Title: My Angel, My Savior
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: I own nothing, it all belongs to the amazing Murakami Maki! All praise her like the goddess she is! *bows and grovels* However, the plot is mine and Aya, Mio, Migel...all belongs to me. ;)
Notes from Nori: I started ASAP on this chapter and I did as much as I could as fast as I could so you wouldn't have to wait long. ^^;; Er, I hope my quickness doesn't make it lack any. Although I didn't really get it done very fast...Sorry about that, things have been VERY hectic for my family and me lately. Anyway, so here's the chapter!
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" I like to watch you play
When you don't know I'm there
I watch you in your sleep at night
Reach out and touch your hair
I wanna make this world
Be just how you want it to be
Yeah you just don't understand
You are everything to me."
- Annabella's Song by Everclear
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The alarm next to Ryuichi's bed sounded and he let out a muffled grumble. Reaching over he slapped at the clock blindly, finally managing to hit the snooze button. Letting out a content sigh he shifted closer to the warmth of the body beside him. Mio shifted slightly, Kumagoro getting smashed between them in the process, scooting into his arms. Ryuichi smiled in his sleep as the girl moved closer and stroked her hair habitually. It had been a mellow 5 days since he'd lost Mio in the mall and they'd been able to overlook the incident and get back to normal. Though, despite how normal he acted, Ryuichi still felt guilty for letting her get out of his sight. He'd been so worried that he'd lost her.
Since then things had been running pretty smoothly. They'd gone to the park, gone to several stores, and hung out regularly with Shuichi (on occasion accompanied by Migel). To his surprise, as well as Shuichi's, she'd become fairly close to Yuki. Sure he'd encouraged her to get close to him, but honestly, he could hardly imagine Yuki befriending a 9-yr-old. It was good for them both though, he supposed and it wasn't hurting anything. It also gave him time to spend alone or by himself with Shuichi. So it worked out for the better.
He'd had Mio now for a whole week, but the real challenge was soon to come. Next Ryuichi had to return to work. Writing, singing, and recording to get Nittle Grasper's next CD out. Tohma had already delayed their CD's release as much as he could and now they needed to get working on it. Yes, this would definitely be an interesting experience. Speaking of work, Ryuichi thought with a groan, today was supposed to be his first day back. Shifting away from the girl beside him he cracked an eye open, only to be met with a bright light shining through his window. Pinching his eyes shut he pulled away and slowly sat up, rubbing his eyes.
"Nyah, sleep, sleep." Mio mumbled, hugging Kumagoro to her chest and squeezing her eyes shut tightly.
Smiling a bit Ryuichi slowly slipped out of bed and stretched. They were supposed to have gotten Mio her own bed to sleep in that day at he mall, but she'd said she didn't need a bed and Ryuichi was more than ready to leave the busy mall. Fending off a yawn the brunette walked to his closet, selecting an outfit before heading to take a quick shower. He'd be late today more than likely, but he was sure Tohma would understand. After much deliberation he had decided to let Mio go and stay at Shuichi's apartment. Shuichi had to go in as well and Ryuichi didn't feel much like burdening Lydia, in fear that Mio may think he didn't want her. So the cold hearted bastard, Eiri Yuki was going to watch Mio. There was no one else and they got along so well. Thus, this seemed to be the best option. Casting the sleeping child in his bed one more glance he went off to shower. Hopefully she'd be awake when he returned.
*
Eyes fluttering open, squinting against the bright morning light, Mio rubbed her eyes slightly. Giving a childish yawn she brought Kumagoro to her chest and went to scoot closer to Ryuichi. Much to her surprise she found no warmth by her side and was immediately wide-awake. Sitting up in one fluent motion she looked around the room. Hugging the pink bunny close she slid out of bed and over to the door. Through the walls she could hear the sound of the shower running and she finally let out a breath she hadn't been aware that she'd been holding. A slight frown still in place she moved to the closet and with slight efforts opened the doors. She pulled out a stool from under the hanging garments and carefully climbed onto it, skimming through the clothes. Pushing them to the side she looked at the section of the closet that held a few of her outfits. Casting a glance at the sunny outside she chose a simple sundress with shorts from the selections. Stepping down and sliding the stool away she took her outfit and Kumagoro out of the bedroom.
