Author's Notes: Thanks for your reviews. I'm grateful you took the time to
give me some comments on this. I'm also trying to give this a wider point
of view, I mean, play with all the characters, not only the main four.
Which it's gonna prove to be difficult, considering I'm a newbie here. Anyways, thanks for your support.
(checking up chapter 1.) Why in God's green earth my pc changed Shigure to Shigeru??!!! I'll have to ask my big sis to fix this, it changes it automatically!!!! Thanks Li-chan for pointing this out. I mean, it's logical, why would Ayame call the Inu 'Gure' if it wasn't his name...
"Make a Wish"
by Shinigami's Voice
Part Two: Drifting Away
{..Outside the world continues whirling,
it's only you the one locked into yourself
while others take the chance you missed
when trying and play a game you can't play...}
A petite figure, a blond one, bounced around the gardens of the house, the skirt flaring merrily with every step.
A giggle escaped the person, even though there was a hand placed over the mouth, in order not to be heard.
One step more, just one more...
"Momiji?"
Orange eyes turned to watch questioningly the boy-in-girls outfit.
"Ahhhhhh!!! Kisa, you're no fun!" -the blond boy lamented- "I was about to come and give you the fright of your life"
"You could be heard from miles ago" -the serious girl shrugged- "Specially here where is so quiet" -the little tiger added.
"Aa, I know. But I needed someone to play with!! I'm so bored, and I want to have fun" -the boy sat beside her- "I can't find anyone. Hatori's at the Main House, and he seems very busy lately. Kagura is cooking her famous onigiri, and I thought we could play something, ne?" -while speaking, the Usagi had been adjusting the pink bow in the back of his skirt and the floral hat he was wearing.
"Lets go find Haru" -the yellow-haired girl proposed, standing from the grass.
"Do you think he'll want to play with us?! Make him play with us, Kisa, he always listens to you!!"
"I'll try" -the girl under the Tora curse replied, barely smiling.
Both young Sohmas went into the halls as they searched for the white-and- black haired teen, who happened to appear around a corner ten minutes after their little raid.
"Haru" -Kisa smiled openly this time as she came to stand beside the taller Sohma.
"Ask him, Kisa, ask him" -without waiting more, the other boy hurried.
"What is it, Kisa? Momiji?" -the serious teen inquired.
"Aaa...we just wanted to ask you if you weren't too busy...would you stay and play with us?" -the orange-eyed girl pleaded.
"I see. But I was about to...to..." -Haru turned his eyes upwards, wondering what exactly he was about to do.
"Forgot again?" -Momiji asked with an amused smile and giggling.
"Hn. I guess so" -the boy shrugged.
"Come on, Haru, it'll be tons of fun" -the Usagi boy prompted, practically bouncing in that hyper way of his- "There's no one around and we're bored. Hatori, Ayame, Hiro and everyone else in the whole world is at the main house, and we're about to..."
"Why?" -the Cow asked, no real interest in his voice.
"We don't know" -Kisa answered- "Hatori is been there since very early, and I can sense...."
Haru looked down at the wistful girl.
"What is it?" -he bent a tiny bit to catch on the soft words.
"I don't really now. But everyone is so tense, and worried. Even Ayam-"
"Ayame is weird" -Haru objected before she went on.
"Even he has been quiet today" -the girl finished.
Hatsuharu turned his sight towards the main building, expression firm but suspicious.
"I better go" -he said, starting towards there.
"Are we playing spies and bandits?" -Momiji smiled- "Great! We're going too!"
"You better don't" -the teenager admonished.
"But, um, Haru" -Kisa timidly said- "If we don't go with you, you'll get lost again.."
She had a point.
***
"Shigure? Yes, it's me...Don't call me that, Shigure...Fine, fine" -Hatori addressed the person in the other side of the line.
"Is everything ready?.........Yes, they know...Ayame says so...Call him all those pet names when you're not talking to me, Shigure" -the Doctor suppressed a heavy sigh.
"Has he told you something? No? I understand....Like a protective cloak he adopts....I'll take care of that....Well then, I'll be there to pick him up in about 15 minutes...."
There was another series of words from the Inu.
"So, you're not telling the others yet? Okay, if that's what he wants...still, I don't think it's a good idea...Yes, the Mouse has always been both too proud and too drawn...."
***
Shigure hung up, and walked out of his study. The sweet smell of hotcakes filled the house.
"Breakfast if ready!" -Tohru announced as she placed the syrup bottle on the table.
"Oh, my dear, I suppose this is how Heaven must smell!!" -Shigure complemented as he took his usual seat.
Clad in his uniform, hair still shooting in every angle, Kyou came down the stairs.
"And my milk?" -was his greeting.
"Here" -the girl took the carton and started pouring it in the Cat's glass.
"Without the glass was just fine" -the feline boy commented, sitting down.
"But, Kyou-kun, I just wanted to help" -the Honda girl replied in her humble manner.
"I know" -the boy gave her a little smile.
Shigure's eyes shone with mischievousness, but before he could say anything, the empty milk carton hit him square in the face.
"Shut up" -Kyou grumped.
"Owwwww" -the man rubbed his nose, whining dramatically- "What a mean, mean little kitty. I didn't say anything to begin with!"
"But you were about to" -Kyou replied smugly.
"Oh, such injustice towards such beauty shouldn't be allowed in this world" -the Inu complained.
Before the Cat could punch the older Sohma, Yuki's entrance cut the scene.
"Ohayo, Honda-san. Ohayo, Shigure" -the boy greeted politely, taking his place.
"Late as usual, Rat" -his rival commented.
"Nosy as usual, Cat" -Yuki replied.
"Ohayo, Yuki-kun" -Tohru spoke before the quarrel got to kicks and fists, something pretty normal to say the truth- "Did you sleep well?"
"Aa" -the gray-haired Sohma nodded, pouring some syrup on his plate.
Shigure stuffed some food in his mouth, noting to himself that Yuki wasn't too fancy of syrup. The teen continued pouring the brown liquid, and then proceeded to just play with the food.
"We'll have a math test today" -suddenly Tohru said- "I'm so nervous about it!"
