Keitaro's Return

Chapter 10

February 12th

2:30 P.M

The mid afternoon sun gave way to another beautiful day at Hinata Sou. The wind was barely making its way across the grass. It was a nice gentle day, even Hinata Sou's stealthy "watch dog" thought so too. She swung her katana in an arc, using the same over head arc that she always used to keep her strength in-line. She didn't have to count; her mind already knew when she had done the correct amount of swings for the day. Her face ceased emotion, with the exception of an empty smile that was Motoko's typical gesture.

As much as she hated to admit it to herself, the absence of the perverted landlord had affected her as well. Ever since Keitaro was gone, her ability to keep her guard up on a 24 hour basis due to paranoia; had diminished severely. She apparently found this out when Su herself snuck up on her one time, this of course, is almost impossible to do!

One thousand eight hundred and twenty seven

Motoko counted out in her mind while swinging her sword at her invisible enemy. Since Keitaro was gone, it was up to Motoko to sort of……take care of everyone. Naru was too out of it, or so it seemed, maybe it was because of Tokyo U? Kitsune seemed to be the only one not affected by Keitaro's sudden departure. Of course, no one could tell what Kitsune was thinking in the first place. Su and Sarah were just as hyper as ever, although Motoko had to admit she could hear Su cry for her older brother in her sleep sometimes. Shinobu tried to keep her energetic optimism at its highs, but she also couldn't help find herself accidentally cooking too much food, forgetting that there was no hungry Keitaro. Mutsumi had not changed at all, she was still the accident prone unfortunate girl she had always been.

One thousand nine hundred and eleven

Everyone seemed to put on a good disguise of their feelings of Keitaro's departure. But Motoko herself had on the best of all disguises, she did not let anyone……know how much it meant to her on a personal level. Motoko had found herself at times thinking about Keitaro. The kind caring Keitaro, who had helped her defeat her sister with a broken leg no less!

"Ni No Tachi," Motoko muttered slightly under her breath.

She could not forget that somehow, Keitaro's advice helped her to finally succeed in unleashing Ougi Zangan Ken Ni No Tachi. If one hundred people were lined up in a single row, the sword technique would only smite the evil, and leave the innocent without a scratch. A truly impressive move indeed. Was it a mere coincidence that Keitaro was the one that helped her? Or was she destined to figure the technique out for herself without him? Nevertheless, credit is given, when credit is due.

Not to mention this was the same Keitaro who also helped establish some grounds on Motoko's womanhood. Although Motoko was reluctant at first. So many things, this once perverted landlord had done for her. But for what? Motoko had done nothing to deserve such kindness. All she ever did to greet the Kanrinin was a taunting of how worthless he was, or a simple slash of an energy wave to send him flying. Yet, he kept his will strong, and he always smiled, he never let it bother him. As Motoko hated to admit it, Keitaro was the strongest one amongst them.

Keitaro NEVER gave up on his friends; he would always help them in one way or another. He would be there for you whenever you needed him. With all Keitaro had been through, no one understood better than him. But when it came to his own self-esteem, he would fail all the time. Motoko could not understand how Keitaro could put up a fight for others, but give up all hope for himself.

As Motoko was about to finish the last slash, she heard a noise from behind her. It had startled her out of her train of thought.

"Who's there!" Motoko demanded.

Motoko quickly swung around and released her katana, letting it fly forward as it stopped abruptly as it stabbed into a wooden support on the deck. Shinobu's eyes bulged as she witnessed the sword fly past her, coming to a halt on her left side. She dropped the basket full of laundry clothes, slightly shaking.

Motoko sighed a breath of relief; she had failed again to suspect someone from approaching. Had it been an enemy, she would have been done for.

"Mo…m…Motoko!" Shinobu drew back in fear as she approached. Motoko slowly approached Shinobu and grabbed her katana, sheathing it slowly. She bowed over to Shinobu.

"My deepest apologies Shinobu, you merely startled me that's all," Motoko said bowing. Shinobu blushed slightly as Motoko offered a hand for her to get back on her feet. Shinobu took her hand and was now back on her feet.

"Ano…..Kitsune said that the hot springs are clean now. So if you want to go take a bath, it's open now," Shinobu said quietly. Motoko closed her eyes and let out a smile.

"Thank you Shinobu, that is an excellent idea," Motoko said patting the girl on the head. Shinobu simply smiled and picked up the basket of clothes, retrying her attempt to hang them all up.

