As Sakura tenderly nursed Kaito's wounds, her care and concern warmed his heart.
"Sakura, I need to tell you something," Kaito said, his voice laced with gravity.
Sakura's eyes locked onto his, sensing the importance.
"What is it?" Sakura asked, her voice soft.
Kaito took a deep breath, steeling himself.
"My family's business...it's not what it seems," Kaito began.
Sakura's curiosity piqued.
"What do you mean?" Sakura pressed.
Kaito's eyes clouded.
"My father was involved in real estate. But there were...irregularities," Kaito admitted.
Sakura sensed more to the story.
"Irregularities?" Sakura pressed.
Kaito nodded.
"Father's business partners...they were shady. Akira's family was involved," Kaito revealed.
Sakura's eyes widened.
"Akira's family?" Sakura repeated.
Kaito's expression turned dark.
"Akira's father, Taro, was a key player. He manipulated my father," Kaito said.
Sakura's thoughts swirled. Akira's involvement ran deeper than Sakura thought.
"Kaito, did Akira know about her father's dealings?" Sakura asked.
Kaito's eyes narrowed.
"Akira was aware. She helped her father," Kaito accused.
Sakura's heart sank.
"That's why Akira betrayed you?" Sakura asked.
Kaito's jaw clenched.
"Yes. Akira chose her family's interests over our friendship," Kaito said.
Sakura's grip on his hand tightened.
"I'm sorry," Sakura whispered.
Kaito's gaze locked onto hers.
"I don't want you near Akira," Kaito warned.
Sakura nodded.
"I'll stay away," Sakura promised.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Sakura snuggled closer to Kaito.
"I'm glad you told me," Sakura said.
Kaito's arms wrapped around her.
"I'll always protect you," Kaito vowed.
Unbeknownst to them, Akira watched from the shadows, resentment simmering.