Freedom
Chapter 1
Wrong House

Slowly Kaoru crept through the halls of the apartment building. She looked from door to door trying to find the door that she had just seen the red-haired man pass through earlier. 13a...13b...13c...13d! That's it! Kaoru said in triumph. She then quietly laid down on the floor and peered under the door. No light. She said to herself. Guess he's going to bed. She then listened, but to her satisfaction the only sound was of a shower in the distance. Knowing it was risky she decided to work quickly.
She opened her purse and took out a short saw. As quietly as she could Kaoru started to cut a hole in the door large enough for her to pass through. It made a lot of noise, but people in the shower rarely heard it. After some time she removed a large rectangle of wood. Once she had crawled through she replaced it. Kaoru breathed a sigh of relief and quickly started to root through the apartment.
Suddenly Kaoru froze as she heard the click of the bathroom door. I didn't even hear the shower shut off. Kaoru thought. Shit! I need to get out of here. With that thought Kaoru made a mad dash to the door.
A scream escaped her lips as she fell to the floor, her arms stretched out in front of her and another pair of arms securely wrapped around her waist.
When she felt the arms begin to remove themselves she once again started to scramble to the door. This time Kaoru shut her eyes tightly as she was flipped onto her back. Two hands held her shoulders down and she could tell that someone had her caught between their knees.
What do you think your doing? a rough yet kind voice demanded.
Slowly Kaoru opened her eyes. The only light came from the window, casting a large shadow over the man's face. Still she could make out the kind smile and humorous glint in his eyes. His shaggy red hair was still wet and dripped onto Kaoru's face. As she looked down to see his position on her she noticed that he only wore a yukata. This was one of the luxuries that she was not able to enjoy.
Do I need to ask you again? He said.
Kaoru snapped.
Then tell me what your doing? He reasoned.
What do you think? Kaoru had no time for his questions. He either needed to let her go or call the police. Either one needed to be done quickly though.
I think that your trying to rob me. He said as if it was the funniest thing ever.
Ding-ding! Wow we got us a smart one here! Johnny tell the man what he's won! Kaoru said in her best game show host voice.
Ignoring her comment he just got up and dragged her over to the kitchen table. Once she was set in a chair he did too. So what's your story?
My story? Just let me go! Kaoru screamed. Seeing that she was no where, she decided to plea to the man. She said as if she meant it to go with her out burst. Listen I need to get back to the house before it gets too late. Any ways, the sooner you let me go the more time I have to get enough money to meet my boss's desired amount.
So you work for someone?
Yes, and if I am back to late and don't have enough money then I'm screwed. Kaoru said with shame.
Who do you work for? he asked as he walked down the hall. Calling over his shoulder he added, Don't run off either.
Kaoru huffed at this and immediately started to stand up. Someone! To tell the truth I don't actually know his name. Never met him. I just know the people under him. Once she was at the door she said, It's not like I have a choice, if that's what you think. The last thing she wanted people to think was that she was really that low of a person.
The thought never even crossed my mind. He said as he laid a hand on her shoulder.
Kaoru shrieked and turned around to be face to face with the red-haired man. his face was pleasant and understanding. He truly believed her. H-How did you do that?
Shaking her head harshly, Kaoru shrugged his hand from her shoulder and turned back around to slip through the door. she didn't get far at all before the red haired man grabbed her around her stomach, hoisted her off the floor and carried her kicking and screaming body back over to the chair.
I thought I told you not to leave. the man said acting as if he really couldn't remember. He then dropped her on the chair. In his hand, he held a long rope.
What's that for? Kaoru asked even though she already knew.
What do you think? He said mimicking her earlier comment.
I think your going to tie me up! Kaoru yelled. she then went into another kicking fit.
There! Now if I was you, then I'd stop moving. It's one of those knots that the more you move the tighter it gets. He said with a smirk as he stood back to admire his work. He then sat down on the seat next to her.
So what do you do? I mean this is a really nice place! Kaoru said as she took in the large room.
Yea it is pretty big. It comes with my job. Deciding on not elaborating on that point the man decided to change the subject. So why haven't you left this gang.
Listen, I would if I could. Don't get the idea that the only reason that I do this is because I enjoy it! What I do is risky! Kaoru snapped. It made her furious when people assumed the worse.
Sorry, I guess stealing would be risky. Always running from the police. He said thoughtfully.
Oh, the police are the least of my worries. There is this man called Hitokiri Battousai! Everyone that knows what he looks like never say. He used to... Kaoru was suddenly cut off by the red-haired man's own words.
...kill his targets so no one lived to tell about it, but nowadays rumor has it that he has sworn off killing. Now his victims are severely hurt and he ties them up and delivers them to the police. Some go crazy or some even die from later events. His words were as if he was telling a well known child hood story. with a quick shake of his head, he snapped out of his trance.
Kaoru gapped at him for a few moments. Who the hell are you? No one outside of the gangs know of him.
The man got to his feet and bowed in front of her. I'm Himura, Kenshin. May I ask your name?