Motoko headed downstairs to the bathroom. She untightened the sash on her uniform, revealing the wrappings that helped to minimize the size of her breasts. She observed them closely and was satisfied, they had not grown any. As a female, these necessities were only important for one thing, and that was to help support an infant that is unable to feed for itself. Motoko sometimes wished she didn't have them to begin with. She never could imagine herself as a parent, let alone married. What was the point of having something that she was never going to use? As a warrior her job was to preserve peace through everlasting justice, Motoko imagined herself doing this for the rest of her life.

She undressed completely, now only covered by a small towel. She slid open the door, feeling the hot steam across her body. She looked around; there was no one here yet. Usually, Naru or Kitsune were the first there, but this time it looked as if Motoko was going to have some peace with herself. She stepped into the invigoratingly hot waters of the spring. She sat there for a moment, letting her mind rest from today's ordeal.

Motoko observed the area around the springs, despite the fact that Kitsune had cleaned it, it still lacked that "Keitaro touch." For a complete failure that was Keitaro, he did have some talent. Motoko heard the door slide open. Kitsune entered the spring with her cunning fox like stare.

"So Motoko, what do you think of my cleanup duty," Kitsune said smiling. Motoko wasn't much impressed.

"Sloppy really, you should have really paid attention to how Keitaro did it," Motoko said with her eyes closed as well.

"Ah details, details. It doesn't matter, knowing that klutz has not concept of pain whatsoever, he even day dreams while he cleans the place, so it's no wonder he gets this place clean!" The fox said opening one eye, spotting Naru opening the side door. Motoko knew at this point that Kitsune was planning something.

"Naru, it's almost Valentines Day, looks like were going to go without giving chocolates to anyone this year," Kitsune said smiling. Naru rolled her eyes, indicating annoyance and knowing exactly where this conversation was leading.

"Look if you're going to imply that you miss Keitaro, then get it out now!" Naru said as she slowly drenched herself in the hot waters. Kitsune grinned.

"Keitaro? Why would I bring that up, I was implying Valentines Day? What brought Keitaro up eh Naru?"

Kitsune gave a devilish smile. Knowing that she was trying to turn the tables on Naru.

"As if! You were just trying to get me to mention Keitaro, just so you could make fun of me like you always do," Naru said blushing slightly. Kitsune decided to get straight to the point.

"Just admit it Naru, you miss Keitaro, and you're not willing to admit it," Kitsune said looking toward Naru. Motoko tried not to get involved in such affairs. There was no stopping the two once they engaged in verbal warfare.

"I'll tell you what I'm willing to admit, that you are a totally nosy," Naru exclaimed, she then continued. "What about you Kitsune, let's share your thoughts on Keitaro,"

Kitsune smiled, she knew she DID NOT have any problems whatsoever involving talk of Keitaro.

"Of course, I miss Keitaro, life around here has lost its spunk! Hell, I bet even Motoko here misses Keitaro too!" Kitsune turned to Motoko, grinning slightly. Naru was also curious to hear Motoko's point of view. Motoko opened her eyes calmly and spoke.

"Despite the fact that he is untrustworthy at times and a complete lecher. A place such as this requires the presence of a Kanrinin. I think Keitaro has done an adequate job, yet his absence……..is slightly uneventful." Motoko adequately put. Kitsune smiled.

"You see Naru, even Motoko misses Keitaro!" Kitsune said smiling. Motoko blushed immensely, she slightly stammered.

"Now hold on! I never said….." Motoko started. Kitsune however, was not finished.

"Too embarrassed to just say huh? Oh well, two more months or so and Keitaro will come back! So no worries there!" Kitsune grinned. Naru stood up now obviously more pissed off.

"If you'll excuse me," Naru got out of the springs and headed inside. Motoko decided it was best to join her. Both Motoko and Naru left, leaving Kitsune in her now private spring. Kitsune kicked back.

"Ah, I know exactly what to say to get the bath all to myself!" Kitsune said grinning.

That Same Day, 5:30 P.M

University Of California

"Keitaro be extremely careful with that one, Seta already damaged most of it from his driving trip over here!" Eric exclaimed while shaking his fist in annoyance.

