Authors note: This took me FOREVER, for which I apologize. The good news is that I do have the next 2 chapters started so hopefully I will have them out sooner rather than later. I would also like to mention that this is purely a romance. I have another fic coming out for them soon that will involve more action, but for the first time I think I might be writing both of them in a manner that actually suits them so I would like to continue with the pure fluff. In any case, I hope you enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu Yu Hakusho or the characters.
The flight board stared back at her menacingly. All those names piled together, constantly changing as souls were ferried back to Reikai, could be daunting. The worst part was the never ending appearance of it all. As soon as a soul was ferried to it's place in the afterlife that name disappeared and was instantly replaced with another. It was an ongoing cycle that was only broken by a guide taking a break.
She was due to start her vacation time any minute but if she knew the system, and she most certainly did, she would be called back in for another retrieval. While normally it was not a problem for her to be sent out again, today she wanted to be on time. Sadly there was not really enough time for her to make a full round trip. When she added in extra time for her explanation on death and all of the additional bits and pieces that went along with it she would be late; most likely woefully late.
She huffed, more to herself than anyone else. She was going to be on time. After all of those overtime shifts she had been pulling it was more than fair for her to take off just a couple of minutes early. She shifted uncomfortably on the ridged oar. Perhaps it was more than a few minutes early- about fifteen if she was being totally honest, once she got changed and flew down- but that was hardly the point. She was absolutely NOT going to be late.
Botan's back straightened with a shiver when the chill of a celestial poke jabbed into her spine. "Are we going or what?" Blue hair swung about as she turned to look at the soul that she had almost completely forgotten was sitting on the back of her oar. The older woman, who thus far had proven to have a firm grasp on reality, had been surprisingly understanding through their journey. She had not put up a fuss, had not tried to lash out, nor did she refuse to believe in her own demise. The grandmotherly figure reminded her of Genkai due to her straightforward nature and biting tongue, but her demeanour was calmer. She had been the ideal passenger and Botan wondered if she could impose on the grandmother for just a couple of minutes.
"My apologies Mei-san, do you mind if we take a detour?" A slight tilt of the head and a barely raised brow was all she received, but it was enough and Botan quickly flew them towards her quarters. A window was always left open for swift entry to her room from outside. They landed on the ground and the head ferry girl immediately began to pull clothes out of the closet in a frenzy, the file in her hand finding a temporary home on her desk. Her charge remained on the oar, which continued to hover over the bed, observing the indecision that plagued the blue haired beauty.
Mei had seen such behaviour before. The deity of death held two outfits before her person scrutinising both. Her daughter had done such things as had her granddaughter and countless friends when Mei had been alive. Long fingers twitched in barely bottled anticipation. She recognised the signs.
As the younger woman held up jeans and a top her counterpart shook her head. It seemed that her shinigami could use a little help. Japan had been quite warm when she had passed, assuming that Japan was the destination. Jeans would not due. "That one will be too warm," she advised and was pleased to find that Botan was immediately put at ease. The spirit guide slipped into the bathroom to put on her new outfit quickly, pausing briefly when a voice reached back out to her in question. "I'm guessing you've got a date?"
A blush spread across her cheeks. Was it a date? It certainly presented itself like one. Kurama had not specifically said it was, which made her a little hesitant to label it as such. Still they were going on another day out, complete with a romantic little cafe and a movie. If it was not a date then she did not really know what to call whatever it was they were doing.
"Something like that," she said with a nervous giggle. Anxious to stop the questions- for if she thought about it too much then she would get nervous and that would not help the situation- and get back to Neigenkai, Botan slipped her white canvas shoes on and grabbed her white bag. "Well, let's get you to the other side." The spirit grunted her approval and death personified skipped over, pleased at the feel of soft cotton and denim on her skin. They did not have to fly for long. The river Styx glittered underneath them in welcome as they sailed past others heading to the same destination. Botan dropped her off near the bridge and waved.
"Knock his socks off Kiddo," the older woman called over her shoulder as she passed into her afterlife. Botan wanted to laugh. There was something about that turn of phrase and the air about the woman that reminded her of Genkai even more than before. She was glad to be paying the psychic a visit soon, along with everyone else.
