Disclaimer: I know nothing…
Chapter 10: A New Year's Eve Disaster
Kaoru smiled down at Kenji as she held his plate of cookies so he could take a sip of the punch. A happy crunch next to her made her lips quirk as Misao snuck yet another of the sugar concoctions into her mouth. She was trying hard not to get anything stuck in her teeth or stain her dress but the woman was not winning the fight against her sweet tooth. Sighing, Kaoru looked up to find the reason they were both struggling to be presentable, their men chatting easily with a couple of other suits that were apparently very interested in doing business. Though Kaoru knew it was the whole reason for the party she just wished that for a few minutes she could pretend they were only there for the music and dancing. Poor Kenji was getting tired of just standing.
"Don't worry, Kamiya-san, the closer it gets to midnight the less business talk there will be." Hiko stepped up next to them, his stern face producing a smile to ease her tension. "More because a lot of them will have consumed too much alcohol to agree or disagree coherently."
Misao giggled which forced Kaoru to smile, but a small jerk on her hand distracted her as Kenji demanded her attention. "Kaoru-san… I need to go to bathroom."
"Alright, sweetheart." Handing the plate to Misao and setting aside the glass cup of half drank juice, Kaoru gripped the boy's hand tightly and turned to Hiko. "Could you point me in the right direction?"
"I can take him, if you want."
"No." Hiko glanced down to Kenji, a surprised smirk pulling at his lips at the firm tone in his voice. "Mo- Kaoru can take me. Daddy said to hold onto Kaoru's hand and not let go."
"Alright. We wouldn't want to go against what Dad said." Chuckling under his breath Hiko pointed to a far corner. "You'll have to walk down the hall a bit but the bathrooms are that way."
"Thank you."
Leading Kenji carefully through the crowd of adults, Kaoru smiled where was appropriate, greeting once again many of the people that she had been introduced to when they had first arrived. Once in the hallway she politely explained to the guard on duty what she was searching for and he lazily lifted a hand to wave her on, apparently bored.
"Who are those people, Kaoru?" Kenji questioned her curiously, his little neck twisted at an awkward angle to keep the guard in his view for as long as he could.
"He's one of the many security guards your father scheduled for the party. He's there to make sure no one gets hurt or upset."
"I thought that's what Daddy was here for."
Laughing, Kaoru brushed a hand over Kenji's bangs when his brows creased in confusion. "Well, honey, your dad can't keep an eye on everyone at once, so he has a few people who are helping him out."
"Oh. But… I don't know any of them."
Kaoru laughed again and leaned down to kiss him on the forehead. "Yeah, but you don't have to worry about them, sweetheart. That's what I'm here for."
Leading him into the restroom, quieting his protests when he found himself in the lady's room, Kaoru reassured him that it would be okay. Smiling at an American woman when she grinned in amusement, her accented voice politely saying hello to the both of them, Kaoru bowed her head minimally and used the exchange as an excuse to calm the boy down.
"You see, Kenji-chan. Nobody will be upset that you're in here. I just don't feel comfortable with you going into the men's room alone, alright?"
His little head nodded but his eyes stayed studiously aimed downward. Well, at least he's polite. Smile widening as she held in her laughter, Kaoru led him to a stall and let him finish his business alone. As she waited a couple of the other stalls emptied, the ladies washing their hands and reapplying makeup before leaving. Left with only Kenji as company she smiled when another woman walked into the bathroom.
Surprisingly Kaoru found relief in the woman's obvious Japanese origin, her dark eyes and similar features a comforting sight next to the strange and foreign appearances of everyone else she had encountered that evening. The smile the woman gave was rather small but polite, and when she greeted Kaoru it was in their native tongue. Another comfort to Kaoru's homesickness.
"Konban wa."
Returning the greeting softly Kaoru bowed at the waist, a show of respect and relief. The woman then turned away, apparently more interested in her reflection in the mirror. Slightly disappointed but understanding, Kaoru watched as she swiped a couple fingers over her hair to resituated a stray strand back into place and then turned to open her small clutch. While watching her reapply her lipstick Kaoru heard the toilet flush behind her, Kenji's business done for the moment. Turning away from the beautiful woman, Kaoru helped to open the door and let Kenji's small frame exit the stall.
Her smile widened in loving affection as she found that he was unable to reposition his clothing in the same fashion as his father had a few hours before. Placing a hand between his shoulder blades, she led him insistently to the sinks lining the wall so he could wash his hands before she took on the task of making him presentable again.
"What an adorable little boy." Apparently interested now, the woman made conversation. Strangely she spoke to her in English this time.
Kaoru, in the midst of balancing Kenji in her arms as he was not quite tall enough to reach the water faucets, graced the woman with a prideful smile. "Thank you." Respecting her choice of language, she answered back in kind.
"There is no doubt that he is the son of our host, Himura-san." Intense eyes looked over the red of Kenji's hair before she returned her scrutiny to Kaoru. "And that must make you Himura's wife?"
Kaoru opened her mouth quickly in denial. Though she had no problem letting the mother title slide when it came to Kenji, she did not think it wise to make anyone believe that her and his father were married when they were not. "Oh no, I'm afraid not."
"Oh? But are you not the boy's mother?"
Something in the woman's voice made Kaoru frown, sensing a sting of mocking anger, and yet it was too lightly ingrained in her words to be called out. "I did not give birth to the child, no, but that does not mean I care for him any less."
"But what of the boy's real mother?"
"I've never met her."
"That doesn't mean she is not still his mother."
"Perhaps… but Kenji has never met her either and that is no one's fault but hers."
"Well. Do you feel that gives you the right to put a claim on him and his father?" The woman's voice was definitely haughty now and it rubbed Kaoru the wrong way.
Feeling the conversation had progressed too far past politeness Kaoru directed her attention back to Kenji, helping him dry his hands then adjusting his miniature tux. "What right I do have to the men in my life has nothing to do with the absence of some woman I have never met, nor is it your business. I apologize but I think our conversation is finished."
Kenji studied the frown lines that were beginning to appear on his mother's forehead, unsure of why she was upset but knowing that there was no other explanation for the absence of her smile. With no one else in the room besides him and this strange woman Kaoru was talking to, Kenji concluded that it was the other that was disrupting their mood. Setting his little jaw, ready to defend his mother and protect her happiness, Kenji turned angry eyes to the tall woman standing beside them.
When her black eyes connected with his, however, the words in his throat collected and tangled harshly together. Feeling strangled, frightened, and frozen, Kenji heard as if from the end of a tunnel the whimper that exited his mouth in place of the intelligible dialogue that he had so meticulously picked to shoo this stranger out of their midst.
"Kenji?" Kaoru's hands wrapped warmly around his shoulders, shaking him slightly when he was unable to tear his gaze from the lady back to her. "What's wrong, little man?"
Rushing harshly back into his system, his nightmare tore at his heart fearfully, reminding him of what it felt like to be alone and unguarded. Revealing what it would be like to be without those he knew loved him. How it would feel to be without the safe barrier of warmth and protection his father made sure surrounded him. Letting him know what it meant to be helplessly unable to move without the threat of pain.
"Kenji!"
