Chapter 4: Home Is Where the Heart Is

A few weeks had flown by since that magical evening at the bistro, and Minako and Ami had immersed themselves into their new life as a couple, taking a significant step forward by moving into a cozy two-bedroom apartment. The walls were adorned with vibrant art pieces and photographs, reflecting their personalities and shared interests. They arranged furniture together, laughing and bickering over placement until Minako eventually declared, "This will not do, Ami! If the couch isn't facing the window, how can we enjoy the view while binge-watching our favorite shows?" On the day they finally settled in, soft sunlight poured in through the windows, illuminating their new sanctuary. "Can you believe it? This is ours, all ours!" Minako exclaimed, her eyes glinting with excitement. Ami smiled, her heart fluttering at the joy and warmth of the moment. "It feels so right being here with you," she replied, squeezing Minako's hand tightly. However, joy was quickly punctuated by an unexpected twist. Just days after their move, Ami fell ill. It started as a nagging cough, but within 24 hours, it escalated into a fever that left her feeling weak and achy. Minako was worried sick, her mind racing as she watched her girlfriend shiver beneath a mountain of blankets. "You need to take it easy, Ami," Minako said gently, kneeling by the bed where Ami lay, her vibrant energy now replaced by exhaustion. "I’ll take care of you. Whatever you need, I’m right here!" Ami managed a weak smile, her cheeks flushed. "You shouldn’t have to do this, Minako. I can handle it..." "No way! I’m not going to let you suffer alone. I’ve got my nursing skills ready to go!" Minako was determined, practically exuding enthusiasm despite the worry etched on her face. She rummaged through the cabinets, retrieving a thermometer and some medication while her heart thudded with concern. Over the next two days, Minako turned their apartment into a makeshift sickroom. She fussed over Ami like a mother hen, bringing her herbal teas, soups, and making sure she stayed hydrated – often refilling the water bottle piled high next to the ill woman. "You need to eat something more substantial, how about I make your favorite?" Ami's eyes widened at the thought of eating, even as her stomach protested at the best of times. "That sounds nice, but I don’t know if I can—oh! Minako, you shouldn't be doing this!" "You’re right, I should be doing this!" Minako countered, placing a cool cloth on Ami’s forehead, brushing her fingers through the damp fringe of hair matted to her face. Ami sighed in defeat, allowing herself to relax under Minako’s careful ministrations. The warmth of her partner’s love surrounded her like a comforting cocoon, slowly easing the ache in her body. As night fell, the gritty reality of illness faded slightly, giving way to a more tender atmosphere. Minako settled beside Ami, her heart filled with a mix of concern and affection as she recounted funny stories from their earlier adventures, her aim to lift the sickly girl’s spirits. When Minako started weaving tales of their days as Sailor Guardians, including the time they fought off a seemingly invincible enemy with little more than clever wit and improvised tactics, Ami found herself chuckling despite herself. "I can’t believe you took that monster down with a spatula!" Ami laughed weakly, her eyes twinkling even amidst the fever’s haze. Minako grinned proudly, gripping Ami’s hand as if their energies were intertwined. "Anything for the team, and I would do anything for you, even more than for the team!" Ami's heart swelled with warmth at her girlfriend's words. Despite feeling wretched and fatigued, having Minako by her side was a remedy on its own. The sound of her voice filled the room, painting it with hues of love that kept the darkness of sickness at bay. Although Ami was still wrestling with her fever, she realized in that tender twilight moment, filled with laughter and care, how fortunate she was to share this chapter of her life with someone as devoted as Minako.