It was still a little early but there was no way she was going back to work right now. She flew as fast as she could enjoying the breeze on her legs. She catapulted in to the air past the turrets of the palace. She raced into the clouds ignoring the shout that came from a familiar office window. "Botan, where are you going? Botan!"
The familiar, if not slightly petulant, voice only made her fly faster. She passed through the portal and landed in an alley near the big building she had seen Kurama point to before. With a skip in her step she approached the reception team.
Kurama looked up from his desk to the clock that sat flush against the white walls. He was keeping a close eye on time. The day had dragged on from the moment he woke up until this very moment and he found himself restless and impatient. Each and every second that passed by brought him one second closer to her arrival. He glared at the clock, not for the first time that morning. As her arrival drew near the minutes seemed to drag out, time lengthening its stay to antagonize him. His fingers flew over the keys as an important email arrived in his inbox and he completed his reply as quickly as possible.
He scanned the response and decided it was good enough. He took account of the time as the mail icon disappeared from his screen in a swift rearrangement of pixels.
A sharp rap on his door frame told him exactly who it was without him having to took up. A friendly voice drifted over to him from the other side of his desk. "Shuichi, could you have a look at these?" The young man was Sosuke. Tall and lanky with listless brown hair that constantly hung in his eyes, the recent graduate was nice enough if not a little lazy. This was certainly not the first time documents had found their way to Kurama's desk via the young man.
Kurama took a quick glance at the small handful of reports that the young man was toting around. They were detailed, requiring much more attention than Kurama was willing to give in that moment. "Leave them on my desk. I'll look at them on Monday," he said shifting his gaze to the clock on his wall once more. It was ten minutes to twelve and Botan would be arriving in the city any second. He intended to be on that bench in the park when she did.
Brown brows rose is surprise. "Monday? Going out for lunch again?" For all that Sosuke was lazy, he was astute. He paid close attention to his superiors habits, namely that of his work ethic. It was admirable even if the younger man found it hard to emulate. "You've been taking off quite a bit lately."
Kurama clicked a button to shut down his computer and swiftly slid his jacket off. It was hot outside and he did not intend to show up for his lunch date like he was about to present something to the board. More to the point the suit jacket would make him sweat and while Botan had seen him perspire before he did not want to do so now. "I have some holiday time to use up." His explanation was short and to the point. He wanted to get out of the office as quickly as possible. Any mention of more detail would have continued in small talk. Thankfully the other man took it in stride.
"Makes sense. You're always here. You should really get out more," the young man chided gently. He really liked his senpai but it was difficult to get to know him. Kurama was not the most approachable person and was constantly focused on work. He did not seem to have much fun and thus was often ostracized from the rest of the group that went out from the office. Sosuke had been vying to get the good-looking redhead to come out and be his wing man, but thus far had no luck. There was a mixer coming up soon and he wanted Kurama to put a good word in for him with the pretty HR representative three cubicles down.
"I intend to," he said thinking about the woman he was sure was now waiting for him at the bench in the park. An ache in his chest was accompanied by a rush of anticipation. He hated to keep her waiting and he genuinely could not wait to leave the office and all of those within behind. "I should really get going."
Sosuke grabbed the folder once more, swiftly tucking it under his arm. He turned to the side allowing the red head to walk past him. "Don't worry about these. I'll figure it out," he said as the door close behind them and Kurama locked his office door for the weekend. Green irises flitted over to him and Sosuke shrugged with a sheepish smile. "Besides the boss wanted it yesterday."
The long red mane shook slightly at the distinct lack of gumption that flowed from his colleague. While he did not actually care about whether the younger man got his work done or not, he knew he should say something. Being the boss' stepson did come with some modicums of responsibility. "Then you should get started," he said, choosing to chuckle as he locked the door to his office behind them.
For a moment there was quiet as the youths expression changed completely. His eyes sparkled keenly. Kurama had seen that expression before, namely whenever one particular lady from HR drifted past. "Yeah yeah, later. Who is that?" Kurama followed the young mans nod to a figure standing in the lobby. Kurama lifted his gaze and instantly felt his features soften. A bright smile tugged at his cheeks. He had thought the navy and white stripped shirt would compliment her but as always she had managed to take his breath away. Her white tennis shoes and little white bag went with the slightly nautical feel of her outfit and he was left to stare at the expanse of skin exposed by a tasteful pair of cuffed jean shorts she had grabbed days before.