Jumping out of his shock Kenji slammed himself into Kaoru's chest, his entire body shaking as he clung to her kimono. Hugging his shivering form to her Kaoru cuddled him close in confusion, unsure of his reaction and what had been the cause of it. "I'm sorry I've never seen him act this way before…" Looking up to the lady Kaoru trailed off when she found her already gone, the space beside her empty. The frown on her face deepened and Kaoru's arms tightened around the boy.
"It's ok Kenji. You don't have anything to be afraid of. Nobody's going to hurt you."
"She had black eyes."
"Black eyes?" Blinking at his brief explanation, Kaoru suddenly remembered the boy's nightmare from the evening before. In the dream he had been tormented by a woman with black eyes. "Oh sweetie, there are plenty of people with dark eyes. You can't assume that they all will be bad. In fact," Pulling him carefully away to look into his face, she patiently explained and encouraged. "you should never think the worst of a person when you first meet them. I hope you will always be open minded about everyone's potential."
Quivering still in fear Kenji's lip trembled as tears gathered in his eyes. "I'm sorry, Kaoru-san. She was just so scary."
"It's alright sweetie, but you shouldn't be afraid of anyone when I'm here with you. I promised I would never let anything bad happen and I swear I will never break that promise to you." Squeezing him gently against her she whispered her conviction in his hair. "I would do anything to protect you, Kenji. I love you too much to let you get hurt."
Sniffing, his eyes widened and his next words were spoken in awe. "You do?"
"Of course I do, my little firecracker." Finding tears had gathered on her lashes as well, Kaoru blinked as Kenji stepped away to look her in the eye. "Is that allowed?" Smiling when he nodded his head vigorously, Kaoru wiped at the moisture that had collected on his face.
"And Daddy, too?" When she frowned and didn't answer immediately he reached forward to tug on the sleeve of her dress. "You love Daddy, too?"
Lips trembling, Kaoru nodded as she tried to smile. "Yes. And your daddy, too."
"Yatta!" Giggling, his fear forgotten, Kenji threw himself at Kaoru and hugged her fiercely. Soon everything he had ever wanted would be his. All that was left was for his father to admit his feelings for Kaoru. Then I will finally have my mommy for real.
When they returned to the party Kenshin was standing with Hiko, looking casual and quite comfortable in the atmosphere that surrounded them. As they came closer, however, Kaoru's smile widened when she caught the look of relief that passed over his features.
"Did you get lost?" His arm wrapped warmly around her shoulders, smiling vaguely when another couple passed by.
"No. We just weren't in a big hurry, were we, Kenji?" His little head shook and Kaoru's smile turned to a grin. "Especially since you seemed preoccupied with everything else."
"I know and I'm sorry, but…"
"Oh Kenshin, I didn't mean it like that. I understand, and it hasn't been too bad." Sighing, she leaned part of her weight into his side. "I will admit that I'll be glad when it's over, though."
"Will you now?" Grinning, Kenshin lifted an eyebrow and she frowned even as she blushed.
"Would you stop that." Whispering in chastisement, she elbowed him in the ribs, causing him to wheeze. "I might just sleep with Kenji."
Face falling in surprise, his eyes widened and his shoulders slumped. "But koishii, I thought… I mean you…" Cutting off when she began to giggle, he frowned, his nose wrinkling.
"Would you like to call a truce?" Patting him on one cheek, it was her turn to lift an eyebrow.
"Hmph… very well, koi. For now."
"Alright ladies, which of you wants to dance with me first?" Sano strolled over as their conversation ended, his smile flashing as brightly as his diamond studs. Misao giggled, continuously amused by his forward actions, and Kaoru grinned at Kenshin as he pouted. Even he had been unable to get away long enough to dance with her until then.
"Stand down, Sanosuke. I have already claimed this next dance with Kamiya-san." Hiko surprised them all by intervening and Kenshin's pout deepened. "You may have the second."
"Don't I have a say?" Muttering, Kenshin took a hold of Kenji as Hiko directed Kaoru out onto the floor, Sano following close after with Misao. Aoshi was still preoccupied with one last client and was therefore unable to protest. Sighing, Kenshin looked down to his son who was trying hard to suppress a yawn. "Getting tired?" Smiling affectionately when his arms lifted demandingly over his head, Kenshin bent to pick him up. "Yeah, me too."
Winding his way through the many other guests, looking for somewhere relaxing and open, he strolled out onto the balcony. It was cold outside but at least the air was fresher. Trying to brace the boy's body with both arms to share warmth, Kenshin sighed and smiled as his little head slumped onto his shoulder.
"Dad?"
"What is it, Kenji?"
"Do you love Kaoru-san?"
Blinking, his lips tilted in bemusement. "Where did this suddenly come from?"
"Do you?"
"…Yes… I do." Rubbing a hand up his back, Kenshin strained to make out his son's features out of the corner of his eye. "Is that allowed?"
Nodding quickly against his shoulder, Kenji lifted his head to smile brightly into his face. "Yep. It makes me happy, 'cause that means we both love Kaoru-san."
"Oh?" Heart warmed, Kenshin leaned back into the outer wall of the building.
"Yeah, and you know what? Kaoru told me that she loves me too, and then… guess what."
"What?" Amused and extremely proud of them both, Kenshin played along.
"She told me that she loves you too. That means she's finally my mommy, right?"
Swallowing thickly, Kenshin's smile wavered as the force of emotion in his chest threatened to peak without warning. This child had always been the source of much fulfillment in his life but within the bare space of two sentences he had given him much more. "Do… do you want Kaoru to be your mother?"
Nodding his head vigorously, Kenji affirmed the notion. "Yep. I want Kaoru to be with us all the time and never leave. You'll let her, won't you Daddy? You said you loved her and she loves you and that means you want to be together, right?"
"Of course, Kenji. I want her to be with us all the time, too. But that is something she will have to decide on her own, ok?" Sadly his little figure slumped, his lip pouting.
"Does that mean she can't be my mommy yet?"
"What do you mean, Kenji? Don't you already think of her as your mother?"
"Yeah, but…"
"Then it doesn't matter if she's living with us yet or not. You can still call her that. I'm sure she won't mind, and I don't mind either."
"Really?"
"Yes… and besides, I haven't had the chance to talk to you about this yet, but I had planned on asking Kaoru to live with us, permanently, sometime soon. So we won't be apart from her for very much longer."
"Yatta!"
Grinning, a sudden idea overcame Kenshin and he leaned in to whisper secretly in Kenji's ear. "Let's keep this between us, though, alright? I want it to be a surprise."
"Like a present?"
"Yeah, just like a present. And this isn't the best place to give her something so special." Making a distasteful face, Kenshin indicated the noisy room off to their left.
"Nuh-uh."
"Right. So will you be able to refrain from calling Kaoru 'mommy' until tomorrow? That's when you can give her your surprise."
Giggling behind his hands, Kenji nodded in glee. "Ok."
"So first thing in the morning for you. Right after you wake up you can call her mommy to your heart's content, but not tonight."
"Got it."
Smiling, Kenshin rubbed his nose against his son's, his heart and mind never so full of love as at that moment. It was all because of how much love there was between him and his son and Kaoru.
"When are you going to give her your present, Daddy?"
"I don't know yet. I haven't decided on the best day, but I'll let you know when I figure it out, alright. Then you can help me. Right now, though, I just want you to concentrate on your mission."
