Artist's commentary
"I'm sorry... I don't know what's with me today..."
"I'm sorry... I don't know what with me... I'll leave now. I apologize..." Youmu said, getting up unsteadily and rushing to the door. Out of reflex I called after her and grabbed her. I had somehow realized the reason for Youmu's anger, and needed to set straight any misunderstandings. I had a feeling I wouldn't be seeing her again if I didn't stop her there. "...Please let me go," she uttered in a quavering voice. I told her to let me explain some things to her. She didn't say anything. I took her by the hand and pulled her from the entrance to the living room. She came along silently. Sitting her down, I apologized for making her misunderstand, and explained that although "sleeping together" sounded a bit suspicious, we really were simply sleeping together, and nothing seedy was going on. "I understand. You aren't the kind of person who would do something like that... but it's still strange for a man and woman to sleep together..." Youmu said bit by bit. "That was of my own request. I told you before, but due to fear I can not sleep alone. Thus, my lord..." Futo-chan replied from my side. "That's..." Youmu said with a frustrated expression, seemingly wanting to object but being unable to. She let out another long whimper and tears started streaming down her face.
I didn't really know why she was crying, but she seemed to be truly suffering. "Don't cry," I told her while embracing her. I couldn't think of anything else to say. She offered no resistance, giving in and crying into my body. A while later she had calmed down. "I'm sorry... I've calmed down. Thank you so much," she said while slowly separating from my body, with me still dumbfounded as to how to talk to her. "My lord... if you will, how about letting Lady Youmu stay here tonight?" Futo-chan asked. A bit surprised by the unexpected proposal, I told her I didn't mind. "I see. Thank you. Lady Youmu?" Futo-chan continued. "Eh... I..." Youmu said, dazed. I couldn't let this chance to talk to her pass by. She might slip back into her previous state. "Sure, why don't you stay here tonight? I want to make you some food, too, as thanks," I encouraged her. "...Okay," she quietly replied after a short pause... to be continued