Sosuke looked around to see if there was anyone heading in her direction. None were. A few other men in the office had noticed her too and all were currently attempting to figure out whom she was there to see. "Wonder what she's doing here?" His query was rhetorical and Kurama could see the wheels in his head turning.
Another co-worker passed by staring at the beauty who was clearly oblivious to their attentions. "She doesn't work here, I can tell you that for sure." Purple eyes roamed the office cubicles, seeking out his unique coloring. When her gaze eventually landed on him her entire being lightened, brightening up the entire office. A swell of pride turned his smile ever so slightly smug at the eager twinkle that induced an alluring rose flush to her cheeks that matched the color of her lips perfectly.
"Shuichi!" she called in excitement. She waved at him and began to walk over. All eyes were suddenly on him and he felt smug satisfaction seep further into his countenance. The younger males looked particularly green with envy and he intended to keep it that way.
"You know her?" Another asked from behind a computer screen, somewhat in awe. They had all thought him to be a workaholic with no social life what so ever. Kurama supposed that was true to an extent, but now they were seeing him in a new light.
Confidently he stepped around the gawkers and made his way towards the stunning angel who raced eagerly towards him. He reached out for her and controlled a possessive growl that threatened to erupt when she entered into his embrace without further coxing. Those more primal instincts were more prevalent in him due to his nature, something he went to great lengths to keep under control especially when Botan was near. She had a way of drawing out that element of himself, and his protective tendencies, far more easily than others. She peered up at him through long dark lashes. Her cheerful expression lifted his soul and he was sure that his features were mirroring her own. "Botan, am I late?" he asked, breathing in the scent of fresh air and lavender that lingered on her skin.
The brief hug was too short for his liking, but he hesitantly let her step back just far enough to see him as she tilted her head back. The kitsune could not be disappointed. She had willingly entered into his personal space, she was still there now he reminded himself, and a large portion of him wanted to hum in appreciation. He had wondered what it would be like to have her at his side like this many times but what he had not anticipated the tingle that spread across his chest.
The other men quietly watched in wonderment. As it stood she had yet to notice them, all of her attention focused solely on him. "No, I was early, so I thought I'd stop by and see where you work. I hope I didn't interrupt you." He could not begin to explain how being the center of her focus made him feel. As for interrupting, she was welcome to do so anytime.
"Not at all. I was just on my way to meet you." His explanation made perfect sense. He was always punctual, unless forcibly detained.
"Perfect timing then!" She looked around upon feeling the stares that graced her person. Everyone in the office was watching them, some in curiosity and others with jealously. Her smile turned slightly bashful at the realization. She raised herself on her tip toes to whisper in his ear, an action that brought her even closer and also sent a shiver down his spine as her body heat radiated into his. "Is there something on my face?" her eyes flitted between his and Sosuke's, having noticed the intensity of his colleagues stare but not quite understanding why.
He chuckled, unable to keep himself from doing so. She had always been humble when it came to her own effect on others and in moments like these he wondered how she was able to ignore the sway she held over most that crossed her path. She was innocence and joy wrapped up in a beautiful package that was hard to turn away from. He did not want to therefore he did not, choosing instead to lean in to whisper in her ear in return. "No, I believe he is just amazed that I am with such a lovely companion."
She blushed, linking her arm in his. "You sweet talker," she chided halfheartedly. With her free hand she turned to wave at the poor unfortunates he was leaving behind for the afternoon. They waved back enthusiastically and she beamed up at him. "I'm going to get a big head if you keep that up."
He guided her towards the elevator and pressed the button to call the mechanism to their floor. "I only speak the truth as I see it." She bounced a little bit on her heels. They slid into the empty elevator and he immedelty turned towards her with a sly smile. "Hungry?" he asked.
The answer was obvious. She had been looking forward to their lunch and movie since he bought the tickets, so naturally she was prepared. "Starved. It's so nice out too. The trip over was fantastic." Her hair was a little windblown as it tended to be. Flying suited her and he always admired the sparkle that emanated from her when she was able to fly carefree.