No last name? Kenshin asked.
Why should I tell you? I don't trust you. Kaoru said simply.
Then I'll give you time. Kenshin then reached over to the wall and grabbed the phone. Dialing a number Kenshin placed the phone to his ear. Um, yes, this is Himura, Kenshin and I need some assistance.
Kaoru listened intently to the one sided conversation.
Someone tried to rob me.
Yes I found it humorous also.
Actually sir, he is a she.
Of coarse. I have her tied up.
From what I gather, she is working for a gang by force. He looked at her for a brief moment and then turned back.
Sir I think she needs help.
Actually I think she should be put under my guard. We both know that if anyone could protect her it would be me. I'm sure that they wouldn't want to just let her get away.
Thank you sir. With that Kenshin hung up the phone.
I'm not staying with you. It would just be another prison! Kaoru said as she once again started to twist.
Oh, but you are. Kenshin said flatly. He then started to untie her. Before he stood back up he looked her in the eyes. Please Miss Kaoru, trust me. All I want to do is give you the opportunity to have a better life. Everyone deserves that.
Kaoru stared for a moment into his eyes. All she saw was the truth. He really did just want to help her. With a sigh she extended her hand to him. I am Kamiya, Kaoru.
Kenshin took her hand as a wide smile extended over his face. He then got up and with her hand in his he lead her to a door that connected to the living room.
Where are we going? Kaoru asked as her curiosity took over.
You're going to bed. Kenshin opened the door and allowed her to step inside. Good night. With that the door shut close.
The room was only lit by a small table lamp. The bed was simple with white sheets, pillows, and comforter. It sat in the middle of the back wall with night tables on either side. A window with a seat was on her left showing a beautiful night skyline.
Instead of going to sleep, Kaoru walked over to the window and sat down. She opened it to let in the cold, harsh, night air. As she took in the scenery tears started to blur her vision. The longer I stay gone then the harder my punishment will be. Kaoru thought as the feeling of security melted away and was replaced again by fear.

~*~*~*~*~

Kenshin turned off the lights and laid down on the couch pulling a blanket over himself. His mind started to think of the young women in his bedroom. I can tell that she is scared even though she tries to hide it under her anger. Beneath that anger though, is more. There is a young soft hearted woman there. Maybe she just needs someone to make her feel safe again. Kenshin thought to himself. He didn't know why, but a need to help her, to make her happy was slowly developing with in him.
Slowly his eyes drifted shut.

~*~*~*~*~

Kaoru quietly opened the door and tiptoed into the large living room. She began to breath easier once she saw Kenshin's body asleep on the couch. Hastily, Kaoru tried to make her way to the door.
With a jump Kaoru swiveled around on her heels at the sound of Kenshin's voice.
Took you long enough. He said as he got up from the couch and switched on the light. Where are you going?
If I don't get back then I'm going to be in so much trouble. I'd be lucky if I died. Kaoru had her hand over her heart as she tried to slow its pace.
I thought you trusted me? He pointed out as he walked into the kitchen.
I do! I just... Oh you have no idea! When I was younger I tried to run. I was gone for only two days. When they found me they... Kaoru stopped as her words became drenched with tears. Memories of a cruel life were overpowering the few good ones she had left.
Kenshin looked to see why she had quit speaking when he saw it. All that could be seen from the dark shadow cast over her face was twinkles from tears catching the light. I'm sorry. Please just believe me in that I will do anything in my power to make sure you are safe.
I really want to, but by now I've learned to deny my gut feeling, so I think I should just go. Kaoru turned to the door again.
No! Wait, if I told you more about myself, then I'm sure that you'd trust me, but I'd rather not. I would rather have you seeing me as the man you see me as, instead of what others do. Kenshin said with a sincere tone.
Well that isn't much to believe in, so have a nice life! Kaoru said. She then began to unlock the door.
Kenshin said slowly. I will tell you, just come back here...please Miss Kaoru.
Miss Kaoru? Why such respect? Kaoru asked as she walked over to a stool and sat down.
Because I think that you are someone that deserves it. Kenshin said as if it was as plain as day.
He was quiet for awhile trying to stall his explanation. When he saw that she was thinking of leaving again he began to speak. So you don't know what the Battousai looks like?
No. You said it yourself, no one does...any ways, how did you know? Kaoru asked.
Well I know him personally. Kenshin said with a meaningful glance.
You do? Who is he. Curiosity and fear grabbing her senses.
With a long stall Kenshin said the words he hated most. Battousai is...my past.
Kaoru's mouth fell open as she gazed into the man's eyes. You are that legendary Battousai? Kaoru let a smile spread on her face, but then it was taken by another thought. Are you going to give me to the police?
Were you really forced to work for them? Kenshin asked.
Yes, of coarse. Kaoru said.
Will you help us to get them into jail? He asked again.
Yes, yes, yes! Kaoru said while shaking her head.
Kenshin thought for a while, but then gave Kaoru a wide smile. I wouldn't dare. You'll be free.
Kaoru whispered the word enjoying how it felt to be spoken. She'd dreamt of saying that word, but also learned to forget it. Tears threatened to flow again. Oh thank you, Battousai!
Kenshin snapped, but he soon softened his expression and voice once he saw how scared she had become. I am no longer Hitokiri Battousai. I no longer kill so I should no longer carry that title. I am now just Himura, Kenshin.
I understand Mister Himura. She said with a faint smile.
Trying to reassure her, Kenshin placed his hand over hers. Miss Kaoru, I like the name Kenshin. Not many call me that. It would honor me if you would. Kenshin smiled as she nodded.
Thank you...Kenshin.
The two smiled at each other.
Kaoru thought again, Finally, I will be free.

AN... Ok here is chapter one of many! Please read and review. I like this story and I think I already know how it will end, but it seems the more I write it the more the ending changes. This one was pretty short, but as the story goes, then the chapters get longer. I rated this R for precaution reasons. Now its the occasional curse word, later some blood, but not much, and then later chapters will have abusive scenes., but again not much. Any ways please review! Good or bad, it's all good.
~Dark Kishi~