Coming into the darkened living room she jumped a bit, smacking a switch on the wall which made the lights turn on. A single lamp, set off into the corner, flickered into life causing a dim blaze of light to fill the room. Giving a small smile of approval she slid from her clothes quickly and into her dress and shorts, twirling around after she was done. Coming to a dwindling stop she allowed her vibrant sandy locks to frame her face and her sundress swirl softly before lying still again. With a deep sigh she picked the discarded Kumagoro back up and held him at arms length with a smile. Swaying slightly, as if dancing with the tiny bunny she began to hum softly. She did this frequently, ever since the day of the 'mall incident'. Ryuichi had brought her home and made them noodles and after they ate he'd turned on the music, singing loudly above it, and in Mio's opinion, putting the other singer to shame. Reluctant at first, Mio simply twirled and danced around the room with him, but gradually went into humming along.
She decided she liked to sing, it was fun. She liked dancing a lot too, although Ryuichi did most of the dancing and Mio simply let him drag and twirl her around. Now every morning she got up, got dressed and played with Kumagoro until Ryuichi finished his morning shower. Mio always made sure to take her's before she slept so she'd have time to play by herself in the mornings. Closing her eyes she swayed with the bunny, slowly ceasing her humming to begin singing.
"There's a song that's inside of my soul. It's the one that I've tried to write over and over again..." she began quietly.
Hugging the bunny to her chest she swept around, gliding over the floor gracefully as she kept singing.
"I'm awake in the infinite cold, but you sing to me over and over and over again."
Twirling, gliding, smile, and turn. Repeat, twirl, super high note and bouts of giggles. Mio swept around the dimly lit room, serenading the pink animal in her arms, throwing her body into every note and action. She twirled, she leaped, she sang and she swayed. It was a complete rush of adrenaline and she was in sheer bliss. How could Ryuichi get up and perform in front of so many people like he did? This rush---this amazing grace of singing with every ounce of her being this is what he lived for. No matter that the audience was simply a stuffed pink rabbit, she loved the thrill.
"I give you my destiny, I'm giving you all of me. I want your symphony--"
"Singing in all that I am! At the top of my lungs, I'm giving it back." drifted in a sweet voice from the door.
Looking over, a deer in headlights look across her face, Mio stopped singing. Accidentally dropping Kumagoro in her shock she quickly stooped to grab him. Ryuichi stood in the doorway, running a towel over his damp hair, his white button up shirt hanging open and clinging to his moist skin. {2} He beamed at Mio, putting the towel over his shoulders and running his fingers through his hair. Staring at him, Mio shifted from one foot to the other nervously. Had Ryuichi seen her dancing? Had her heard her sing much? How embarrassing! Blushing slightly she shuffled over and picked up her dirty nightclothes.
"Nani, Mio-chan?" Ryuichi asked, looking at her curiously. "Why did you stop singing. Your voice is so lovely, na no da!"
Unable to speak, Mio continued to look at him bashfully and then looked away quickly with a slight blush. Clutching Kumagoro in one hand and her dirty clothes in the other she made her way past Ryuichi into the hallway.
"G-gomen, Ryuichi." She murmured. "Maybe I'll sing for you later, I'd better clean up my mess and brush my hair."
"So I lay my head back down, and I lift my hands and pray to be only yours....I pray to be only yours." Ryuichi sang, a soft smile on his lips.
Glancing at the girl expectantly, he took the bundle from her hand and tossed it gingerly into a nearby basket. Taking up her hands, he swung them gently back in forth in his. With a small, almost nonexistent smile, Mio looked up at her guardian.
"I know now you're my...only hope." She sang quietly.
Beaming so brightly that the joy seemed to radiate off of him, Ryuichi gave Mio's hands a gentle squeeze and pulled her into a hug. Slightly startled she clung to him as he hugged her.
"Sing more, Mio! Sing more!" he cheered, pulling back from her and leading her into the living room. "I'll sing too!"
Smile widening a bit and cheeks flaming scarlet Mio nodded and allowed the vocalist to lead her into the living room. Swaying a bit shakily at first she cleared her throat.
"Sing to me the song of the stars...Of your galaxy-"
"Dancing and laughing and laughing again!"
"When it feels like my dreams are so far, sing to me of the plans that you have for me over again." Spinning the girl around, Ryuichi laughed. Laughing aloud as well, Mio allowed herself to spin like she had before and when she stopped she quickly grabbed Ryuichi hands, making him dance with her.
"So I lay my head back down-"
"And I lift my hands and pray..."
"To be only yours." Mio sang clearly, eyes sparkling joyfully.
Sweeping her tiny frame up into his arms, Ryuichi lifted her into the air, swirling around and around again. Giggling uncontrollably, Mio could hardly sing the next line.
"I pray to be only yours-"
"I know now you're my only hope...My only hope.."{1} they sang together, softly ending the song.
Still holding Mio in his arms, Ryuichi smiled at her and put his forehead against hers. Unable to help it Mio smiled as well, closing her eyes. Long lashes tickling his face the genki man giggled and plopped down onto the couch with Mio.