"I'm glad you came early. We can claim a seat outdoors." He had scoped out the cafe the day before and he knew exactly where they were going to sit. There was a tree next to an intimate setting for two that had their names written on it, quite literally. The small establishment did not normally take reservations for lunch but he had managed to talk his way into one.
The door opened with a loud ping and they stepped out together "I like the way you think," she said as they headed off towards the cafe they had seen days before.
Botan whipped the corners of her mouth as delicately as she could manage. The man seated across from her always came off so very elegant and controlled it was hard not to think that she looked like a clumsy fool by comparison. Regardless, she had never felt more at ease. If she was a clumsy fool he did not mind and had been happily eating his meal all the while. He also did not make mention of the stares she knew they were getting and she was sure he had noticed.
It was hard not to stare. They were a very unique and brightly colored pair. His red hair and green eyes stood out as much as her blue locks and purple orbs. Women were particularly drawn to him. It was understandable. He was so very handsome. Even so he made her feel like she was the only person in the cafe, his attention never wavering from their conversation for more than the time it took to order.
Every time she took a bite of the chocolate cake they were sharing for desert her eyes closed in bliss. The sun seared into her closed lids. It was hard not to think of this outing as a date. She was doing her damnedest not to get ahead of herself, but he was making it hard, so very hard, not to. The conversation never lagged, he paid so much attention to her, and she was not going to deny that there was chemistry between them. For Kami's sake, they had hugged, something they had never done before! It looked like a date and felt like a date, but the word date had not been used. Therefore, as far as she was concerned, they were two good friends having an afternoon out. She tried to steel herself before opening her eyes but it was useless.
The handsome man currently staring so warmly at her, made every fiber in her being want to lean over and melt against him. He had cleaned his fork and put it down. There on the table rested the final piece of cake. He knew she would want it. She repeated the process again, reveling in the way the chocolate melted in her mouth. She opened her eyes again repeating a mantra in her head; this is not a date, this is not a date, this is not a date.
Except upon finding the clever man exactly where he had been, looking as devilishly striking as ever and fixing her with a stare that could have lit her on fire, she decided she did not care. Date or no date she knew how she felt and she was ever more certain she was not alone in those feelings.
A light buzzing from near by caught her attention. She had noticed it earlier but chose not to pay it any mind. The problem was that it kept getting closer and closer and thus harder to ignore. That agitating noise threatened to spoil her good mood and she was not sure whether to laugh or cry. Floating above Kurama's flaming red hair was the tiniest drone. It's beady camera lens zoomed in and Botan grimaced. She had expected her early departure to be brought up at a later date, but she had not expected Koenma to send a camera after her.
Kurama followed her suddenly distracted gaze. He could not see it but he knew from experience what she was looking at. Koenma was renowned for recording everything but the fox hardly thought it necessary or appropriate to have his lady-love followed in her free time. He did not move nor did his face change at all. With a small flare of his power the tree they were cozily nestled under snapped out a long branch. The crunching sound was followed by gales of laughter. "Well I guess we're both in trouble now," she said through dying giggles.
He did not know why she was in trouble. He surmised that it had something to do with her early arrival, but there was no way in hell he was going have that damned camera in their face all afternoon. He would also be more than agitated if he found out that she was punished in anyway for what had transpired thus far. He would be happy to say that to the godlings face should the need arise. For now he would enjoy the time he got with her and endeavor to keep her spirits up. He had been keeping an eye on a clock across the street to make sure they did not miss their movie. He knew she was looking forward to it. When her eyes turned to take in the remnants of the camera he slipped money onto the tray that he had signaled for earlier. "We should go get seats."
"Oh, yes!" She turned to get the servers attention only to find that Kurama had already taken care of the check and was waiting for her with his hand held out. Botan huffed in indignation. She had decided that she was going to pay for lunch. It was only fair, she reasoned with herself earlier that day. He had already paid for all the meals so far and the tickets. As his friend it was only polite to pick up a bill, or at the very least offer. She had already known that getting to the waiter before the kitsune would be the problem, and such had proven to be the case. Kurama was very good at distracting her while he took care of things. His slight of hands skills were second to none. "Kurama, you are spoiling me," she exclaimed with a half-hearted pout.