"Gee, if you've studied like for years for that test" -Kyou replied, his own dish already empty.
"Yes, but I'm still nervous. What about you, Kyou-kun?"
"Oh, please, Tohru-kun, the Cat couldn't care less" -Shigure smiled.
"Just for YOU to know, I've been studying, stupid Inu" -the red-haired youngster replied indignantly.
"Oh, that's so nice of you" -Tohru clapped her hands, happy to hear that. She had always wanted for Kyou to improve at school.
The boy could be brilliant, if he weren't so cat-like lazy.
Secretly, Kyou had promised himself to start doing better, just to please Tohru. And to show the Rat he was no one's fool.
"Yuki-kun is ready for the test, I suppose" -the long-haired girl smiled- "He's always ready"
Yuki looked up at his name's sound. He blinked twice, a bit confused. He hadn't been paying attention, but he nodded anyways.
"Ne, Rat, what are you planning? For us to get late? Hurry up" -Kyou said gruffly, seeing how the Mouse's food was intact.
The Cat took notice of his cousin's absentminded state, and furrowed his brows in suspicion.
"Didn't Yuki-kun like his breakfast?" -Tohru wondered sadly.
"Honda-san, please, how can you possible think that?" -Yuki smiled reassuringly- "Everything you prepare is just delicious"
"Are you just being your nasty, cocky self, or what the hell is going on, Rat?" -Kyou asked, mild angry at Yuki making Tohru sad.
"Nothing" -Yuki shrugged.
{..There's no real reason to pretend..
but if pretending is all you know....
there's no real reason not to pretend....
when you can see that no one cares...}
"Look at the time, you guys better start running" -Shigure cut in, glancing at the clock on the wall.
"Oh no, the first class is math!!" -Tohru exclaimed, standing and taking the empty dishes to the kitchen in a flash.
Kyou moved and started helping her.
Shigure fixed his gaze on the other teen.
"Ha-san is coming for you" -he commented calmly.
"I know. I have everything ready in my room" -Yuki replied matter-of- factly, drinking his orange juice.
"Good. He'll probably arrive when Tohru-kun and Kyou-kun are on their way. Do you want Tori-san to explain them that----"
"No. Lets just said Hatori-san is here for a little medical check up" -the Mouse answered.
"Ah, Yuki-kun is not used to lie" -the Dog said with a small smile.
"Then you lie. You're used" -the boy agreed.
"I'll be going with Tori-san and you" -the writer declared.
"Hn" -Yuki shrugged. That wasn't reassuring at all.
"Kuso nezumi, are you coming or what?" -the Cat called from the porch.
Right then, a car stopped some feet ahead, and the occupant started walking towards the entrance.
"Stupid Dog, you have visits" -Kyou said as he saw Hatori approaching.
Shigure and Yuki appeared at the main doors, but it was only the writer who stepped ahead.
"Ah, Tori-san, it's such a delight to see you again!!"
"Whatever" -the Dragon mumbled- "Are we ready?"
"Of course, where are you taking me? To our secret place?" -the Inu smirked, his permanent teasing side in action.
Hatori glared as coldly as he could muster, but Shigure remained unfazed.
"Gosh, keep your lovey-dovey stuff for yourselves" -Kyou snapped at them.
"Ohayo, Hatori-san" -the only girl around greeted with a small bow.
The doctor replied with a nod, but kept his glance on both Shigure and Yuki.
"We'll really have to make a run for it now" -the Cat huffed exasperated- "Are you Mouse walking or do I have to punch and draw you-"
"Dear sweetie, you should go ahead" -Shigure interrupted.
"Yuck, don't call me that" -the feline teen said in disgust.
"I was addressing Tohru-kun" -Shigure smiled- "My dear Tori-san will take a minute of Yuki's time for a little check up"
"Are you feeling unwell, Yuki-kun?" -the girl immediately asked in worry.
"It's just a check up" -the Dog took the word, dismissing the matter with a smile.
Kyou frowned when the Rat didn't answer. The Dog had done it, but not Yuki. He had that same emotionless expression the Cat had seen in rare occasions before. The dark eyes looked somehow distant, though his exterior was calm and serene.
Damn but the Cat knew something was up, he was a hunter after all...
{...Someone's starting to wonder..
wonder if your calm but cold eyes..
only mean that you're freezing inside..
the ice is covering the sidewalk too..}
"Lets get inside" -Hatori suggested, walking past Kyou and Tohru and entering the cozy living room.
Shigure nodded, and both Inu and Rat followed the Doctor.
"Eto, Yuki-kun, the test.." -Tohru said, also making her way back to the house.
"Go ahead, Honda-san" -Yuki turned slightly, giving a smile- "If Honda-san doesn't hurry, she'll miss the first class.."
"Ne, the Rat doesn't need that test to approve after all, Tohru" -Kyou added.
"Um...okay, but.." -the girl still looked hesitant.
"Good luck, Honda-san" -Yuki smiled at her again- "I'm sure you'll be just perfect"
Tohru grinned sheepishly and resumed her way, encouraged by the gray-haired teen's words.
Kyou also followed, more slowly though, and still casting a doubtful look at Shigure and Yuki.
"You're hiding something" -he whispered for Tohru not to catch on his words.
"Be a good little boy and go to school, Kyou-kun" -the Inu dismissed the Cat.
"That fake smile of yours doesn't fool me, sneaky Rat, I know something's up" -the Neko mumbled, narrowing his orange eyes.
"Go, Baka Neko, it's not of your concern" -Yuki replied coldly.
With a last frown, the trim red-haired youngster trotted towards the street, catching up with the girl and both disappeared minutes after.
"I'll have to talk to him when he comes back, Yuki-kun" -Shigure pointed out.
"Is it so obvious?" -the younger Sohma wondered to himself.
'....that fake smile of yours....'
"We've seeing warm smiles from you since Honda-san is with us, so you're cold ones of before are obvious"
Hatori suddenly spoke from his spot on the couch inside the house.
Yuki turned to stare at the Dragon, pondering his words.
"I can't help it" -was his only comment as he also stepped in the house.