"Mio has such a pretty voice." He complimented. "She should sing a lot more. Maybe Mio'll sing with Ryuichi all the time now?"
Opening her eyes slowly, Mio looked at him slightly startled. "You want me....to sing with you?" Nodding his head a best he could with his forehead against hers, Ryuichi grinned at her.
"Maybe tomorrow we can show Tohma and Noriko Mio's pretty singing voice, na no da?" he said eagerly.
"Maybe...."Mio said softly, letting her voice trail off.
Smiling yet again, Ryuichi gave Mio a squeeze and stood up, setting her on her feet. Buttoning up his shirt, Ryuichi tilted his head at her.
"Why is Mio so shy?" he asked curiously.
Shrugging slightly, Mio picked up the discarded Kumagoro and hugged it to her.
"I've just never liked crowds much or being in front of others. I guess I'm afraid of letting them down." She whispered.
Ryuichi apparently did not like this answer and frowned deeply at her. Kneeling down before her he took her face between his hands gently, giving her an encouraging sort of smile. Mio looked at him curiously, emerald orbs meeting brilliant sapphire oceans.
"You'd never let anybody down, Mio-chan. Don't be so afraid." He offered. "Even if everyone else is gone, you'll have me. Am I enough?"
Mio's face softened and she allowed a little smile. "More than enough, Ryu- kun," she whispered, launching herself at him in a hug.
Laughing a bit, Ryuichi returned the hug and pulled back, straightening his clothes as he stood. Mio smiled up at him and handed him Kumagoro. Accepting the rabbit Ryuichi grinned.
"Go brush your hair and we'll get you to Shu-chan's. We're already very late so take your time." Nodding Mio bounded off to the bathroom to finish getting ready. As she went she hummed a soft little tune to herself, a small smile pasted to her lips.
~__________________________________
"Good-bye Yuki! Be nice to Mio-chan and if Lydia calls, tell her I'll pick up Migel at 5! I love you, Yuki!" Shuichi shouted in a blur as he quickly kissed Yuki on the cheek and shot out of the door.
The blonde simply stood there in the doorway of the kitchen as his koibito sped out, beer in one hand and cigarette in the other. Grumbling he headed into his study to finish typing the last chapter to his novel. It was nearly complete and his editors had been working him like slave drivers since the chapter before had been finished. Giving an exhausted sigh Yuki put the cigarette between his lips and slowly went to open the door when a loud knock from the door sounded. Letting another groan he shook his head and headed for the front door. Throwing it open he glared at the guests.
Ryuichi stood outside the apartment smiling brightly, his hands on Mio's shoulders lightly. Alas, seeing the sour look on the writer's face, Ryuichi nearly grimaced. His poor, poor Mio, he had half the heart to scoop her up and run away at this point. Eyeing the pair Yuki grunted. He'd forgotten that he'd agreed to watch the kid today. It took much pleading from his koibito and a promise (that was more than perfectly fulfilled so far) to have wild, kinky sex every night for a week. Heaving a sigh he moved from in front of the door and allowed them in. However, Mio came in alone and Ryuichi looked down at his watch.
"Gomen, Eiri-san!" Ryuichi said looking up at the man. "But I reeeaaalllyyy have to go! Arigato for watching Mio-chan for me! I'll see you later na no da! Bai-bai!"
As the words flew from his mouth he bowed rapidly and gave Mio a quick kiss on the forehead. Then with a small wave he sped off down the hall to work. Mio peeked out the door, waving to him and waited to go in until he was out of sight. Smiling a bit she came back in and Yuki shut the door behind her. Watching her look around tentatively, Yuki glanced down at his beer and down at the tip of his cigarette. He mumbled as he put the cigarette down into his beer and took it to the kitchen. Coming back he found the little blonde still looking around, this time sitting in a ball on his couch. His lips twitched slightly and he forced down a small snicker. Moving to sit beside her he picked up the remote off the TV and plopped down unceremoniously onto the cushion beside her. Her emerald eyes slid over to him and she hugged her legs a little closer, not saying a word.
"So, anymore exciting trips to the mall, chibi?" Yuki asked, flipping the television on.
"No." Mio said simply.
Eyeing her amusedly, Yuki nodded his head. Surfing through the channels on TV, he let out a small sigh. Though he pretended not to notice, out of the corner of his eye he could see the small child uncurl herself from the ball and slowly scoot closer to him. Finally she sat up straight beside him and leaned her head on his arm softly. Her big green eyes went up to search his face for some sort of acknowledgement, but she saw none. So, taking this as a positive sign, Mio turned herself to lie out on the couch and leaned her head on his arm again.
