Disclaimers: I own NOTHING.
A/N: Wonderful news! Tokyo Pop has decided on publishing the English Translated Manga of Fruits Basket. Coming out in 2004, though, no specific release dates yet. I've read the Korean translated one, and the manga ROX. When it comes out, I suggest you all buy it! It's unbearably good!!
For the reviews, I just can't thank you all enough. ^_^ They're like. . . vitamins!!
This chapter's really long, please bear with me. I made it a combo of two original chapters because I won't be able to update until around the end of the month. I'm taking swimming and theory courses, and it really takes up the better part of each day. I will TRY to get one out by the end of next week. Also, to clear things up a bit, Yuki and Kyou are two years older than Tohru, while Kagura is still 2 yrs older than Yuki and Kyou.
Bah, I've talked too much. On with the story!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kyou looked at the puzzled Kagura. Why is she looking at me that way? Then he heard it. The light footsteps. The pitter patter of tears onto the sand.
Just as soon as he was about to turn around, she crushed into his back, her small hands latching around his broad shoulders, her cheek pressed between his shoulder blades, where she knew it wouldn't hurt. He felt her hot tears soak through his jacket.
"Kyou-kun. . ." she breathed.
Kyou felt bewilderment, happiness, surprise. Tears surged. There was only one person that did this to him.
"Tohru. . ." he said, choking on his own tears. "is. . . is it really Tohru?"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Yuki sneezed. Kagura gave him a look that clearly said 'you should at least wear a jacket at this time of year, especially around a windy cliff'. He handled his coffee between his long fingers, appreciating the soothing warmth. He glanced outside of the old window. A clear view of the ocean, dancing waters of crystal blue, could be witnessed from his perch.
"Nice place, that baka neko has." Yuki murmured, taking a light sip from his mug. He felt the warm liquid ooze its way down his throat, making him feel so much better.
"Yun-chan, who is she?"
Yuki looked up. The older girl's eyes were burning with curiousity, and she was intent on finding out the identity of Tohru. "Who is she, Yun-chan?"
"My maid." Yuki answered.
Kagura was nowhere near satisfied. "Then how does she know Kyou-kun? The way she latched onto him wasn't like a friendly way or anything. It was as if they were-"
"They're cousins." Yuki quickly lied.
Kagura beamed. "Then that means she's my cousin too!!! Wow, this is amazing!"
Yuki was frustrated. "Er, no, because. . . she has a different last name."
Kagura was a little confused, but she dropped the question anyway. She too gazed out the window, a mysterious aura playing around the boar.
Yuki fixated his passive eyes on the ocean waters. Honda Tohru. . . Kyou's long lost sister. He was happy for them. Finding their lost kin, their other piece, was a great thing to do. He smiled sadly, looking down at himself. What am I then? Avoiding my family, trying to run away from my past, instead of facing it, looking for it, trying to redeem my mistakes.
Yuki felt a searing knife of jealousy protrude. Kyou had always had that one thing Yuki was never able to possess – family. As shy as he was, he had that strange power to draw people towards him, to bind them into him, make friends. Ever since they had met, until now, Kyou had the natural ability to draw people in.
And now he had Tohru.
Subconsciously, at the thought of Tohru, Yuki tightened his grip on his mug, as if clutching onto her. Kagura looked up. She stared at the tense Yuki.
"Yun-chan. . . do you. . . like her?" she questioned.
Yuki looked up at the sudden notion. He knew he did, deep inside, he knew that he had tripped long before, but he wasn't exactly ready to admit it. Sighing, Kagura looked away again. "Your eyes tell me everything."
Yuki also looked away. He had been discovered.
"Be good to her. . . if you're just playing around, drop it." Kagura warned.
Yuki turned back. "I'm not. This time. . . this time it's real, Kagura."
She smiled weakly. "Let's hope."
The waves continued to crash onto the sand.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kyou couldn't keep his eyes off of her. Nothing had changed. Tohru was still the old Tohru, her insuppressible smile, her long brown hair that curled delicately at the ends, angelic pale skin and a heart big enough to share with everyone in the world. Even though, she was no longer the 14 year old he remembered. She was a full grown woman now, having achieved a quiet beauty unmatched by anything else, dignified, elegant, but just as lovable as before.
"Tohru." He called.
She turned her shining face towards him, gracing him with light. She smiled.
"I didn't know." Kyou started. "I didn't know you were the rat's maid. I didn't. . . I didn't know you were the one on the phone. If I had, then. . . then I. . ."
"I didn't know either, Ky. . . nii-san." She replied.
"Tohru. . ." Kyou continued, tears swelling again, "How. . . how. . . did you live?"
Tohru raised her hands to form a fist, her determined, strong look taking over. "I lived very strongly, nii-san! Okaa-san was very supportive. I worked hard!"
Kyou bent his head low. "Oi. I heard. . . you were in debt. . . so you moved. . . here."
"Hai. But you know, we were always poor. But it was fine! Okaa-san and I, we supported each other like a family. Ne? That's what family does! We were very happy nii-san. Don't worry. Ara? Did you worry about me?"
Kyou nodded, somewhat vigorously.
Tohru smiled, a little sad. "Did you worry. . . a lot?"
"Too much, you fool."
Tohru laughed, tears choking her mid way. But she didn't want to cry. She wouldn't. Not on the first day they met. "Okaa-san and Ottou-san. . . are they still in America?"
"Yeah. They'll be getting here soon." Kyou said.
"And. . . Rin. . . is she okay?" Tohru said, quietly.
Kyou was about to punch the table in half, as he clenched his fists tightly, his short nails digging into his palms. Control, he muttered, control. He finally released his hands and drew out a sigh. "Yeah."
Tohru smiled, her eyes slightly wet. "I'm glad. Really, I'm really glad. I miss them all. I've always missed them. . . it would be great to see them again. . ."
Kyou looked up. Tohru quickly wiped her eyes. "I've been thinking about you a lot, lately, Nii-san. More than ever. I thought. . . I thought we'd never meet. . . maybe I was thinking about you more than usual because we were fated to meet again like this. . . but now that we have, I'm happy. Really, nii-san, I'm really happy. . . really. . ."
Her small laughter echoed in Kyou's ears. He reached out and put his hand on to hers awkwardly. Kyou tried to smile. He couldn't. Tears were threatening to spill. "Tohru. . ." he whispered.
"Yogatta-ne." Tohru replied.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kagura stood up to witness a sullen Kyou trodding in. "Did she leave, Kyou- kun?"
"Uhn. Femboy is driving her back." Kyou replied.
"She seemed like a great person, Kyou-kun!" Kagura continued. "It's amazing. I never knew you had such a pretty cousin like her!"
Cousin? Then he was thankful. Yuki lied.
"Ne, Kyou-kun, did you miss her THAT much? You. . . you have tears in your eyes."
"What are you talking about, Woman!?" Kyou harshly replied, before swiping the water out of his eyes. "It's just the wind, that's all."
Kagura smiled.
"Strange. . ." Kyou said, drifting off into a melancholy dream. Kagura looked up from her tea and stared at Kyou worriedly. "Tohru. . . she. . . doesn't call me by my name anymore. . ."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Tohru climbed into the car, next to Yuki waiting at the steering wheel. "Arigatou, Yuki-kun." She said.
Yuki stared at the dashboard. "So. You. . . you're Kyou's long lost sister."
Tohru nodded.
"I know you don't need my pity, Honda-san." Yuki continued. "And I don't pity you. I admire you for your strength, the way you've kept up with your life. I just wanted you to know that."
Tohru nodded gratefully once again.
"You. . . why did you leave the hotel?" He questioned, a question he wanted to ask from the beginning.
"Ah, it's nothing, Yuki-kun, just. . . complications. . ." Tohru tried to cover, but to no avail.
