Hey thanks for the review kraci (is that right?) That really gave me some assurance even though you were the only one. Anyway, here's the second part. Sorry for those Kenshin and Kaoru lovers! I didn't mean for them to fight , well a part of me is, but it's needed in the story. Hope you all will stick around to see who'd end up with who…
Enjoy!…
Chapter 2- "Memories Return"
...It turns bitter and bitter everyday...
"Kaouru-dono, I'm home! Yahiko!" Kenshin stopped by the door, waiting for an answer, but no one did. A sharp gust of wind whirled across the yard of the Kamiya dojo, tearing leaves from the flame-colored trees, rattling the rear gate and shaking silvery tinkles out of the wind chime hanging from the ceiling of the porch. Watching the leaves fall and cover the yard in a red and brown carpet, Kenshin never felt so alone since he met everyone and lived in the dojo. The dojo was strangely quiet now that Yahiko was absent and Kaoru is obviously not yet home. By that thought, Kenshin felt something is not right. First, he visited Dr. Genzai and Megumi to check if Kaoru dropped by there. Unfortunately, they haven't seen her the whole day. He thought of asking Sano but he thought he's probably gambling again, and Kaoru couldn't be in those places. So he went to search for Yahiko in the Akabeko, where he would most likely be, to ask for help in finding her.
The Akabeko was crowded as always making it hard for Kenshin to locate Yahiko. He asked some people there if they noticed a young boy serving the restaurant, they pointed out to look in the kitchen.
Through everyone whom he questioned, he can't help but hear their discussions about a new gang arriving in town and causing a lot of ruckus. He heard the customers call them the Zenken ochó—meaning a powerful dynasty, but they knew them as a clan of convicts—and that the clan is bombarding on any home, trying to find someone.
Kenshin didn't pay that much attention yet on that but still placed a mental note about that issue. What he has to do now is find Kaoru and bring her back home, her actions before bothered his mind and decided to talk to her.
"Yahiko, I found you! I'm glad you're helping out in the Akabeko, the place is jammed pack. But could that be the only reason why you're here?" Kenshin smiled and turned to look from Yahiko to Tsubame. Only with that clear action, Yahiko figured out at once what Kenshin meant.
"Hey! Don't do this to me!... Why are YOU here?" Yahiko taunted. Kenshin chuckled a while as he watched Yahiko stacking the used dishes to clean some space in the kitchen.
"I just stopped by to check the kid that was supposed to be at the dojo..." Yahiko was surprised and looked almost immediately at him. He didn't know if he was serious or just annoying him. All confusing thoughts in Yahiko's mind was cleared simply by the way Kenshin looked. He looked down, preparing for a lecture he expected to come next.
"Look, I have nothing against you being here to help, honestly that's quite nice, but you still have to think about your responsibilities. The gate was open when I got home, I assumed you were there 'cause I know you won't leave the place looking like you were luring people in."
Yahiko exhaled loudly after realized his mistake. His silence told Kenshin that he understood and he admits his fault, now Kenshin was just waiting for Yahiko to speak up. But the longer it took for him to reply the more Kenshin feared he was hard on him. Just as he was about to say something, Yahiko moved first.
"Sorry 'bout that, didn't mean to. I guess I was just too excited to leave when Kaoru told me I was free of my chores and I forgot to close it. It'll never happen again, PROMISE." He said that looking at Kenshin square in his eyes to let him know that he'll keep his word. But Kenshin's attention was caught by the mere mention of Kaoru being in the dojo before he arrived, and took off again.
"That's all right Yahiko. The only thing that's bugging me now is the fact that Kaoru-dono's missing. I mean, I can't find her anywhere. Did she say something before she left?"
Yahiko paused and try to recall but nothing popped.
"No. She didn't mention anything besides that I can go out. Although, I heard her talking to herself about solving IT alone. Don't know what that IT is but she sure does talk about it a lot lately. Why are you so worried about finding her anyway? Relax! It's still early. I bet the busu's just killing time somewhere."
