AAN: An attempt at a quick holiday story, I hope you all enjoy it even if it is late.

Tournament Fest

The group continued on their way, they had won the M-1 grand prix and were on their way to the next cup. After meeting up with Allan again Genki seemed to be more serious lately. Holly had never found out exactly why, but she knew something had changed. The boy no longer tried to strategize and get the monsters to listen to him that way, instead he went by instinct and let them fight as they saw fit most of the time. Though perplexed by his sudden change she hadn't gotten a chance to speak with him about it. She smiled remembering there was a holiday coming up, she knew her band needed some rest and this would be the perfect excuse.

"Hare." she approached the master mind of the group first, "Mid winter festival is coming up, why don't we find a good spot to rest and celebrate it together?" He looked over at her; she could see the wheels of his mind turning.

"That's a good idea Holly. We could use the rest, plus I bet the group would love to celebrate a holiday together." Hare grinned, getting a smile of approval from Holly. The group traveled awhile till they found a beautiful spot by a small waterfall. Hare got the groups attention after their afternoon meal for his announcement.

"Hey guys, Holly and I were thinking we could stop and rest here awhile. Mid-winter festival is coming up and we could all enjoy it together."

"But its warm chi…"

"Doesn't matter, its only warm here cause this area is in the sub tropics. We can still celebrate." Mocchi smiled happily, Genki gave his trademark grin as the other nodded in approval. "Alright it's decided then." Holly smiled then said,

"We should have a big feast, we have a couple of days to gather what we need. I'm sure there are plenty of indigenous plants to make things out of."

"Golem will help gather supplies."

"Yeah, it should be fun." Genki called more then willing to help. Holly used a stick and wrote out a rough list of things they might need. They all picked something to look for.


Once done the group split up to either explore or relax. Holly approached Genki as he rummaged through his bag,

"Genki would you mind if I borrowed that book you have?" He glanced up at her with a smile.

"Not at all." he pulled it out and handed it to her. "Hey Holly… what exactly is mid-winter festival about?" his voice soft and unsure. She gave him a blank stare for a moment then took a seat beside him with a small smile.

"It's about being together with family and friends to celebrate not only making it through another year, but doing so together. It usually falls during the coldest and darkest time of year, making even that time seem better. Atleast it always did in my village. We used to make small things for each other as a way of showing appreciation for the love given to us by are friends and family." she glanced over at him now seeing a smile on his face, his eyes showing recognition and appreciation.

"Thanks, I'm sure that seemed like a silly question."

"No, not at all. There are times I forget you aren't from this world. There's nothing wrong with asking about things you don't understand." he nodded, "Genki… are there any holidays like this in your world." He glanced over to her now,

"Yeah there are some, though for each country and culture it's different. I know the United States and most European countries celebrate Christmas in which people gather on the eve or day of Christmas and exchange gifts as well as being with friends and family. My country does celebrate Christmas but not the way the US or Europe does. Usually there is more of a festival on New Years Eve and we do exchange gifts then." Holly looked thoughtful a moment,

"So your world is a bit more complicated then?"

"Yeah, nothing is ever done simply. Though sometimes I wish it was. Though Christmas is a recognized holiday around the world, its celebrated so many different ways. I can't even remember all the interpretations of it now… we studied it once in school for world cultures but it was awhile ago." he rubbed the back of his head. Holly looked to the book in her lap now, she wasn't sure what to say whenever he spoke of schooling. She was taught by her parents and then her grandparents; who was he taught by? "Something wrong?"

"Oh no, I was just thinking about a few things. Genki this may be an odd question but… what language in your world is this book written in?"

"Huh? Well its written in English, I thought about waiting to get the translated version but I figured since I knew English I might as well use it."

"Translated version?"

"Yeah… my native tongue is Japanese. Its quite a bit different then English, but since I was taught both I speak both fluently."

"So I speak English then?"

"Yes, since that's what I'm using now." She stayed silent a moment. Genki watched her unsure of what she was thinking.

"Genki… would you speak your native language for me? I'd like to hear it." He looked surprised a moment then nodded.

"Anata wa ryouri ga jouzu desu ne, Horii!" he spoke with a smile, though he knew she wouldn't even recognize her name in his language he had used the standard pronunciation of the kanji for her anyway. She got a perplexed look on her face then asked,

"What'd you say?" he chuckled,

"I said 'Holly, you are a good cook!'" she blinked at him,

"Wait you said my name in that?"