"Yep." Nodding his head, his hand lifted suddenly to cover his mouth as he was overcome by a yawn. "I'm tired, Daddy."
"I figured as much." Shifting his weight as the boy repositioned himself on his shoulder, Kenshin leaned his head lightly on his. "We won't stay too late. I promise. Just after midnight and then we'll go back to the hotel."
Rocking the boy gently, Kenshin was thankful for the absence of wind as he stood out on the balcony for a couple more of the songs floating through the doors. Not long after the end of one he smiled at Kaoru as she peeked her head around the metal and glass contraptions.
"What are you doing out here?" Walking slowly to him, her feet rather tired from her two bouts with Sano, she half-smiled in affection as Kenji's snoozing form came into her view. "I wondered if he was going to make it. He ate so much sugar that he was bound to crash sooner or later." Sweeping her fingers over his disheveled hair, she cuddled closer to Kenshin without encouragement. It was slightly chilly and subconsciously she worried about Kenji even as she lifted an arm to block his body and wrap him further in warmth.
"I hadn't planned on staying too much longer anyway. Once midnight hits we'll start our round of goodbyes for the evening. Aoshi has already agreed to stay as late as is required."
"That's very nice of him."
"Yes, well, he has also agreed to take on more responsibility for the company, since someone seems to think I try to do too much. This will be a good start for him."
"Really? Does that mean no more late nights at the office?"
Shrugging his shoulders, Kenshin smiled mysteriously. "Possibly."
Strangely she pouted. "That means I won't have Kenji for quite as long, though."
Chuckling softly, Kenshin smoothed a finger over her jaw, catching her chin and lifting her eyes to meet his. "I thought we could talk about that when the time comes."
A blush crept up her cheeks, her lip worrying under her teeth, and her heart pounded an unsteady rhythm against her ribs. "Oh?"
"For now I want to know if you have any New Year's resolutions thought out."
"Oh, well… I've never really done that before." Stuttering at his change in tact, Kaoru brushed nervously at a stray hair in her face. She had been sure he was speaking on a matter much more serious and life changing than this. His switch in subject left her feeling unbalanced.
"Yeah, me neither. Of course, I've never really thought about needing to make one, but I think this year I might." He was teasing her, although he spoke so reasonably she could still hear that amused tone in his voice.
"Really, mister big-shot, what could you possibly need to make a resolution over? All you have to do is ask your little secretary to jot it down on your schedule so you won't forget, or just have her do it for you." Mocking, she placed a hand on her hip, one brow lifted.
"Now, Kaoru, surely you're not jealous of Kimiko-san. She has a fiance, you know."
"Why would I be jealous, Kenshin? I expect you would know better than to mess around. Besides, Kimiko-san owes me big time and I doubt she would repay me by trying to steal you away." Smirking when he frowned she got that arrogant look on her face again, just like she had the night before. Deciding to let her comment slide, as that expression did such wonderful things to his insides, he twined his fingers through the hair at the back of neck and pulled her closer.
"You are such a spitfire, koishii. I enjoy that about you." Please be mine, forever. With an inner sigh of regret Kenshin realized the words he wished to speak would have to stay unspoken for awhile yet. Until then he was going to enjoy the velvet cushion of her lips.
Long moments later, her soft, heavy breaths sweet in his ear, he grinned and played with that stray hair she was finding annoying. "So, koishii, have you thought of your own resolution?"
Dazed and confused, Kaoru's smile wavered in blissful ignorance before her thoughts steadied to include his words of question. Opening her mouth to reply, she stopped on an inward breath, before her lips twitched on a sudden thought. Expression turning slightly wicked, Kaoru blushed at her own boldness. "I'll tell you what it is after I have done it."
"Is that so?" Fully ready to meet her challenge head on, Kenshin caught himself when Kaoru's irises, so daring and full of heat, darted away from his and widened. A quick, half-cocked frown followed the look.
"And just how long have you been awake, little man?"
Startled, Kenshin stretched his neck to look down at the boy as well. Tired blue-violet eyes were blinking blearily at Kaoru, but the smile on his face was slightly triumphant and Kenshin could only think of the conversation they'd had before Kaoru appeared on the balcony.
"You weren't spying, now were you?" Teasingly her fingers wiggled over his stomach and he jumped sluggishly as he giggled, still half asleep.
"No." A more mischievous giggle told of his falsehood.
"Ooo, you just wait, firecracker." Tickling him in earnest, his little laughs ripped from his mouth as his hibernating adrenaline kicked in with renewed energy.
"Stop! Stop, Kaoru!" Batting her off with his hands, he twisted and turned within Kenshin's arms, forcing his father to brace him more securely.
"Alright, you two. Let's not try to fall off." All too aware of the balcony edge merely a few feet to their right, Kenshin ended their fun abruptly. "I was hoping to see this coming new year."
Kaoru pouted slightly but contented herself with a quick tweak of the boy's nose. "Very well. I'll get you later." Smacking a loud kiss to Kenji's cheek she smiled happily when he giggled.
A quick look at the clock as they reentered the party showed only thirty more minutes before midnight and excitement tingled happily in Kaoru's stomach. A new year was so mysterious with its chances of joy and new discoveries, and in the back of her mind she knew of one that filled her with anticipation as well as a touch of anxiety. That moment would change everything and as eagerly as she sought that transformation in their relationship, she also feared that she might disappoint. She couldn't bear it if he were to be dissatisfied because of her inexperience or the rather unfeminine state of her body due to kendo training. The feeling of shame might crush her.
"Are you rested enough to dance with me now, Kaoru?" Kenshin's arm wrapped around her shoulders, his voice warm and teasing, and Kaoru smiled.
"But what about Kenji?"
"Hiko-sama can watch him for a few minutes. He'll be perfectly safe."
"Well, I have missed you all evening…" A light blush dusted her cheeks and Kenshin's arm tightened as he tried to calm the rise of emotion in his chest. They were in a much too public place to start speaking so intimately, especially since he knew he might not be able to stop at words any longer. So instead of following that line of sweetness she spoke of into the love it promised, he pulled gently away to pass his son over to Hiko.
Returning a few seconds later, Kenshin led her out onto the dance floor, his hand sliding warm and firm around the curve of her hip. "I have missed you too, koishii." Pulling in the calming scent of her hair, feeling his brain swirl as if intoxicated, he moved her smoothly with the rhythm of the music. "I'm sorry I haven't been able to spend much time with you or Kenji. I was hoping that this trip would have left me more free time than it has."
"I understand, Kenshin. Besides, we got to spend all day yesterday together and most of today." Moving her hand from his shoulder to brush over his cheek, she questioned him innocently about the rest of their trip. "And do you have to work tomorrow?"
"I shouldn't have to but they might need me for a few hours in the office. It all depends on how tonight goes."
"Oh?"
As Kenshin explained the finer details of the night and what could possibly come of it for the next day, Hiko rocked Kenji absently against his shoulder. The boy was pretty well fast asleep, even with the noise of the music and people talking. Sighing, he thought absently about the bed the boy should be sleeping in. For a moment he doubted their decision to bring him but knew as well that there was no help for it. The two women could have stayed to watch him but that would have been unfair to them. A babysitter could have been found but Kenshin would not have trusted anyone he did not already know to take care of his only son. Besides, Kenshin had already informed him that Kaoru and himself would not be staying much longer than midnight. The boy would be back at the hotel soon. Pacing absently around the hall, Hiko smiled at a few of the comments his situation was garnering from most of the women.
