I do not own "Fruits Basket", it's characters or plot – nor have I any basis in the Zodiac legend. This is pure fiction. Though I've finished the series, this takes place 2 years after when the show ended. *enjoy*

** Appearances **

They walked home in silence. Tohru wasn't sure exactly what had changed his mood, but asking him in his current state of calm anger wouldn't get her anywhere. She made a mental note to ask Shigure later.

When they were almost home, Kyo tugged Tohru's elbow, stopping her.

"Hey . . . I'm sorry for today." He kicked at the dirt. He was never that great at apologies, but she held back her smile – not wanting to interrupt him.

Because she kept silent, he went on. "That guy there was another zodiac member." Tohru's mind started screaming questions, she tried to make her face calm.

"He's been gone for awhile, and I guess I was just surprised to see him. I should have known he'd be there, but somehow I . . . forgot . . . "

He turned his eyes to hers, and smiled slightly. She panicked.

"I know you're about to explode, so I'll tell you before you go crazy. He's the rat – his name is Yuki. And, in relation to the zodiac, we are . . . not on good terms."

Tohru started bouncing on her heels in excitement. "Oh! Well, I mean, is he really? Why can't you get along now? Where was he? Did you grow up together – he looks the same age as us. Is he cute as a rat? I mean – I bet he's got a little nose and whiskers! " And on she went.

Sometimes her innocence is enough to keep me from going crazy. Kyo thought, scratching his neck. They walked the rest of the way to the house with Tohru asking every question she could think of regarding this new zodiac member.

Kyo would have told her to stop – if she was anyone but herself. He didn't like that she had such an interest in Yuki, but knew it was nothing to get jealous over. She was Tohru – and naturally polite and curious and excited about everything.

Still, it was hard not to feel jealous when it came to Yuki . . .

oOoOo

I didn't want to go to the funeral. I had to. As much as I hated Akito, to not go to her funeral would have been like spitting the Goddess in the face.

So I went. But I didn't think she'd be there.

Or maybe I did.

Stupid, huh? Of course she'd be there. Of course she'd want to be supportive.

Of course she'd be with him.

It's probably better. He needs her and she . . . she's good for him. She's good for anyone.

But it's better on my own anyway. It always has been. It's nice to see her, even if for an instant, and so far away.

And she was wearing those ribbons in her hair.

At least it's something . . .