Keitaro smiled. He knew that he had experiences with this before, however Sara had not helped in Keitaro's goal to restore most of Seta's artifacts in the past. Keitaro smiled to himself. This job was easy, and for someone like Keitaro; he was a natural. Cleaning and repairing old artifacts. Keitaro carefully cleaned the pot with a delicate stroke of his brush. Call this a part time job, Keitaro could only laugh. Ever since his gift to Erynn on Christmas Day, Keitaro was in need of a job. Who would have thought that Eric would be kind enough to offer him work? 3 days a week, cleaning artifacts and the pay was good too. Keitaro dipped the brush in the specially made water. Cleaning artifacts, could not be done by no amateur, the chemical content of the water used for cleaning had to have a low level PH level, if not, degradation could occur in the artifact over a length of time. He carefully ran the wet brush across the intricate designs of an old pot that looked to be several hundred years in age. This was just another part of the archeological experience. Once the artifacts were cleaned, they would go back on display; almost good as new.

"Once your finished with that one Keitaro, we'll call it a day," Eric said while organizing his papers. He stacked the papers neatly and looked toward Keitaro and continued.

"You did rather well on the test that was given yesterday Keitaro," Eric said in high appraisal. Keitaro slightly blushed; he knew that despite the fact at times he wasn't good at tests; he had only one person to thank for that.

"I studied all night for that one; I have to admit your tests aren't easy," Keitaro said. Eric smiled. He knew that archeology wasn't an easy field. The tests were designed to sort out the one's who were serious about archeology and the one's who just didn't have the patience. Eric then remembered something.

"Ah yes, tomorrow is Valentines Day, I nearly forgot," Eric murmured slightly, abruptly changing the subject. The sound of a breaking pot could be heard. Eric turned to find the current vase that Keitaro was working on in shambles. Keitaro's glasses were shining pure white, from his utter shock. Eric's eyes widened.

"Damn that Seta! Just when you had that pot done Seta goes and breaks this one from his bad driving habits!" Eric said shaking his fist, his brow also twitching. Keitaro wasn't at all shocked that Eric was sometimes as oblivious as Seta; he was more concerned about Eric's last reminder.

Valentines Day.

It was true tradition in Japan, that on Valentines Day, the girls would give chocolates to the guys, and then later on eventually the guys would reimburse. But America's tradition was different, and it caught Keitaro off guard. This year, both male and female would give their gifts, and according to Seta. Valentines Day was a day for lovers in America. In Japan, there were choices, chocolates for friends, or chocolates for lovers. Take your pick. There wasn't even a guarantee that Erynn would give him something in return.

Eric rustled to gather his things; he now stood up from his desk. "I wouldn't worry too much Keitaro," Eric said sensing Keitaro's thoughts. "As long as it's from the heart, you have nothing to worry about," Eric said smiling.

Keitaro gathered his things as well, he was still uncertain about the whole ordeal, but Eric's words were sincere just as he was.

"Thanks," was all Keitaro said.

Eric's House

Later that Night 7:00 P.M

It was a quiet night. There was no one at home yet. Seta had gone out to teach class at the University. Erynn and Eric were out grocery shopping. This left the desperate Keitaro with only one chance to get his task completed. He made sure that his assumption was correct by checking the entire house, bathrooms and all. When he was convinced, he proceeded to the kitchen.

Armed with his trusty Chef's apron and his cooking skills from previous fake chocolates time and time again. Chef Keitaro was ready! (Author now sweat drops along with his pre-reader) Now for the matter at hand. What to bake for Erynn?

"Hmm let's see, a traditional cake might do the trick, but Erynn doesn't seem like the cake eating type," said Keitaro pacing back and forth through the kitchen. Keitaro paced for a least a couple of minutes, then Jody approached from the living room. She had been bored from the lack of playmates in the house, she watched as Keitaro paced in a concerned matter.

"What to you think Jody," He turned to look at his well mannered friend. Jody clasped her hands together in a ball like formation. Keitaro began to pace again.

"Yes yes, something small, not too fancy, maybe diet chocolate would do the trick," Keitaro said a loud. Keitaro imagined in his mind what Erynn's response would be to diet chocolate. Erynn's eyes flared with the fires of hell. You might as well call her Satan in this particular mood.

"DIET CHOCOLATE! ARE YOU SAYING I'M FAT!" Erynn exclaimed. Keitaro could already seem himself playing pinball against the walls. An occasional tilt might be nice to stop this.

Keitaro instantly hit the floor and sweatdropped, his face showing unspeakable horror. Jody watched in amusement at Keitaro's reactions. He quickly got up, resuming his pace and his serious expression.