"Comfortable?" Yuki asked, looking down at her.
Jumping slightly at the writer's sudden response, Mio sat up again. Finally settling on a channel, Yuki tossed the remote onto the coffee table and propped his feet up as well. Eyeing the younger blonde in an affectionately amused way, Yuki sat up and pulled Shuichi's old blanket off the back of the couch and draped it over his lap. Mio watched him silently and followed his movements with her eyes. As he laid the blanket out, Mio looked up at his face again, still getting now acknowledgement. Giving a mental grunt she moved slightly closer so she leaned against him fully and slowly, very stealthy moved under the blanket and onto his lap. Despite how sleek and stealth her actions were, it was hard to miss somebody crawling onto your lap and Yuki shifted his body into a comfortable position.
"Is this ok?" Mio asked, looking up at him tentatively, eyes prying for an approval.
Yuki made an amused little noise in the back of his throat and rested his arm around her shoulder gently. This simple action gave her all the acceptance she needed and Mio curled up comfortably in his lap, hugging his arm happily. Yuki didn't like talking much and neither did Mio really, so she liked being close to Yuki. Why speak words when you can say so much more with actions? Sighing contently, Mio glued her eyes to the TV, not really seeing the show despite her attentions. She was too busy thinking about things. She liked thinking about things when with somebody else, for some reason the whole situation was just more comforting that way. So, Mio cuddled against Yuki and remained locked in her own silent reveries.
It would be so easy to leave behind her former life and start over with Ryuichi, if it weren't for one small, strawberry haired detail; Migel. She couldn't leave him, true she had planned to once Aya-chan took her, but Aya worked at the orphanage and she's still see him every day. Now with Ryuichi she'd hardly see him at all and how could she just abandon him there with nobody else to comfort him? She was Migel's only family and he used to be hers. He would never leave her and now she was betraying his trust. How could she let her friend down like that? She knew how horrible it was to be let down, she couldn't make Migel go through what she went through.
"Something bothering you?" Yuki asked her suddenly, reaching for the remote and muting the TV. "You look upset-and your drawing blood from my shoulder."
Mio let go of her death grip on Yuki's shoulder and pulled away slightly abashed. Looking down at her lap she swallowed the lump forming in her throat.
"Yuki," she said voice waving. "Am I a bad person?"
The older blonde looked at her oddly, trying to figure out what could possibly make her think so. Sighing, Yuki did something he rarely did for anyone and gave her a comforting sort of hug. Clinging to him, Mio allowed a small tear to slip out of her eye and slide down her cheek onto Yuki's shirt.
"What makes you think you're a bad person, Mio?" he asked her quietly.
"I was so happy that Ryuichi wanted me that I forgot about my other family." she hiccuped. "I made a promise to Migel that I'd never leave him and here I am jumping at the chance to get away. I'm so horrible, Yuki-kun! I know what it's like to be left behind and now..now I'm leaving him behind like Aya left me."
Listening to the girl explain through hiccup interrupted sobs, Yuki nodded. Migel? Wasn't that the adorable (though he'd sure as hell never admit he thought the boy was adorable) little boy Shuichi had been bringing over all week? Ah, so that explained plenty. Mio and Migel must be friends and that's how Shuichi met Migel, now that that was cleared up.
"Your not a bad person." He assured her, comfort not really one of his strong points. "I'm sure Migel would understand that you just want to belong really."
Mio sniffled and looked at Yuki, shaking her head. "But what if I never see him again? Would you forgive me if it were you?"
Pausing for just a moment Yuki then replied, "Of course I would forgive you."
Smiling a little Mio sniffled at him again and nodded. "Thank you, Yuki." She whispered, a silence following her words before she spoke again. "Can we take a nap?"
Yuki gave her one of his rare little smile and nodded, picking her up. He laid out on the couch and pulled the blankets up as she snuggled into his side. Then laying the blanket over them Yuki let out a sigh. Perhaps, just this once, he'd listen to Shuichi's constant pleas and get him want he wanted. If it could help out Mio and make things easier for everyone-beside it wasn't like the boy was that troublesome anyway...Well, maybe just this once...
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{1} This is the song 'Only Hope' by Mandy Moore. I dunno, that whole scene was spur of the moment, but it helps lead into the sequel I'm formulating. Hehehehe. I won't tell you how though. *Insert very evil laugh*
{2} Happy birthday Tetsu-chan! ^.-
Ok, so this chapter was a yes or no type thing. I could put it in or just plain leave it out. Because I'm too lazy to type the next chapter right away I put this one in. I realize Yuki is WAY OOC and it's rather pointless, but just deal with it! Lol. Thanks for the reviews and support! - Nori
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: I own nothing, it all belongs to the amazing Murakami Maki! All praise her like the goddess she is! *bows and grovels* However, the plot is mine and Aya, Mio, Migel...all belongs to me. ;)
Notes from Nori: I started ASAP on this chapter and I did as much as I could as fast as I could so you wouldn't have to wait long. ^^;; Er, I hope my quickness doesn't make it lack any. Although I didn't really get it done very fast...Sorry about that, things have been VERY hectic for my family and me lately. Anyway, so here's the chapter!