"Honestly, I feared that IT she was referring to is me. She's been avoiding me, plain enough that she didn't want to discuss it. So I have to take it out from her as hard as I can, it'll eat her if it stays hidden for too long, believe me, I know. And one other thing, I'm also concerned about Kaoru-dono's safety. Letting her wonder alone is not actually a good way to show it."
Kenshin finished softly, careful not to let sentimental auras and emotional secrets leak in the presence of a 10-year-old boy. The truth remains intact, still waiting for the time when Kenshin has the will to tell her... tell Kaoru what he feels.
Getting set on continuing his search, Kenshin was stopped by Yahiko. He said he'd help him find her, since Kenshin looked like he really needed it. Yahiko handed the plates over to the person in charge of the dishes, he got rid of his apron, and said good bye to Tsubame then dragged Kenshin out of the crowded Akabeko.
Not long time after, maybe about an hour or so, they found Kaoru sitting on a log laid by the river. Her chin nested on her palm that is supported by her elbows resting on her knees. She doesn't show any sign of glee or amusement, just staring at the rapid flow of water with vague thoughts. Her hair was loose and free from any band or sash. It went with the wind clearing only one side of her face, portraying a beautiful yet sad picture. Kenshin didn't want to rush in to her, nor did he want to leave the matter be. He settled to his judgement of right and wrong so he approached her consciously after signaling Yahiko to go on ahead back to the dojo.
"Ka...kaoru-dono? Do you mind if I sit beside you?" Kaoru only answered a soft 'iie' without turning her head, allowing only her eyes to move to see him even at the corner of her eye. Suddenly, her heart began to beat faster, although she didn't know exactly why. Maybe it was the fear of having to tell the truth about changing what she felt for him, or the need to hide it all once again.
I can't contain it anymore; neither can I say it now... or ever. I know you're here to take me back home but I don't think I want to right now. I don't want you to go away, I just want to be alone. (sigh) Better lie than let you die of worry...
"Kenshin, shouldn't you be at home?" Kaoru asked right after Kenshin has settled.
"Well... yes. But when I got there earlier you still weren't around even though you ran off first. Since it seems kind of odd to just let Yahiko go and leave without leaving a note, I figured something is not right. Besides, what was the sudden rush that you have forgotten to close the gate?" Kaoru sighs again upon hearing the same line that 'something's not right'. "Gomen..." that was all she could say for her carelessness.
"Kaou-dono, if you have a problem, please tell me so I can help you. I'm not used to seeing you like this and I don't have any plans to start now. Onegai... talk to me."
Kaoru felt her eyes water. Feeling arguments within her that fights for the decision to confess. Kenshin's concern and sweet talks repeats in her head, ringing over and over like it really wants her heart to go back to what it felt for him before. But she wouldn't want that, her mind and heart are leading separate lives now and it was by chance that her mind is in control. She didn't know what to do, what to feel, what to say. It seems that her eyes are doing all the work she can't determine at the moment.
Still you don't understand... perhaps you never will 'till I'm out of your trail. You made it this far just to make me talk, I see you're certain about what you're doing.(tear fell) If it were only that easy... It was too late when she realized a tear already escaped her eyes. She tried hard to hold it back from spilling more, avoiding as much as possible the chance for Kenshin to notice. That's the sad thing on her part, everyone knows that she's not good in hiding anything. So without even sniffing or moving, Kenshin noticed right away. It was clear to her that she can't turn back now, forcing it to stop won't matter so much anymore, so she let it be.
On Kenshin's part, without even thinking he placed his right arm around her back and his left hand holding hers.
"My... wha... why Kaoru-dono? Please say something. Onegai! Tell me what's wrong?!" Kenshin sort of panicked upon seeing that sight of her.