"No, no, I'm thinking too much, something simple, rich chocolate, hmm…..yes now for a shape," Keitaro said out loud again. There were many shapes to go with. A heart shaped chocolate was too typical and far from original. Traditional bars were also too similar. Then there was chocolate that could be made small enough for several individual pieces to fit in one box. Keitaro's mind finally gave in from his intense thinking.

"Aaaaugghh! What am I going to do! I need something unique, something different for a change!" Keitaro said grasping his head while rolling around on the carpet of the kitchen. Jody watched again, not knowing what exactly Keitaro was overstressing about.

Suddenly Keitaro had a strange idea, he remembered what Narusegawa did for him one Valentines Day not long ago. She had "sort of" made him a Liddu-kun chocolate thing.

"More like a deformed Liddu-kun but uh….." Keitaro said aloud. But now more scary thoughts entered his mind as if Erynn wasn't bad enough. If Keitaro would have told Naru that her chocolate wasn't the best, well a quick smack on the head with a hammer would have been Naru's solution to the problem. Keitaro fought back him memories, trying to keep his mind focused on the present issue.

"Alright then, time to get started," Chef Keitaro said rummaging around the kitchen for the necessary ingredients. (The thought of Keitaro being on a Chef Boyardee can is scaaarryyy! LoL)

February 14th

9:00 A.M

Keitaro awoke early the next morning. Erynn had been bugging him all night about what he had got her. Keitaro couldn't complain, one moment it was a near fatal situation during Christmas, then Erynn was showing her gratitude through her warm gentle smile. He arose from his bed to observe the day. He arose and opened the sliding glass door leading to the back porch. Not a cloud in the sky, no signs of gloomy weather, and every signs that today was going to be a beautiful day.

"It's nice out isn't it?" Seta's voice could be heard from Keitaro's left side. Keitaro glanced and saw Seta sitting on the rooftop which was about seven feet up. He looked up to greet his mentor and best friend with a grin.

"Yeah…I think I'm going to go out jogging and enjoy the day," Keitaro said looking on toward the bright sunlight. Seta jumped down suddenly and landed in front of Keitaro.

"Well if you're going into town, Eric has asked if you could run an errand for him," Seta said giving his typical smile. Keitaro looked up at Seta.

"What is it?"

Seta pulled a slip of paper out of his pocket, along with a cigarette to smoke. He first put the drag into his mouth then gave Keitaro the paper.

"On that sheet is an address, It's a flower shop, Eric ordered some flowers for David and his family, the second address on that sheet is where David lives," Seta said. Keitaro looked down at the sheet. It was about 2 hour quest in town and back by foot. But if all went well he be back in time for lunch.

"Alright, I'll get going then," Keitaro said. Seta lit his smoke with a smile, and gave a facial gesture indicating a simple "thanks." Keitaro headed back inside. He then got dressed in his jogging clothes which consisted of shorts, and a long sleeve shirt, since it was a little chilly out. He ran downstairs, there was no sign of Erynn or Eric this early in the morning. This was safe to say, very odd, indeed.

As Keitaro headed out the door, he began to stretch to get the tired feeling out his muscles, and to warm up his muscles to prevent any unnecessary strain that may be endured from a vigorous jog. But little did Keitaro know, he was being watched. There was slight movement coming from Eric's front lawn bushes, this was not seen by Keitaro, who was happily humming a song. Keitaro started off, engaging in a steady stride that would later turn into a heavy jog. As Keitaro ran out of sight, the person that was watching Keitaro began to follow, trying to keep a good distance in between them.

About forty five minutes later Keitaro was in town. He could tell from the excessive amount of noise that littered the air of San Diego. Not to mention the illustrious buildings, all of which were gigantic. To think that Seta says there are buildings larger than these. He approached a stop sign that was the boundary line that led from the country road, out onto the main road, which luckily, there wasn't that much traffic considering the hour of day.

Keitaro's stalker kept up the whole way, whoever this person was, they definitely were in good shape. The unknown figure slowed down as Keitaro made his stop at the main road. He looked puzzled as he took out the sheet of instructions that was given to him by Seta. Keitaro took this moment to stop for a second to get a small break. He stood whistling happily, enjoying the day in which was unlike any other normal day. He turned around nonchalantly, observing the peaceful sky without the brightness of the sun in his eyes. All quiet, there was no one to be seen.