He begged to differ but decided to go about it in a different way. "You work hard and deserve a treat," he said standing at her side.
She could recognize a loosing argument when she saw one. "So do you. I'm going to get you lunch or something one of these days." She poked his arm a few times for good measure before standing at his side. "and you can't object."
His red mane shook in amusement. She was clearly feigning being cross and as with everything else she did the small gesture endeared her even more to him. He held both of his hands up in resignation. "If that means another afternoon out with you then I won't, I promise."
With that assurance she nodded and grabbed his left arm. She guided him out of the cafe her blue hair swaying at her back. "Good. I'm holding you to that."
He found that he did not mind if she did.
Kurama made his way into the theater holding a drink in each hand. The heavy smell of butter and sugar entered his nose and lingered there. He pulled the door open and stepped into the dimly lit room.
They had decided to divide and conquer. She had rushed off to secure good seats while he grabbed the refreshments and she had succeeded. She sat directly in the center of the theater where she was keeping a seat open for him as well. They had known that the theater would be somewhat empty and such was the case. Regardless he had wanted to make sure they had the best seats in the house.
It had been worth it. Her long legs were tucked up underneath her as she sat with big wide eyes fixated on the screen.
He stood for a moment admiring the way she sat in awe of the spectacle and he realized that this might have been the first time she was going to the movies. If not the first, it was one of only a handful of experiences and suddenly he was even more thrilled with his decision to bring her out. She was clearly excited and therefore so was he.
Kurama made his way over gaining her attention in the process. The screen light reflected in her eyes as she smiled back at him warmly.
"I think the previews are about to start," she said and the only thought he could muster was how adorable she was. Yes, adorable was the word... and alluring. The way she stared up at the screen in child like wonder was precious.
"I think you're right," he said quietly as the lights dimmed further. He felt her squeeze his forearm and instinctively leaned in to her. Carefully, he turned his arm over holding his palm open in invitation.
For a moment he thought she had not seen his gesture. Her eyes were firmly fixed on the screen. He left it there perpetually waiting, on the off chance she might notice and choose to join him. A smile bloomed across his face when the warmth of her palm rested in his own. He shifted his gaze to her and, apart from a distinct blush that had spread across her cheeks, nothing had changed. Still, it was enough and he squeezed her hand gently.
The afternoon sun still hung lazy in the sky when they exited the theater. Together they discussed the movie as they walked along the busy sidewalks, avoiding those heading home from work or those who were in a rush to meet friends. "You know I really enjoyed that. I don't get to go to the movies often so thank you for taking me."
"It was my pleasure." And he meant that. He had hardly watched the film at all. The plot was basic enough to follow without having to devote all of his attention to it. Instead he kept a close but surreptitious eye on her. He wanted to see her reactions and wanted to know that she was having fun. Once it became evident that she was enjoying the film he found he could not look away. She was far more mesmerizing than anything happening on the screen. "What should we do next?"
"Before or after I drag you to another shop?" she teased, earning a deep chuckle from broad shoulders. Botan leaned forward to catch a glimpse of his face. "I heard there was a botanical garden near by."
"There is," he said, fairly positive where she was going with this line of thought. He had been sure to go to places that she would enjoy and therefore he would too. Botan had always been considerate. She would go out of her way for others whenever given the opportunity and no doubt wanted to thank him for taking her out.
The twinkle in her smile diminished slightly as a thought crossed her mind. "I bet you've been there though," she said quietly. Her ponytail swung behind her in time with their steps.
It was true he had been there but that was no reason not to go now. He always enjoyed botany and would do so even more in her presence. "Yes, but I'd love to go again. We can shop as we walk."
"I'm glad I wore my comfy shoes," she said pulling him into a small store that he vaguely recognized. She perused through the newest items in a languid manner. He already knew they would be headed towards the sale racks. It was where she tended to do most of their shopping. "Do you go to this garden often?"
"Sadly no." His voice followed after her even when she disappeared behind some taller displays. Feet poised to meet her, he stopped when a slip of colored fabric screamed at him. A swift tug had the garment held before him. A scan of the tag showed the right size and a great price. It was almost too good to be true. It just needed the Botan seal of approval. "What about this?" He held the dress up to her from the sale rack. The pretty pale pink material was almost white but had just enough color to soften its appearance.