"Hiko-sama, one of our guests would like a personal word with the both of us." Aoshi came up on his left side, his bland features curiously frowning.
"Which one?" One large hand held flat over the back of his grandson, Hiko frowned as well. All of the large business discussions should have been taken care of already.
"I have never seen him before but he has asked for you and I personally. Though he did not say for what, he seems jittery, as if ready to confess."
"Confess?" A lump of worry slid into his stomach and the large man looked around at the people surrounding them. Though it was a small party by scale, there were too many people there for any type of catastrophe to occur. Too many of them could be hurt, and with the child he held in his arms Hiko could not allow anything like that to happen. "Where is your Misao-san?"
"Right here, Hiko-sama."
"I have heard you are trained in martial arts as well."
"Yes."
"Then you will be fine watching my grandson for a few minutes. Do not let him out of your sight."
"Of course." Bracing the weight of the young child as he was transferred yet again to another, Misao smiled slightly when he grumbled a complaint. "Don't worry about a thing. Aunt Misao will take care of you, little guy."
As Hiko and Aoshi walked away Misao rocked the little boy in her arms and looked out over the dance floor. Himura and Kaoru were smiling happily at one another, and the warmth they radiated had affected many of the surrounding couples. Grinning at the wonderful flow of the night, Misao turned to one of the chairs lining the wall and carefully navigated the room. Though the boy was small, so was she, and his weight was already making her arms burn. The chairs were close to the snack tables, too, and since missing supper had been a necessity Misao was hungry.
Hiko stared down at the unknown man in front of Aoshi and himself. He had to admit he had some kind of guts to be standing there, looking as if he were completely guilty of the worst of crimes, and then having asked for the two most intimidating men in the room. Next to my son, I guess. Amused with the thought, Hiko crossed his arms and shared a glance with Aoshi. The man was plainly Japanese in origin and it only increased the anxiety building in the pit of his stomach. What could he possibly want to tell them?
"Well? Who are you and what do you want?"
Fear passed over the man's features, his eyes darting around the room and focusing on everything but them. "Where is Himura-sama? I asked to speak with him as well."
"He is occupied."
A twitch jerked the muscles in his face as his agitation grew, his hands wiping at his suit jacket distractedly. "Oh, I was hoping to get t-to see his son. I heard he is almost a mirror image."
"You are avoiding the subject. What is it that you want?" Becoming impatient, Hiko nearly growled at the trembling man, his eyes narrowing as he found sweat on his brow.
Flinching as the larger of the two barked at him, the man took a step back and looked around. Sensing his desire to leave and becoming more suspicious by the moment, Hiko and Aoshi tactfully boxed him in. With no opening allowed to him the man began breathing rather heavily. "I-it has been brought to my attention that there might be a problem at your p-party tonight."
Frown deepening as his worst suspicion came true, Hiko looked to Aoshi to see the same expression on his face, only it was slightly colder. Darting a glance over the room behind them, Hiko stepped in closer, a hand coming down on his shoulder. "Where and when?"
"I-I'm not sure." Voice breaking, he stared up at Hiko's imposing figure and trembled under his grip.
"You had better be sure quick. Where did you get this information?"
"I… overheard someone talking…"
"Who? Can you point them out?"
"I didn't see their face…"
A low, irritated rumble rose deep from his chest and the man nearly whimpered.
"It was a woman. I'm sure it was a woman. She was talking about Himura-sama and something about money." Lifting his arms in defensive surrender as Aoshi stepped up and put a hand on his other shoulder, he shrank back against one of the columns. "That's all I know, I swear. She was in the bathroom. I couldn't just hang around and listen like some kind of…"
"Aoshi-sama!"
Aoshi's head snapped up, startling the man and Hiko as well, as Misao tripped in her haste to navigate the crowd. Tears streaked her face and his stomach dropped sickeningly. She did not have young Kenji with her. Meeting her half-way and forcing a smile at the surrounding spectators, he pulled her against his chest and whispered a command to be calm.
"But he's gone! I only looked away for a second and…" Hysterical sorrow was drowning her voice, capturing too much attention, and as Hiko could clearly see the situation he stepped up and placed a hand on the back of her head. He was only thankful she was speaking in Japanese and not many of the people at the party would be able to understand her.
"You need to be calm, Misao-san. We will find him, but your panic will not help." Aoshi nodded in agreement and Misao swallowed her words but still trembled.
"I will tell Himura-sama." Brushing a reassuring hand over his beloved's face, he graced her with a brief smile before walking quickly away. Watching him go, Hiko ground his teeth, knowing he could not let his own anger hurt the girl any more than she already was.
"You need to understand that this could be a bad situation if everyone guesses that something has gone wrong. Try to act as normal as you can while you help me search." Remembering the man he turned and was not surprised to find that he was already gone. It did not matter, however, he knew what he looked like now and there was no chance he was able to enter the party without an invitation. He would find him later.
Kaoru smiled at Kenshin as he caught her from a twirl, his eyes warm with laughter and tempered by desire. They made her giddy, and as she playfully exchanged an intimate touch she had to bite her lip to hide her telling grin when his irises burned golden. He had been trying to keep that look in check all evening and she felt she had won a small victory by uncovering it so soon.
Sapphire eyes lit with joy, her happiness faded quickly when she caught sight of Shinomori's figure coming at them. His face was passive and calm but his steps were not. Seeing Kaoru's expression rapidly change, Kenshin slowed their dance to a stop, his own lips falling from a smile as he turned to see what had captured her attention.
"Aoshi-san." With one hand gripping Kaoru's comfortably, Kenshin glanced quickly around him, as if his surrounding atmosphere would tell him what was happening. "What is wrong?" Lowering his voice as he too knew what kind of chaos a disturbance would bring not only to the party but to their business, he leaned closer as his long time friend took a deep breath.
"Himura-sama…" Aoshi stalled for one brief second as he could tell his formal title had not missed Kenshin's notice. "Kenji is missing." The amber light that had been teasing the edges of violet eyes seemed to bleed into the softer color, speaking of none of his earlier craving. "We believe he was taken."
Kaoru froze and it suddenly felt as if she were unable to breathe. The emotion that slammed into her chest lay heavily against her lungs, constricting the muscles so tightly they were prisoners of their own strength. One gasping breath whispered from her lips, her eyes round and large, and something sharp stabbed like a jagged spear through her heart. There was no mercy in the action, nothing clean about the strike, and as her mind finally moved past the blow, pain sprang to life in her nerves.
She was moving before either of the other two could stop her, and she briefly heard Kenshin's call for her to return. Unable to respond to the command in his voice, or rather unwilling, she pushed her way through the crowd, a strange tranquility falling over her mind. There was nothing to be done about how he was taken or why. All that mattered was finding him and what she must do when that happened. This was where her training and discipline would be needed the most.
Kenshin watched Kaoru vault into action and nearly jumped after her in frustration. Forced to dismiss her, though it was a hard thing as he worried over her safety as well, he turned away from Aoshi and walked to the boundaries of the room. What needed to be done first was a complete lockdown. No one would leave and no one would enter. Hopefully this would buy some time.