"This is nothing, Kenshin. These are only tears, unable to mean anything certain. Why? Why would you care, frankly? Tears may mean either sadness or happiness, yet why do you assume it is from sorrow? How could think you could help me with everything?..." Her tears just kept coming and coming, and her breathing became more rapid. She tensed up, he felt it, but he can't do anything. With every word she's saying, Kenshin felt guilty knowing now that it WAS his fault. Decreasing was his courage to say something... anything. He found himself lost for words that may make the situation any better. All he can do was accept the pain he is given in his heart.
Kaoru stopped at that, letting silence ensue between them. After a while, Kenshin fought words to come out of his system.
"Ka...Kaoru-dono... Why do you ask me such things? I've never assumed that I can do everything for you, I just wish to do anything I can so that I won't see--- this picture of you crying and isolating yourself from uncertainties. Nobody's perfect, Kaoru-dono... I'M not perfect, and I've always wished for it to be untrue so I can be there for you ---"
"Yamete!!" Kaoru abruptly cut off Kenshin's statements and removed his hand from hers. She couldn't take anymore pressure, her heart was throbbing hard and her head was aching from confusion. It took her a while to settle down but as soon as she did, Kaoru began to process her situation. She has just shouted at Kenshin and that, she didn't plan.
She was looking down, her hair was covering her face as she wept still. Just like the river in front of her, her tears doesn't seem to stop flowing. Kenshin was stunned, just like he has always been in such conditions.
"Enough... let's just stop this Kenshin, okay?" Kaoru used her sleeve to wipe her tears even though Kenshin's handkerchief was being reached out to her as soon as she was flooded with grief.
"Stop? Stop what? Kaoru-dono, I... I... know I don't see things the way you do but nevertheless, there are still some things I can see that you don't."
"What... do you mean by that?" she asked. She looked at him, her tears seemed to be decreasing.
"What I meant was, such things that trouble you always have an answer. Though it may hard at times to obtain it, it is still considered a chance for hope. Your loneliness after your father died was maybe the source of your entrapment from the world outside you, and maybe now you think you've lost all means of solving your problem, but no one can really tell if you can no longer do anything."
Kenshin looked ever milder at Kaoru's fragile moment. He instinctively cupped her cheek with his hand and spoke to her eye to eye. Kaoru was surprised by the gentle touch but didn't move to avoid provoking any unusual change.
"Kaoru-dono, if only you could've opened up to me, I swear you wouldn't be in this state."
Kaoru sighed an indescribable sigh. I could have been from grief or contentment, but Kenshin wasn't really sure.
"I see... Gomen..." Kaoru stood up and wiped off hear tears. She didn't look at him, just at the raging river.
"Thank you Kenshin for your concern. I understand it now, but it really doesn't work that way. Unfortunately, this predicament is way out of my control. Let's just get back to the dojo since that's what you came to me for... and please, I don't want to talk about it, okay?" Kaoru walked passed the log down to the main street. Kenshin stood a few seconds after she did, looking at her walk away… yet again.
You can't keep this OR me out forever…
~~~~~~~~~~
"Aaah!! What's taking them so long? Yahiko, where was it you said they went?" Sanosuke said in exasperation.
"By the lake, chicken-head! How many times do I have to tell you?!" Yahiko's reply was inside the dojo, echoing as he clean the floor.
Setsuka and Sano were sitting by the porch waiting for Kaoru and Kenshin.
Setsuka watched Yahiko go back and forth the dojo, bent forward with a rug in his hands. Yahiko felt a stare so he stopped and glanced at Setsuka. He went red again just like the first time he saw Setsuka. He was just amazed at how beautiful she was and having her staring back at him just makes him want to burn hot in the face. Yahiko broke eye contact and continued back to work, muttering curses as to why he has to clean the dojo everyday. Setsuka simply smiled at the picture.
It was about 2 in the afternoon, Sano and Setsuka have been waiting for Kaoru and Kenshin for more than an hour now. It was perfectly fine with Setsuka since she was just going to be staying with them, but she realized that she might just be a disruption of whatever the two owners' plans.