Keitaro's stalker was hanging stealthily from a tree, trying her best to avoid detection. Erynn was hanging upside down from the tree like a monkey, obviously Jody her a few things. Keitaro let out a loud sigh, and continued walking. When Erynn was satisfied that she was out of site, she released her self from the tree, and fell a good six feet before reaching the ground. She continued her silent pursuit.

"Keitaro…..What could you be up to?" Erynn thought to herself while running after him. Erynn was indeed curious of why exactly Keitaro didn't give her a Valentines Gift this morning, because she definitely had one for him! Maybe Keitaro was too poor to afford a gift because of Erynn's earrings? She shook off her thoughts as she crossed a busy San Diego road. Luckily even if Keitaro spotted her, she didn't have her "normal" clothing on. She had her black hair up in a bun, which is something she never does unless she goes out running. Keitaro would by now, be used to seeing Erynn's long silky black hair flow freely down her back, barely covering up her uh….you get the idea.

As Keitaro made an abrupt stop, he observed his sheet of directions carefully. He scanned the area until his eyes seemed to finally find what he was looking for; he rushed forward about another block down, and went into a building. Erynn followed intently, she cautiously observed which building Keitaro took refuge to. Erynn looked up at the sign, "Rose's Flower Shop,"

"Flowers! Keitaro I didn't know you were such a gentlemen," Erynn thought to herself as her eyes sparkled in admiration. Suddenly Keitaro appeared out of the shop hastefully, which didn't give Erynn a chance to disperse from the area. She freaked out slightly, but kept her back turned away from Keitaro in hopes that he wouldn't recognize her. Keitaro didn't notice her. As a matter of fact, as soon as he was outside the store, he began to jog with the bouquet of flowers, in the opposite direction!

Erynn was dumbfounded.

"What the! Where is he going? This isn't the way home!" Erynn was now even more curious then ever! She rushed past a group of people to keep up with the speedy Keitaro.

"Where is Keitaro?" Eric asked while reading his daily paper. Seta looked up as he removed the glowing cigarette from his lips.

"Part-timer went to go run your errand, he should be back in an hour or so," Seta said smiling. Eric placed his paper on his lap to greet Jody, as she came and gracefully sat on the couch, smiling at the site of her master.

"Strange, I haven't seen Erynn all day either," Eric said lifting his paper to cram more daily information into his brain. Although a typical parent would worry about a situation like this, however then again, Erynn wasn't a typical daughter.

"You don't think, Keitaro and Erynn are…..:" Seta grinned widely, there was a slight twinkle in his eye as he brought his hand up to his chin, pondering the list of possibilities. Eric raised an eyebrow.

"Seta you maybe twenty nine, but sometimes, you still have the maturity of an eighteen year old," Eric said knowing that Erynn wouldn't do such a thing. Seta smirked, placing the cigarette back in his mouth, his speech sounding slightly slurred.

"Ah eighteen, to be young again, I remember this one time, during the times before my Tokyo entrance exams, there was this……." Seta was rambling on and on about his stories. Some of which Eric had already heard. Eric just ignored him.

Although Eric had to admit, that ever since Keitaro's arrival in November, the two had become closer, and at times Eric was curious of just how much Erynn liked Keitaro. There was enough curiosity stirring in the air to just ask her the simple question, but Eric didn't want to interfere with anything like that. Eric looked at his watch. It was now ten o'clock. He rose from his chair.

Keitaro continued from the flower shop about two blocks down, with the curious Erynn in hot pursuit. Now she was getting angry, not to mention her mind sprouting with ideas. First the obvious, if she couldn't find out where Keitaro was heading to in about five minutes, a blunt object may be needed to throw at her carefree friend. Second, if the roses weren't for her, who were they for? Suddenly Erynn got caught up in a heavy crowd; she tried her best to squeeze through.

"Dammit Keitaro where are you…." Erynn's thought process was interrupted as soon as her eyes saw where Keitaro was next. He was sitting on the ground rubbing his head as if he had ran into something. In front of him, was a woman, she was leaning over examining the injured Keitaro. Erynn could not hear what they were saying. She watched unsurely from afar.