"It's my fault, isn't it." Yuki said, guiltily. He stepped on the pedal.
"Ah! Iie! Iie! Yuki-kun, you've done so much for me!" Tohru said feverishly, as he started to drive towards the hotel.
Yuki flashed a princey smile towards his companion. "It's okay, Honda-san. Let me fix things up."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
". . . so that's how it happened. Please, forgive my sudden choice of actions." Yuki apologized. The whole maid institute stared at Yuki longingly, mesmerized by his princey beauty. "Please. Please let Honda-san work back here."
The head maid's eyes flashed menacingly. "What is this, Tohru-chan? Using Sohma-sama as your marionette?"
Yuki looked up, danger glowing in his eyes as well. "Excuse me?"
"A. . . anou. . . it's quite alright. . . Yuki-kun, it's okay. . . please. . ."
"First name basis, I see!" Barked the head. "That's all the proof I'll need! You're never working here again!"
Yuki was outraged. All composure left him, and his eyes fired up. "You can't do this to her. . . this wasn't even her fault! Do you know what you are doing!?"
The head was immensely surprised. She took a few steps back towards the wall. "W-Witch! Manipulating o-our g-guests!!!"
Yuki strode towards her. "Manipulate? I manipulated her! I took her hand! You know why? Honda-san is a nice person! She's beautiful at heart! What's wrong with holding hands? What's wrong with it!?"
"Yuki-kun! Please! Please stop!" Tohru cried, dragging the Sohma prince out the door. "Please! Please do not do this!"
After a couple more enraged yells from the mouse, Tohru shut the door and bowed, scared and frustrated to the head. "Gomenasai! Please excuse this. . . he's a really great person. . . he usually doesn't explode like that. . . please. . . please don't judge him as a bad person! Please!"
The head maid was shocked beyond understanding, as her bulging eyeballs clearly showed. "O-out."
Tohru looked up, distressed, tears lingering in her eyes. "Please. . . I can't leave . . . Please let me stay, ne? Please. . . I'll do anything. . . I can't leave. . . Please!"
The head resisted. "OUT! NOW!!!"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Well, it was expected. . ." She thought, gloomy and teary, as she cruised down the road, her possessions packed, secured on her bike.
Even after all the chaos, all she could think about was Kyou. His crimson eyes, that had bored into her heart even after all these years. She had failed to call him by his name. Why? She was scared. She didn't want the past to repeat itself, so she avoided the friendly ways.
Tohru continued to ponder as she approached her brother's cabin by the ocean.
She suddenly had a strong urge to go through the door, greet her brother, and stay with him.
Possibly forever.
She didn't think twice after that, as she parked her bike by his walls, and climbed the stairs to his door.
She rapped her knuckles quickly on the wooden frame.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The sun had nearly set when she had knocked on his door.
"Nii-san. . ."
Kyou instantly stood up from his couch and wrenched the door open. There, stood a smiling angel, a large bag dangling from her skinny frame, pink blouse tousled by the wind.
"Tohru?" Kyou questioned, more to himself than anyone else, "What. . . I mean. . ."
Tohru stepped forward and smiled. "I. . . I wanted to see you again, nii- san. . . and I wanted to stay with you. . . if it's okay. . . just for a couple of days, ne?"
Kyou was happy beyond explanation. After blushing, furiously, he ran his fingers through his hair. "Uhn."
Tohru entered a small room, where a blanket was neatly in place on the floor. Kyou soon followed. "You can sleep here. It has nice sun and scenery and all that." He gruffily said, while fixing up the blanket. "Here."
Tohru smiled and sat down on the blanket, facing her brother. She smiled into his crimson eyes, and he smiled back.
He then left in embarrassment, muttering something like "I'll get you some food". Tohru smiled deeply. She was glad to be here, with Kyou.
When he got back, Tohru was fast asleep. Setting the milk down before her, Kyou brushed a lock of hair behind her weary ear. He smiled as he sat cross legged beside her, admiring his sleeping angel.
"Good night, Tohru." He whispered, letting emotions strangle him again. "Good night. . . good night. . . I wanted to say those words to you more than anything. . . to be with you when you were sleeping, to comfort you before your eyes closed . . . I wanted to say those words. . ."
Tohru didn't stir, too caught up with her sleep.
"Tohru. . . Gomen ne. . . gomen. . ." Kyou continued to whisper, holding her hand tightly. "I couldn't protect you. . . all those years ago. . . even now. . . gomen. . ."
A stray tear fell onto Tohru's hand. The sleeping girl smiled. In her dreams, she was surrounded by warmth, happiness, love. And beside her, was her brother, holding her hand close to his heart.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Ohayo gozaimasu!"
Kyou walked out of the shower, hair still wet, a towel slung carelessly over his back. Tohru laughed at her brother's drenched state. Kyou sat down at the table. "Oi, onigiri, what's all this stuff?"
Tohru felt her heart skip a beat at the recalling of her old nickname. "Ah, well, I wanted to prepare breakfast for you, nii-san. So. . . here!" she said, placing a bowl of hot, steaming rice in front of her favourite orange- head. She sat down next to him, smiling.
"O. . . oi. . . you didn't need to. . ." Kyou felt happy and flustered, he didn't know what to do except blush. Then he picked up his chopsticks and happily muttered thanks, then started to dig in. Tohru laughed to herself.
"Aren't you eating?" he asked her between mouthfuls.
She shook her head. "This is strictly meant for you, nii-san. I ate already."
Kyou stopped eating. He looked at Tohru, disappointment and hurt shining. "Tohru. . . why are you still avoiding my name?"
The girl laughed, surprised that he had noticed. "Gomen, nii-san. It's just so awkward. It's been so long. Did I call you by your name before?"
She laughed as if nothing had happened. Kyou didn't want to upset her further, so he resumed eating. "Ne, nii-san, yesterday, that girl, are you engaged to her?"
Even though he hesitated, Kyou nodded.
"Wai! Sugoi! She was so extremely pretty! And she seemed like such a fun person! I hope I can meet her one day." Tohru ranted.
Kyou nodded, as his cellphone begun to ring. He looked at the number. "784- 66.. oh. . . shit. . ."
Kyou wrenched his jacket apart from his chair, grabbed his phone and bag and hurried out the door. But he stopped midway to look at Tohru, softening his eyes. "I'll see you later. Kagura. . . my fiancé. . . if I don't go now, I'll probably die."
Tohru laughed. "Hai! Iterashai, nii-san!"
Kyou bolted out the door. Tohru went into her room, a little upset, but cheery at the same time. She tied her hair up with her two blue bows, reminiscing in her old memories.
Tohru smiled into her reflection. She was happy to see it smile back.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kyou had no idea how Kagura had acted so fast. One second ago he had been at a local café, sipping his coffee and talking casually with her. The next second, he had been pushed into his car, as Kagura drove to Tokyo, explaining busily. Finally, now, he was standing in the porch of his first house in Japan, where he had spent his days with Tohru.
"Why did you bring me here, woman!?" Kyou screamed. "What the hell do you think you're doing?"
"Shh. . . Kyou-kun. . . I told you, I brought you here to do some cleaning, since your parents will arrive a little sooner than planned!" She exclaimed.
"But I can't!!!" Kyou wailed. "Tohru's waiting by herself at my place right now!!!"
Soon, Kagura's eyes turned a dangerous colour. "WHAT DID YOU SAY!?!? WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME YOU WERE KEEPING A WOMAN IN YOUR HOUSE!?!?!"
The usual beating-up session occurred, ending with Kyou sprawled on the wooden porch, Kagura fussing over him, then dragging the lifeless cat into the house. Several minutes later, Kyou woke up, aches pinching him all over his muscular body.