"So...Yuki-kun, aren't you going to eat at least something befor-" -the Dog tried, but was cut off.
"No. Lets get this over with. I'll go bring my things" -the boy walked with soft steps towards the staircase, climbing up and disappearing into his room.
"He's made up his mind, I can tell" -Hatori lit up a cigarette.
"I think he's too docile, way too docile. That's not usual" -the writer offered with a sigh.
"It's hard to face our fears, Shigure, sometimes people just surrender to them" -a puff of smoke accompanied the cursed Dragon's words.
"So, Tori-dear, do you think he's given up?"
The other adult shrugged- "Do not forget Yuki's fear has a name. And there's nothing to do against our master"
"I know, but...you know that Akito-"
Shigure halted himself when the teen appeared on the stairs. His face was a ghostly pale, but his features were stoic.
He was carrying only a bag with his clothes. Whatever other belongings he had, they had already been sent to the Main house the day before.
Yuki's faded lavender eyes looked up at his older guardians, silently stating that he was ready.
Hatori stood, keys in hand, and the other two Sohmas followed him to the car.
The boy didn't even turn to look back at the house where he had spent the few years of his freedom.
***
"Hiro, are you talking on your will or do I have to make you?"
Haru's voice was dangerously calm, his eyes dead serious.
But he was standing in front of a Sohma who wasn't used to back off, not even when it came to a possible Black Haru.
"Listen, Haru, you can forget your empty threats. The fact that I'm younger and smaller than you doesn't make you feel like a coward?" -the Sheep, so different from the docile animal he was cursed with, replied with equal flat voice.
"No. Just tell me what's going on here" -the Cow insisted.
Kisa and Momiji were hiding behind a corner, the little Tora listening intently, the blond Usagi playing spies and bandits.
"If no one has told you it's because there's a reason, you know" -the brown- eyed Sheep folded arms- "Even Ayame agreed in not telling you. At least not yet..."
"Why? What is it?" -the black-white haired teen frowned even deeper, suspicion dawning on him.
"We just don't want to start dealing with your Black self. For the time being, that is. I told all of them it was useless. You will lose it anyway" -the smaller boy shrugged.
"Then stop this crap and spit it" -Haru said, feeling himself inching closer to his dark side.
Hiro glared for a second, then gave a noncommittal shrug.
"Akito's sent Hatori to bring one of the others back to the house"
"Others?" -the Cow's voice was laced with suppressed anger.
"It's Akito's 'reward', Hatori explained us, for having allowed that Honda girl to stay"- the Sheep wisely stepped some meters far from his taller cousin.
The incoming sound of a car, the scratching of the wheels as it stopped, and rising murmurs gave Hiro the opportunity to walk away from the other teen.
Shigure and Hatori stepped outside, the Inu with a smile on his features, and the Dragon indifferent as usual.
Clad in his gray uniform, the Mouse also climbed down, his eyes surveying the surroundings with masked apprehension.
'I am....'
'I am....'
'I am back....'
"My beautiful, dear little brother" -Ayame was the first one to come and greet the incomers, directing all his attention and pet names to the Rat.
Yuki glanced at his long-haired brother with coldness and annoyance evident in his irises.
Irony of life, wasn't it? The Rat, being the Snake's brother....
The Nezumi's gaze suddenly encountered other eyes, these orbs filled with both surprise and slight sadness.
Haru's.
The Cow walked towards him with slow movements, his demeanor wistful as he contemplated his cousin's arrival.
'I should have known....Akito, the bastard....'
But Black Haru had melted away when the shock of Yuki's presence at the main compound hit him.
He was back at being his stoic self.
"I'll take your things inside, Yuki" -Hatori said, grabbing the bag from the mouse's hands.
"Such boring color doesn't fit you, my dearest Yuki" -Ayame continued his babbling- "I'll make sure you have the greatest wardrobe, you can be sure of that. My beautiful brother deserves just the best, my models will be just jealous when you try in my creations and-"
Surprisingly, it was Shigure who saved Yuki from more torture.
"Aya-chan, why are you so evasive? You haven't even looked at me" -and the Inu adopted a theatrical painful expression- "You're ripping apart the heart of mine, what did I do for you to hate me so much?"
"Oh, heaven forbids, Gure-dear, I'd never be able to commit such atrocity. You know that -"
And both adults went on in their incessant chattering.
Yuki did nothing but to stand there, watching and hearing everyone speak or move, the Mouse himself not moving.
A sudden impulse to just close his eyes and shut off the world took over him, as his breathing faltered slightly. A constricting pain intended on taking over his chest, but he fought it desperately.
It sounded appealing, to just allow his asthma to rock his body and drift into unconsciousness, but that fear, that ever present fear wouldn't let him.
The fear of fainting and then, waking up to the feeling of cool hands on his face, grazing his skin. Waking up to find icy eyes staring down at him, devouring his soul, breaking his will, taking his life.
It had happened before, years before, when he lived there. He would have an attack and faint, only to wake up with Akito at his side....
'Not this time' -he said to himself- 'I don't want to be vulnerable again, not at Akito's mercy, like his prey...'
"Yuki" -Haru's voice sounded close to him.
The smaller Sohma opened his eyes, and found his cousin standing by his side.
"I didn't know" -the Cow said the scarce words, trying and say many things with that single sentence.
If he had known, if he could do something, if he had the strength, if only Yuki allowed him to help...
"There's nothing to do now, Hatsuharu" -Yuki shook his head.
"I'll be here with you" -the Cow offered, knowing that couldn't do anything to help his cousin, but still....
Yuki nodded, silently accepting the words, and then started walking towards the main hall.
He knew that his presence was to be requested by the Master sooner or later.
{..You know you're being foolish
but it's just okay to you, good enough,
you still try and convince yourself,
that wishes are not worth it, but..
but you're discovering you're losing ground...}
***
The girl clutched her hands tightly together as she walked with little but rapid steps. Beside her, the youngster under the forgotten Cat curse watched her.
"Ne, Tohru, stop that" -he huffed.
"I can't help it, Kyou-kun. Gomen nasai, but I am so worried" -she replied, her voice quivering.