"Yes, in Japanese your name would be pronounced Horii. Atleast that's the pronunciation from the standard kanji spelling of it. Kanji is the most common and simplest form of writing." he grabbed a stick and wrote the kanji for her name. "This would be the kanji for your name." he then wrote his beside hers, "and this is mine." she immediately noticed he wrote going down and from right to left. She looked thoughtful a moment then took the stick from him and wrote her name in kanji seeing if she could do it. He grinned at her,

"Your native tongue is so different…"

"I'm sure it is for you." he nodded, "would you like to know the meaning of your name in kanji?" she gave him an odd look. "Look the spelling of my name in kanji is broken into two parts, Gen and Ki. My name roughly translates to energetic and full of life. The Kanji the way I wrote it for your name also has two meanings. Depending on the kanji letter used it can differ." she nodded then,

"So what does my name mean in kanji?"

"Well the way I wrote it, it means make good or compensate and clever or adventurous." she gave him a confused look then smiled.

"Not what I was expecting…"

"Perhaps but it does suit you. You are clever and adventurous and you do make things good or compensate for the rest of us." he smiled,

"Yeah I guess I do." Genki rose stretching a bit,

"Well let me know if you have anymore questions. I want to see what I can find around here. Enjoy the book." He grinned at her making her smile.

"Thank you… I will ask if I want to know more." He nodded and headed off, she watched him go and began to think about what he'd just taught her and what else might be so different about his world. After a bit she shook her head and began to read.


Genki wondered around for a few hours, finding some of the things heed needed to get for the feast but he also found a tree with unusual wood. With a grin he broke off a piece form one of its branches and sat down to test it. Biting it he found it to be soft. Smiling he took out his pocketknife and cut the bark off. He then began to whittle it into the shape he wanted. Once he had that he put it in his pocket with a sigh and put his knife away. He rarely used this knife but he was glad he had it with him now. Seeing the sun dropping in the sky he headed back. When he got back to the edge of the forest he could already smell the wonderful aroma of Holly's good cooking. He put his things down in the designated spot, and noticed the others had found what they needed as well. All that remained now was the fish and meat. Holly smiled seeing him bring his part back; though she would be doing a lot of work for the feast she appreciated the help in gathering things. Soon everyone was fed and happy, they relaxed talking quietly or in Holly's case reading. Genki smiled seeing her still reading that book, Hare noticed it too.

"So Genki my boy, what is that book about? She seems to like it a lot." he glanced over at Hare.

"Its about a woman who become a knight and saves her kingdom. That's just the first book so it's mostly about her trials as a page learning to become a knight."

"Trials huh?"

"Yeah, she went through a lot more then the guys mainly because she had to disguise herself as a boy and then a man as women were not allowed to be knights in that realm. She does change the kingdoms mind though after she saves them all and its revealed that she's a woman."

"Well that's some storyline…"

"So she fakes being a man huh? And no one found out?" Tiger asked gruffly,

"Actually a few guys knew about it before it was revealed, finding out various ways. But it's was very few. And one of them was the prince, which helped her out greatly." Genki smiled,

"She'll finish it then… Holly has always loved books." Suezo stated with a look of amusement, Genki wasn't too surprised by this. Holly seemed the type to like a good book.

*Too bad she can't come to my world… she'd love some the books there. * The group finally tired out and went to sleep. Holly seemed tempted to finish the book that night but made herself stop as her eyes were growing tired anyway.


While the others slept Genki pulled out his piece of wood and began to carve it with his knife. He wasn't sure he could finish it but he wanted to get a jump on it before going to sleep. By the time morning came he was asleep, his carving hidden away. Holly slept in a little before rising to make breakfast. It didn't take long for the others to rise as well. They knew the next day Holly would be working hard on their feast but today they would all get to relax again. As the group split up again, Holly pulled Genki aside to ask him a few questions.

"Say Genki this book is part of a series right?" Suezo heard Holly's question and could only roll his eye. He knew Genki would be in for a long discussion about books. Taking advantage of the distraction he hopped off not wanting to be in another conversation about owning a library some day. He always found her dream amusing though it was earnest enough.

"Yeah it is why?" he seemed confused by the question.

"Do you have the rest?"

"I do… but I only have part of them with me. I do have the rest of the lioness saga though. The others in the series don't focus on her anymore, instead they introduce new characters on top of having the old ones there."