"I'm so sorry!" The woman said as she leaned over to help Keitaro to his feet. Keitaro smiled haphazardly as he sat on the ground trying to recollect his thoughts. Keitaro looked up to find a woman starring down at him. She looked in her mid twenties, she had long blonde hair, amber eyes that were covered with glasses, and she was well dressed, very semi formal. Her ethnic appeared to be American. Keitaro grasped as this woman appeared to look like Naru at first, but as soon as his hand blocked the sun from his eyes, he was able to see, that this was someone else. Her appearance was more nerdish than Narusegawa's Toudai disguise. Despite all that, this girl looked very familiar.

"Are you alright?" she asked Keitaro again, her voice was soft and caring. Keitaro instantly jumped up and bowed before her, obviously sorry for his collision.

"Gomei! I mean…ahem…..I apologize, it was my fault," Keitaro said still bowing. The woman slightly sweatdropped at this. His English was good alright, but his accent sounded, different. The woman smiled warmly and picked up the flowers that Keitaro had dropped. Luckily for Keitaro, in his bowed position, the girl's clothing was somewhat loose, so Keitaro slightly got a free viewing of the girl's priorities. Nerdish or not, this girl had quite a pair. Keitaro finally ceased his bowing and tried to keep his eyes from wondering aimlessly.

"To the David Williams Family," the girl read aloud as she picked up the bouquet of flowers. She was observing the tag on the wrapping. She smiled slightly.

"You must be Keitaro," She said fixing her glasses. Keitaro eyes widened.

"Eh?"

The girl ran a finger through her hair, "Nice to meet you, I'm Julie, Julie Williams," Julie said smiling. Keitaro was baffled.

"Williams! So that would make you…." Keitaro tried to add the two facts together. She handed the flowers to Keitaro.

"David would be my father," She said in high appraisal. Keitaro couldn't help but laugh. It had been a while since he saw David. Keitaro placed a hand on his chin, as if he was pondering intensely.

"Strange, your father never mentioned you," Keitaro said grinning. Julie looked slightly annoyed, as her eye brow twitched once.

"He never mentions me, he likes to mention people in person, that's just how he is," Julie said smirking. It was then that Keitaro looked down to examine the time.

Erynn stood in absolute shock as she witnessed the two carry on a conversation. Her heart skipped a beat at the moment she saw them laughing together. Suddenly Keitaro looked at his flowers and panicked, as if he had forgotten something. Before Erynn knew it, Keitaro handed the girl the flowers and ran off waving. The girl waved back as she took the bouquet of flowers, she smiled and waved back. Erynn slowly began to walk away, not knowing what to do. Keitaro ran back toward home, panicking.

"Oh God! I totally forgot to give Erynn her gift!" Keitaro had given the flowers to Julie so that she could give them to her father. Erynn wasn't the patient type, and Keitaro knew that it was going to be tough explaining to Erynn his uh, moment of carelessness. He had to get back, and fast!

Erynn didn't understand it, she felt a strange feeling in her. She could feel her heart racing through her chest, and it hurt. She hadn't felt this feeling ever. Who was that girl? Did Keitaro meet someone of importance to him at the University? Erynn soon forgot about Keitaro, and the gift that she was going to give him. She couldn't understand why she felt this way.

What did it matter to her who Keitaro was with? Did she……did she love Keitaro? Deep down she never asked herself such a question. Her life was based off of pain at the absence of her mother. But her mother taught her about love, and she told Erynn that she would know when it embraces you. She did admit that Keitaro was definitely a unique one of the bunch, and she had never actually fallen for anyone before.

She couldn't understand him. When he first arrived she wanted nothing to do with him. Nothing! But he kept smiling, and he kept trying, as if he wanted her to be happy, even if he had failed he kept trying. She gave him the ball and chain every chance she got, and yet that smile, she couldn't get that smile out of her head.

She blushed slightly as she walked slowly back home, her legs walking slowly back home. His smile was all she could see in her head. There was something about his smile, so warm, so welcoming. Any normal person would turn away from someone who gave them nothing but rejection, but Keitaro was different. Keitaro had a certain attitude that said, "Bring it on cause i'm not giving up on you, ever"

What about Keitaro? Why was he so intent on not giving up on Erynn? Did he do it just because he knew all along about her mother. Or did he also feel the same thing she was experiencing.

It was already February, and Erynn felt closer to Keitaro than anyone else in her life. He had only been here for three months, and she knew that Keitaro would leave in April, that wasn't enough time. What would her life be like if he left? Would she be able to stay on solid ground? He helped her get her life back in order, was she strong enough to do the rest?