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" I like to watch you play
When you don't know I'm there
I watch you in your sleep at night
Reach out and touch your hair
I wanna make this world
Be just how you want it to be
Yeah you just don't understand
You are everything to me."
- Annabella's Song by Everclear
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The alarm next to Ryuichi's bed sounded and he let out a muffled grumble. Reaching over he slapped at the clock blindly, finally managing to hit the snooze button. Letting out a content sigh he shifted closer to the warmth of the body beside him. Mio shifted slightly, Kumagoro getting smashed between them in the process, scooting into his arms. Ryuichi smiled in his sleep as the girl moved closer and stroked her hair habitually. It had been a mellow 5 days since he'd lost Mio in the mall and they'd been able to overlook the incident and get back to normal. Though, despite how normal he acted, Ryuichi still felt guilty for letting her get out of his sight. He'd been so worried that he'd lost her.
Since then things had been running pretty smoothly. They'd gone to the park, gone to several stores, and hung out regularly with Shuichi (on occasion accompanied by Migel). To his surprise, as well as Shuichi's, she'd become fairly close to Yuki. Sure he'd encouraged her to get close to him, but honestly, he could hardly imagine Yuki befriending a 9-yr-old. It was good for them both though, he supposed and it wasn't hurting anything. It also gave him time to spend alone or by himself with Shuichi. So it worked out for the better.
He'd had Mio now for a whole week, but the real challenge was soon to come. Next Ryuichi had to return to work. Writing, singing, and recording to get Nittle Grasper's next CD out. Tohma had already delayed their CD's release as much as he could and now they needed to get working on it. Yes, this would definitely be an interesting experience. Speaking of work, Ryuichi thought with a groan, today was supposed to be his first day back. Shifting away from the girl beside him he cracked an eye open, only to be met with a bright light shining through his window. Pinching his eyes shut he pulled away and slowly sat up, rubbing his eyes.
"Nyah, sleep, sleep." Mio mumbled, hugging Kumagoro to her chest and squeezing her eyes shut tightly.
Smiling a bit Ryuichi slowly slipped out of bed and stretched. They were supposed to have gotten Mio her own bed to sleep in that day at he mall, but she'd said she didn't need a bed and Ryuichi was more than ready to leave the busy mall. Fending off a yawn the brunette walked to his closet, selecting an outfit before heading to take a quick shower. He'd be late today more than likely, but he was sure Tohma would understand. After much deliberation he had decided to let Mio go and stay at Shuichi's apartment. Shuichi had to go in as well and Ryuichi didn't feel much like burdening Lydia, in fear that Mio may think he didn't want her. So the cold hearted bastard, Eiri Yuki was going to watch Mio. There was no one else and they got along so well. Thus, this seemed to be the best option. Casting the sleeping child in his bed one more glance he went off to shower. Hopefully she'd be awake when he returned.
*
Eyes fluttering open, squinting against the bright morning light, Mio rubbed her eyes slightly. Giving a childish yawn she brought Kumagoro to her chest and went to scoot closer to Ryuichi. Much to her surprise she found no warmth by her side and was immediately wide-awake. Sitting up in one fluent motion she looked around the room. Hugging the pink bunny close she slid out of bed and over to the door. Through the walls she could hear the sound of the shower running and she finally let out a breath she hadn't been aware that she'd been holding. A slight frown still in place she moved to the closet and with slight efforts opened the doors. She pulled out a stool from under the hanging garments and carefully climbed onto it, skimming through the clothes. Pushing them to the side she looked at the section of the closet that held a few of her outfits. Casting a glance at the sunny outside she chose a simple sundress with shorts from the selections. Stepping down and sliding the stool away she took her outfit and Kumagoro out of the bedroom.