"Sano, maybe they have some businesses to take care of and I could just interfere with their busy days. Maybe I should just stay in an inn so---"
"You are not going to any inn!!" She was cut of by Sano's reaction. She was surprised by his tone, possibly even felt a little scared for a while.
"Sorry bout that… but you are going to stay here... no…PLEASE stay here. I assure you, if ever those two ever have business to do, it would only be regarding their relationship. All right?" Sano clarified. Yahiko assured her with a nod.
"Haaa… I can never win against you, can I? Fine… so they're married? If you don't mind changing the subject." Setsuka asked, confirming her doubts.
"No, no, no, no… They're still in the courting stage, although the guy isn't really courting her. It's just some love confusion or something… I don't understand it either." Sano scratched the back of his head and smiled at Setsuka. She mirrored him and leaned on one of the poles, staring at the gate.
"What are their names, by the way?"
"Kenshin and Kaoru" He answered immediately. "The little missy is the owner of this dojo and Kenshin ended his wandering since Kaoru accepted him in."
She nodded to show she understood.
That's funny… His name is just like Battousai's. I guess those anti-government lackeys are following me even in names…
In their quiet mood together with the gentle blowing wind made Sano think about what they have just talked about. It came to him the thought of what might Setsuka's purpose be in asking about Kenshin and Kaoru's relationship.
Could she be wondering of getting close to Kenshin? Is that why she… dame! dame! She's not that kind of woman. She doesn't even know Kenshin. However, what if Kenshin is the one to fall for her? I mean, she's beautiful, smart, charming and so damn fine! Who could not fall for her?? Shit! I can't let that happen! I know Kenshin's my friend but if the case is involving the love of my life I'd do anything.
Deep in thought, Sanosuke didn't realize Setsuka was calling for him. He saw 2 figures in front of him and one at his side but their faces didn't register in his unfocused mind.
"Sano!!" Setsuka yelled, shrugging the daydreaming man.
"Wha?! Oh, Kenshin… good, you're both here. I'd like to introduce you to someone, this is Setsuka Deishi."
"My!… Sano brought home a nice lovely young lady." Kenshin complemented. Setsuka couldn't help but look down after being flattered like that. Kaoru threw a sharp glance at her, maybe feeling a bit of jealousy.
"Ain't Sano the greatest?!" Yahiko yelled from behind them, throwing his fist up in the air as he did so.
Sanosuke saw the glint of excitement in Kenshin's eyes, so in the fear that Kenshin might be interested in her…
"She's my girlfriend."
…Sano just blurted it out, all the while wrapping his arm behind her shoulder and pulled her close to him.
Setsuka was barely stupefied with what he did. She turned redder than she already is.
"Oh I see…"
"So how long have it been the two of you?" Kaoru asked.
"Sano, where'd you find her?" Out came Yahiko.
"Why didn't we know about this?" Kenshin added.
They were stormed with so many questions that Sano couldn't even understand the others.
"Dame!!! Kore wa yamete yo!!!" Everybody halted. Setsuka didn't take the time to remove Sano's claiming arm, instead, she stomped at his feet so hard that it made him wail.
"Itai!! What did you do that for?"
"You are not my boyfriend! How dare you say you are?!"
"Well, I could have if you've given me the chance!"
"What made you think I'd approve? Oh, you're assuming too much!"
"I am not! I know you feel something for me!"
"Sano, you're embarrassing me."
"Ha! So you do feel something for me."
"Don't flatter yourself, and that's besides the point. You just claimed to be my boyfriend! Have you no shame?!"
"Why would I be ashamed of being your man?!"
"This fight is meaningless." Setsuka crossed her arms and faced the other way.
"I don't think so… you're blushing!"
"Aah!! Get away from me!"
Kaoru and the other two laughed at their quarrel. Then a thought just passed by Kenshin, about how Kaoru would have reacted to a situation like this. Kaoru had probably thrown a dozen objects by now.
Sano continued his tease, so naturally Setsuka would get more pissed.