"Gomen-ne, Kyou-kun." Kagura apologized. "I suddenly got so mad that Tohru- chan was at your house. . . I totally lost control."
"God, learn to control yourself a bit more!!" Kyou spat, angrily. "She's my family, anyway."
Kagura's eyes sparkled. "That's right! So you're not cheating on me!"
Kyou rolled his eyes.
"Well then, let's get cleaning!" Kagura proclaimed, dragging the bleeding boy behind her, using him to mop up half of the living room.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Moshi moshi?" Tohru said, speaking into her cellphone that had recently rung.
"Ah. . . Honda-san, it's me." Said a strong voice on the other end.
"Ah, Ohayo, Yuki-kun!" Tohru replied, her voice sagging a bit. "How. . . how are you?"
"I'm fine, Honda-san." He said. "I'm actually right in front of your door. . . would you care to see me for a while?"
Tohru gasped, as she stood up quickly. "Hai. . . just a moment."
Tohru quietly opened the front door. There, leaning against a brilliantly silver car, was a radiating figure, dressed formally in a black suit, his silver hair billowing in the strong wind, curtaining his beautiful purple eyes. Which appeared a little upset, but determined.
"Yuki-kun. . ." Tohru talked into her phone.
Yuki looked up from his phone to see the girl standing before him. He walked up to her, took her hand in his, and pulled her down the steps towards his car. Now, two figures were leaning against it, a perfect picture, with the sapphire blue ocean behind them.
"I. . . I. . ." Yuki stammered.
"It's okay, Yuki-kun." Tohru said politely. "It's fine. I can always find another job. . . It wasn't your fault. I should be the one to be sorry. I'm sorry Yuki-kun. . . for causing you so much trouble."
She bowed her head and looked at him apologetically, with rich sincerity echoing behind her voice. "You have nothing to be sorry for. . . Yuki-kun, being your friend made me feel so happy. You are someone I'll always treasure. So please. . ."
Yuki was about to burst. This girl. . . she cared so much for the welfare of others, that no matter what happened to her, she didn't care.
He brought his hands up to her cheek, cupping her face. He slowly headed them down to her shoulders, as he leaned his head on to one of them. Biting back the tears, he whispered, "How can I not be sorry, Honda-san. . .? I've hurt the one person. . . the one person that had opened up to me. . . the single most important person in my life. . ."
Tohru was surprised. "Yuki. . . kun?"
He looked up from his position, face to face with the surprised pair of ocean blue eyes. "Honda-san. . . I . . . care so much about you. . ."
Then he released her, letting Tohru continue staring at him, dazed. He smiled, and took her hand, pulling her into the car. When the two were seated, he spoke up. "I want to take you somewhere, Honda-san."
Tohru smiled, still a little shocked at the sudden warmness that the snowy figure had showed. She nodded straight at him, and the two took off, their backs facing the memory-filled ocean.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"That's a lot better," Kagura cried triumphantly, after adding finishing touches in decorating Kyou's drawing room. "Ne, Kyou-kun, do you like it?"
Kyou nodded, he didn't really care, anyway.
Kagura continued to fuss over Kyou's old, dusty paintings. Stripping off the cloth covering each painting, she carefully dusted the mess away. Finally down to the last painting, she carefully removed the linen cloth. There, sitting in front of her, was a calm, content young girl, her brown locks mingling with the sunlight, radiant smile, blue ribbons matching her equally sapphire eyes, that seemed to portray a melancholic mood. Her legs were crossed, looking straight at the painting, a small, white bird perched on her knees.
She looked at Kyou. He was still daydreaming over his ocean painting. "Kyou- kun?"
He jerked his head away from his interest, and looked towards Kagura. She pointed to the painting. "Is . . . is this Tohru-chan?"
Kyou was mesmerized by the painting. The charcoal painting. . . still slightly unfinished, captivated his younger desire, his ambition of becoming an artist. Kyou ran his fingers down her hair, smudging it slightly. He looked into her half coloured eyes, sparkling happily.
Kagura was speechless. "This is beautiful, Kyou-kun. . . you should really finish it. . ."
Kyou lifted the painting up from the easel. His eyes bore into it. Yes, he would finish it. . . this was his last chance. . . He could finally enter that art contest and win. Tohru had so wanted him to, all those years back, every year, he had come home with a disappointing third. But nevertheless, Tohru had always cheered him on, and eight years ago, she had left a small kitty charm, which now dangled from his phone.
He was broken away from his daze as the doorbell rung. Kagura stood up and tapped Kyou awake. "I'll get it," she murmured, before leaving the room. Kyou followed shortly after, not before shooting the painting one last glance.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Yuki pulled into a long, bumpy driveway, right next to two lonely bikes. He stepped out of the car, and took in two large gulps of air. When he noticed that Tohru had not stepped out, he helped her out. Tears were already in the large blue eyes. The girl looked around her home, the place where every part of her was buried. Her eyes were stuck to the gravel path, and the yellow-green field ahead of it. Memories of her riding her bike around with Kyou, rock-paper-scissors, forgiveness, piggy backs. . . so many fond memories and painful ones blurred her vision. She felt Yuki's hands grasp her own, as he led her up the wooden porch, and rang the doorbell. The familiar yet unusual "ting-ting" echoed in Tohru's ears.
"Coming!" A female voice cried. When the door was wrenched open, she gasped. "Yun-chan! And Tohru-chan?"
Tohru let herself be dragged into the homely atmosphere, amidst all of her past, and familiar scents. Kyou rushed to the door moments later, and looked into Tohru's tear-filled, blue eyes. She looked back, water freely streaming down her cheeks.
"Tohru. . ." Kyou gasped.
Her knees gave away after the call. Stifled sobs issued from her mouth, as the crowd stood around in awe. Kyou rushed to her aid, and helped her up, keeping a safe distance from his chest. "Tohru. . .?"
"Nii-san. . ." she murmured, her tears forgetting to stop.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Tohru continuously paced around her room, which had been changed quite drastically, unrecognizably. Yet she still missed it, and felt a quiet homeliness. She smiled as she ran her hands along the curtains. Remembering something, she pulled it aside, to notice a small carving, written carelessly, a small kindergartener's writing. "Sohma Tohru's Room."
"You gonna cry again?"
Tohru calmly swerved around, giving Kyou a small smile. He awkwardly smiled back. "Haven't changed one bit, eh. . . still teasing you, like always. Is that what you thought?" He said.
"Silly onigiri, crying. . . such a fool. . . Is that what you thought, Kyou- kun?"
Something struck the cat dumb. Was that. . .
"Calling me by my name again? Is that what you thought, Kyou-kun?"
Kyou slowly turned his head, so that his ginger eyes locked with hers. "T. . . Tohru?"
"Hai. . . Kyou-kun, Kyou-kun. . . Kyou-kun. . ." She repeated, tears falling freely once again.
Kyou took mini steps towards his sister. He clutched her shoulders, and put his forehead against hers. His tears mingled with hers, as he whispered, "I missed you, Tohru."
"I'm sorry, Kyou-kun." Tohru replied. "but now. . . I'm back."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Evening had come. The four of them had shifted their anchors to the lakeside, where Tohru and Kagura were setting up the fishing poles. Yuki and Kyou were busily moving chairs and portable tables near the water. Laughter echoed in the air, as the barbecue started to sizzle.
"What did you say?" Kyou said, surprise sounding evidently.
"I like her. I really do. Sincerely." Yuki replied coolly.
"You. . ."
"I never knew I could be so sincere. But it's true. I like her, Kyou."
Kyou was dumbfounded. His best friend and his sister? Hesitating, he questioned the mouse. "What did she say?"
"I haven't really told her yet. . . I told her I cared for her. She seemed to be okay with it."
Kyou remained silent.
