kind, brave and true."

"Gently, Toji reaches to detangle Megumi's grasping fingers lest he pinch too tightly, instead stroking the babe's cheek as dark eyes peer up in innocent trust."

"Each day a new discovery

"Aye, was thinkin' the wee man must be near down for his nap," "Toji rumbles agreeably as he sets about heating the bottle."

"No use fussin' if he's all tired out but too wee yet to say."

"With practiced care, he tests the milk's warmth against his forearm before handing the bottle to Yan."

"There now, let's see if this soothes our hungry lad, eh?"

"Leaning beside her, Toji watches their son with a gentle smile, large hand settling warm and comforting against Yan's lower back."

"A sight to lift any heart, seeing him safe and loved between us. You do well by him, lass—no doubt he'll grow as fine strong as his mother."

"Toji notes the thoughtful cast to Yan's expression, and lays a gentle knuckle beneath her chin to draw her gaze back to his own."

"No need for such worries in that bright head of yours, woman. That babe knows your care and love better than his own name," "he rumbles, voice low and earnest."

"Megumi will grow with not a doubt of your place in his heart - as sure as the rising sun. You've given him everything a boy could want in a mother: warmth, comfort, joy."

"Brushing a lock of hair from her cheek, Toji smiles," "We've made a family here, the three of us. No force on earth will change how deeply that child will cherish you."

"Now dry those eyes and let me see your smile,

"Toji's arm wraps strong and sure around Yan, holding mother and child gathered safely against the steady beat of his heart."

"And this family is blessed beyond measure to call you ours, lass," "he rumbles, resting his bearded cheek gently atop Yan's hair as he gazes down upon their feeding son."

"Megumi has gained the most through your light - a guiding star to brighten even the darkest of nights. I, too, have found something treasured beyond words in you both."

<The kitchen is filled with warmth and tender silence, broken only by Megumi's soft suckles at the bottle's teat. In this moment, all is right in Toji's world - his precious ones safe and content within his embrace.>

"Toji grins as Megumi squeals with baby laughter at Yan's playful antics. Reaching out, he gently ruffles the downy softness of the babe's dark hair between calloused fingers."

"Already such a lover of mischief, this one," "he chuckles warmly." "With your good spirits looking after him, doubt there's any want our boy will ever know."

"Indeed, a smile to light the heavens themselves," "Toji agrees, gazing upon Yan and Megumi's joy with unspoken gratitude." "Treasure each moment - they grow faster than the wind."

<Yan's loving attention draws more giggles from their son, a music sweeter than any song. Holding them close, Toji envisions many more nights spent just like this - a family,

"Toji accepts Megumi into the sure shelter of his arms, returning Yan's kiss with a tender smile."

"My boys," "he murmurs softly, cradling his gurgling son against the steady thump of his heartbeat."

Carefully, almost reverently, he traces the curve of one tiny ear with a calloused fingertip. Megumi grasps for his hand in discovery, gripping it with surprising strength.

"So much life and spirit packed into such a little frame," "Toji chuckles, pressing a gruff kiss to downy black hair."

<He watches Yan set about the kitchen with a grace born of love and practice, speaking quietly to their son all the while. Here is a peace Toji had never dreamed to find - yet in this moment, he feels complete.>

"Toji nods gratefully at Yan, settling into his chair with Megumi propped content in one arm."

"Ah, woman, you spoil us so," "he rumbles, lifting the steaming mug in salute before letting the dark roast wash over his tongue."

<A sigh of deep pleasure escapes him - Toji had scarce realized how the simple act of breaking bread together as a family could lift even the oldest of burdens from his shoulders.>

Reaching out, he playfully taps Megumi's tiny nose, grinning as their son grasps for his finger once more. "One day you'll have your handsome Da here begging for your cooking skills, eh, little man?"

His teasing eyes find Yan's across the table. "Truly, a feast fit for kings, lass. Thank

"Toji takes a long, slow draught of the rich brew, savoring its dark complexity."

"Aye, it's as dark and serious as I like it," "he nods approvingly, setting the mug down with a satisfied sigh."

"Can't say I've ever taken to 'sweet things myself, but your touch seems to improve all it touches," "he teases gently, jiggling Megumi's little foot where it emerges from his arm's embrace. The babe gurgles happily, oblivious to his Da's jesting."

<Though he'd not admit to such soft sentiment freely, Yan's care fills a place in Toji once left desolate and bare. In the warmth of this moment, surrounded by the fruits of her love, all harsh edges seem to soften within.>