She had quickly decided on their previous rendezvous that if he was extending an item to her it was because he had taken into account three important variables and come to the conclusion that it would interest her. Not only would it be a good price but it would be an item that was timeless. To top it off everything he picked for her had ended up looking amazing on her. It was like he had the uncanny ability to envision how the material would sit on the contours of her body. The thought made her breathless so she tried her best not to think about the implications behind such an idea. She also did her best not to put too much weight on the fact that whenever he got the chance they were touching somehow, for if she did that pesky tinge would color her cheeks and she had been doing that quite a bit lately.
Botan took the dress and held it up to her form. She pulled the waist to her own and took a quick look in the mirror near by. He could instantly tell what she thought of the item by the way her fingers caressed the fabric smoothing it to get a better look. "You are so good at this!" she exclaimed hugging the linen dress to her person. Quicker than he might have guessed she was at the regisiter paying for the item.
He joined her at the counter resting his hand at the small of her back. "My mother often took me shopping when I was young," he offered as an explanation but she had a feeling that was not all of it. He had an eye for beautiful things. Every piece he chose was elegant and suited her purposes and her budget. He had a keen and critical eye, at least when it came to the clothes, an asset he had retained from his days as a legendary bandit.
Adding that skill to shopping with his eager mother must have made for interesting excursions. She could just imagine it now. A younger, short haired Kurama tagging along with his mom, getting into mischief and then smiling sweetly hoping it would all go away. She was sure Shiori enduldged him when she could. It would have been hard not to. Kurama had always been a charmer, especially as a youkai, when his craftier side felt so inclined. "I bet you two were the cutest pair at the mall."
He retrieved her new garment bag with a shrug and did his best not to grin like an idiot when soft nimble fingers found their way into his larger ones. His thumb brushed over her knuckles and he was pleased to see her breath hitch as they walked out of the establishment. "I am biased but I believe there are at least a few people that would have agreed with you." The jingle of the bells that had welcomed them in also bode them a safe departure when the door swung shut behind them. "Shall we?" he asked turning them towards the street sign that, if followed, would take them to the garden she was so keep to visit with him.
She swung their joined hands playfully between them. "I must admit that I am not as knowledgeable in the world of botany as I should be. If you don't mind I might take advantage of your wisdom."
She did not know it but it meant a great deal to him that she was taking a genuine interest in something he loved. "I'd be happy to teach you." The sincerity in his voice made her blush heavily and not for the first time she understood that what he exuded was not platonic in nature. Such was further accented by the fact that at some point their fingers had gently twined together.
"I'd love that. You can start today professor," she said holding her hand up with her pointer finger extended enthusiastically. Kurama chuckled and took the opportunity to guide her towards the garden.
Afternoon had turned to evening whilst they meandered around the botanical garden. The vaulted glass ceiling gave them a clear view of the stars. He really could not have asked for a better setting for their date. It would soon be time to leave but neither was prepared to depart just yet.
"So, what's this one?" he asked, pointing to a small dark shrub. His voice was quiet but with the vaulting glass ceilings it echoed more loudly than he would have liked. They had been here for hours, far longer than he would have expected.
"Ophiopogon planiscapus. It is an... evergreen?" she answered tentatively.
He nodded with assurance. His hand reached out to the red bud that tickled her hair. "And this one?" He held the branch of red blooming flower up for her to see more clearly. The gentle timber in her ear was enough to make her want to curl up to his side and fall asleep, but she knew that soon enough they would be parting ways again.
"A flowering quince." This answer was given with more authority. He had noticed the way she stared at the pretty flower when they crossed its path in the garden. He decided that the bench near by was as good a place as any to rest for a time. When the flower ceased to enchant her so completely they began studying the plants that surrounded them.
She had asked questions both about the plants and his powers, some of which he was surprised to hear her vocalize. It seemed that she had a firm grasp on how his abilities worked. She also knew more than he might have guessed about his past life. He wondered how much of his file she had seen. If he was honest with himself she had probably seen the whole thing. She was a high ranking member of Reikai's operation. In addition to the file, he was sure that his infamy had made its way into the Reikai gossip pool more than once.