"Oooww! You didn't have to step on me again…"
Setsuka ignored him and moved her eyes away from Sano to get acquainted with Kenshin and Kaoru.
"I'm really sorry for this. I didn't mean to be so loud, especially now that it's our first time to meet."
It was then that she got a good look at the two of them.
Oh Kami-sama…!
Setsuka's eyes widened in disbelief. She froze at the thought.
"Sh..shinta…" Setsuka whispered to herself.
H…he's… he's Battousai!!!
Kenshin heard her say his name, his real name, but he didn't look at her. He honestly wasn't sure what she murmured a while ago, nevertheless he had the feeling that his hunch is right.
Setsuka's cheerful expression faded abruptly, then she subconsciously held her sword under her shawl without making a sound or any noticeable movements. Not knowing what was going on with Setsuka, after considering her apology, Sano continued talking about her.
"…She's here for a visit. Unfortunately, the inn she was supposed to stay was already full so I thought of asking you 2 if she could stay here. She's a good person and she---"
"Sano, there's no need for assurances like that." Kenshin said smiling at him.
"We'll be glad to accept Setsuka-san here. The more the merrier, as they always say." Kaoru lightly laughed, trying hard to hide her welling eyes because of crying.
"Well then, Setsuka, these would be your companions here from now on. Kaoru Kamiya, Kenshin Himura…"
Setsuka flinched at the mere mention of Kenshin's name. She closed her hand around her sword tighter, producing a sound so familiar to Kenshin that he didn't have a doubt what it was. Fortunately, Kenshin was the only one keen enough to hear and distinguish it, Kaoru just looked elsewhere.
"…and I'm sure you already know the bratty Yahiko." Sano ended, looking at her. Kenshin looked at her trembling hands then tried to catch her eyes with his but she looked her sharp gaze away fast. Setsuka spoke right away to avoid suspicion on her sudden change of mood.
"Thanks a lot Kamiya-san, but you could tell me if you're just obliged to accept me because I'm a FRIEND of Sanosuke. I'd understand if I'd just add work for you."
Although with a serious tone and face, she still emphasized the friend part. But even with that, Kenshin felt his hunch was just confirmed. And now, she was probably trying to avoid him. What he didn't know was the reason why…
Do I know her? or DID I know her? Her eyes are familiar but I can't remember anyone like her in the past.
"Don't be silly Setsuka-san. Believe me, you'll be more of an angel sent than a burden. Come, let's go inside."
I gotta get out of here…
-------------End of Chapter 2-----------
Author's note: Hmm… that last line must've triggered some curiosity, I certainly hope so. And you know what, even I feel a bit awkward with Sanosuke being protective and sweet. But that's also something I like about him, in fanfiction that is. He was totally not like that in the series.
All right, I'll try to do more in the next chapters.
Oh and don't forget the reviews!!! Thanks!
Enjoy!…
Chapter 2- "Memories Return"
...It turns bitter and bitter everyday...
"Kaouru-dono, I'm home! Yahiko!" Kenshin stopped by the door, waiting for an answer, but no one did. A sharp gust of wind whirled across the yard of the Kamiya dojo, tearing leaves from the flame-colored trees, rattling the rear gate and shaking silvery tinkles out of the wind chime hanging from the ceiling of the porch. Watching the leaves fall and cover the yard in a red and brown carpet, Kenshin never felt so alone since he met everyone and lived in the dojo. The dojo was strangely quiet now that Yahiko was absent and Kaoru is obviously not yet home. By that thought, Kenshin felt something is not right. First, he visited Dr. Genzai and Megumi to check if Kaoru dropped by there. Unfortunately, they haven't seen her the whole day. He thought of asking Sano but he thought he's probably gambling again, and Kaoru couldn't be in those places. So he went to search for Yahiko in the Akabeko, where he would most likely be, to ask for help in finding her.
The Akabeko was crowded as always making it hard for Kenshin to locate Yahiko. He asked some people there if they noticed a young boy serving the restaurant, they pointed out to look in the kitchen.