Sano met him at one of the guards and as he listened to Kenshin's orders to the man and the resulting crackle of walkie-talkies as they communicated, his face hardened in anger. Leaving him with a supportive clap on the back Sano too took off into the crowd, his lanky form forcing a smile as he swept hard mahogany irises over every detail.
There was no time to give into the suffocating anger and darkness that was threatening his insides. No time to feel despair as he imagined his son, frightened, alone, and with some stranger. It was a cruel echo of both their dreams. Heart freezing with the mixture of his emotions, Kenshin bit the inside of his cheek as many of the partygoers nearest to him noticed and responded with alarm to his hard golden gaze.
Kaoru felt her hands tremble as she twisted and turned, searching systematically as she repeated a calming mantra within her mind. She would find him. She would take him back. She would make sure he was fine. She would hurt whoever had hurt him. If necessary. She could not give into her anger. That was the path her father had warned her against. But that does not mean I will not be strong enough to protect my family. Anger is not the answer. Action is.
But he must be so scared! A tremor pulled at her lips and she could clearly see his frightened eyes. He would need to be comforted, and her arms ached at his absence. She needed to find him, needed to know that he was alright, and needed to reassure him that she would never let such a thing happen to separate them again. And we promised him that he would be ok. We promised that all he had to do if he was ever scared was call and we would come find him. What a horrible promise to make then break within such a short amount of time! How can I ever hope to gain his love if I cannot even protect him? If I can't even keep such a simple promise, how do I ever expect him to look at me as he would his…?
"Kaachan!"
Kaoru's head snapped up, her eyes alight as she searched for the source of the call.
"Kaachan! Kaaa-chaan!"
There was such fear in the child's voice, but it carried, and as she locked onto the source she nearly shoved people out of her way as she followed it. That's it baby. You're such a brave little boy. His distress pulled tears to her eyes and the wound in her heart throbbed as if torn wider.
"Kaachan!"
I'm here sweetheart.
Near the entrance to the party Kaoru came upon the kidnapper who was arguing with the guard as he refused to let her leave. It was with some surprise that she recognized the woman from the bathroom, but that amazement passed quickly as Kenji's frightened and tear-streaked face found her.
"Kaachan!" His little arms reached for her, throwing all of his weight against the woman who held him captive. Unaware of Kaoru's presence, the woman graced him briefly with an irritated look before directing her attention back to the guard.
"As you can see my son is very upset. I don't understand why you won't let me pass. He needs to be put to bed."
Unable to translate Kenji's cries for his real mother, the guard glared down on the small, Asian woman. "I'm sorry ma'am. No one is allowed to leave. It's for your own safety."
"And until you can give me a decent explanation as to what kind of danger I'm in I will keep insisting that you let me pass."
Almost on top of her Kaoru took a deep, steadying breath, holding in her anger as best she could as Kenji's voice quivered into quiet sobs. Upset and struggling with her control, she spoke low and dangerously in her native tongue. "If you don't give me back my son you won't need an explanation."
The guard looked to Kaoru curiously, but dark cobalt irises were only for the other woman as she turned and met her glare with cold black eyes. For several seconds they did nothing but look at one another, Kaoru's stare firm, unyielding, and challenging the look of arrogance on the other's face.
"Your son, is he?" A small smile pulled at perfect red lips. "What makes you so sure?"
Kenji whimpered as Kaoru's face twitched angrily, her hand jerking as Kenji reached for her. Vaguely in the background she heard the guard speaking into his walkie. Swallowing forcefully, her breathing turned shaky with suppressed anger. "Give me my son."
"But you said so yourself that he isn't yours."
"I will not ask again."
"Give me a break." Tossing her head, one perfectly manicured hand rested on her hip. "Just what are you going to do anyway in front of all these witnesses?"
Something deep and lethal flashed across her irises, giving the other woman pause. Her cocky smile wavered, her black eyes uncertain, and she shifted uncomfortably as Kaoru stared her down. "Several things come to mind."
A hand came down on her shoulder and with her body coiled as tight as a spring Kaoru almost lashed out. "I would not take her lightly, Tomoe. Kamiya-san is well trained in protecting herself." Hiko's deep voice was practically conversational and Tomoe's dark eyes finally held fear. Darting them between the two, she searched the depths of Kaoru's and her features lost all of her haughtiness.
Somewhere in her mind Kaoru registered the true identity of this intruder, but without any time to fully analyze the situation the realization only brought more anger to her heart. This was the woman who had hurt her love. This was the woman who had left her own son without holding him once in her arms. This was the woman who had left without marveling at how beautiful her son was or sharing that glorious moment with the father as they entered parenthood together. This is the bitch that hurt both my redheads.
"He's my son." Struggling to keep her voice level, Tomoe lifted her chin and glared at Hiko as she was finding it too difficult to meet the eyes of the smaller woman. "What right does she have to claim what is mine?"
Dark eyes narrowing, Hiko ground his jaw at her nerve. "More right than you do, woman. Now hand over my grandson before I let her take him from you."
Kenshin quick-stepped around the edge of the room, passing strategically placed guards in his search for the one detaining his son. Relief was prominent in his mind that he had been found, but there was concern in his heart for Kaoru. From what the guard had reported she had found them first and she was not happy. He only prayed she did not resort to violence. If it came down to that extreme he would be the one to handle that. Not his sweet Kaoru. Never her.
As he rounded a column and the scene unfolded before his eyes his jog slowed as he clearly made out the familiar form of a woman he had hoped never to see again. As tall and striking as he remembered her to be, her stature was perfect, and her features were flawless. The sight of her made his stomach knot, but he could no longer tell if it was in anxiety, pain, or anger.
Standing before her was Kaoru; the epitome of beauty in her motherly defense. Bright sapphire irises were alight with protective instincts, her posture perfectly balanced for counter or attack. There was no doubt in his mind that she would do anything to take Kenji back, and Kenji was more than willing to be taken as he cried for his mother to save him.
"Oh take the brat then." Jerking the child forward carelessly Tomoe offered him, as indifferent to his personage as she would be to a stranger on the street. Movements reacting almost instantly Kaoru reached, plucking him from her hard grip to cuddle him smoothly into her arms. Cooing softly, her world contracted to include only the boy and his fear as she held him tightly against her and rocked. In that moment it was never more clear or pronounced for Kenshin just who the boy's true mother was.
Heart hardening in a returned rage, Kenshin made his presence known. With Hiko's arm wrapped securely around Kaoru's solid shoulders Kenshin knew there was no longer any reason for him to feel fear for her safety or his son's. Free to focus his entire attention on Tomoe, his scowl deepened when her expression fell back into familiar condescension. As many times as he had wondered at his own naïve trust while subject to her games, now face to face with her once again, he could not believe how ignorant he had been. How could he have ever mistaken her conceited personality for strength or affection?
Switching his gaze to the guard standing watch behind her, he jerked his head, satisfied when anger finally wrenched her perfect looks as the guard's hard fingers detained her wrists. "Hiko-sama, would you mind escorting Kaoru to one of the offices while I take care of our guest?" Kaoru's attention finally lifted beyond Kenji at his voice, looking to him briefly with an emotion he was not quite sure how to read. It made his chest clench in trepidation, but they were both walking away before he had time to analyze it. Letting out a strained breath, Kenshin looked up as Aoshi appeared next to him and nodded in acceptance that he would join the conversation.