"I see… would you mind…"

"You want the rest of the lioness saga right?" she looked at him shocked a moment then nodded.

"You more then welcome to read it. Let me know when you finish that book and I'll give you the next one." she smiled to him, it was obvious he'd made her day if not her month. She gave into an impulse and kissed his cheek.

"Thank you so much!"

"Your…welcome…" he was in shock, that had never happened before and it led to his face flushing as he struggled to speak again. "I guess you really like books huh?"

"I love them… they have so many stories to tell and so many new worlds to discover. Someday I would like to have a library of my own." Genki could tell she really was a bookworm by the way she spoke. He'd though cooking was her only interest until now.

"A library huh? Sounds like you'll have a lot of work ahead."

"Yes… but it'll be well worth it. You enjoy books too right?"

"Yes I enjoy them. Though I don't read that often. Its rare I find a series I like now days."

"So you enjoyed this one then?"

"Yeah, it was very well written and holds your attention. This author seems to be good at that in general. I've read several of her books. The immortals saga comes after this one. Though the lioness is mentioned she is not a main character anymore. The new focus is on a young wild magic mage named Diane for short. The one after that is called the protector of the small and it focuses on Keledry, another girl becoming a knight. And the last saga is the trickster's saga, which focuses on the lioness's daughter Ali. Though they all tie in with each other at some point they cover new ground as well."

"Wow it does cover a lot of ground. So many new characters and such a long series." she paused thinking, "are they all written this well?"

"Yes, the writing style stayed the same through out the series. Which made it very enjoyable."

"I hope some day I can read them all…"

"I hope the same thing Holly. If I can ever go back to my world for just one day, and come back here, I'll bring the series with me."

"I'd like that… if that could happen."

"Perhaps we can find a way someday. Until then I can tell you about them, atleast all that I can remember."

"I'd enjoy that thank you." he smiled seeing she was very happy with his decision to be of help. Holly rose to go finish her book while Genki went off to take a relaxing swim.


When he return he found that she was finished with the book and had moved on to taking an inventory of what they had for the feast. He hung up his shirt and hat to dry, having washed them, and made his way over to her.

"Everything in order?" he asked as she checked through the herbs they had on hand.

"Almost, I'm missing a couple of herbs."

"Are they important?"

"They added to it but they are not the main ones no. But overall all of them are important to get the correct flavor." He sweated a little, he should have known better than to ask that.

"So they build the flavor then."

"Simply put, yes." Genki saw her jot down a note then sighed, he knew she would go looking for those herbs. "I'm going to see if I can find them."

"Mind if I come? I'm not really doing anything right now."

"You can if you want." she turned to him; it was now that she noticed his bare chest. She flushed slightly as she turned to grab his book. Genki walked to his back and dug out the next book for her, handing it to her as he took the one back. She smiled to him though he cheeks remained tinted. She noticed the water dripping from his shirt and sighed. Though he'd washed it there was some obvious work to be done on it. But she would leave that till later. The pair walked off together in search of the herbs she needed.


It took a few hours of walking to find the final herb. Each had its own environment it preferred; luckily all of those specific areas were within walking distance. Genki was relieved they found the last one; they stopped at a spring for a drink and a short break. Genki found some apples for them to eat, Holly seemed very grateful he had accompanied her now. Though he knew she could handle herself, he'd still have felt bad for making her go alone. She never liked being alone even if she had done it before. She never complained though, but the whole group had seen it. Holly found herself looking over the firm muscles in Genki's chest and abdomen. Shaking herself from her daydream she blushed realizing she had been wondering about things she shouldn't. Though young, he was indeed in great shape; most likely due to the constant fighting and training. Holly could picture him growing into a very attractive man, as he got older. * I never realized how fit he is until now… then again I usually don't see him with his shirt off for this long. Holly pull yourself together this is no time to be fantasizing about your friend * as she scolder herself Genki spoke to her.

"Holly we should get going." though in a daze still she nodded, rising too fast she stumbled. Genki easily caught her though, letting her rest against him. He frowned in concern. "Are you feeling alright?"

"I'll be fine… I just stood up too fast…" he continued to hold her waiting for her to feel better. Holly's breath had caught when he had pulled her into his arms. She was glad he hadn't noticed though. Her hand rested on his chest as she tried to steady herself. The feel of his toned muscle made her feel nervous inside. After she regained her balance he let her go, much to her relief and disappointment. *Why do I feel so strongly all the sudden? * She pondered that she followed him back. Genki had noticed her strange behavior by now but wasn't sure what it was about. She had been dizzy so at this point he was thinking she might be ill.