Through everyone whom he questioned, he can't help but hear their discussions about a new gang arriving in town and causing a lot of ruckus. He heard the customers call them the Zenken ochó—meaning a powerful dynasty, but they knew them as a clan of convicts—and that the clan is bombarding on any home, trying to find someone.
Kenshin didn't pay that much attention yet on that but still placed a mental note about that issue. What he has to do now is find Kaoru and bring her back home, her actions before bothered his mind and decided to talk to her.
"Yahiko, I found you! I'm glad you're helping out in the Akabeko, the place is jammed pack. But could that be the only reason why you're here?" Kenshin smiled and turned to look from Yahiko to Tsubame. Only with that clear action, Yahiko figured out at once what Kenshin meant.
"Hey! Don't do this to me!... Why are YOU here?" Yahiko taunted. Kenshin chuckled a while as he watched Yahiko stacking the used dishes to clean some space in the kitchen.
"I just stopped by to check the kid that was supposed to be at the dojo..." Yahiko was surprised and looked almost immediately at him. He didn't know if he was serious or just annoying him. All confusing thoughts in Yahiko's mind was cleared simply by the way Kenshin looked. He looked down, preparing for a lecture he expected to come next.
"Look, I have nothing against you being here to help, honestly that's quite nice, but you still have to think about your responsibilities. The gate was open when I got home, I assumed you were there 'cause I know you won't leave the place looking like you were luring people in."
Yahiko exhaled loudly after realized his mistake. His silence told Kenshin that he understood and he admits his fault, now Kenshin was just waiting for Yahiko to speak up. But the longer it took for him to reply the more Kenshin feared he was hard on him. Just as he was about to say something, Yahiko moved first.
"Sorry 'bout that, didn't mean to. I guess I was just too excited to leave when Kaoru told me I was free of my chores and I forgot to close it. It'll never happen again, PROMISE." He said that looking at Kenshin square in his eyes to let him know that he'll keep his word. But Kenshin's attention was caught by the mere mention of Kaoru being in the dojo before he arrived, and took off again.
"That's all right Yahiko. The only thing that's bugging me now is the fact that Kaoru-dono's missing. I mean, I can't find her anywhere. Did she say something before she left?"
Yahiko paused and try to recall but nothing popped.
"No. She didn't mention anything besides that I can go out. Although, I heard her talking to herself about solving IT alone. Don't know what that IT is but she sure does talk about it a lot lately. Why are you so worried about finding her anyway? Relax! It's still early. I bet the busu's just killing time somewhere."
"Honestly, I feared that IT she was referring to is me. She's been avoiding me, plain enough that she didn't want to discuss it. So I have to take it out from her as hard as I can, it'll eat her if it stays hidden for too long, believe me, I know. And one other thing, I'm also concerned about Kaoru-dono's safety. Letting her wonder alone is not actually a good way to show it."
Kenshin finished softly, careful not to let sentimental auras and emotional secrets leak in the presence of a 10-year-old boy. The truth remains intact, still waiting for the time when Kenshin has the will to tell her... tell Kaoru what he feels.
Getting set on continuing his search, Kenshin was stopped by Yahiko. He said he'd help him find her, since Kenshin looked like he really needed it. Yahiko handed the plates over to the person in charge of the dishes, he got rid of his apron, and said good bye to Tsubame then dragged Kenshin out of the crowded Akabeko.
Not long time after, maybe about an hour or so, they found Kaoru sitting on a log laid by the river. Her chin nested on her palm that is supported by her elbows resting on her knees. She doesn't show any sign of glee or amusement, just staring at the rapid flow of water with vague thoughts. Her hair was loose and free from any band or sash. It went with the wind clearing only one side of her face, portraying a beautiful yet sad picture. Kenshin didn't want to rush in to her, nor did he want to leave the matter be. He settled to his judgement of right and wrong so he approached her consciously after signaling Yahiko to go on ahead back to the dojo.