Coming into the darkened living room she jumped a bit, smacking a switch on the wall which made the lights turn on. A single lamp, set off into the corner, flickered into life causing a dim blaze of light to fill the room. Giving a small smile of approval she slid from her clothes quickly and into her dress and shorts, twirling around after she was done. Coming to a dwindling stop she allowed her vibrant sandy locks to frame her face and her sundress swirl softly before lying still again. With a deep sigh she picked the discarded Kumagoro back up and held him at arms length with a smile. Swaying slightly, as if dancing with the tiny bunny she began to hum softly. She did this frequently, ever since the day of the 'mall incident'. Ryuichi had brought her home and made them noodles and after they ate he'd turned on the music, singing loudly above it, and in Mio's opinion, putting the other singer to shame. Reluctant at first, Mio simply twirled and danced around the room with him, but gradually went into humming along.
She decided she liked to sing, it was fun. She liked dancing a lot too, although Ryuichi did most of the dancing and Mio simply let him drag and twirl her around. Now every morning she got up, got dressed and played with Kumagoro until Ryuichi finished his morning shower. Mio always made sure to take her's before she slept so she'd have time to play by herself in the mornings. Closing her eyes she swayed with the bunny, slowly ceasing her humming to begin singing.
"There's a song that's inside of my soul. It's the one that I've tried to write over and over again..." she began quietly.
Hugging the bunny to her chest she swept around, gliding over the floor gracefully as she kept singing.
"I'm awake in the infinite cold, but you sing to me over and over and over again."
Twirling, gliding, smile, and turn. Repeat, twirl, super high note and bouts of giggles. Mio swept around the dimly lit room, serenading the pink animal in her arms, throwing her body into every note and action. She twirled, she leaped, she sang and she swayed. It was a complete rush of adrenaline and she was in sheer bliss. How could Ryuichi get up and perform in front of so many people like he did? This rush---this amazing grace of singing with every ounce of her being this is what he lived for. No matter that the audience was simply a stuffed pink rabbit, she loved the thrill.
"I give you my destiny, I'm giving you all of me. I want your symphony--"
"Singing in all that I am! At the top of my lungs, I'm giving it back." drifted in a sweet voice from the door.
Looking over, a deer in headlights look across her face, Mio stopped singing. Accidentally dropping Kumagoro in her shock she quickly stooped to grab him. Ryuichi stood in the doorway, running a towel over his damp hair, his white button up shirt hanging open and clinging to his moist skin. {2} He beamed at Mio, putting the towel over his shoulders and running his fingers through his hair. Staring at him, Mio shifted from one foot to the other nervously. Had Ryuichi seen her dancing? Had her heard her sing much? How embarrassing! Blushing slightly she shuffled over and picked up her dirty nightclothes.
"Nani, Mio-chan?" Ryuichi asked, looking at her curiously. "Why did you stop singing. Your voice is so lovely, na no da!"
Unable to speak, Mio continued to look at him bashfully and then looked away quickly with a slight blush. Clutching Kumagoro in one hand and her dirty clothes in the other she made her way past Ryuichi into the hallway.
"G-gomen, Ryuichi." She murmured. "Maybe I'll sing for you later, I'd better clean up my mess and brush my hair."
"So I lay my head back down, and I lift my hands and pray to be only yours....I pray to be only yours." Ryuichi sang, a soft smile on his lips.
Glancing at the girl expectantly, he took the bundle from her hand and tossed it gingerly into a nearby basket. Taking up her hands, he swung them gently back in forth in his. With a small, almost nonexistent smile, Mio looked up at her guardian.
"I know now you're my...only hope." She sang quietly.
Beaming so brightly that the joy seemed to radiate off of him, Ryuichi gave Mio's hands a gentle squeeze and pulled her into a hug. Slightly startled she clung to him as he hugged her.
"Sing more, Mio! Sing more!" he cheered, pulling back from her and leading her into the living room. "I'll sing too!"
Smile widening a bit and cheeks flaming scarlet Mio nodded and allowed the vocalist to lead her into the living room. Swaying a bit shakily at first she cleared her throat.
"Sing to me the song of the stars...Of your galaxy-"
"Dancing and laughing and laughing again!"
"When it feels like my dreams are so far, sing to me of the plans that you have for me over again." Spinning the girl around, Ryuichi laughed. Laughing aloud as well, Mio allowed herself to spin like she had before and when she stopped she quickly grabbed Ryuichi hands, making him dance with her.
"So I lay my head back down-"
"And I lift my hands and pray..."
"To be only yours." Mio sang clearly, eyes sparkling joyfully.
Sweeping her tiny frame up into his arms, Ryuichi lifted her into the air, swirling around and around again. Giggling uncontrollably, Mio could hardly sing the next line.
"I pray to be only yours-"
"I know now you're my only hope...My only hope.."{1} they sang together, softly ending the song.
Still holding Mio in his arms, Ryuichi smiled at her and put his forehead against hers. Unable to help it Mio smiled as well, closing her eyes. Long lashes tickling his face the genki man giggled and plopped down onto the couch with Mio.
