Our Bonds

Shigure-chan looked out of the window, watching the dark clouds slowly gathering over the base. Moments later, it started raining heavily. Raindrops mercilessly attacked the window, but they were no match for military-grade glass. Shigure-chan continued to look solemnly at the raindrops flowing down from the glass pane, before a loud thunder startled her and made her retreat back to me.

"There there. It's okay. There's nothing to be scared about."

"Uuugh..." (Shigure-chan)

"I knew that was coming." (Shigure)

Even before the rain started pouring, Shigure had already sat next to me on the sofa and wrapped herself with my arm. She was prepared.

"Why does it have to rain now?" (Shigure-chan)

"It's turning winter soon. This rain won't be the last."

And that means our next operation is coming up. Things are about to get busy.

It has been about a week since Zuihou agreed to my harem plan. On that day, since Gangut fired without authorization and in an enclosed area, she had to be punished. I let Commander Rei decide her punishment, but told her to tone it down seeing as Gangut was the one that helped me solve my problem. The punishment given to her was to fill a barrel with shellfish from the beach. A simple, yet tedious task. You have to dig into the sand just to find a couple of clams or small shrimps. There is no definite spot to find them, you have to search the entire beach to do it. Although this punishment was for Gangut to take on alone, I allowed her to get some help. In the end, the entire North Union showed up and helped fill the barrel in less than half a day. They never fail to surprise and impress me with their efficiency and teamwork.

For now, everything is normal. I haven't been chasing after the other girls, yet. I'm a little too busy settling the broken corridor and other reports. Surprisingly, Zuihou-chan hasn't made her move yet, even though she was so eager when I first mentioned it. I still have yet to decide on a gift for Zuihou. I know she is patiently waiting for it, but I don't want to put it off and keep her waiting.

Shigure-chan moved my arm to wrap around her shoulders. Her tiny hands gripped onto my fingers as she snuggled close to me. Not wanting to lose out, her elder sister did the same, albeit with a little more force than usual.

"Shigure, my hand isn't going anywhere. You don't have to pull so hard."

"Muuu~" (Shigure)

Eh? Why is she pouting? I see. She must be jealous. Whenever Shigure-chan does something, Shigure will try her best to not lag behind and try to copy Shigure-chan's action. She is becoming more competitive.

I pet the destroyer's head,

"Don't push yourself. I'm not leaving you."

She just stared at me, blushing. Erm... Did I say something weird or misinterpreted her feelings?

"How about me?" (Shigure-chan)

Oh yeah. Of course the other one would want to hear the same,

"You too. I will stay with both of you."

"Ufufu~" (Shigure-chan)

"...say that... No fair..." (???)

Eh?

"Shigure, did you say something?"

"Hmm? I didn't say anything." (Shigure)

That's weird. I could have sworn I heard something. Oh well.

"By the way, could you two ease up on your grip? I can't pick up or do the reports like this."

Just when I thought they were going to loosen up, Raijin-sama decided to scare them again. Now they have basically imprisoned my arms.

"Maybe it's time for me to stop for a while."

"Sorry, Admiral. I will let go now." (Shigure)

I can hear some trembling in her voice as she said that,

"No need. I'm taking a break. These reports aren't that important anyway. It's just a daily activity report. I can spend more time with you two."

"I see." (Shigure)

For some reason, Shigure seems to be trying to hide her smile when I said that. Its okay to show your happiness, you know.

The two sisters laid on my lap, falling asleep soon after. I knew this would happen. When they start to lie on my lap or rest against my shoulders, they instantly enter the dreamlands. They don't get any nightmares like this, as compared to when they are sleeping alone on their own beds. Since these two are asleep. I should get some work down.

"Admi... lo... ou..." (Shigure)

Hmm? Is Shigure awake? I thought I heard her talking to me. It must have been her usual sleep talk.

This weather... It's really is perfect time for a nap. I moved the strands of hair covering Shigure's face aside. I wonder how Shigure feels about me. Her behavior is different from the other Shigure from Sasebo. That being said, Sasebo's Shigure is a new shipgirl, so I can't draw any conclusions yet. If Shigure were to express her love, I will definitely take her in. Of course, Shigure-chan as well.

"Sleep well, you two. Have a sweet dream."