* Maybe she shouldn't do all the work tomorrow. After all if she is ill then she won't feel very well after doing all that work. If she's not sick then… what was that about?… *


He was left to wonder though as they near their destination. By now the others were back, Tiger and Hare were fighting as usual while Golem and Mocchi could only watch. Suezo was off looking through a perverted magazine again, where he got it no one knew. Holly sighed and walked over to him. Within seconds she snatched it away the walked to the fire.

"Holly!"

"Suezo I told you not to get such perverted things." She threw it into the first making Suezo cry.

"No…. not all the beautiful pictures!" the other guys could only sweat drop as he bawled over this book. Mocchi stood there with a question mark over his head but wasn't sure he should ask since Holly was obviously upset. Genki decided it was best to leave that be. He got some water for the stew she would make then asked quietly for her sewing kit. She stared at him a moment but gave it to him. Though he received some strange looks he went to the tree and took his shirt down. He then set about repairing it the best he could. * I wouldn't be fair to make her do this… not after everything else she has to do * after dinner he was still working on his shirt. He felt a hand on his arm and realized Holly was sitting next to him.

"Let me see it please." he handed it to her with out a second thought. She inspected his work but found that the section he was currently working on needed some work. She gently took the needle and thread from his hand and began to sew that part. "Sometimes you need a different angle and a different style of threading. This hole was far too large for what you were using." her voice gentle and instructive at the same time.

"Thanks… I was hoping to spare you the work but… I only know basics when it comes to cook and sewing."

"That's sweet of you. I enjoy working on such things though, so it's never a burden." he seemed mildly surprised then nodded. The monsters were watching the pair now and knew Holly wouldn't let him refuse the help. He watched her work learning how she sewed stronger stitches then the basics he was doing. Once done, she smiled and handed his shirt back to him. He took it with a smile and put it back on. The group talked for a while before heading to bed. Genki made sure the others were asleep before he worked on his carving, he some how finished it before Holly was to get up.


He got a few hours of sleep before getting up himself. Rising he walked to where she was and helped with the morning meal. Once everyone was fed the group split up to enjoy themselves while Holly began working on the feast. Genki sighed and walked to where she was working.

"Holly… would you like some help?" his voice soft and tentative. She glanced over at him; something about the way he looked at her made her heart melt. She smiled to him,

"I'd love some thank you." He took a seat next to her, she handed him some vegetables and a knife. With out a word he set about peeling them, knowing she needed this done before anything else. Though it was little more than busy work on his part, anything to keep her from doing all the work was a victory to him. Genki followed her instructions, knowing basics this time around helped a great deal. When he struggled to chop the veggies the way she did he felt her come up behind him. A blush tinted his cheeks as he felt her hands on his guiding him.

"Just let the knife rock back and forth, just like this." she guided his hand moving the veggies forward with the other. "Once you have the motion down its easy to get faster." she smiled, she seemed to enjoy teaching him new things. Something he hadn't noticed before.

"Thank you Holly." she simply smiled in return, once she knew he had the motion she let go and moved back to what she was doing, but not before Genki had noticed the aroma of lavender that drifted from her comforting form. A part of him felt disappointed at the loss of contact but then he figured he could get close to her again some other time. He wasn't the only one that wanted that though. Holly had enjoyed being so close to him, and having him cook along side her was the best thing he could have done for her. The delicious aroma of the food drew the others back to the campfire; each deciding not to be bested by Genki and offered their help as well. Holly just laughed,

"Oh you guys… thanks so much." she let each help; not wanting a fight to break out. Once they were finished they all smiled to Holly, she had still done most of the work.