"Don't worry, soon enough, I'll show her. . . I'm the only man that can make Honda Tohru happy. You just wait and see. . ."
Kyou couldn't help but smile at the mouse's determined voice. But a bitter feeling rushed through him. He didn't want anyone else to like her, to love her. . . he wanted to hold on to her forever. He glanced in Tohru's direction, as she laughed with Kagura while setting up. A smile fluttered to his lips. To hold her. . . forever. . .
Kyou shook his weird thoughts away and continued to move the plastic furniture. He stole yet another glance. Their eyes locked.
Tohru smiled. Kyou smiled back.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Here. . . It's like. . .this!" Tohru demonstrated. Kagura laughed at her stupid mistake.
The two women continued to talk, as if they were old friends. Tohru corrected Kagura's mistakes in fishing, as Kagura told her of the wonderful life in America. The sun was rapidly setting behind them.
Suddenly, a question sparked in Tohru's head. "How did you and Kyou-kun meet?"
Kagura laughed. "Oh, Kyou-kun will get so angry if he heard me saying this story again. . ."
Tohru laughed. "It's alright, I won't tell."
Kagura giggled. "Well, we were both studying art in America. Actually, I was interested in Yun-chan, but through him, I met Kyou-kun. Our first 'date' was at this local restaurant. He never said anything all throughout dinner, so I thought he really despised me. But straight after, he asked me what I wanted to be, if I was given the chance to be born again."
Tohru was a little taken aback. Then she understood. Kyou-kun. . . he had never forgotten her. . . all those years. . . "So, what was your answer?"
"I told him I wanted to be a tree."
Tohru stared at the older girl. Her memories flooded her once again. A sad smile filled her lips.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Dinner was finally served. The four of them laughed, talked, and enjoyed the most part of the evening, by the lakeside. Fireflies approached the environment when darkness started to fall, mesmerizing the two girls.
"How beautiful!" Kagura gushed.
Kyou rolled his eyes. Beside him, Yuki gave him a light punch on the shoulder. "Anyways, what were you two talking about back there?"
Kagura laughed. "Don't get angry, Kyou-kun, I told Tohru-chan how we met."
"What!?" Kyou screamed, a little red from embarrassment. Everyone laughed.
"Oh, that story." Yuki chuckled. He then quickly switched to imitating Kagura. "When I'm born again, I want to be a tree!"
The whole group laughed in unison. Kyou looked towards Tohru. She seemed to ignore this, and continued to laugh merrily.
"Ah, Tohru-chan, what do you want to be?"
Everyone looked towards Tohru. Even though she hesitated a bit, she answered with a broad smile. "I want to be Kyou-kun's sister."
Yuki shook his head. "Unbelievable. Kyou, you lucky cat."
Everyone laughed once again. Kyou noticed Tohru's blue eyes looking sad. He took her hand within his under the table. She looked up at him. He smiled, a hint of pink brushing his cheeks. Continued merriment rang out across the still water, stirring the fireflies in its wake.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Yuki stepped out of the shower, his hair completely dry and neatly settled, all due to the magic of a blow-dryer. He sunk into the couch next to Kagura, who was absorbed in a fashion magazine.
"It's a good thing Kyou kept some of his clothes here." Yuki commented, before stealing a look around the house. "Where's that baka neko and Honda- san?"
Kagura looked up. "Ara? Kyou-kun said that he's going out for a walk. Don't you know where Tohru-chan is?"
Yuki shook his head slowly, getting a little worried.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kyou shuffled along the gravel path, walking on each stone, recalling each memory. He smiled sadly at the happy thoughts, and cringed at the painful ones.
He noticed a pair of feet protruding from under 'the shelter'. He looked to his left, and saw Tohru sitting there, eyes closed, the autumn breeze swishing around her hair. He approached her and sat beside her, giving her a light tap on the head.
"You'll catch a cold if you sit out here too long." He said.
Tohru opened her eyes and smiled.
"You used to cry a lot here, remember?" Kyou started, dreamily. "Whenever you went missing, I used to search for you here. . . and you used to always be crying."
Tohru laughed. "Really?"
Kyou nodded. "But a lot of happy things happened here, too. We used to ride our bikes on that road. . . play hide and seek here before we went home. . . Eh?"
Tohru smiled weakly. "Did we?"
"You don't remember?" Kyou said. Then he added, jokingly, "It's a wonder how you remember me."
Tohru started to talk. "Actually, Kyou-kun, I really can't remember much. . . I really didn't want to. The times I shared with you, with okaa-san and ottou-san. . . they were such memorable, happy times. Whenever I thought about them, I got so jealous. . . so I figured it'd be better if I just forgot. . ."
Kyou looked at his sister. Pain was etched all over her shy face.
"Kyou-kun, I. . . after you left. . . it was as if my whole world had crumbled. I tried to live strongly, I really did. . . but It hurt. . . the times were hard. . . It was so hard that I wanted to forget you. . . and the things we shared. . ."
Two lone tears fell onto her hands, staining each cheek. Kyou swallowed hard. He stared at her pained expression, full of agony, but still somewhat relaxed at the presence of her past.
Kyou suddenly stood up and kneeled. He faced away from his sister, his back protruding towards her. "Get on."
Tohru was surprised. "Kyou-kun?"
"Let's see if you've gotten any heavier." Kyou chuckled.
Tohru also laughed. "Iie, I don't want to, Kyou-kun!"
"Get on or I'll pummel you, stupid onigiri!" Kyou threatened, not-so- threateningly.
After a moment's hesitation, Tohru clambered on, placing her head securely between his two shoulderblades, and curling her hands onto his broad shoulders. He picked her up with ease, marching slowly and smoothly, her brown curls tangled around his face, filling his nose with her scent.
After walking on the gravel path for some time, Tohru spoke, sleepily. "I guess I'm number three now, ne, Kyou-kun?"
Kyou was puzzled. "What?"
"Excluding Okaa-san, number one's Kagura-san, then it's Rin, then it's me, right?"
Kyou was upset. "You're not number three."
Tohru laughed. "Aw, kitty, you're so mean! I'm not even number three?"
Kyou decided to ignore this. "What am I then? What am I on your list?"
"That's such an obvious question!" Tohru declared triumphantly.
"Obvious?"
"Number one, no duh!" She caroled.
After a couple of awkward paces, the house appeared on the horizon. Sensing the awkwardness, Tohru hopped off. "I must be heavy, Kyou-kun. I'll get off now."
Kyou watched her walk in. He thought about what she had said.
Still. . . and always. . . number one.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The door clicked shut. Kagura looked up from her book, as did Yuki from the television. "Tohru-chan?" Kagura said.
But it wasn't. Kagura gasped in surprise, and Yuki's eyes widened. "Rin?"
The tall girl looked at Kagura and beamed. "Onee-chan!" She then shifted her gaze to Yuki. "Sempai! Yuki-sempai!"
Before Yuki had a chance to defend himself, she lunged into his arms, squealing in delight. "I missed you so much, sempai!"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Rin ker-plunked herself beside Yuki, clinging onto him like glue. As Kagura laughed, the three of them had a civilized conversation, until they launched into the conversation about Tohru.
"Cousin? What cousin?" Rin questioned, puzzlement shining in her eyes.
Kagura was equally surprised, and she looked at Yuki, who said nothing.
Suddenly, at that moment, Tohru bustled in through the door, followed shortly by Kyou. "Tadaima!" Both of them said.
Rin looked at the door, horror painted on her face. Tohru looked back at the black-haired girl, surprise tangled within her features. Kyou couldn't contain his shock. "Rin!"
Yuki looked at Tohru. Kagura stared at Kyou questioningly. But Rin's gaze never left the other girl.
"It's been a while." Tohru greeted.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
So how was it? Don't stab me because of the length~ Plz R&R! ^^ hope to write again soon!