The Cat looked away, pressing his lips hard and eyes narrowed in both anger and frustration. Why had Tohru to be so worried about that stupid Rat? That prick could take care of himself, damn it!
A light touch on his shoulder startled him a little as he turned his head back. The long haired girl was staring at him with big, sad eyes.
"Please, Kyou-kun, don't be angry at me, please" -she pleaded.
He fought the impulse to move closer to her, knowing but too well that that any careless movement would end up with him transformed into an orange cat.
"I don't know what you mean-"
"Kyou-kun must understand I'm worried because of Yuki-kun's health. Please, don't be angry at Tohru for that" -she pleaded again. She knew the rivalry between both Neko and Nezumi still existed, even though they had managed to stand each other in better terms than before.
Kyou shoved his hands in his pants' pockets, feeling caught by Tohru's comment, which was definitely true.
"I'm not angry at you, okay?" -he finally said a bit harshly- "I'm just tired of all this crap with the Mouse. Why he just doesn't speak up if he's sick? All the time he ends up in trouble because he's too stubborn to talk to somebody....."
The Honda girl smiled sweetly. That description matched Kyou as well.
"...now, look what's happened. We almost missed the test, and you're worried..."
"But, Kyou-kun, Yuki-kun didn't show up at school all morning" -the girl said in a tiny voice- "What if Hatori-san took him to the Hospital, or what if he's in bed, or maybe....."
"If it was so, that stupid Dog would have called you at your work, and he didn't, ne?" -the boy replied.
"No" -Tohru sighed- "Maybe it would have been better if Kyou-kun had come back to the house in the afternoon instead of accompanying me to work...."
"........"
"Uh?" -the girl looked questioningly at the red-haired teen, not catching on his words.
"Nothing....just that I liked going with you..." -Kyou repeated reluctantly, stumbling on the words as he averted his eyes to glare at his left.
The girl blinked, and then a real smile graced her lips, feeling utterly happy at the boy's comment.
Some steps ahead and they reached the house's entrance.
"Tadaima!" -the girl called, entering in a haste, looking around frantically.
"Where's everyone?" -the Cat wondered. It was almost supper time, but the house looked void.
"Yuki-kun? Shigure-san?" -the girl continued calling, worry in her voice.
Kyou walked towards the Inu's studio and pushed the door open, peeking inside.
"Oi! At least answer us, you stup-"
"Shhhhh!" -Shigure hushed the loud teen, and he resumed his phone conversation.
"Shigure-san?" -Tohru also peeked into the studio.
"Let that Dog be" -the younger Sohma said- "He's surely having a great time torturing that poor editor of his"
"Oh, that's a relief" -Tohru sighed.
If Shigure was there, then everything should be okay...
"See? There was nothing to worry about" -the Cat shrugged, as he walked towards the stairs.
"Aa!" -the girl beamed, but then acquired a more serious expression- "Oh, but I better check up on Yuki-kun!"
And she went upstairs along with Kyou, halting in front of the Rat's room.
"Yuki-kun?" -Tohru knocked softly.
Silence.
"Yuki-kun?" -she knocked twice, this time a bit louder.
Nothing answered.
"Oi, baka nezumi, you in there?!" -Kyou used his own delicate way to call.
"How strange. It's late by now" -the girl commented, as she turned the knob and cracked the door open.
Kyou stepped in the room first.
"He's not here" -he stated, folding arms.
Somehow, he was starting to suspect things weren't fine...
Honda Tohru also entered, taking a brief peek. The bed was neatly made, the window closed, the curtains drawn, everything in strict order, the shelves clean, nothing was scattered....nothing......nothing......
Kyou glanced at the girl standing beside him, furrowing his eyebrows.
Tohru had gone quiet, and her eyes had widened slightly.
"What?" -he asked expectantly.
Tohru's only answer was walking past him and pulling open the closet and every drawer......
There was nothing in there.
She stood there, speechless in the middle of the empty room.
Kyou cursed under his breath.
'Damn, the Mouse's gone'
***
Shigure hung up, sighing dramatically as he did so.
"What an exhaustive day" -he murmured- "This won't do any good to preserve my youth..."
"Shigure-san!"
A crying Tohru stepped into his studio, a serious-looking Kyou trailing behind.
"Oh, such pretty creature shouldn't be crying. What happened to you, my poor thing? Come here to my lap." -the writer opened his arms for Tohru, displaying his façade of the cynic Inu everyone expected from him.
Even though he knew what was coming ....
"Why...why is Yuki-kun's room empty?" -she asked, sobbing quietly.
"Dear child, you don't have to cry because of that" -the Dog smiled reassuringly- "Let me explain you. Well, you see..ahh...this is all very similar to my last novel when-"
"Stupid dog, cut that" -the other Sohma grunted.
What had made Kyou angry wasn't the other teen's absent, but Tohru crying because of it. That selfish mouse, couldn't even say something....
"You don't need to be so rude" -Shigure pouted- "Everything is in perfect order, there's no need to pull off a scandal. Tohru dear, Yuki-kun is going to spend sometime out of this house for a short while. Maybe the change of place will do well to his health. You know Yuki-kun's health can be delicate, and Tori-san thought that probably a----"
"Hatori?" -Kyou interrupted, his eyes orange slits- "Shigure, exactly where is the Rat now?"
"Kyou-kun, don't be so edgy, I'm just explaining you here. Besides, a little time separated could maybe help in yours and Yuki's relation, ne? You don't need to be arguing and fighting all the time. Specially since it's you the one who ends up flying through my pretty house's walls and---"
"Shigure" -the boy warned with a glare.
"Shigure-san, please" -Tohru added.
With that same carefree smile, the Inu responded amiably.
"Yuki-kun will spend some time at the Main House. He left today with Hatori- san. I just spoke with Ayame-chan and he told me everything is fine there"
There wasn't anything but silence after Shigure's words.
The quiet moment was cut by Kyou.
"This is all that bastard Akito's doing, ne? I might not know or remember him well, but I do know he's after the Mouse"
"Yuki-kun" -Tohru murmured.
{....There are other wishes out there,
tread softly and take care of them,
until you learn and make one ....}
To Be Continued.....