"Thanks for the food!" the boys chorused making her giggle at this silliness. The guys ate a little slower than normal, enjoying the well-prepared meal. Each of them taking pride in having helped her with this in some way. Holly's gaze wondered to the only human male of the group more than once. She really appreciated how sweet he was being lately and had enjoyed his company. But something more than that had happened, she felt very attracted to him lately. Though she had no idea what had changed she accepted it as a good thing. Now she wondered about him though. * Does he notice me that way? Or is he just being a gentleman and helping out so much because he sees me do all the work around here? * She couldn't answer that in the group context but she planned to speak with him alone. The group had a fun night over all, telling stories, singing, and dancing. Genki had created a game each liked, though it derived form beer pong he adapted it so it would seem more kid friendly. Mocchi enjoyed throwing the small ball he had made into the can. But it was Holly who surprised them all when she was the only one to make it in from ten feet away. Genki just smiled as she blushed form all the attention. * Wow she's got really good hand eye coordination. Maybe she would be good at pool or basketball too. * He wasn't sure but he would try it later. He had seen a pool table in the tavern side of an inn they stayed in but hadn't thought to ask her to play at the time. * Maybe I will ask her the next time we stay at one. * He glanced over to see Hare stumbling a bit, he had some how obtained some wine and had offered it to the others. Golem and Mocchi were already asleep when Genki smiled to Holly. She looked slightly flushed, and seemed to be having trouble focusing. He wondered if she had too much to drink or if she was just really tired. * No Holly has always been very responsible I doubt she drank that much. * He rose carefully knowing the alcohol was affecting him as well though he hadn't had much. He knew all too well that wine was stronger that beer. He walked over to Holly and smiled to her. She turned to him, noticing his presence.

"Holly would you mind taking a walk with me?" his voice soft but he knew she heard it. It took a moment for her brain to register the question but she nodded and rose. She stumbled a little making him move to catch her again. He helped her up and offered his arm to her. She smiled and accepted it as she walked along side him. Tiger watched them go with a smirk * it's about time kid. * His attention shifted as Hare half fell on him.

"Grrr… get off me."

"Oh come nnnow… we arrre buddiesss riiight? *Hiccup* "

"I am not your 'buddy', now get off me you drunk idiot." Tiger knocked him away but Hare wasn't yet done.

"That wasssn't nice…." he tried to stand but couldn't manage it. Tiger rolled his eyes hoping the moron would fall asleep soon. Suezo just laughed from were he was annoying Tiger more.

"God I hate it when you two drink."


Genki walked slowly with her knowing she indeed had a little too much. * Perhaps its not the best time for a serious conversation then. I don't want her to say something and not remember it. * He knew the girl was easily embarrassed and figured she would be stressed out enough realizing her mistake in the morning. He brought her to a clearing to sit down; the moon was in front of them next to a small mountain range. The stars sparkling like diamonds in the night sky. Holly smiled,

"Its so beautiful…" he smiled to her, atleast she could talk. He chuckled,

"It is. I figured you'd enjoy seeing it." she glanced over at him, he could see hidden exhaustion in her eyes but he also saw something else. Though he knew she was still under the influence he decided to give her his gift anyway. "I know we couldn't afford to get gifts for each other so I wanted to do something for you."

"That's sweet Genki, you didn't have to. I know you guys appreciate me."

"I know, but I wanted to anyway."

"Is that why you tried to sew your own shirt and helped me cook?" she asked, see seemed confused.

"Partially… though I wasn't very good at either." his voice sounded as though he was frustrated with himself. She gave him a smiled, he hand come to rest on his shoulder.

"Its alright, I appreciate the effort. Besides… I enjoy helping you and the others. And teaching you was fun." he smiled now. Reaching into his pocket her pulled out the carved figure. He took her hand and placed it in her palm. She blinked looking at the carving then smiled. "You made this yourself?"

"Yes, I think you know who it is."

"Yes, it's the lioness." she looked it over amazed at the sheer detail he had put into it. He had everything right, from her special sword to her shield and clothing, even her facial expression. "Its beautiful Genki! Thank you so much!" she hugged him then, he eagerly returned it. His hand caressing her back, enjoying her being so close and open with him.

"One more thing Holly. If you enjoy the series so much then its yours." she pulled back looking startled.

"Genki as you sure? I mean they are yours…"

"Its alright, I want you to have them. Its obvious you enjoy them a great deal. Even more then I did." he smiled his hand moving to her side making her blush.

"Alright, if you are sure. Thank you! It means so much to me." he smiled, pulling her into another hug.

"I know. And I'm sure you'll have that library some day. This will help get you started." she giggled,

"You are so sweet." she pulled back again but this time her eyes filled with joy. She leaned forward giving him a soft peck on the cheek.

"I'm glad you like it." he blushed,

"But… I don't have anything for you in return…" she looked slightly dejected now.

"Yeah you do. You give if to me every day." she looked at him quizzically.

"What are you talking about?"

