Only with Your Heart

Lukrov Fourteen Years Ago

I made a noise on purpose, and when I got out of the tent, I cleared my throat.

Chizuru turned around as if she was shocked to see me standing in front of the tent. I could tell that I had a strange expression on my face, as did she, a look of both relief and confusion drawn on her face.

Roan looked back over her shoulder at me and smirked.

Damn, this is why I hate this guy.

So, as of today, Chizuru will be riding my horse. Youll be glad to know that you no longer have to be bothered any longer, wont you? Roan questioned.

I didnt answer.

At least, not in words.

Right, Chizuru? He asked for her confirmation.

Roan, dexterously bending over his upper body, looked at Chizuru and was about to take her hand.

My body moved faster than my mind could think and reacted out of instinct.

With the speed of light, I threw a dagger that had been around my waist. The dagger brushed over the tip of Roans nose and continued its way until it stabbed into the trunk of a large tree behind him.

A small bird hurriedly flew away from the tree branch at the sudden impact.

There was a moment of silence.

Youre insane, Lukrov! What if it hit Chizuru? Roan yelled.

For the moment, I should probably appreciate the fact that he was more concerned about Chizurus safety than his own. However, I was not ready to forgive him just yet.

I made my way with a wide stride and stood in front of Chizuru.

Lu-Lukrovthat.

I took Chizurus confused hand, pulled her away from Roan, and walked away at a rapid pace.

I can hear Roan complaining from behind me.

However, I cant bring myself to listen to it.

Wait! Youre going too fast Lukrov!

As soon as we passed through the campsite and reached the empty forest, Chizuru began pleading with me while gasping for air.

The girl, who I made run so suddenly, had rosy red cheeks that puffed out, making her look out of breath. Her chest was rising and falling in anguish. I finally came to my senses and stopped when I saw her state.

Sorry

Uh, yeah its fine, but

Chizuru stared up at me as if seeking an explanation with one hand on her chest as she struggled to catch her breath.

What is the explanation for my actions?

I couldnt stand the sight of Chizuru riding another mans horse, and I didnt like the idea of her leaving my side, not even for a moment.

The reason behind these feelings?

I dont care to know.

The reason behind my actions was right in front of me

But Chizuru wanted an answer The fact was, I was willing to grant this girl whatever she wished. I just didnt know how to phrase it for her.

I didnt mean to be angry with you, and Ive never thought of you as a burden.

Chizurus eyes blinked several times at what I said suddenly.

Then I added, I wasnt lecturing you, I just want you to stay safe. Ive given you some advice because of that. But I dont remember getting angry.

Chizuru finally seemed to realize what I was talking about.

Ah, um

She mumbled some random words and started fiddling with her collar with her free hand.

That isnt what I meant that I still want to ride Lukrovs horse.

I wasnt the type to pick on every word I hear, but the phraseLukrovs horsecaught my attention. Did she want to rideon my horseor did she want to ridewith me?

What is this? Am I getting jealous of the horse now?

The horse!?

Chizuru looked a little frightened, wondering how she managed to put a strained and sullen expression on my face.

Because I like to be near Lukrov if you arent bothered by it. Earlier it was just Roan messing around, and Im

I stared down at her as she was trying to give me some form of explanation.

I was still holding her hand.

I dont want to let go.

Im not going to let go.

Ride with me, okay? You dont have to switch horses all the time. Ill take care of you.

When I said that, I could see her face hold a mixture of joy and pain.

Now I think I understood the reason

It was just that at the time, I was not yet ready to open my heart to someone, to love someone, to declare my love to the world. These were foreign to me.

But spring came at the end of a long winter.

Chizuru.

She was the wind of hope that woke me up from my nightmare and soothed me, little by little, patiently and gently.