A/N: This world would be much brighter if you could leave me a review..
Chapter three in its way, soon to be ready.
Which it's gonna prove to be difficult, considering I'm a newbie here. Anyways, thanks for your support.
(checking up chapter 1.) Why in God's green earth my pc changed Shigure to Shigeru??!!! I'll have to ask my big sis to fix this, it changes it automatically!!!! Thanks Li-chan for pointing this out. I mean, it's logical, why would Ayame call the Inu 'Gure' if it wasn't his name...
"Make a Wish"
by Shinigami's Voice
Part Two: Drifting Away
{..Outside the world continues whirling,
it's only you the one locked into yourself
while others take the chance you missed
when trying and play a game you can't play...}
A petite figure, a blond one, bounced around the gardens of the house, the skirt flaring merrily with every step.
A giggle escaped the person, even though there was a hand placed over the mouth, in order not to be heard.
One step more, just one more...
"Momiji?"
Orange eyes turned to watch questioningly the boy-in-girls outfit.
"Ahhhhhh!!! Kisa, you're no fun!" -the blond boy lamented- "I was about to come and give you the fright of your life"
"You could be heard from miles ago" -the serious girl shrugged- "Specially here where is so quiet" -the little tiger added.
"Aa, I know. But I needed someone to play with!! I'm so bored, and I want to have fun" -the boy sat beside her- "I can't find anyone. Hatori's at the Main House, and he seems very busy lately. Kagura is cooking her famous onigiri, and I thought we could play something, ne?" -while speaking, the Usagi had been adjusting the pink bow in the back of his skirt and the floral hat he was wearing.
"Lets go find Haru" -the yellow-haired girl proposed, standing from the grass.
"Do you think he'll want to play with us?! Make him play with us, Kisa, he always listens to you!!"
"I'll try" -the girl under the Tora curse replied, barely smiling.
Both young Sohmas went into the halls as they searched for the white-and- black haired teen, who happened to appear around a corner ten minutes after their little raid.
"Haru" -Kisa smiled openly this time as she came to stand beside the taller Sohma.
"Ask him, Kisa, ask him" -without waiting more, the other boy hurried.
"What is it, Kisa? Momiji?" -the serious teen inquired.
"Aaa...we just wanted to ask you if you weren't too busy...would you stay and play with us?" -the orange-eyed girl pleaded.
"I see. But I was about to...to..." -Haru turned his eyes upwards, wondering what exactly he was about to do.
"Forgot again?" -Momiji asked with an amused smile and giggling.
"Hn. I guess so" -the boy shrugged.
"Come on, Haru, it'll be tons of fun" -the Usagi boy prompted, practically bouncing in that hyper way of his- "There's no one around and we're bored. Hatori, Ayame, Hiro and everyone else in the whole world is at the main house, and we're about to..."
"Why?" -the Cow asked, no real interest in his voice.
"We don't know" -Kisa answered- "Hatori is been there since very early, and I can sense...."
Haru looked down at the wistful girl.
"What is it?" -he bent a tiny bit to catch on the soft words.
"I don't really now. But everyone is so tense, and worried. Even Ayam-"
"Ayame is weird" -Haru objected before she went on.
"Even he has been quiet today" -the girl finished.
Hatsuharu turned his sight towards the main building, expression firm but suspicious.
"I better go" -he said, starting towards there.
"Are we playing spies and bandits?" -Momiji smiled- "Great! We're going too!"
"You better don't" -the teenager admonished.
"But, um, Haru" -Kisa timidly said- "If we don't go with you, you'll get lost again.."
She had a point.
***
"Shigure? Yes, it's me...Don't call me that, Shigure...Fine, fine" -Hatori addressed the person in the other side of the line.
"Is everything ready?.........Yes, they know...Ayame says so...Call him all those pet names when you're not talking to me, Shigure" -the Doctor suppressed a heavy sigh.
"Has he told you something? No? I understand....Like a protective cloak he adopts....I'll take care of that....Well then, I'll be there to pick him up in about 15 minutes...."
There was another series of words from the Inu.
"So, you're not telling the others yet? Okay, if that's what he wants...still, I don't think it's a good idea...Yes, the Mouse has always been both too proud and too drawn...."
***
Shigure hung up, and walked out of his study. The sweet smell of hotcakes filled the house.
"Breakfast if ready!" -Tohru announced as she placed the syrup bottle on the table.
"Oh, my dear, I suppose this is how Heaven must smell!!" -Shigure complemented as he took his usual seat.
Clad in his uniform, hair still shooting in every angle, Kyou came down the stairs.
"And my milk?" -was his greeting.
"Here" -the girl took the carton and started pouring it in the Cat's glass.
"Without the glass was just fine" -the feline boy commented, sitting down.
"But, Kyou-kun, I just wanted to help" -the Honda girl replied in her humble manner.
"I know" -the boy gave her a little smile.
Shigure's eyes shone with mischievousness, but before he could say anything, the empty milk carton hit him square in the face.
"Shut up" -Kyou grumped.
"Owwwww" -the man rubbed his nose, whining dramatically- "What a mean, mean little kitty. I didn't say anything to begin with!"
"But you were about to" -Kyou replied smugly.
"Oh, such injustice towards such beauty shouldn't be allowed in this world" -the Inu complained.
Before the Cat could punch the older Sohma, Yuki's entrance cut the scene.
"Ohayo, Honda-san. Ohayo, Shigure" -the boy greeted politely, taking his place.
"Late as usual, Rat" -his rival commented.
"Nosy as usual, Cat" -Yuki replied.
"Ohayo, Yuki-kun" -Tohru spoke before the quarrel got to kicks and fists, something pretty normal to say the truth- "Did you sleep well?"
"Aa" -the gray-haired Sohma nodded, pouring some syrup on his plate.
Shigure stuffed some food in his mouth, noting to himself that Yuki wasn't too fancy of syrup. The teen continued pouring the brown liquid, and then proceeded to just play with the food.
"We'll have a math test today" -suddenly Tohru said- "I'm so nervous about it!"
"Gee, if you've studied like for years for that test" -Kyou replied, his own dish already empty.