"Holly the love you show for everyone you give freely. I really appreciate it and I also appreciate you teaching me even though I'm sure I have frustrated you on many days." she blushed slightly,

"But if I do it all the time then its not that special is it?"

"Does it have to be?"

"I guess not…" she looked at the night sky then smiled, "it's getting late…"

"We'll get back then."


He stood, but soon found her struggling to stand. Still slightly tipsy she lost her balance and ended up in his arms again. Her hand coming to rest on his chest and she leaned against him. "You alright?"

"Yeah… I guess I had too much to drink…" her face lit with a blush as her hand caressed his chest. His breath caught with this touch.

"Its alright… its not something you do that often. No harm done."

"Yes but I shouldn't be so irresponsible…"

"Holly you are always responsible. Enjoying yourself one night isn't going to hurt. Besides you aren't completely drunk or anything. Just a little tipsy, its alright." he stroked her back comfortingly. "If it makes you feel better, I won't let the others know you had a little too much. Besides I doubt they will be awake before afternoon as plastered as they were." she looked up at him now, a smile gracing her lips.

"Thank you… I'd appreciate that. I don't think I'd hear the end of it if they knew." he nodded, Holly stood up a bit more now, she caught his eyes with her own. She saw calmness in them she had missed before. Unable to stop herself she leaned in and let her lips meet his in a soft kiss. Genki's eyes widened but soon he returned the kiss. The couple made out for a few minutes, long hidden emotions coming to the surface. Genki panted as he watched her curiously. He'd never expected her to do that, but he was glad for it.

"Holly…"

"I'm sorry… I just…"

"Its alright. You care for me don't you?" she looked over at him her eyes still glaze from the alcohol, but he could see love in them.

"Yes, I do care for you. I… I love you…" he smiled, he then leaned forward again whispering.

"I love you as well Holly." his voice very soft, he could see in her eyes that she had heard him clearly. He met her in another kiss, holding her up as he did. Her knees threatening to give out as she felt the passion he had for her. When the kiss ended Holly felt like she was in a daze, she knew what she wanted and it wasn't going back to camp right now.

"Genki… lets stay here… for awhile longer, please?" he smiled,

"Sure Holly. If you get tired let me know."

"I'll be fine for awhile." she leaned against him, enjoying his arm around her. She felt safe by his side, and knew he would always be there for her. "Genki how long… have you felt his way about me?" He could tell the alcohol was starting to where off now.

"A while… more than a few months. What about you?"

"Probably longer than you. I noticed it before you left." he nodded his understanding.

"Holly… do you want to be together?"

"Yes I do. I wasn't sure if you…"

"I do. I love being by your side." she smiled to him again. He felt her hand slip up to his chest again, lightly caressing him through his shirt. He smiled to her, a smile gracing her own lips. in the next moment she slid her hand under his shirt caressing the flesh of his chest and stomach. He was shocked for a moment then shook his head. She gave him a questioning glance but soon found that he was removing his shirt. "If you wanted to touch all you had to do was ask." she blushed noticing a tint on his cheeks as well. He set his shirt aside as her hand explored the bare skin before her. His mouth connecting with hers again pulling her into another passionate kiss. She felt his hands on her sides caressing lightly, a shiver ran through her. She sighed softly against him, he took advantage of this to slip his tongue into her mouth. She eagerly accepted it letting her own tongue dance with his. After a bit they parted to catch their breath it was then that Holly noticed something. Genki flushed seeing her eyes trail over him.

"Sorry… I didn't mean to excite you so."

"Its alright, its bound to happen."

"Perhaps… but still I don't want to give you false hope."

"Holly, you really think I'm expecting you to bed me?" she noticed a sincere look in his eyes then shook her head.

"No, but that doesn't mean I should tease you."

"you are hardly teasing me." he smiled, his hand stoping to rest on her hip. "do you wish to stop then?" she looked at him, he seemed concerned and confused.

"no… I… I want…" she shook her head again. He saw the distress in her eyes and pulled her into an embrace.

"its alright. please, tell me what you want Holly." she hesitated again but finally said.

"I want you to touch me too…" her voice so soft he barely heard it, he could tell she was embarrassed and somewhat scared. when he didn't recoil she glanced up into his eyes.

"if that's what you want, then I will. I just want you to be sure of this." he felt her hand move down to caress his belly again.

