Genjo really should have expected such a playful and lighthearted reaction. It was Koumyou, after all. And yet here he was, looking up with unguarded confusion. The stern tone suddenly made him feel like he was twelve once more.

But back then, he would have never dared speak up to his master so brazenly. Of course, he was a different person now. And Genjo knew his master had just as much say over his feelings as he had over Koumyous.

But it didn't stop how harshly Koumyou's words had cut into him.

Genjo knew Koumyou loved him. He never once questioned that. But to hear it spoken aloud so casually only stung him more than the cut of any blade.

He understood love. He understood the implications and power behind such a word. It was why he refused ever to use it. Because to love was to sacrifice. To love was to put so much faith into someone that you were willing to hurt them by offering yourself.

"... Idiot," The word came out as barely a mutter. His body was tense as he felt his fists clench inwards.

"You really are an absolute fucking idiot!!"

Ah.


Shit.

He just said it out loud, didn't he?

"You... Do you think that sacrificing yourself is proof of love? Have you even once considered how those you love would feel in losing you!?"