"Yes, but I'm still nervous. What about you, Kyou-kun?"
"Oh, please, Tohru-kun, the Cat couldn't care less" -Shigure smiled.
"Just for YOU to know, I've been studying, stupid Inu" -the red-haired youngster replied indignantly.
"Oh, that's so nice of you" -Tohru clapped her hands, happy to hear that. She had always wanted for Kyou to improve at school.
The boy could be brilliant, if he weren't so cat-like lazy.
Secretly, Kyou had promised himself to start doing better, just to please Tohru. And to show the Rat he was no one's fool.
"Yuki-kun is ready for the test, I suppose" -the long-haired girl smiled- "He's always ready"
Yuki looked up at his name's sound. He blinked twice, a bit confused. He hadn't been paying attention, but he nodded anyways.
"Ne, Rat, what are you planning? For us to get late? Hurry up" -Kyou said gruffly, seeing how the Mouse's food was intact.
The Cat took notice of his cousin's absentminded state, and furrowed his brows in suspicion.
"Didn't Yuki-kun like his breakfast?" -Tohru wondered sadly.
"Honda-san, please, how can you possible think that?" -Yuki smiled reassuringly- "Everything you prepare is just delicious"
"Are you just being your nasty, cocky self, or what the hell is going on, Rat?" -Kyou asked, mild angry at Yuki making Tohru sad.
"Nothing" -Yuki shrugged.
{..There's no real reason to pretend..
but if pretending is all you know....
there's no real reason not to pretend....
when you can see that no one cares...}
"Look at the time, you guys better start running" -Shigure cut in, glancing at the clock on the wall.
"Oh no, the first class is math!!" -Tohru exclaimed, standing and taking the empty dishes to the kitchen in a flash.
Kyou moved and started helping her.
Shigure fixed his gaze on the other teen.
"Ha-san is coming for you" -he commented calmly.
"I know. I have everything ready in my room" -Yuki replied matter-of- factly, drinking his orange juice.
"Good. He'll probably arrive when Tohru-kun and Kyou-kun are on their way. Do you want Tori-san to explain them that----"
"No. Lets just said Hatori-san is here for a little medical check up" -the Mouse answered.
"Ah, Yuki-kun is not used to lie" -the Dog said with a small smile.
"Then you lie. You're used" -the boy agreed.
"I'll be going with Tori-san and you" -the writer declared.
"Hn" -Yuki shrugged. That wasn't reassuring at all.
"Kuso nezumi, are you coming or what?" -the Cat called from the porch.
Right then, a car stopped some feet ahead, and the occupant started walking towards the entrance.
"Stupid Dog, you have visits" -Kyou said as he saw Hatori approaching.
Shigure and Yuki appeared at the main doors, but it was only the writer who stepped ahead.
"Ah, Tori-san, it's such a delight to see you again!!"
"Whatever" -the Dragon mumbled- "Are we ready?"
"Of course, where are you taking me? To our secret place?" -the Inu smirked, his permanent teasing side in action.
Hatori glared as coldly as he could muster, but Shigure remained unfazed.
"Gosh, keep your lovey-dovey stuff for yourselves" -Kyou snapped at them.
"Ohayo, Hatori-san" -the only girl around greeted with a small bow.
The doctor replied with a nod, but kept his glance on both Shigure and Yuki.
"We'll really have to make a run for it now" -the Cat huffed exasperated- "Are you Mouse walking or do I have to punch and draw you-"
"Dear sweetie, you should go ahead" -Shigure interrupted.
"Yuck, don't call me that" -the feline teen said in disgust.
"I was addressing Tohru-kun" -Shigure smiled- "My dear Tori-san will take a minute of Yuki's time for a little check up"
"Are you feeling unwell, Yuki-kun?" -the girl immediately asked in worry.
"It's just a check up" -the Dog took the word, dismissing the matter with a smile.
Kyou frowned when the Rat didn't answer. The Dog had done it, but not Yuki. He had that same emotionless expression the Cat had seen in rare occasions before. The dark eyes looked somehow distant, though his exterior was calm and serene.
Damn but the Cat knew something was up, he was a hunter after all...
{...Someone's starting to wonder..
wonder if your calm but cold eyes..
only mean that you're freezing inside..
the ice is covering the sidewalk too..}
"Lets get inside" -Hatori suggested, walking past Kyou and Tohru and entering the cozy living room.
Shigure nodded, and both Inu and Rat followed the Doctor.
"Eto, Yuki-kun, the test.." -Tohru said, also making her way back to the house.
"Go ahead, Honda-san" -Yuki turned slightly, giving a smile- "If Honda-san doesn't hurry, she'll miss the first class.."
"Ne, the Rat doesn't need that test to approve after all, Tohru" -Kyou added.
"Um...okay, but.." -the girl still looked hesitant.
"Good luck, Honda-san" -Yuki smiled at her again- "I'm sure you'll be just perfect"
Tohru grinned sheepishly and resumed her way, encouraged by the gray-haired teen's words.
Kyou also followed, more slowly though, and still casting a doubtful look at Shigure and Yuki.
"You're hiding something" -he whispered for Tohru not to catch on his words.
"Be a good little boy and go to school, Kyou-kun" -the Inu dismissed the Cat.
"That fake smile of yours doesn't fool me, sneaky Rat, I know something's up" -the Neko mumbled, narrowing his orange eyes.
"Go, Baka Neko, it's not of your concern" -Yuki replied coldly.
With a last frown, the trim red-haired youngster trotted towards the street, catching up with the girl and both disappeared minutes after.
"I'll have to talk to him when he comes back, Yuki-kun" -Shigure pointed out.
"Is it so obvious?" -the younger Sohma wondered to himself.
'....that fake smile of yours....'
"We've seeing warm smiles from you since Honda-san is with us, so you're cold ones of before are obvious"
Hatori suddenly spoke from his spot on the couch inside the house.
Yuki turned to stare at the Dragon, pondering his words.
"I can't help it" -was his only comment as he also stepped in the house.
"So...Yuki-kun, aren't you going to eat at least something befor-" -the Dog tried, but was cut off.