A/N: Wonderful news! Tokyo Pop has decided on publishing the English Translated Manga of Fruits Basket. Coming out in 2004, though, no specific release dates yet. I've read the Korean translated one, and the manga ROX. When it comes out, I suggest you all buy it! It's unbearably good!!
For the reviews, I just can't thank you all enough. ^_^ They're like. . . vitamins!!
This chapter's really long, please bear with me. I made it a combo of two original chapters because I won't be able to update until around the end of the month. I'm taking swimming and theory courses, and it really takes up the better part of each day. I will TRY to get one out by the end of next week. Also, to clear things up a bit, Yuki and Kyou are two years older than Tohru, while Kagura is still 2 yrs older than Yuki and Kyou.
Bah, I've talked too much. On with the story!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kyou looked at the puzzled Kagura. Why is she looking at me that way? Then he heard it. The light footsteps. The pitter patter of tears onto the sand.
Just as soon as he was about to turn around, she crushed into his back, her small hands latching around his broad shoulders, her cheek pressed between his shoulder blades, where she knew it wouldn't hurt. He felt her hot tears soak through his jacket.
"Kyou-kun. . ." she breathed.
Kyou felt bewilderment, happiness, surprise. Tears surged. There was only one person that did this to him.
"Tohru. . ." he said, choking on his own tears. "is. . . is it really Tohru?"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Yuki sneezed. Kagura gave him a look that clearly said 'you should at least wear a jacket at this time of year, especially around a windy cliff'. He handled his coffee between his long fingers, appreciating the soothing warmth. He glanced outside of the old window. A clear view of the ocean, dancing waters of crystal blue, could be witnessed from his perch.
"Nice place, that baka neko has." Yuki murmured, taking a light sip from his mug. He felt the warm liquid ooze its way down his throat, making him feel so much better.
"Yun-chan, who is she?"
Yuki looked up. The older girl's eyes were burning with curiousity, and she was intent on finding out the identity of Tohru. "Who is she, Yun-chan?"
"My maid." Yuki answered.
Kagura was nowhere near satisfied. "Then how does she know Kyou-kun? The way she latched onto him wasn't like a friendly way or anything. It was as if they were-"
"They're cousins." Yuki quickly lied.
Kagura beamed. "Then that means she's my cousin too!!! Wow, this is amazing!"
Yuki was frustrated. "Er, no, because. . . she has a different last name."
Kagura was a little confused, but she dropped the question anyway. She too gazed out the window, a mysterious aura playing around the boar.
Yuki fixated his passive eyes on the ocean waters. Honda Tohru. . . Kyou's long lost sister. He was happy for them. Finding their lost kin, their other piece, was a great thing to do. He smiled sadly, looking down at himself. What am I then? Avoiding my family, trying to run away from my past, instead of facing it, looking for it, trying to redeem my mistakes.
Yuki felt a searing knife of jealousy protrude. Kyou had always had that one thing Yuki was never able to possess – family. As shy as he was, he had that strange power to draw people towards him, to bind them into him, make friends. Ever since they had met, until now, Kyou had the natural ability to draw people in.
And now he had Tohru.
Subconsciously, at the thought of Tohru, Yuki tightened his grip on his mug, as if clutching onto her. Kagura looked up. She stared at the tense Yuki.
"Yun-chan. . . do you. . . like her?" she questioned.
Yuki looked up at the sudden notion. He knew he did, deep inside, he knew that he had tripped long before, but he wasn't exactly ready to admit it. Sighing, Kagura looked away again. "Your eyes tell me everything."
Yuki also looked away. He had been discovered.
"Be good to her. . . if you're just playing around, drop it." Kagura warned.
Yuki turned back. "I'm not. This time. . . this time it's real, Kagura."
She smiled weakly. "Let's hope."
The waves continued to crash onto the sand.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kyou couldn't keep his eyes off of her. Nothing had changed. Tohru was still the old Tohru, her insuppressible smile, her long brown hair that curled delicately at the ends, angelic pale skin and a heart big enough to share with everyone in the world. Even though, she was no longer the 14 year old he remembered. She was a full grown woman now, having achieved a quiet beauty unmatched by anything else, dignified, elegant, but just as lovable as before.
"Tohru." He called.
She turned her shining face towards him, gracing him with light. She smiled.
"I didn't know." Kyou started. "I didn't know you were the rat's maid. I didn't. . . I didn't know you were the one on the phone. If I had, then. . . then I. . ."
"I didn't know either, Ky. . . nii-san." She replied.
"Tohru. . ." Kyou continued, tears swelling again, "How. . . how. . . did you live?"
Tohru raised her hands to form a fist, her determined, strong look taking over. "I lived very strongly, nii-san! Okaa-san was very supportive. I worked hard!"
Kyou bent his head low. "Oi. I heard. . . you were in debt. . . so you moved. . . here."
"Hai. But you know, we were always poor. But it was fine! Okaa-san and I, we supported each other like a family. Ne? That's what family does! We were very happy nii-san. Don't worry. Ara? Did you worry about me?"
Kyou nodded, somewhat vigorously.
Tohru smiled, a little sad. "Did you worry. . . a lot?"
"Too much, you fool."
Tohru laughed, tears choking her mid way. But she didn't want to cry. She wouldn't. Not on the first day they met. "Okaa-san and Ottou-san. . . are they still in America?"
"Yeah. They'll be getting here soon." Kyou said.
"And. . . Rin. . . is she okay?" Tohru said, quietly.
Kyou was about to punch the table in half, as he clenched his fists tightly, his short nails digging into his palms. Control, he muttered, control. He finally released his hands and drew out a sigh. "Yeah."
Tohru smiled, her eyes slightly wet. "I'm glad. Really, I'm really glad. I miss them all. I've always missed them. . . it would be great to see them again. . ."
Kyou looked up. Tohru quickly wiped her eyes. "I've been thinking about you a lot, lately, Nii-san. More than ever. I thought. . . I thought we'd never meet. . . maybe I was thinking about you more than usual because we were fated to meet again like this. . . but now that we have, I'm happy. Really, nii-san, I'm really happy. . . really. . ."
Her small laughter echoed in Kyou's ears. He reached out and put his hand on to hers awkwardly. Kyou tried to smile. He couldn't. Tears were threatening to spill. "Tohru. . ." he whispered.
"Yogatta-ne." Tohru replied.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kagura stood up to witness a sullen Kyou trodding in. "Did she leave, Kyou- kun?"
"Uhn. Femboy is driving her back." Kyou replied.
"She seemed like a great person, Kyou-kun!" Kagura continued. "It's amazing. I never knew you had such a pretty cousin like her!"
Cousin? Then he was thankful. Yuki lied.
"Ne, Kyou-kun, did you miss her THAT much? You. . . you have tears in your eyes."
"What are you talking about, Woman!?" Kyou harshly replied, before swiping the water out of his eyes. "It's just the wind, that's all."
Kagura smiled.
"Strange. . ." Kyou said, drifting off into a melancholy dream. Kagura looked up from her tea and stared at Kyou worriedly. "Tohru. . . she. . . doesn't call me by my name anymore. . ."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Tohru climbed into the car, next to Yuki waiting at the steering wheel. "Arigatou, Yuki-kun." She said.
Yuki stared at the dashboard. "So. You. . . you're Kyou's long lost sister."
Tohru nodded.
"I know you don't need my pity, Honda-san." Yuki continued. "And I don't pity you. I admire you for your strength, the way you've kept up with your life. I just wanted you to know that."
Tohru nodded gratefully once again.
"You. . . why did you leave the hotel?" He questioned, a question he wanted to ask from the beginning.
"Ah, it's nothing, Yuki-kun, just. . . complications. . ." Tohru tried to cover, but to no avail.