Erynn's thoughts were shattered by the sound of a car horn. The black corvette pulled up beside Erynn. She was slightly shocked to see Seta behind the wheel.

"Erynn! Great timing, I'll give you a ride home!" Seta said strolling up beside Erynn; the corvette was slightly tilted on its two wheels. Erynn's eyes widened as she laid witness to Seta's bad driving ways. Erynn said nothing, except nod. She knew about Seta's bad ways in the field of driving, but right now, getting home to think everything over was her top priority. As soon as she got in, the corvette made a ferocious acceleration, making its way out of the grass onto the road.

"Ah what a great day for driving," Seta said grinning widely. Erynn shifted her eyes to watch the view, not phased by Seta's psychotic ways. She looked saddened, not knowing what to think anymore, her mind stuck in a labyrinth.

"Hmm, I hope Keitaro delivered that package like I asked him to," Seta said shifting his gaze to his rear view mirror. Erynn's eyes slightly widened, and then her eyes shifted downwards. It was pointless to ask, but.

"What package?" Erynn said acting as if she didn't know. Seta pulled out a cigarette; he placed it in his mouth. He knew it was impolite to smoke around females, but, Erynn didn't seem to mind.

"Eric had him deliver a bouquet of flowers to David and his family, since its Valentines Day and all," Seta said happily. Erynn looked slightly puzzled. David's family? But Keitaro gave those flowers to some girl? Something didn't add up.

"Strange, he seemed to have given the flowers to some girl and then ran off screaming," Erynn said showing hope that she misunderstood something about all of this. Seta raised an eyebrow. He then pointed to his head.

"Blonde hair, strange appearance, glasses, light brown eyes?" Seta said rambling. Erynn eyes widened.

"How did you know that?"

Seta smirked, while looking forward, to find Keitaro jogging on the side of the road. But unfortunately, Seta was going to fast to stop for him.

Keitaro didn't notice Seta driving by; his top priority was to get home quick.

"Julie must be back in town, she's David's daughter," Seta said smiling. Erynn felt a gigantic feeling of relief, she thought for sure that she had lost Keitaro to someone else, but was Erynn ready to admit that even to herself?

"I see," was all Erynn said. Seta took a quick glance toward Erynn, and then glanced back. It was a quick enough glance to see Erynn's current mood.

"You seemed relieved, did you think Keitaro had given flowers to a complete stranger, or maybe….." Seta said contemplating this situation closely. Erynn blushed immensely and shifted herself to face Seta.

"No it's not like that at all!" Erynn said trying to cover up her own lie. Seta let out a small laugh that escaped through his closed mouth. Seta caught the glare of Erynn's earring that glowed green in the sunlight. Seta then kept quiet.

"Seta?" Erynn said shyly. Seta eyes glanced toward Erynn's questioning green eyes. Seta remained silent, waiting for Erynn to continue.

"Why does Keitaro care so much? I don't understand him," Erynn said now looking away. Seta let out a sigh, as if this wasn't the first time he was asked this question. Seta threw his cigarette out the window.

"Keitaro is a very caring person, even though all his life he was never treated equally as a human being." Seta watched the road as he continued.

"He treats all of his friends equally, and whether male or female he always sticks with them no matter what," Seta said in high appraisal of his part-timer. He let out a laugh.

"Basically, Keitaro and I are quite a like!" Seta said laughing. Erynn grimaced.

"Yeah, the oblivious part," She said under her breath.

"What was that?" Seta said not catching the last part.

"Never mind," Erynn said sighing with her eyes closed. Seta continued.

"Anyways, Keitaro is a little slow, I will admit, however," Seta paused a moment and looked at Erynn.

"If you want more than just a friend from Keitaro, I'm afraid you're going to have to make the first step," Seta said looking serious. Erynn blushed slightly, not able to say anything in her defense. Seta clipped the mailbox in Eric's driveway, the mailbox flew through the air rapidly spinning, and landed into Eric's pool. Eric was sitting down in a lawn chair, he placed his newspaper down onto his lap, observed Seta's handiwork (and Seta's grin,) and began shouting.

"Dammit Seta! Your paying for that!" Eric exclaimed. Seta laughed nervously, then turned back to Erynn.

"Just think about it," Seta said.

Keitaro arrived back home about 15 minutes after Seta and Erynn's arrival. He didn't even know they left. Not to mention that he had no idea what Erynn just witnessed. He rushed to the house giving a quick wave to Eric. Eric spoke.