Removing their company back to one of the offices as well, Kenshin sat down in one of the chairs as Tomoe was forced to take a seat. Staring across the expanse of desk that separated them he restrained himself from his anger, allowing only a cold indifference and reserved emotion to fill him. No good would come out of this situation if he allowed his temper to flare.
Flicking a passing glance to the guard standing behind her, he jerked his head again. "Wait outside." The man hesitated momentarily, but nodded his head, his eyes just as cold when they landed on the woman's head.
"What do you want, anata?" Tossing her head imperially, her back straight and chin high, she challenged his authority; all confidence in the face of her impending punishment. Face twitching at the endearment, Kenshin felt disgust and annoyance roll in his gut.
"You will not speak to me so informally."
"A wife cannot speak endearingly to her husband anymore?" Sweetly mocking she smiled, dark red lips curving sensually as she looked to him through her lashes. Jaw clenching Kenshin felt his temper rise and fisted his hands against the rising tide.
"My ex-wife left over five years ago. The only woman allowed to speak to me so intimately is not in this room."
"Hmph." Crossing her legs, she busied herself with smoothing out imaginary wrinkles in her dress. "You mean that scrawny raccoon from earlier? That violent little creature will never measure up to me. How low you have fallen, anata." Lifting a hand to the hard wooden desk, she ran her fingers over the surface suggestively, smiling as her words struck a nerve. "She can never love you like I did, anata. Like I still can." Leaning forward, the low cut of her dress dipped to show off her much more well-rounded figure. "I'm willing to take you back. We could be the family you always hoped for. You and me and our son, together as we should be." Dark eyes held much promise, glinting triumphantly when his fuming features relaxed. Seeing victory within her grasp, she yelped indignantly when a hand came down on her shoulder, shoving her back into her seat roughly.
"Hold your tongue, woman." Aoshi's passive characteristics were twisted into a repulsion of his own, glaring down at the woman as she glowered back. He could see it in her eyes that she thought his interruption annoying as he disturbed her supposed moment of success. What she did not see, or could not read, was the true meaning of the expression on Kenshin's face. Though Aoshi had not witnessed its appearance often, it was well known within the circle of a few conference rooms. Appropriately polite, seemingly passive, the less emotion he showed, the more dangerous he was. The woman did not know how close she was to destruction.
The breath pulling into his lungs was not forced, nor did it huff from his nostrils as he exhaled. Kenshin was completely calm. Shifting his weight in the chair, he folded his hands into his lap and briefly closed his eyes before parting red lashes to lift half-lazy eyes to the woman across from him. "You invite yourself to my party, attempt to steal my son, frighten him beyond reason, then proceed to have the nerve to insult my date and my intelligence. You have no right to claim your place as Kenji's mother. You gave that up five years ago. As for what you think we had, you forfeited that long before when you decided that money was more important to you. I have a family now that cares for me and only me. They have no desire for such materialistic things. And so, Tomoe, I neither need nor desire anything from you."
Rolling her eyes, Tomoe crossed her arms and looked away. "Don't be so foolish. Why would anyone be interested in you for anything but the money? You're not that good looking and you are too easy to walk all over. It was so boring being able to manipulate you so effortlessly. A woman needs a challenge in her life." Meeting his stormy gaze head on she lifted a brow and grinned sardonically. "Not to mention a man that can actually please her. Just wait, anata. It won't take long for that raccoon to realize how boring you are, too. Soon enough she'll have herself a man on the side and you'll be just a way of living."
Aoshi grimaced as she baited him and closed his eyes when a loud crack announced the torture of the poor desk between them. "Your mockery does not amuse me!" Biting back a growl he swallowed and took a deep breath to calm his wrath. "I am not interested in your poisonous opinions. My only concern is your misguided intentions for my son."
"He is my son." Trying to hide the trace of fear that shivered up her spine, Tomoe set her mouth in a frown.
Standing half-over the desk, his fist still clenched and throbbing against the hard surface, Kenshin glared down on her; annoyed and irritated by her insistence. "And what, pray tell, did you have in mind for my son when you decided to try and take him away tonight?" Black eyes wavered only enough to narrow. "Were you gong to run away with him? Did you plan to take him somewhere I would never find you and live happily as mother and child?" Voice dripping sarcasm, he snorted when she grimaced ever so slightly. "I didn't think so." Standing straight, Kenshin indicated that she was to as well and Aoshi's hand gripped her below an armpit when she refused to comply. "I will not fall pray to your games a second time. I will not tolerate your presence near my child and I definitely will not be kind if I ever see you again."
Tossing her head as Aoshi led her to the door, she huffed a breath through her nose. "Not going to call the cops? You always were weak."
Lifting a red brow he widened his eyes innocently and spread his hands out to his sides. "I don't think I have to. Not when Kenji's mother is enough to make you tremble in fear."
Opening the door Kenshin gestured for Aoshi to hand her over to the guard. Vaguely he heard the cheers and clapping of the partygoers announcing the new year's arrival. Half smiling, he thought of what a bittersweet transition it had been. "Escort her from the building. Make sure she is properly taken care of." The guard nodded and walked away and Kenshin sighed before glancing up as Aoshi pointed a finger to a room further down the hall. He only hoped the sweet part was for the beginning of this year.
x
Kaoru leaned back in one of the office chairs, her arms still wrapped tightly around the boy in her lap. His little arms refused to loosen from her neck, his face was buried into her shoulder, and his legs were clenched at her torso. The anxiety he felt was easy to read and it only pained her heart more. "It's alright now, sweetheart. You're safe." With one hand braced on his head, she kissed his hair, her insides quivering as his body shook with tears.
Misao hovered by the door, tears falling from her lashes and smearing mascara and eyeliner down her cheeks as she stared at the floor. Kaoru knew how much Misao blamed herself for the situation. She also knew in her heart that if there had been anything Misao could have done to prevent Kenji's short disappearance she would have done it. Sano seemed to think the same thing as he put an arm around her shoulders, and Kaoru was glad he was so understanding. Sensing Hiko's shifting ki, she was afraid the older man was not.
"I'm so sorry, Kaoru." Sobbing, her hands wiped at her face, uncaring of the mess she was making. "One of the waitresses crashed into me and stuff went everywhere. I was only going to put him down for a few seconds and I could still see him, but then there were all these people and someone shoved me and I knew… I just knew…" Breaking off as her tears reasserted themselves, Kaoru's lips pulled downward in sympathy.
"It's alright, Misao. I have a feeling something was going to happen no matter who was watching Kenji or what we all would have done." Trying to smile, Kaoru hugged Kenji tighter. "I'm just glad nobody got hurt." Clenching her eyes shut, Kaoru ducked her head into the boy's shoulder, her stomach churning. "If she… was truly desperate to take him away… she could have attacked you. Or any of us." I know I would have just to get him back.