"It's my fault, isn't it." Yuki said, guiltily. He stepped on the pedal.
"Ah! Iie! Iie! Yuki-kun, you've done so much for me!" Tohru said feverishly, as he started to drive towards the hotel.
Yuki flashed a princey smile towards his companion. "It's okay, Honda-san. Let me fix things up."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
". . . so that's how it happened. Please, forgive my sudden choice of actions." Yuki apologized. The whole maid institute stared at Yuki longingly, mesmerized by his princey beauty. "Please. Please let Honda-san work back here."
The head maid's eyes flashed menacingly. "What is this, Tohru-chan? Using Sohma-sama as your marionette?"
Yuki looked up, danger glowing in his eyes as well. "Excuse me?"
"A. . . anou. . . it's quite alright. . . Yuki-kun, it's okay. . . please. . ."
"First name basis, I see!" Barked the head. "That's all the proof I'll need! You're never working here again!"
Yuki was outraged. All composure left him, and his eyes fired up. "You can't do this to her. . . this wasn't even her fault! Do you know what you are doing!?"
The head was immensely surprised. She took a few steps back towards the wall. "W-Witch! Manipulating o-our g-guests!!!"
Yuki strode towards her. "Manipulate? I manipulated her! I took her hand! You know why? Honda-san is a nice person! She's beautiful at heart! What's wrong with holding hands? What's wrong with it!?"
"Yuki-kun! Please! Please stop!" Tohru cried, dragging the Sohma prince out the door. "Please! Please do not do this!"
After a couple more enraged yells from the mouse, Tohru shut the door and bowed, scared and frustrated to the head. "Gomenasai! Please excuse this. . . he's a really great person. . . he usually doesn't explode like that. . . please. . . please don't judge him as a bad person! Please!"
The head maid was shocked beyond understanding, as her bulging eyeballs clearly showed. "O-out."
Tohru looked up, distressed, tears lingering in her eyes. "Please. . . I can't leave . . . Please let me stay, ne? Please. . . I'll do anything. . . I can't leave. . . Please!"
The head resisted. "OUT! NOW!!!"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Well, it was expected. . ." She thought, gloomy and teary, as she cruised down the road, her possessions packed, secured on her bike.
Even after all the chaos, all she could think about was Kyou. His crimson eyes, that had bored into her heart even after all these years. She had failed to call him by his name. Why? She was scared. She didn't want the past to repeat itself, so she avoided the friendly ways.
Tohru continued to ponder as she approached her brother's cabin by the ocean.
She suddenly had a strong urge to go through the door, greet her brother, and stay with him.
Possibly forever.
She didn't think twice after that, as she parked her bike by his walls, and climbed the stairs to his door.
She rapped her knuckles quickly on the wooden frame.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The sun had nearly set when she had knocked on his door.
"Nii-san. . ."
Kyou instantly stood up from his couch and wrenched the door open. There, stood a smiling angel, a large bag dangling from her skinny frame, pink blouse tousled by the wind.
"Tohru?" Kyou questioned, more to himself than anyone else, "What. . . I mean. . ."
Tohru stepped forward and smiled. "I. . . I wanted to see you again, nii- san. . . and I wanted to stay with you. . . if it's okay. . . just for a couple of days, ne?"
Kyou was happy beyond explanation. After blushing, furiously, he ran his fingers through his hair. "Uhn."
Tohru entered a small room, where a blanket was neatly in place on the floor. Kyou soon followed. "You can sleep here. It has nice sun and scenery and all that." He gruffily said, while fixing up the blanket. "Here."
Tohru smiled and sat down on the blanket, facing her brother. She smiled into his crimson eyes, and he smiled back.
He then left in embarrassment, muttering something like "I'll get you some food". Tohru smiled deeply. She was glad to be here, with Kyou.
When he got back, Tohru was fast asleep. Setting the milk down before her, Kyou brushed a lock of hair behind her weary ear. He smiled as he sat cross legged beside her, admiring his sleeping angel.
"Good night, Tohru." He whispered, letting emotions strangle him again. "Good night. . . good night. . . I wanted to say those words to you more than anything. . . to be with you when you were sleeping, to comfort you before your eyes closed . . . I wanted to say those words. . ."
Tohru didn't stir, too caught up with her sleep.
"Tohru. . . Gomen ne. . . gomen. . ." Kyou continued to whisper, holding her hand tightly. "I couldn't protect you. . . all those years ago. . . even now. . . gomen. . ."
A stray tear fell onto Tohru's hand. The sleeping girl smiled. In her dreams, she was surrounded by warmth, happiness, love. And beside her, was her brother, holding her hand close to his heart.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Ohayo gozaimasu!"
Kyou walked out of the shower, hair still wet, a towel slung carelessly over his back. Tohru laughed at her brother's drenched state. Kyou sat down at the table. "Oi, onigiri, what's all this stuff?"
Tohru felt her heart skip a beat at the recalling of her old nickname. "Ah, well, I wanted to prepare breakfast for you, nii-san. So. . . here!" she said, placing a bowl of hot, steaming rice in front of her favourite orange- head. She sat down next to him, smiling.
"O. . . oi. . . you didn't need to. . ." Kyou felt happy and flustered, he didn't know what to do except blush. Then he picked up his chopsticks and happily muttered thanks, then started to dig in. Tohru laughed to herself.
"Aren't you eating?" he asked her between mouthfuls.
She shook her head. "This is strictly meant for you, nii-san. I ate already."
Kyou stopped eating. He looked at Tohru, disappointment and hurt shining. "Tohru. . . why are you still avoiding my name?"
The girl laughed, surprised that he had noticed. "Gomen, nii-san. It's just so awkward. It's been so long. Did I call you by your name before?"
She laughed as if nothing had happened. Kyou didn't want to upset her further, so he resumed eating. "Ne, nii-san, yesterday, that girl, are you engaged to her?"
Even though he hesitated, Kyou nodded.
"Wai! Sugoi! She was so extremely pretty! And she seemed like such a fun person! I hope I can meet her one day." Tohru ranted.
Kyou nodded, as his cellphone begun to ring. He looked at the number. "784- 66.. oh. . . shit. . ."
Kyou wrenched his jacket apart from his chair, grabbed his phone and bag and hurried out the door. But he stopped midway to look at Tohru, softening his eyes. "I'll see you later. Kagura. . . my fiancé. . . if I don't go now, I'll probably die."
Tohru laughed. "Hai! Iterashai, nii-san!"
Kyou bolted out the door. Tohru went into her room, a little upset, but cheery at the same time. She tied her hair up with her two blue bows, reminiscing in her old memories.
Tohru smiled into her reflection. She was happy to see it smile back.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kyou had no idea how Kagura had acted so fast. One second ago he had been at a local café, sipping his coffee and talking casually with her. The next second, he had been pushed into his car, as Kagura drove to Tokyo, explaining busily. Finally, now, he was standing in the porch of his first house in Japan, where he had spent his days with Tohru.
"Why did you bring me here, woman!?" Kyou screamed. "What the hell do you think you're doing?"
"Shh. . . Kyou-kun. . . I told you, I brought you here to do some cleaning, since your parents will arrive a little sooner than planned!" She exclaimed.
"But I can't!!!" Kyou wailed. "Tohru's waiting by herself at my place right now!!!"
Soon, Kagura's eyes turned a dangerous colour. "WHAT DID YOU SAY!?!? WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME YOU WERE KEEPING A WOMAN IN YOUR HOUSE!?!?!"
The usual beating-up session occurred, ending with Kyou sprawled on the wooden porch, Kagura fussing over him, then dragging the lifeless cat into the house. Several minutes later, Kyou woke up, aches pinching him all over his muscular body.