"Did the package arrive alright?"

Keitaro stopped suddenly to answer Eric's question, but was still running in pace while standing still.

"Yeah, no problems, gotta go," Keitaro said nervously. Eric smiled as Keitaro left.

Upstairs, Keitaro made no attempts to waste another minute. He quickly looked on his nightstand for the gift that he was to give to Erynn. He had made a chocolate, which not only took lots of thought process, but took vigor and was none the less time consuming. He had shaped the chocolate into the shape of Jody, no easy task for an amateur. He nervously knocked over his lamp in the process of grabbing what he thought to be HIS chocolate to Erynn.

He looked down and realized this was not his gift! He read the label on the box, it read.

To Keitaro

From Erynn

His eyes widened. Apparently, Erynn had already snatched Keitaro's gift. He opened the box to find a note inside.

Keitaro

Thanks for the chocolate, I had no idea you were such a talented cook. Thank you for everything.

Erynn.

Keitaro looked down, Erynn had made Keitaro a chocolate, in the form of a heart. It was common; yes, but it was the symbol of love, Keitaro let out a sigh of relief, as well as a feeling of overwhelming joy. It was true that he had gotten chocolates before from females, but…..this one was different. It was from Erynn, so he felt all warm inside. He plopped down onto his bed exhausted from the day's work. It was only two in the afternoon, but he felt like he deserved a good rest.

He took a bite of the chocolate, giving an invigorating smile. It seemed to melt in his mouth, allowing him to swallow it with ease, it was sweet, but not to sweet, with just enough sugar.

"Damn that's good…." Keitaro said to himself before falling fast asleep.

The door to Keitaro's room opened several minutes later. Erynn quietly approached the slumbering Keitaro with a smile on her face. She bent down next to his bed, watching Keitaro sleep carelessly away.

She removed his glasses slowly, observing his face with a smile. He was cute without his glasses, that much was clear. She placed the glasses on his nightstand, and picked up his lamp with a smile. She then turned to Keitaro, her eyes shimmering slightly. She couldn't ask for a better friend.

Erynn leaned forward shyly, her mind completely blank. She was afraid that Keitaro might wake up, but she took the chance anyway. Her face drew closer and embraced Keitaro's soft lips with her own, her eyes closed slowly. Her face blushing.

Her first kiss, her very first was now shared with him, and she wouldn't have it any other way. His lips were warm, and Erynn could still taste the chocolate on Keitaro's lips. She didn't move an inch, just a silent, passionate kiss; a kiss that would probably be remembered for the rest of her life. She released slowly, her eyes opening to observe Keitaro's face once more. Her tongue made contact with her lips, and she smiled to herself. Keitaro didn't move an inch, he was out like a light.

She turned around and was about to walk out the door, but she noticed a picture lying on top of Keitaro's nightstand. It was a picture of Narusegawa. Erynn didn't know what relationship Keitaro had back home with his fellow tenants, but as long as Erynn was in Keitaro's life, she had a chance to win his heart, if that was possible.

To Be Continued.

Authors Note:

Hi everyone, Once again I apologize for my lack of getting my chapters out and about on time. But things have been, um, interesting lately. First off I became a writer to the Dark Icon Writers, courtesy of my pre-reader Dimitri Plabato. I'm not much of an outdoorsman, but I definitely enjoyed a round of cave exploring with my friends, it was a blast! I definitely got a small glimpse of Keitaro's life. This chapter was long, and now the tides have finally turned as Erynn fights to understand her feelings for Keitaro. Keep the reviews coming, and you know the routine, next chapter ASAP. Dimitri, always a pleasure to have you as my pre-reader. Oh Yeah! August 2005! That means I've been with for one whole year! Yea! Until next time, later folks.

Ein Ravenwing, Now a member of The Dark Icon Writers.

Prereader Note:

Ein… we're gonna fight! You DON'T do that to me as long as I waited on her to do that! You DON'T end it right there and make me wait… it's just not right!

cries

Dimitri Plabato of The Dark Icon Writers

Authors Defense to pre-reader: Looks like I made Dimitri cry! Well it was like Legato always said, "The greater the tragedy, the greater the emotional affect," Sorry Dimitri, wait till the next chapter. Well I'm off to install a anti-tama system to prevent Dimitri from killing me!