It concerned him a bit. His past was not something he like to dwell on. He had been selfish, arrogant, and greedy. regardless, no matter how much she knew, she did not judge him. She had faith in the man he had become, not the one he left behind. With that in mind he decided it was better for her to hear his version of events, straight from the foxes mouth, or as much of it as she wished to know. So he told her, about the plants and how he came to develop his powers. And she listened.
They had been sitting on the bench for at least a couple of hours. Once again their afternoon excursion had turned into an all day affair, a fact that neither had complaints about. In fact she was tempted to ask him for another day out. Sadly she could not really think of a valid excuse on the spot. Shopping worked but she did not want him thinking she was only interested in his fashion sense. Better to come up with an activity they would both enjoy and make sure that this next outing was actually called a date. To do so she would need a little time to plan. Therefore she reluctantly remained silent for the time being.
"I must say you are quite the quick study Botan." She truly was. He knew she had a reputation for being flighty at times but it was part of her charm. It did not negate the fact that she retained information she took in and she was truly interested in botany.
Botan tilted her head to lean into his shoulder, not enough to move him, just enough to find him leaning back as well. "It helps to have such a great teacher," she said, taking in the scenery. Not all of the flowers had been in bloom when they first arrived but after a few minutes in Kurama's presence suddenly they were all showing off for the plant expert. She was sure he had coaxed them with a bit of energy but it had created a little corner of paradise.
Kurama heard the jingling of keys before the security guard became visible. "Excuse me, the gardens are closing." The tired man waited for a nod from the pair and then wandered off to look for more stragglers.
They quickly gathered their things and headed out into the well lit streets looking for a slightly less noticeable area that she could slip away from unnoticed. She leaned her chin back to take in the night sky.
She loved warm nights like this. They made her feel free and somewhat drowsy, a bit like a cat that had soaked up too much sun. They veered off the pathway and into a quieter area. As much as she wanted the evening to continue she knew what time it was and what would happen if she stayed. Punishment passed down from the almighty was to be avoided at all costs. And besides, she would need some sleep if she was to make it through her shift the next day whilst she simultaneously figured out who she was going to gather the gumption to actually ask the kitsune on a real date. "Oh my goodness it got late quickly. I never can seem to keep track of time when I'm with you." Her oar materialized in her free hand before she swung it under her legs.
He did his best to keep the disappointment out of his countenance. This was the second time in a week she was going to drift off into the night. There was no getting around it. He knew that. Still he wanted her to stay, or even escort her home. His mother had gone over etiquette with him many years before and that was one of the things that had stuck with him, along with opening doors and holding bags. He wanted to see her safely home but he knew what she would say. She would feel bad for making him go all the way up to Reikai when the fastest way to and from her world was on her oar.
So he stilled his desire to coax her off her flying contraption by the hand that he was still holding and convince her to stay. He thanked Kami for all of those years practicing self control, for he desperately needed them now. "I shall take that as a compliment," he said, reminding himself that this was only their second date. The second of many to come if he had any say in the matter.
"So you should," she said with a wink that coincided with a gentle squeeze of his hand. Too soon her touch left his skin and he knew he was already missing her. "Gotta run! I'll see you soon!" she promised vaulting into the inky skyline.
Her image was a dot in the atmosphere when he thought back over their conversation. Kurama audibly cursed through clenched teeth. Somehow she had left without him securing another visit. He did not want to wait for the group meeting before he saw her again. The wheels in his head began to turn at a rapid pace. He came up with a plan of action quickly. He made his way towards the train ironing out the semantics in his mind.
End comments: Date number 2 is over and we will be on to date number 3 shortly. And yes, that is how I intend to structure this. So we are moving forward at what I hope is a steady pace. Kurama is nothing if not patient. As for Botan being able to find him she does so regularly in the series so I don't find that to be far fetched, and it's not as if he was hiding. In any case, I am having a good time with this and I might add some comedy to the next one. We shall see. As always I have no beta reader so please forgive any mistakes you find. Reviews are more than appreciated and welcome, but please no flames. Until next time!