"No. Lets get this over with. I'll go bring my things" -the boy walked with soft steps towards the staircase, climbing up and disappearing into his room.
"He's made up his mind, I can tell" -Hatori lit up a cigarette.
"I think he's too docile, way too docile. That's not usual" -the writer offered with a sigh.
"It's hard to face our fears, Shigure, sometimes people just surrender to them" -a puff of smoke accompanied the cursed Dragon's words.
"So, Tori-dear, do you think he's given up?"
The other adult shrugged- "Do not forget Yuki's fear has a name. And there's nothing to do against our master"
"I know, but...you know that Akito-"
Shigure halted himself when the teen appeared on the stairs. His face was a ghostly pale, but his features were stoic.
He was carrying only a bag with his clothes. Whatever other belongings he had, they had already been sent to the Main house the day before.
Yuki's faded lavender eyes looked up at his older guardians, silently stating that he was ready.
Hatori stood, keys in hand, and the other two Sohmas followed him to the car.
The boy didn't even turn to look back at the house where he had spent the few years of his freedom.
***
"Hiro, are you talking on your will or do I have to make you?"
Haru's voice was dangerously calm, his eyes dead serious.
But he was standing in front of a Sohma who wasn't used to back off, not even when it came to a possible Black Haru.
"Listen, Haru, you can forget your empty threats. The fact that I'm younger and smaller than you doesn't make you feel like a coward?" -the Sheep, so different from the docile animal he was cursed with, replied with equal flat voice.
"No. Just tell me what's going on here" -the Cow insisted.
Kisa and Momiji were hiding behind a corner, the little Tora listening intently, the blond Usagi playing spies and bandits.
"If no one has told you it's because there's a reason, you know" -the brown- eyed Sheep folded arms- "Even Ayame agreed in not telling you. At least not yet..."
"Why? What is it?" -the black-white haired teen frowned even deeper, suspicion dawning on him.
"We just don't want to start dealing with your Black self. For the time being, that is. I told all of them it was useless. You will lose it anyway" -the smaller boy shrugged.
"Then stop this crap and spit it" -Haru said, feeling himself inching closer to his dark side.
Hiro glared for a second, then gave a noncommittal shrug.
"Akito's sent Hatori to bring one of the others back to the house"
"Others?" -the Cow's voice was laced with suppressed anger.
"It's Akito's 'reward', Hatori explained us, for having allowed that Honda girl to stay"- the Sheep wisely stepped some meters far from his taller cousin.
The incoming sound of a car, the scratching of the wheels as it stopped, and rising murmurs gave Hiro the opportunity to walk away from the other teen.
Shigure and Hatori stepped outside, the Inu with a smile on his features, and the Dragon indifferent as usual.
Clad in his gray uniform, the Mouse also climbed down, his eyes surveying the surroundings with masked apprehension.
'I am....'
'I am....'
'I am back....'
"My beautiful, dear little brother" -Ayame was the first one to come and greet the incomers, directing all his attention and pet names to the Rat.
Yuki glanced at his long-haired brother with coldness and annoyance evident in his irises.
Irony of life, wasn't it? The Rat, being the Snake's brother....
The Nezumi's gaze suddenly encountered other eyes, these orbs filled with both surprise and slight sadness.
Haru's.
The Cow walked towards him with slow movements, his demeanor wistful as he contemplated his cousin's arrival.
'I should have known....Akito, the bastard....'
But Black Haru had melted away when the shock of Yuki's presence at the main compound hit him.
He was back at being his stoic self.
"I'll take your things inside, Yuki" -Hatori said, grabbing the bag from the mouse's hands.
"Such boring color doesn't fit you, my dearest Yuki" -Ayame continued his babbling- "I'll make sure you have the greatest wardrobe, you can be sure of that. My beautiful brother deserves just the best, my models will be just jealous when you try in my creations and-"
Surprisingly, it was Shigure who saved Yuki from more torture.
"Aya-chan, why are you so evasive? You haven't even looked at me" -and the Inu adopted a theatrical painful expression- "You're ripping apart the heart of mine, what did I do for you to hate me so much?"
"Oh, heaven forbids, Gure-dear, I'd never be able to commit such atrocity. You know that -"
And both adults went on in their incessant chattering.
Yuki did nothing but to stand there, watching and hearing everyone speak or move, the Mouse himself not moving.
A sudden impulse to just close his eyes and shut off the world took over him, as his breathing faltered slightly. A constricting pain intended on taking over his chest, but he fought it desperately.
It sounded appealing, to just allow his asthma to rock his body and drift into unconsciousness, but that fear, that ever present fear wouldn't let him.
The fear of fainting and then, waking up to the feeling of cool hands on his face, grazing his skin. Waking up to find icy eyes staring down at him, devouring his soul, breaking his will, taking his life.
It had happened before, years before, when he lived there. He would have an attack and faint, only to wake up with Akito at his side....
'Not this time' -he said to himself- 'I don't want to be vulnerable again, not at Akito's mercy, like his prey...'
"Yuki" -Haru's voice sounded close to him.
The smaller Sohma opened his eyes, and found his cousin standing by his side.
"I didn't know" -the Cow said the scarce words, trying and say many things with that single sentence.
If he had known, if he could do something, if he had the strength, if only Yuki allowed him to help...
"There's nothing to do now, Hatsuharu" -Yuki shook his head.
"I'll be here with you" -the Cow offered, knowing that couldn't do anything to help his cousin, but still....
Yuki nodded, silently accepting the words, and then started walking towards the main hall.
He knew that his presence was to be requested by the Master sooner or later.
{..You know you're being foolish
but it's just okay to you, good enough,
you still try and convince yourself,
that wishes are not worth it, but..
but you're discovering you're losing ground...}
***
The girl clutched her hands tightly together as she walked with little but rapid steps. Beside her, the youngster under the forgotten Cat curse watched her.
"Ne, Tohru, stop that" -he huffed.
"I can't help it, Kyou-kun. Gomen nasai, but I am so worried" -she replied, her voice quivering.
The Cat looked away, pressing his lips hard and eyes narrowed in both anger and frustration. Why had Tohru to be so worried about that stupid Rat? That prick could take care of himself, damn it!