"I'm sure Genki." he nodded, his hands moving up her sides again. He felt her shiver as she closed her eyes. His hands moved to caress her upper chest and stomach but he waited before touching her breast. When he saw the look in her eyes he already knew he had permission. He let his hands very softly move over her breast, eliciting a moan of pleasure from her. All her exhaustion was forgotten in this wondrous moment. After a bit he had her vast and tunic off of her; the white shirt she always wore the only thing between him and her delicate flesh. He didn't ask her to remove it though, he wouldn't, if she wanted to do so she would do it on her won and tell him to. He gasped as Holly's hand made its way down to rub his growing bulge. * Oh… now you are teasing Holly… * he didn't voice it but he did get her back by unbuttoning the top button her he shirt so he could kiss and nip her neck. Holly moaned again she reached up and took his hands leading them to the next button. he took the hint and began to undo her shirt. Has he did he felt her shiver again; he moved to kiss the base of her neck. After removing her shirt his hands found there way to her sides and belly, caressing her soft skin. After a few more minutes they moved up to play with her breasts again. He felt her pull back seeing he shake her head. "Genki… I…" he moved his hands back to her sides and spoke gently to her.

"Its alright. What is it Holly?"

"Can we stop I… I don't want things to get too out of hand…" he could sense fear in her voice, he kissed her softly and stopped. His hands now just resting on her sides. "I'm sorry… I shouldn't have…"

"Its alright, if you aren't ready for anything else that's fine."

"But… I aroused you… and now you…" her eyes drifted to the tent in his pant for a moment then looked away as her face became heated with a blush.

"Its alright. I can deal with that. I'm not going to force you to go any further." he could tell she was grateful. "Do you want to go back to camp?" she nodded, he sighed. "Alright let me handle this and we can head back. Just stay here alright?" she nodded, looking down at her lap in embarrassment.


He wondered off to deal with his erection as she thought about what just happened. Picking up her shirt she put it back on. * I can't believe I did that… is it cause of the alcohol? Or perhaps my hormones? I'm glad he stopped but still it's not fair to him. Leading him on like that, I'm sure he thought he'd get to do something… * she pulled her tunic back on and then put her vest on. * I really should make it up to him some how. I'm sure he's disappointed… I just can't do… what he desires… * she glanced over seeing him coming back. Thanks to her efforts it hadn't taken him long to deal with his problem. He helped her up letting her lean against him.

"Genki… I'll make this up to you… I shouldn't have led you on like that…"

"Holly… its alright really. I don't mind; I'm just glad you trust me and know that if you want me to stop I will."

"It doesn't mean I should be teasing you like that."

"Maybe but its not so bad. I'd rather endure some teasing then to not get the chance to show you my feelings. I don't expect you to bed me or do anything like that. I was a little surprised you trusted me enough to let me touch you like that. But I'm grateful for that trust." he seemed content for the moment; though it confused her she left it alone. She knew it was impossible to tell what he was thinking.

"I'm not even sure why I did that myself…" he glanced over at her noticing she looked ashamed.

"Holly, don't feel bad. You did nothing wrong." she looked back at him startled; obviously she didn't expect he would notice. "Maybe the reason you did it is because you want to be closer to me and trust me fully. Just like I trust you."

"Are you saying you'd strip if I asked you to?" she blushed profusely as she asked making him chuckle. A blush lit his face as well,

"I would if you wanted me to. I trust you, and I know you won't hurt me Holly. I have nothing to hide from you." he noticed her grow uncomfortable, "and I realize you would never ask that of me."

"What if I was drunk?" her bangs fell forward now.

"That's a different story. I would only do as you ask if you are sober and know what you are asking."

"Thank you…"

"Holly do you trust me?" she looked over at him then nodded. "Then you should know I would never take advantage of you."

"I know… I… I just am not sure what I want right now. I know what my body wants…"

"I know. I feel the same way, but I will also listen to my heart Holly. I hope you do the same." she watched him a moment then smiled.

"You make things so simple at times."

"I try to. Would you like to stay with me tonight? I promise nothing else will happen."

"I would love to. Just as long as Suezo never see it."

"I don't think he'll be up for awhile after we get up." she nodded, the pair walking over to enjoy a good nights rest together. Each hoping this was the start of a deeper relationship. Holly knew that this was her favorite holiday she had ever spent with them. Genki had given her the best present of all, his love and trust, and that she would always cherish.


AAN: well took longer than it should have but its finally done… though completely late lol. Anyway I hope you all enjoyed it!