"Mio has such a pretty voice." He complimented. "She should sing a lot more. Maybe Mio'll sing with Ryuichi all the time now?"
Opening her eyes slowly, Mio looked at him slightly startled. "You want me....to sing with you?" Nodding his head a best he could with his forehead against hers, Ryuichi grinned at her.
"Maybe tomorrow we can show Tohma and Noriko Mio's pretty singing voice, na no da?" he said eagerly.
"Maybe...."Mio said softly, letting her voice trail off.
Smiling yet again, Ryuichi gave Mio a squeeze and stood up, setting her on her feet. Buttoning up his shirt, Ryuichi tilted his head at her.
"Why is Mio so shy?" he asked curiously.
Shrugging slightly, Mio picked up the discarded Kumagoro and hugged it to her.
"I've just never liked crowds much or being in front of others. I guess I'm afraid of letting them down." She whispered.
Ryuichi apparently did not like this answer and frowned deeply at her. Kneeling down before her he took her face between his hands gently, giving her an encouraging sort of smile. Mio looked at him curiously, emerald orbs meeting brilliant sapphire oceans.
"You'd never let anybody down, Mio-chan. Don't be so afraid." He offered. "Even if everyone else is gone, you'll have me. Am I enough?"
Mio's face softened and she allowed a little smile. "More than enough, Ryu- kun," she whispered, launching herself at him in a hug.
Laughing a bit, Ryuichi returned the hug and pulled back, straightening his clothes as he stood. Mio smiled up at him and handed him Kumagoro. Accepting the rabbit Ryuichi grinned.
"Go brush your hair and we'll get you to Shu-chan's. We're already very late so take your time." Nodding Mio bounded off to the bathroom to finish getting ready. As she went she hummed a soft little tune to herself, a small smile pasted to her lips.
~__________________________________
"Good-bye Yuki! Be nice to Mio-chan and if Lydia calls, tell her I'll pick up Migel at 5! I love you, Yuki!" Shuichi shouted in a blur as he quickly kissed Yuki on the cheek and shot out of the door.
The blonde simply stood there in the doorway of the kitchen as his koibito sped out, beer in one hand and cigarette in the other. Grumbling he headed into his study to finish typing the last chapter to his novel. It was nearly complete and his editors had been working him like slave drivers since the chapter before had been finished. Giving an exhausted sigh Yuki put the cigarette between his lips and slowly went to open the door when a loud knock from the door sounded. Letting another groan he shook his head and headed for the front door. Throwing it open he glared at the guests.
Ryuichi stood outside the apartment smiling brightly, his hands on Mio's shoulders lightly. Alas, seeing the sour look on the writer's face, Ryuichi nearly grimaced. His poor, poor Mio, he had half the heart to scoop her up and run away at this point. Eyeing the pair Yuki grunted. He'd forgotten that he'd agreed to watch the kid today. It took much pleading from his koibito and a promise (that was more than perfectly fulfilled so far) to have wild, kinky sex every night for a week. Heaving a sigh he moved from in front of the door and allowed them in. However, Mio came in alone and Ryuichi looked down at his watch.
"Gomen, Eiri-san!" Ryuichi said looking up at the man. "But I reeeaaalllyyy have to go! Arigato for watching Mio-chan for me! I'll see you later na no da! Bai-bai!"
As the words flew from his mouth he bowed rapidly and gave Mio a quick kiss on the forehead. Then with a small wave he sped off down the hall to work. Mio peeked out the door, waving to him and waited to go in until he was out of sight. Smiling a bit she came back in and Yuki shut the door behind her. Watching her look around tentatively, Yuki glanced down at his beer and down at the tip of his cigarette. He mumbled as he put the cigarette down into his beer and took it to the kitchen. Coming back he found the little blonde still looking around, this time sitting in a ball on his couch. His lips twitched slightly and he forced down a small snicker. Moving to sit beside her he picked up the remote off the TV and plopped down unceremoniously onto the cushion beside her. Her emerald eyes slid over to him and she hugged her legs a little closer, not saying a word.
"So, anymore exciting trips to the mall, chibi?" Yuki asked, flipping the television on.
"No." Mio said simply.
Eyeing her amusedly, Yuki nodded his head. Surfing through the channels on TV, he let out a small sigh. Though he pretended not to notice, out of the corner of his eye he could see the small child uncurl herself from the ball and slowly scoot closer to him. Finally she sat up straight beside him and leaned her head on his arm softly. Her big green eyes went up to search his face for some sort of acknowledgement, but she saw none. So, taking this as a positive sign, Mio turned herself to lie out on the couch and leaned her head on his arm again.
