The Sick Shadow King and the Caring Commoner
Mori had ridden all night and most of the day with Haruhi sleeping calmly in his arms. It was almost like she was going to sleep until they reached the castle. He slowed the horse to a trot so he wouldn't wear it out.
They passed through another set of woods and into another town. He was so close. A group of guards were patrolling the streets.
"Halt," one of them yelled. Mori stopped.
"Please," he said when they approached, "this young lady is injured. She pleaded to reach the Ohtori Kingdom and I fear that if I do not hurry I will not make it." He had never said this much ever before. One of the soldiers pulled off his helmet. He had deep black hair and onyx eyes hiding behind glasses.
"What is this maiden's name?" he inquired.
"Fujoika Haruhi." Kyoya's heart dropped.
"Hand her over," he demanded.
"Please," Mori begged, "She wishes to meet with someone in the castle. One of the princes." Kyoya looked Mori in the eyes, silently pleading. Mori understood. He dismounted his horse and carefully placed the woman in Kyoya's arms.
"She was attacked by a man. He is known for collecting women. My cousin and I took care of him personally. Her only wish was to see you but I must inquire on my behalf. A woman named Morinozuka Suzumi came to your kingdom to help with your sickness. Is she well?"
Kyoya pried his eyes from Haruhi's face and looked at Mori. He smiled.
"She is well and thriving, my friend. Our sickness is leaving. You are free to come with us and take her home." Mori nodded.
"Thank you," he whispered. Kyoya paid no attention to him. Instead he walked as quickly as he could without jostling the woman in his arms. He cradled her. He reached the hotel he and his knights were staying in and set her carefully on his bed. He unwrapped her.
The man had said she was injured but he could see nothing. He grabbed her shirt and slowly raised it above her waist. Tears formed in his eyes. He set his head next to her waist on the bed.
"I'm sorry," he mumbled, "Haruhi, how could you ever forgive me?"
"With a kiss," she answered. He looked up in surprise and saw her smiling down at him.
"What?" he asked. He wanted to hear her beautiful voice again.
"A kiss from your love can fix everything," she whispered. Kyoya smiled through his tears.
"Is that so?" She nodded.
"It's magic."
"I don't believe in magic," he replied smartly.
"I'll make you believe," she told him.
"I'd like to see that," he said quietly. Haruhi grabbed his head and pulled him towards her. She put her mouth on his. She intertwined her hands in his hair then pulled back.
"Did I convince you?" she asked.
"Not yet," he teased, "Maybe one more will convince me." He leaned in for another kiss. Haruhi pulled him closer to her. They pulled apart to breath. He kissed her cheek.
"I'm a believer," he whispered in her ear. Haruhi smiled then her eyes filled up with tears.
"I missed you so much," she said sadly.
"I know," he said soothingly, "I did too."