Though it was still unclear to Kaoru what the other woman's reasoning was. Why now, after five years, had she suddenly returned? Surely she would have come back sooner if she had wanted the boy. Was it mere fear that had kept her away? Was she afraid that Kenshin would not let her see her son? Kenshin was a kind man. There was no doubt in Kaoru's mind that he would never have denied his son the chance to know his mother if she truly wanted to be a part of his life. It wouldn't have mattered about the differences they themselves shared.
But she did not act as if she really wanted anything to do with him. Looking down at the quivering form held tight against her, Kaoru braced her chin on his shoulder and sighed as her eyes closed again. She did not even attempt to comfort or persuade him. Though maybe she was aware of how difficult that was going to be after our conversation in the bathroom. That could have been the reason she confronted me so early on to begin with, just to see how strong our bond is. Even still… she was so cold and distant. No child would feel comfortable in her presence. And her ki was dark and resentful. I could tell without a doubt that she does not truly want anything to do with her son. Heart constricting as she contemplated such callousness, Kaoru felt pity for the woman who had abandoned the warmth of a family. She would never know joy as Kaoru did. What then was it that she wanted? Kenshin?
Opening her eyes as something touched her knee, she looked down at Misao's figure as she knelt next to her. Smiling in reassurance she placed a finger under her friend's chin gently, grateful for a distraction from her thoughts. "Mi-love, you look just awful." Eyes twinkling when Misao pouted, she wiped at the slick moisture on her skin. "Do you really want Shinomori-san seeing you like this? And what about the party? People will question if you look anything but perfect."
Reaching for a box of tissues on the desk behind her, Kaoru plucked a few from the container and helped clean her up. "And don't use your sleeve. That kimono is too light of a color to handle your dark mascara. You'll ruin it." Chiding lightly, Kaoru was glad when Misao's tears stopped and she took over to handle the delicate areas around her eyes.
Minutes later, Misao's features now serene and presentable, her head lying on Kaoru's knee, they heard cheering from the party. Glancing at one of the clocks on the wall, Kaoru sighed at finding both hands straight up and down. It was now the new year and she didn't know how she felt about it anymore. Only half an hour earlier she was ready to greet it with sweet anticipation. Now a mixture of anxiety and fear had moved in to replace it.
The door opened slowly, allowing the noise into their small hide-a-way as Kenshin and Aoshi entered. Kaoru's heart jumped in joy and relief, glad that Tomoe was not with them and happy that Kenshin was once again within her sight. With such unsettling thoughts plaguing her mind she did not like the thought of Tomoe being with Kenshin without Kaoru herself present. Misao stood smoothly as the two conversed quietly with Sano and Hiko, their nodding heads agreeing or taking in everything that was said. At one point Sano smirked, his eyes darting to Kaoru, but nothing was spoken so that they could hear and she was left to agonize over the meaning.
Finally Aoshi held out a hand to Misao, his fingers curling tightly around hers when she joined him without a moment's pause. They shared a rare moment of public affection as his arms wrapped around her to pull her against his chest, and Kaoru smiled. She did not feel Misao was to be blamed and was only glad Misao's beloved felt the same way.
Sensing it was time to leave Kaoru stood as well, her head leaning into Kenji's exhausted form. She was thankful that his hysteria had finally worn itself out and he was sleeping once more. It would make the rest of the evening that much easier. Kenshin was next to her before her legs fully straightened, and all of the tension in her shoulders relaxed with his touch.
"Is he alright?"
Smiling warmly Kaoru leaned into Kenshin briefly, taking strength from his solid presence. "Yeah. He's sleeping now."
"Do you want me to carry him?"
"No." Spoken almost before Kenshin could finish, Kaoru swallowed and calmly repeated herself. "No. I would rather carry him, if that is alright."
Affection warmed his tense expression and he nodded. "That's just fine."
"I think it would be best if you didn't leave right away." Kaoru looked up curiously as Hiko spoke, thinking that to be an unreasonable request. Hadn't they gone through enough already? "People will question why you are not at the party right now and why we all suddenly left. It will hardly go without notice that Kenji was with another woman or the scene that commenced afterwards. I know this is not what you want to hear, Kamiya-san," Turning his attention to Kaoru, Hiko's dark eyes were sympathetic but firm. "but it will not be good for business if we do not smooth this out tonight."
Sighing, Kaoru nodded and looked to the floor. "We don't have to wake Kenji up, though, do we?"
"No. I think it would be best if he sleeps through this. And do not worry. It will not be for very long."
As they all returned to the party Kaoru could not help but think of how cold the rest of their night ended up being. Kenshin, while the perfect host with his smiling face and polite words, was distant, his eyes darkened by a golden blush. Trying to act out her own part, she smiled when she was needed to and responded in kind to any compliments or comments on her sleeping redhead. In the end what Hiko spoke was the truth, it did not seem to be very much longer before they were saying their goodbyes and slipping into the elevator. Though the clock, when she looked, was close to one.
Arms aching Kaoru readjusted Kenji's small frame, her muscles trembling as they burned and threatened to dissolve into jelly. "Would you like for me to hold him?" Questioning for the fourth time, Kaoru shook her head again. Having the child taken, even for a short amount of time, made her realize just how precious he was to her.
The limo ride was silent, the walk through the hotel a quiet click of their heels, and when they entered their room Kaoru did not have the strength to do more than walk through to Kenji's bedroom. Her heart was heavy, her mind was finally falling into the fear and desperation she had suppressed throughout the crisis, and as her emotions took over and blended with exhaustion she could feel the maelstrom coming.
Kenji did not stir as she stripped him of his tiny suit and dressed him in soft pajamas before letting down his fine strands of hair. Tucking him in, she watched him for several seconds, calmed by the way his small chest rose and fell and steadied by the reassurance of his presence. He was safe here. There was no one that could get to him. Leaving him with a kiss on the forehead, she stood, brushed his hair back one last time, and headed into the bathroom.
She was relieved to find it empty, though it only brought to her attention more clearly how abandoned she felt since Kenshin had retreated to his own room the moment they had arrived. Worried about him, and wondering if her worst fear over Tomoe's motives were true, she delayed the confrontation as she freshened up. Washing her hands and removing the ornaments from her hair, she stared at the dark reflection of her face in the mirror. There were things that apparently needed to be done and much that needed to be discussed.
x
Kenshin stood out on the balcony that exited off his room, breathing deep the cold night air. Looking out over the city as the sky lit with fireworks welcoming the coming of the new year served to calm his soul. Just as the roof of his own building at home helped to center himself, the euphoria of being up several stories here brought about the same effect.
It had been hard not to let his anger control him and hurt Tomoe as she had hurt his son. Even harder not to lash out when she had mocked him so casually to his face and insulted the woman he loved and the fragile dream they was coaxing into a reality. Now, alone with his thoughts, he could tell how she had dug her poisons into him again. Her venomous words were breeding doubt and uncertainty in his mind.
Could she truly be right? Could Kaoru not be as true as he thought her to be? Though a part of his mind raged in defense of her, another part that was tainted by Tomoe's insinuations whispered suspicions. How great of an act it would be for her to trick him into loving her. She would have everything she could ever want, and why shouldn't she? With one of the richest men in Japan at her beck and call, he would gladly give her whatever she wanted. A much easier way of living than struggling with a small dojo and waiting tables at a restaurant. If all she had to do was pretend to love, what was that in exchange?