"Ka...kaoru-dono? Do you mind if I sit beside you?" Kaoru only answered a soft 'iie' without turning her head, allowing only her eyes to move to see him even at the corner of her eye. Suddenly, her heart began to beat faster, although she didn't know exactly why. Maybe it was the fear of having to tell the truth about changing what she felt for him, or the need to hide it all once again.
I can't contain it anymore; neither can I say it now... or ever. I know you're here to take me back home but I don't think I want to right now. I don't want you to go away, I just want to be alone. (sigh) Better lie than let you die of worry...
"Kenshin, shouldn't you be at home?" Kaoru asked right after Kenshin has settled.
"Well... yes. But when I got there earlier you still weren't around even though you ran off first. Since it seems kind of odd to just let Yahiko go and leave without leaving a note, I figured something is not right. Besides, what was the sudden rush that you have forgotten to close the gate?" Kaoru sighs again upon hearing the same line that 'something's not right'. "Gomen..." that was all she could say for her carelessness.
"Kaou-dono, if you have a problem, please tell me so I can help you. I'm not used to seeing you like this and I don't have any plans to start now. Onegai... talk to me."
Kaoru felt her eyes water. Feeling arguments within her that fights for the decision to confess. Kenshin's concern and sweet talks repeats in her head, ringing over and over like it really wants her heart to go back to what it felt for him before. But she wouldn't want that, her mind and heart are leading separate lives now and it was by chance that her mind is in control. She didn't know what to do, what to feel, what to say. It seems that her eyes are doing all the work she can't determine at the moment.
Still you don't understand... perhaps you never will 'till I'm out of your trail. You made it this far just to make me talk, I see you're certain about what you're doing.(tear fell) If it were only that easy... It was too late when she realized a tear already escaped her eyes. She tried hard to hold it back from spilling more, avoiding as much as possible the chance for Kenshin to notice. That's the sad thing on her part, everyone knows that she's not good in hiding anything. So without even sniffing or moving, Kenshin noticed right away. It was clear to her that she can't turn back now, forcing it to stop won't matter so much anymore, so she let it be.
On Kenshin's part, without even thinking he placed his right arm around her back and his left hand holding hers.
"My... wha... why Kaoru-dono? Please say something. Onegai! Tell me what's wrong?!" Kenshin sort of panicked upon seeing that sight of her.
"This is nothing, Kenshin. These are only tears, unable to mean anything certain. Why? Why would you care, frankly? Tears may mean either sadness or happiness, yet why do you assume it is from sorrow? How could think you could help me with everything?..." Her tears just kept coming and coming, and her breathing became more rapid. She tensed up, he felt it, but he can't do anything. With every word she's saying, Kenshin felt guilty knowing now that it WAS his fault. Decreasing was his courage to say something... anything. He found himself lost for words that may make the situation any better. All he can do was accept the pain he is given in his heart.
Kaoru stopped at that, letting silence ensue between them. After a while, Kenshin fought words to come out of his system.
"Ka...Kaoru-dono... Why do you ask me such things? I've never assumed that I can do everything for you, I just wish to do anything I can so that I won't see--- this picture of you crying and isolating yourself from uncertainties. Nobody's perfect, Kaoru-dono... I'M not perfect, and I've always wished for it to be untrue so I can be there for you ---"
"Yamete!!" Kaoru abruptly cut off Kenshin's statements and removed his hand from hers. She couldn't take anymore pressure, her heart was throbbing hard and her head was aching from confusion. It took her a while to settle down but as soon as she did, Kaoru began to process her situation. She has just shouted at Kenshin and that, she didn't plan.
She was looking down, her hair was covering her face as she wept still. Just like the river in front of her, her tears doesn't seem to stop flowing. Kenshin was stunned, just like he has always been in such conditions.
"Enough... let's just stop this Kenshin, okay?" Kaoru used her sleeve to wipe her tears even though Kenshin's handkerchief was being reached out to her as soon as she was flooded with grief.