"Comfortable?" Yuki asked, looking down at her.
Jumping slightly at the writer's sudden response, Mio sat up again. Finally settling on a channel, Yuki tossed the remote onto the coffee table and propped his feet up as well. Eyeing the younger blonde in an affectionately amused way, Yuki sat up and pulled Shuichi's old blanket off the back of the couch and draped it over his lap. Mio watched him silently and followed his movements with her eyes. As he laid the blanket out, Mio looked up at his face again, still getting now acknowledgement. Giving a mental grunt she moved slightly closer so she leaned against him fully and slowly, very stealthy moved under the blanket and onto his lap. Despite how sleek and stealth her actions were, it was hard to miss somebody crawling onto your lap and Yuki shifted his body into a comfortable position.
"Is this ok?" Mio asked, looking up at him tentatively, eyes prying for an approval.
Yuki made an amused little noise in the back of his throat and rested his arm around her shoulder gently. This simple action gave her all the acceptance she needed and Mio curled up comfortably in his lap, hugging his arm happily. Yuki didn't like talking much and neither did Mio really, so she liked being close to Yuki. Why speak words when you can say so much more with actions? Sighing contently, Mio glued her eyes to the TV, not really seeing the show despite her attentions. She was too busy thinking about things. She liked thinking about things when with somebody else, for some reason the whole situation was just more comforting that way. So, Mio cuddled against Yuki and remained locked in her own silent reveries.
It would be so easy to leave behind her former life and start over with Ryuichi, if it weren't for one small, strawberry haired detail; Migel. She couldn't leave him, true she had planned to once Aya-chan took her, but Aya worked at the orphanage and she's still see him every day. Now with Ryuichi she'd hardly see him at all and how could she just abandon him there with nobody else to comfort him? She was Migel's only family and he used to be hers. He would never leave her and now she was betraying his trust. How could she let her friend down like that? She knew how horrible it was to be let down, she couldn't make Migel go through what she went through.
"Something bothering you?" Yuki asked her suddenly, reaching for the remote and muting the TV. "You look upset-and your drawing blood from my shoulder."
Mio let go of her death grip on Yuki's shoulder and pulled away slightly abashed. Looking down at her lap she swallowed the lump forming in her throat.
"Yuki," she said voice waving. "Am I a bad person?"
The older blonde looked at her oddly, trying to figure out what could possibly make her think so. Sighing, Yuki did something he rarely did for anyone and gave her a comforting sort of hug. Clinging to him, Mio allowed a small tear to slip out of her eye and slide down her cheek onto Yuki's shirt.
"What makes you think you're a bad person, Mio?" he asked her quietly.
"I was so happy that Ryuichi wanted me that I forgot about my other family." she hiccuped. "I made a promise to Migel that I'd never leave him and here I am jumping at the chance to get away. I'm so horrible, Yuki-kun! I know what it's like to be left behind and now..now I'm leaving him behind like Aya left me."
Listening to the girl explain through hiccup interrupted sobs, Yuki nodded. Migel? Wasn't that the adorable (though he'd sure as hell never admit he thought the boy was adorable) little boy Shuichi had been bringing over all week? Ah, so that explained plenty. Mio and Migel must be friends and that's how Shuichi met Migel, now that that was cleared up.
"Your not a bad person." He assured her, comfort not really one of his strong points. "I'm sure Migel would understand that you just want to belong really."
Mio sniffled and looked at Yuki, shaking her head. "But what if I never see him again? Would you forgive me if it were you?"
Pausing for just a moment Yuki then replied, "Of course I would forgive you."
Smiling a little Mio sniffled at him again and nodded. "Thank you, Yuki." She whispered, a silence following her words before she spoke again. "Can we take a nap?"
Yuki gave her one of his rare little smile and nodded, picking her up. He laid out on the couch and pulled the blankets up as she snuggled into his side. Then laying the blanket over them Yuki let out a sigh. Perhaps, just this once, he'd listen to Shuichi's constant pleas and get him want he wanted. If it could help out Mio and make things easier for everyone-beside it wasn't like the boy was that troublesome anyway...Well, maybe just this once...
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{1} This is the song 'Only Hope' by Mandy Moore. I dunno, that whole scene was spur of the moment, but it helps lead into the sequel I'm formulating. Hehehehe. I won't tell you how though. *Insert very evil laugh*
{2} Happy birthday Tetsu-chan! ^.-
Ok, so this chapter was a yes or no type thing. I could put it in or just plain leave it out. Because I'm too lazy to type the next chapter right away I put this one in. I realize Yuki is WAY OOC and it's rather pointless, but just deal with it! Lol. Thanks for the reviews and support! - Nori