The Hasipeta Hospital was where Ayano used to work, and would be having her child. Her due date was tomorrow, and she would live in the hospital for the night.

"I can't wait!" Budo's dreamy smile made her roll her eyes affectionately. "Darling, it's just a child."

"It's my child," he proclaimed. "And it's my wife giving birth."

"Mr and Mrs Masuta? You'll be in Bed 37 on the 2nd floor. There's a lift over there." A young nurse, probably a trainee, pointed them towards the lift.

Ayano nodded, slightly impatient. "Yes, I know my way around." With that, they went to their room.

Their room had 4 beds, namely Bed 36-39. It was painted a gentle pastel yellow and had a nice view.

The curtains were drawn for their neighbour in Bed 36 when they settled down. Opposite to them, the extremely pregnant ladies nodded to Ayano in welcoming.

"You baka!"

A horribly familiar voice hit Ayano's ears. She stiffened, gripping on the edge of the bed.

A nurse, looking apologetic, drew the curtains back and rushed out of the room. Sitting in the bed was an indignant woman with sickening orange hair. And holding her hand was... Senpai.

Osana Najimi.

She watched in slight horror as Senpai stroked her hand gently. "Don't get too worked up, darling, it's not good for our baby."

Ayano almost fainted.

Osana Najimi and my Senpai are having a child.

A white-hot feeling spread over her, not unlike the hunger she had felt in her murdering days. Blood roared in her ears, and she had to suck in a breath to calm down.

"Budo!"

Senpai's hearty voice caught Ayano by surprise.

"Yamada. It's great to see you." Budo came over to Ayano, lying a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"Congratulations, Ayano!" Senpai beamed warmly at her and her bump. "Must be exciting, isn't it."

"Our baby is more exciting!" chimed in Osana, holding her husband's arm.

Ayano looked away, refusing to watch the tantalising sight.

Budo noticed her discomfort. "Hey, you," he called to a nurse.

"D'you think it's possible to switch rooms? My wife prefers a... quieter spot."

The nurse giggled merrily. "I feel you," she whispered, shooting a quick glance at Osana. "I'll see what I can do, sir."

She came back two minutes later with a sympathetic smile and a small bag.
"Sorry, sir. The other rooms are full."

Turning to Ayano, she handed her the bag. "The hospital put a little something together for you. You've been missed, Chief Surgeon."

She glanced in the bag and smiled. "You sure we can't switch?"

The young nurse shook her head sympathetically. "I'm really sorry, Miss Aishi. Do try to enjoy your time here — did I mention it's one of the best suites in the ward?" Ayano nodded slowly. "Thanks anyway."

Slowly, she sunk down on her bed, turning her head away from the sight of Osana and Senpai —the life she could've had, teasingly close.

"Ayano."

Budo's eyes locked into hers when she looked up.

"Are you still into him?" He asked gently. "Please be honest."

She searched her brain for the traces of love, the heartbeat that quickened whenever he was in sight. Nothing.

All that remained was the bubbling fury and longing to exert her revenge on the pathetic little thief that ruined her love life for her.

"No, I'm not," she replied steadily. "I just—"

Budo cut her off with a hug. He knew.

"Whatever happens, just bear with it, okay? We'll be out in a couple days."

Ayano nodded, clinging to him.

"Oh, I almost forgot." He untied his precious martial arts band from his hand and tied it on her wrist. "I'll have to go soon, but this will keep you nice and strong." She smiled as the piece of cloth encircled her wrist.

She fingered the token gently as Budo kissed her forehead and left the ward, leaving her alone with two strangers and Osana.

She won't get away with this, vowed Ayano silently.