A light touch on his shoulder startled him a little as he turned his head back. The long haired girl was staring at him with big, sad eyes.
"Please, Kyou-kun, don't be angry at me, please" -she pleaded.
He fought the impulse to move closer to her, knowing but too well that that any careless movement would end up with him transformed into an orange cat.
"I don't know what you mean-"
"Kyou-kun must understand I'm worried because of Yuki-kun's health. Please, don't be angry at Tohru for that" -she pleaded again. She knew the rivalry between both Neko and Nezumi still existed, even though they had managed to stand each other in better terms than before.
Kyou shoved his hands in his pants' pockets, feeling caught by Tohru's comment, which was definitely true.
"I'm not angry at you, okay?" -he finally said a bit harshly- "I'm just tired of all this crap with the Mouse. Why he just doesn't speak up if he's sick? All the time he ends up in trouble because he's too stubborn to talk to somebody....."
The Honda girl smiled sweetly. That description matched Kyou as well.
"...now, look what's happened. We almost missed the test, and you're worried..."
"But, Kyou-kun, Yuki-kun didn't show up at school all morning" -the girl said in a tiny voice- "What if Hatori-san took him to the Hospital, or what if he's in bed, or maybe....."
"If it was so, that stupid Dog would have called you at your work, and he didn't, ne?" -the boy replied.
"No" -Tohru sighed- "Maybe it would have been better if Kyou-kun had come back to the house in the afternoon instead of accompanying me to work...."
"........"
"Uh?" -the girl looked questioningly at the red-haired teen, not catching on his words.
"Nothing....just that I liked going with you..." -Kyou repeated reluctantly, stumbling on the words as he averted his eyes to glare at his left.
The girl blinked, and then a real smile graced her lips, feeling utterly happy at the boy's comment.
Some steps ahead and they reached the house's entrance.
"Tadaima!" -the girl called, entering in a haste, looking around frantically.
"Where's everyone?" -the Cat wondered. It was almost supper time, but the house looked void.
"Yuki-kun? Shigure-san?" -the girl continued calling, worry in her voice.
Kyou walked towards the Inu's studio and pushed the door open, peeking inside.
"Oi! At least answer us, you stup-"
"Shhhhh!" -Shigure hushed the loud teen, and he resumed his phone conversation.
"Shigure-san?" -Tohru also peeked into the studio.
"Let that Dog be" -the younger Sohma said- "He's surely having a great time torturing that poor editor of his"
"Oh, that's a relief" -Tohru sighed.
If Shigure was there, then everything should be okay...
"See? There was nothing to worry about" -the Cat shrugged, as he walked towards the stairs.
"Aa!" -the girl beamed, but then acquired a more serious expression- "Oh, but I better check up on Yuki-kun!"
And she went upstairs along with Kyou, halting in front of the Rat's room.
"Yuki-kun?" -Tohru knocked softly.
Silence.
"Yuki-kun?" -she knocked twice, this time a bit louder.
Nothing answered.
"Oi, baka nezumi, you in there?!" -Kyou used his own delicate way to call.
"How strange. It's late by now" -the girl commented, as she turned the knob and cracked the door open.
Kyou stepped in the room first.
"He's not here" -he stated, folding arms.
Somehow, he was starting to suspect things weren't fine...
Honda Tohru also entered, taking a brief peek. The bed was neatly made, the window closed, the curtains drawn, everything in strict order, the shelves clean, nothing was scattered....nothing......nothing......
Kyou glanced at the girl standing beside him, furrowing his eyebrows.
Tohru had gone quiet, and her eyes had widened slightly.
"What?" -he asked expectantly.
Tohru's only answer was walking past him and pulling open the closet and every drawer......
There was nothing in there.
She stood there, speechless in the middle of the empty room.
Kyou cursed under his breath.
'Damn, the Mouse's gone'
***
Shigure hung up, sighing dramatically as he did so.
"What an exhaustive day" -he murmured- "This won't do any good to preserve my youth..."
"Shigure-san!"
A crying Tohru stepped into his studio, a serious-looking Kyou trailing behind.
"Oh, such pretty creature shouldn't be crying. What happened to you, my poor thing? Come here to my lap." -the writer opened his arms for Tohru, displaying his façade of the cynic Inu everyone expected from him.
Even though he knew what was coming ....
"Why...why is Yuki-kun's room empty?" -she asked, sobbing quietly.
"Dear child, you don't have to cry because of that" -the Dog smiled reassuringly- "Let me explain you. Well, you see..ahh...this is all very similar to my last novel when-"
"Stupid dog, cut that" -the other Sohma grunted.
What had made Kyou angry wasn't the other teen's absent, but Tohru crying because of it. That selfish mouse, couldn't even say something....
"You don't need to be so rude" -Shigure pouted- "Everything is in perfect order, there's no need to pull off a scandal. Tohru dear, Yuki-kun is going to spend sometime out of this house for a short while. Maybe the change of place will do well to his health. You know Yuki-kun's health can be delicate, and Tori-san thought that probably a----"
"Hatori?" -Kyou interrupted, his eyes orange slits- "Shigure, exactly where is the Rat now?"
"Kyou-kun, don't be so edgy, I'm just explaining you here. Besides, a little time separated could maybe help in yours and Yuki's relation, ne? You don't need to be arguing and fighting all the time. Specially since it's you the one who ends up flying through my pretty house's walls and---"
"Shigure" -the boy warned with a glare.
"Shigure-san, please" -Tohru added.
With that same carefree smile, the Inu responded amiably.
"Yuki-kun will spend some time at the Main House. He left today with Hatori- san. I just spoke with Ayame-chan and he told me everything is fine there"
There wasn't anything but silence after Shigure's words.
The quiet moment was cut by Kyou.
"This is all that bastard Akito's doing, ne? I might not know or remember him well, but I do know he's after the Mouse"
"Yuki-kun" -Tohru murmured.
{....There are other wishes out there,
tread softly and take care of them,
until you learn and make one ....}
To Be Continued.....
A/N: This world would be much brighter if you could leave me a review..
Chapter three in its way, soon to be ready.