"Gomen-ne, Kyou-kun." Kagura apologized. "I suddenly got so mad that Tohru- chan was at your house. . . I totally lost control."
"God, learn to control yourself a bit more!!" Kyou spat, angrily. "She's my family, anyway."
Kagura's eyes sparkled. "That's right! So you're not cheating on me!"
Kyou rolled his eyes.
"Well then, let's get cleaning!" Kagura proclaimed, dragging the bleeding boy behind her, using him to mop up half of the living room.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Moshi moshi?" Tohru said, speaking into her cellphone that had recently rung.
"Ah. . . Honda-san, it's me." Said a strong voice on the other end.
"Ah, Ohayo, Yuki-kun!" Tohru replied, her voice sagging a bit. "How. . . how are you?"
"I'm fine, Honda-san." He said. "I'm actually right in front of your door. . . would you care to see me for a while?"
Tohru gasped, as she stood up quickly. "Hai. . . just a moment."
Tohru quietly opened the front door. There, leaning against a brilliantly silver car, was a radiating figure, dressed formally in a black suit, his silver hair billowing in the strong wind, curtaining his beautiful purple eyes. Which appeared a little upset, but determined.
"Yuki-kun. . ." Tohru talked into her phone.
Yuki looked up from his phone to see the girl standing before him. He walked up to her, took her hand in his, and pulled her down the steps towards his car. Now, two figures were leaning against it, a perfect picture, with the sapphire blue ocean behind them.
"I. . . I. . ." Yuki stammered.
"It's okay, Yuki-kun." Tohru said politely. "It's fine. I can always find another job. . . It wasn't your fault. I should be the one to be sorry. I'm sorry Yuki-kun. . . for causing you so much trouble."
She bowed her head and looked at him apologetically, with rich sincerity echoing behind her voice. "You have nothing to be sorry for. . . Yuki-kun, being your friend made me feel so happy. You are someone I'll always treasure. So please. . ."
Yuki was about to burst. This girl. . . she cared so much for the welfare of others, that no matter what happened to her, she didn't care.
He brought his hands up to her cheek, cupping her face. He slowly headed them down to her shoulders, as he leaned his head on to one of them. Biting back the tears, he whispered, "How can I not be sorry, Honda-san. . .? I've hurt the one person. . . the one person that had opened up to me. . . the single most important person in my life. . ."
Tohru was surprised. "Yuki. . . kun?"
He looked up from his position, face to face with the surprised pair of ocean blue eyes. "Honda-san. . . I . . . care so much about you. . ."
Then he released her, letting Tohru continue staring at him, dazed. He smiled, and took her hand, pulling her into the car. When the two were seated, he spoke up. "I want to take you somewhere, Honda-san."
Tohru smiled, still a little shocked at the sudden warmness that the snowy figure had showed. She nodded straight at him, and the two took off, their backs facing the memory-filled ocean.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"That's a lot better," Kagura cried triumphantly, after adding finishing touches in decorating Kyou's drawing room. "Ne, Kyou-kun, do you like it?"
Kyou nodded, he didn't really care, anyway.
Kagura continued to fuss over Kyou's old, dusty paintings. Stripping off the cloth covering each painting, she carefully dusted the mess away. Finally down to the last painting, she carefully removed the linen cloth. There, sitting in front of her, was a calm, content young girl, her brown locks mingling with the sunlight, radiant smile, blue ribbons matching her equally sapphire eyes, that seemed to portray a melancholic mood. Her legs were crossed, looking straight at the painting, a small, white bird perched on her knees.
She looked at Kyou. He was still daydreaming over his ocean painting. "Kyou- kun?"
He jerked his head away from his interest, and looked towards Kagura. She pointed to the painting. "Is . . . is this Tohru-chan?"
Kyou was mesmerized by the painting. The charcoal painting. . . still slightly unfinished, captivated his younger desire, his ambition of becoming an artist. Kyou ran his fingers down her hair, smudging it slightly. He looked into her half coloured eyes, sparkling happily.
Kagura was speechless. "This is beautiful, Kyou-kun. . . you should really finish it. . ."
Kyou lifted the painting up from the easel. His eyes bore into it. Yes, he would finish it. . . this was his last chance. . . He could finally enter that art contest and win. Tohru had so wanted him to, all those years back, every year, he had come home with a disappointing third. But nevertheless, Tohru had always cheered him on, and eight years ago, she had left a small kitty charm, which now dangled from his phone.
He was broken away from his daze as the doorbell rung. Kagura stood up and tapped Kyou awake. "I'll get it," she murmured, before leaving the room. Kyou followed shortly after, not before shooting the painting one last glance.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Yuki pulled into a long, bumpy driveway, right next to two lonely bikes. He stepped out of the car, and took in two large gulps of air. When he noticed that Tohru had not stepped out, he helped her out. Tears were already in the large blue eyes. The girl looked around her home, the place where every part of her was buried. Her eyes were stuck to the gravel path, and the yellow-green field ahead of it. Memories of her riding her bike around with Kyou, rock-paper-scissors, forgiveness, piggy backs. . . so many fond memories and painful ones blurred her vision. She felt Yuki's hands grasp her own, as he led her up the wooden porch, and rang the doorbell. The familiar yet unusual "ting-ting" echoed in Tohru's ears.
"Coming!" A female voice cried. When the door was wrenched open, she gasped. "Yun-chan! And Tohru-chan?"
Tohru let herself be dragged into the homely atmosphere, amidst all of her past, and familiar scents. Kyou rushed to the door moments later, and looked into Tohru's tear-filled, blue eyes. She looked back, water freely streaming down her cheeks.
"Tohru. . ." Kyou gasped.
Her knees gave away after the call. Stifled sobs issued from her mouth, as the crowd stood around in awe. Kyou rushed to her aid, and helped her up, keeping a safe distance from his chest. "Tohru. . .?"
"Nii-san. . ." she murmured, her tears forgetting to stop.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Tohru continuously paced around her room, which had been changed quite drastically, unrecognizably. Yet she still missed it, and felt a quiet homeliness. She smiled as she ran her hands along the curtains. Remembering something, she pulled it aside, to notice a small carving, written carelessly, a small kindergartener's writing. "Sohma Tohru's Room."
"You gonna cry again?"
Tohru calmly swerved around, giving Kyou a small smile. He awkwardly smiled back. "Haven't changed one bit, eh. . . still teasing you, like always. Is that what you thought?" He said.
"Silly onigiri, crying. . . such a fool. . . Is that what you thought, Kyou- kun?"
Something struck the cat dumb. Was that. . .
"Calling me by my name again? Is that what you thought, Kyou-kun?"
Kyou slowly turned his head, so that his ginger eyes locked with hers. "T. . . Tohru?"
"Hai. . . Kyou-kun, Kyou-kun. . . Kyou-kun. . ." She repeated, tears falling freely once again.
Kyou took mini steps towards his sister. He clutched her shoulders, and put his forehead against hers. His tears mingled with hers, as he whispered, "I missed you, Tohru."
"I'm sorry, Kyou-kun." Tohru replied. "but now. . . I'm back."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Evening had come. The four of them had shifted their anchors to the lakeside, where Tohru and Kagura were setting up the fishing poles. Yuki and Kyou were busily moving chairs and portable tables near the water. Laughter echoed in the air, as the barbecue started to sizzle.
"What did you say?" Kyou said, surprise sounding evidently.
"I like her. I really do. Sincerely." Yuki replied coolly.
"You. . ."
"I never knew I could be so sincere. But it's true. I like her, Kyou."
Kyou was dumbfounded. His best friend and his sister? Hesitating, he questioned the mouse. "What did she say?"
"I haven't really told her yet. . . I told her I cared for her. She seemed to be okay with it."
Kyou remained silent.
"Don't worry, soon enough, I'll show her. . . I'm the only man that can make Honda Tohru happy. You just wait and see. . ."