But she could not have fooled everyone. All of the people close to him had spoken only praise of Kaoru. From Ishijima to Hiko, who was a hard man to impress, they had all agreed that she was a much better choice in comparison to Tomoe. Even Aoshi, who had Misao as a source, spoke kindly of Kaoru. There was nothing to even suggest that she was corrupt and poisonous. Sighing, Kenshin dropped his head in his hands. Maybe it is myself I am finding fault in, then. Why, truly, could I believe that I am enough for her? That I am good enough for her?
A soft knock sounded on his door, repeating when he did not answer right away. Stepping back into his room slowly, he shut and locked the balcony access, suddenly fearful of being left alone with Kaoru. This confrontation would tell him everything he needed to know. In only a few moments he would discover whether he was lacking in some way, if he was somehow unable to give her what she needed, or the unlikely event that she herself was untrue.
Slowly the door opened after he called quietly for her to enter and he watched as her eyes adjusted to the darkness. He had not thought to turn the lights on, not with the way brilliant flashes of fireworks burst across the floor and walls. Taking several steps forward as her bright irises found the outline of his shadow, she left a generous space between them before she stopped. Searching his face quietly she realized she would have to be the one to speak first, and so gestured vaguely behind her.
"Kenji is in bed now. I… I think he will be fine." Nodding his head Kenshin looked away, unable to bear the words that were sure to fall from her lips next. Frowning, Kaoru took another step forward, her hand reaching as if to touch him before stopping short. She remembered the last time his eyes had been as golden as this and she did not wish to repeat the same mistakes she had made then. Sensing her hesitance, Kenshin trembled in fear that his assumptions must be correct. "Kenshin…" Unable to word her worry delicately, Kaoru sighed. "Are you alright?"
Irises as bright as the fireworks flashing behind him shot to her, looking her over in wonder as he could clearly see the worry and anxiety on her face. There was no faking that look. "She told me that she loves you too." Kenji's smiling face appeared in his mind's eye as he remembered all at once the confession she had made to the boy about her feelings. Lifting shaky fingers to brush over her cheek, he wondered at how big of a fool he was. How could he let that conniving snake trick him again?
Slim fingers lifted to curl around his wrist, her brow furrowing even as she leaned into his touch. "What is it, Kenshin?" Pausing, her jaw clenched as she frowned angrily. "Did she say something to upset you? I don't understand why you wanted to speak to her alone, especially after what she did to Kenji. You should have just called the police."
There was much vehemence in her words but Kenshin could sense a rising suspicion as well, and the abrupt realization caught him by surprise. So this was the meaning behind that look at the party. Snorting out a stunned laugh, Kenshin let his hand drop to her shoulder, his other arm lifting to touch her bicep. Her frown deepened at his amusement and he spoke up quickly through shortened breaths to hold off her temper.
"My little warrior maiden. What is it that you think was said?" Her cheeks darkened, though with the fire still alight in her eyes he could not tell if she was embarrassed or angered by his evasive question.
"I hope you explained in simple enough terms that she is not welcome and will be dealt with accordingly if she is ever seen again. Though I would still like to know why you didn't just call the cops on her and have it dealt with tonight." It was his turn to frown, one brow lifting as she practically demanded he tell her what she wanted to hear. Which was no more than a sworn testament that he not have, nor ever again have, any contact with the woman who had given birth to his child. Though the situation warranted nothing less, Kenshin was surprised by how fiercely his sweet Kaoru was commanding such a stipulation. She was not the type of woman to give ultimatums. At least he had assumed so up unto that point.
She is reacting with the ferocity of a she-tiger who has just found an unwanted stranger in her nest. But maybe it is not only her child she is worried for. A smile twitched the corner of his lips and he leaned his forehead into hers. "Kaoru, are you sure it is not yourself that needs reassurance?"
"I…" Muscles relaxing as she dropped out of rage, Kaoru lowered her eyes away. "What do you mean?" Fingers bracing under her chin to tilt her gaze back to him, his irises bored into hers, patiently waiting. Worrying her lip, Kaoru's eyes closed. "She is very beautiful. It is easy to see why she once won your heart." There was a long pause, tormenting Kaoru over his reaction, but when he spoke it was in a voice touched with anger.
"Are you intending to insult me so openly?" Dark lashes flew apart and saw first the hurt on his face. "I never would have thought you would be so cruel, Kaoru, to tear into such an old wound."
"Kenshin…" Cupping his face in both hands she realized her mistake too late.
"Do you not think I know how big of a fool I was?" Eyes hardening in remembrance, Kenshin's hands dug harshly into her biceps. "Oh yes, beautiful she is, but it just barely hides the festering decay of her insides. I know this better than anyone ever will. Did you truly think I would fall prey to that depravity a second time?"
"Kenshin, I'm sorry, that's not…" Her breath caught as she was pulled against his chest, his arms wrapping tightly around her back and pinning her close to his heart.
"Why would I wish to make myself so miserable? Why would I choose a life of suffering over joy? Why would I want to leave a woman that would willingly stand and fight for the safety of her child?" Smiling as she trembled against him, his voice softened to a whisper. "Your beauty makes her pale in comparison, koishii. Why would I trade your purity for deceit? Why would I ever want to give you up? Kaoru," Leaning into her as she buried her face in his shoulder and her arms tensed around his neck, his heart ached with his admission. "don't you know how much I love you?"
"You… you've never said so…" Small and childlike, her voice made his smile widen.
"I had hoped that actions speak more than words, koishii."
Attempting to laugh at his quip, Kaoru sniffled lightly. "I suppose but… sometimes it's nice to hear it as well."
"Yes. I will agree with that, Kaoru."
As the silence stretched and the fireworks became fewer, filling the room with darkness, Kaoru recognized the expectance in the stillness. Lips bowing, a soft chuckle pushed her nose into his collar and she relaxed her arms enough to play with the opened lapel of his shirt. He had already removed his jacket and tie long before she had knocked on the door and for a moment she envied his comfort. "Kenshin…" Mildly chiding, her fingers trailed tentatively over the skin at his neck. "of course I love you." Biting her lip as the atmosphere shifted, their concerns laid to rest and anxieties quieted, Kaoru felt the intimacy of their situation spread over her mind.
Like the way warm air brought drowsiness in winter her eyelids drooped heavily; not in fatigue but anticipation. Though the evening had not progressed the way either of them had wished, the activities of the party dimming the beauty and excitement of a promise made in the dark of night, Kaoru could not help but dwell on those words of assurance. She was afraid her thoughts might lead to disappointment, since their day had ended so unfavorably, but she had always been a dreamer and she was used to such ends.
"Kaoru…" Slipping her fingers around the opened lapel of his shirt, she clenched her eyes shut and waited for the words that would inevitably end their night. "I must confess that I have always had trouble sleeping." Flabbergasted, Kaoru blinked and pulled back to look up at his serious expression curiously. "I find, however, that it is much easier…" Lifting a hand to trail his fingers from her temple to her chin, his irises warmed to gold. "when you are somewhere near." Cupping her face in both hands, he leaned his forehead into hers. "Would you stay with me tonight?"
Smiling tremulously, Kaoru's cheeks darkened, her hands smoothing down the soft cloth of his shirt to settle over his heart. "Of course I will, Kenshin."