Kyou couldn't help but smile at the mouse's determined voice. But a bitter feeling rushed through him. He didn't want anyone else to like her, to love her. . . he wanted to hold on to her forever. He glanced in Tohru's direction, as she laughed with Kagura while setting up. A smile fluttered to his lips. To hold her. . . forever. . .
Kyou shook his weird thoughts away and continued to move the plastic furniture. He stole yet another glance. Their eyes locked.
Tohru smiled. Kyou smiled back.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Here. . . It's like. . .this!" Tohru demonstrated. Kagura laughed at her stupid mistake.
The two women continued to talk, as if they were old friends. Tohru corrected Kagura's mistakes in fishing, as Kagura told her of the wonderful life in America. The sun was rapidly setting behind them.
Suddenly, a question sparked in Tohru's head. "How did you and Kyou-kun meet?"
Kagura laughed. "Oh, Kyou-kun will get so angry if he heard me saying this story again. . ."
Tohru laughed. "It's alright, I won't tell."
Kagura giggled. "Well, we were both studying art in America. Actually, I was interested in Yun-chan, but through him, I met Kyou-kun. Our first 'date' was at this local restaurant. He never said anything all throughout dinner, so I thought he really despised me. But straight after, he asked me what I wanted to be, if I was given the chance to be born again."
Tohru was a little taken aback. Then she understood. Kyou-kun. . . he had never forgotten her. . . all those years. . . "So, what was your answer?"
"I told him I wanted to be a tree."
Tohru stared at the older girl. Her memories flooded her once again. A sad smile filled her lips.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Dinner was finally served. The four of them laughed, talked, and enjoyed the most part of the evening, by the lakeside. Fireflies approached the environment when darkness started to fall, mesmerizing the two girls.
"How beautiful!" Kagura gushed.
Kyou rolled his eyes. Beside him, Yuki gave him a light punch on the shoulder. "Anyways, what were you two talking about back there?"
Kagura laughed. "Don't get angry, Kyou-kun, I told Tohru-chan how we met."
"What!?" Kyou screamed, a little red from embarrassment. Everyone laughed.
"Oh, that story." Yuki chuckled. He then quickly switched to imitating Kagura. "When I'm born again, I want to be a tree!"
The whole group laughed in unison. Kyou looked towards Tohru. She seemed to ignore this, and continued to laugh merrily.
"Ah, Tohru-chan, what do you want to be?"
Everyone looked towards Tohru. Even though she hesitated a bit, she answered with a broad smile. "I want to be Kyou-kun's sister."
Yuki shook his head. "Unbelievable. Kyou, you lucky cat."
Everyone laughed once again. Kyou noticed Tohru's blue eyes looking sad. He took her hand within his under the table. She looked up at him. He smiled, a hint of pink brushing his cheeks. Continued merriment rang out across the still water, stirring the fireflies in its wake.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Yuki stepped out of the shower, his hair completely dry and neatly settled, all due to the magic of a blow-dryer. He sunk into the couch next to Kagura, who was absorbed in a fashion magazine.
"It's a good thing Kyou kept some of his clothes here." Yuki commented, before stealing a look around the house. "Where's that baka neko and Honda- san?"
Kagura looked up. "Ara? Kyou-kun said that he's going out for a walk. Don't you know where Tohru-chan is?"
Yuki shook his head slowly, getting a little worried.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Kyou shuffled along the gravel path, walking on each stone, recalling each memory. He smiled sadly at the happy thoughts, and cringed at the painful ones.
He noticed a pair of feet protruding from under 'the shelter'. He looked to his left, and saw Tohru sitting there, eyes closed, the autumn breeze swishing around her hair. He approached her and sat beside her, giving her a light tap on the head.
"You'll catch a cold if you sit out here too long." He said.
Tohru opened her eyes and smiled.
"You used to cry a lot here, remember?" Kyou started, dreamily. "Whenever you went missing, I used to search for you here. . . and you used to always be crying."
Tohru laughed. "Really?"
Kyou nodded. "But a lot of happy things happened here, too. We used to ride our bikes on that road. . . play hide and seek here before we went home. . . Eh?"
Tohru smiled weakly. "Did we?"
"You don't remember?" Kyou said. Then he added, jokingly, "It's a wonder how you remember me."
Tohru started to talk. "Actually, Kyou-kun, I really can't remember much. . . I really didn't want to. The times I shared with you, with okaa-san and ottou-san. . . they were such memorable, happy times. Whenever I thought about them, I got so jealous. . . so I figured it'd be better if I just forgot. . ."
Kyou looked at his sister. Pain was etched all over her shy face.
"Kyou-kun, I. . . after you left. . . it was as if my whole world had crumbled. I tried to live strongly, I really did. . . but It hurt. . . the times were hard. . . It was so hard that I wanted to forget you. . . and the things we shared. . ."
Two lone tears fell onto her hands, staining each cheek. Kyou swallowed hard. He stared at her pained expression, full of agony, but still somewhat relaxed at the presence of her past.
Kyou suddenly stood up and kneeled. He faced away from his sister, his back protruding towards her. "Get on."
Tohru was surprised. "Kyou-kun?"
"Let's see if you've gotten any heavier." Kyou chuckled.
Tohru also laughed. "Iie, I don't want to, Kyou-kun!"
"Get on or I'll pummel you, stupid onigiri!" Kyou threatened, not-so- threateningly.
After a moment's hesitation, Tohru clambered on, placing her head securely between his two shoulderblades, and curling her hands onto his broad shoulders. He picked her up with ease, marching slowly and smoothly, her brown curls tangled around his face, filling his nose with her scent.
After walking on the gravel path for some time, Tohru spoke, sleepily. "I guess I'm number three now, ne, Kyou-kun?"
Kyou was puzzled. "What?"
"Excluding Okaa-san, number one's Kagura-san, then it's Rin, then it's me, right?"
Kyou was upset. "You're not number three."
Tohru laughed. "Aw, kitty, you're so mean! I'm not even number three?"
Kyou decided to ignore this. "What am I then? What am I on your list?"
"That's such an obvious question!" Tohru declared triumphantly.
"Obvious?"
"Number one, no duh!" She caroled.
After a couple of awkward paces, the house appeared on the horizon. Sensing the awkwardness, Tohru hopped off. "I must be heavy, Kyou-kun. I'll get off now."
Kyou watched her walk in. He thought about what she had said.
Still. . . and always. . . number one.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The door clicked shut. Kagura looked up from her book, as did Yuki from the television. "Tohru-chan?" Kagura said.
But it wasn't. Kagura gasped in surprise, and Yuki's eyes widened. "Rin?"
The tall girl looked at Kagura and beamed. "Onee-chan!" She then shifted her gaze to Yuki. "Sempai! Yuki-sempai!"
Before Yuki had a chance to defend himself, she lunged into his arms, squealing in delight. "I missed you so much, sempai!"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Rin ker-plunked herself beside Yuki, clinging onto him like glue. As Kagura laughed, the three of them had a civilized conversation, until they launched into the conversation about Tohru.
"Cousin? What cousin?" Rin questioned, puzzlement shining in her eyes.
Kagura was equally surprised, and she looked at Yuki, who said nothing.
Suddenly, at that moment, Tohru bustled in through the door, followed shortly by Kyou. "Tadaima!" Both of them said.
Rin looked at the door, horror painted on her face. Tohru looked back at the black-haired girl, surprise tangled within her features. Kyou couldn't contain his shock. "Rin!"
Yuki looked at Tohru. Kagura stared at Kyou questioningly. But Rin's gaze never left the other girl.
"It's been a while." Tohru greeted.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
So how was it? Don't stab me because of the length~ Plz R&R! ^^ hope to write again soon!