"Stop? Stop what? Kaoru-dono, I... I... know I don't see things the way you do but nevertheless, there are still some things I can see that you don't."
"What... do you mean by that?" she asked. She looked at him, her tears seemed to be decreasing.
"What I meant was, such things that trouble you always have an answer. Though it may hard at times to obtain it, it is still considered a chance for hope. Your loneliness after your father died was maybe the source of your entrapment from the world outside you, and maybe now you think you've lost all means of solving your problem, but no one can really tell if you can no longer do anything."
Kenshin looked ever milder at Kaoru's fragile moment. He instinctively cupped her cheek with his hand and spoke to her eye to eye. Kaoru was surprised by the gentle touch but didn't move to avoid provoking any unusual change.
"Kaoru-dono, if only you could've opened up to me, I swear you wouldn't be in this state."
Kaoru sighed an indescribable sigh. I could have been from grief or contentment, but Kenshin wasn't really sure.
"I see... Gomen..." Kaoru stood up and wiped off hear tears. She didn't look at him, just at the raging river.
"Thank you Kenshin for your concern. I understand it now, but it really doesn't work that way. Unfortunately, this predicament is way out of my control. Let's just get back to the dojo since that's what you came to me for... and please, I don't want to talk about it, okay?" Kaoru walked passed the log down to the main street. Kenshin stood a few seconds after she did, looking at her walk away… yet again.
You can't keep this OR me out forever…
~~~~~~~~~~
"Aaah!! What's taking them so long? Yahiko, where was it you said they went?" Sanosuke said in exasperation.
"By the lake, chicken-head! How many times do I have to tell you?!" Yahiko's reply was inside the dojo, echoing as he clean the floor.
Setsuka and Sano were sitting by the porch waiting for Kaoru and Kenshin.
Setsuka watched Yahiko go back and forth the dojo, bent forward with a rug in his hands. Yahiko felt a stare so he stopped and glanced at Setsuka. He went red again just like the first time he saw Setsuka. He was just amazed at how beautiful she was and having her staring back at him just makes him want to burn hot in the face. Yahiko broke eye contact and continued back to work, muttering curses as to why he has to clean the dojo everyday. Setsuka simply smiled at the picture.
It was about 2 in the afternoon, Sano and Setsuka have been waiting for Kaoru and Kenshin for more than an hour now. It was perfectly fine with Setsuka since she was just going to be staying with them, but she realized that she might just be a disruption of whatever the two owners' plans.
"Sano, maybe they have some businesses to take care of and I could just interfere with their busy days. Maybe I should just stay in an inn so---"
"You are not going to any inn!!" She was cut of by Sano's reaction. She was surprised by his tone, possibly even felt a little scared for a while.
"Sorry bout that… but you are going to stay here... no…PLEASE stay here. I assure you, if ever those two ever have business to do, it would only be regarding their relationship. All right?" Sano clarified. Yahiko assured her with a nod.
"Haaa… I can never win against you, can I? Fine… so they're married? If you don't mind changing the subject." Setsuka asked, confirming her doubts.
"No, no, no, no… They're still in the courting stage, although the guy isn't really courting her. It's just some love confusion or something… I don't understand it either." Sano scratched the back of his head and smiled at Setsuka. She mirrored him and leaned on one of the poles, staring at the gate.
"What are their names, by the way?"
"Kenshin and Kaoru" He answered immediately. "The little missy is the owner of this dojo and Kenshin ended his wandering since Kaoru accepted him in."
She nodded to show she understood.
That's funny… His name is just like Battousai's. I guess those anti-government lackeys are following me even in names…
In their quiet mood together with the gentle blowing wind made Sano think about what they have just talked about. It came to him the thought of what might Setsuka's purpose be in asking about Kenshin and Kaoru's relationship.
Could she be wondering of getting close to Kenshin? Is that why she… dame! dame! She's not that kind of woman. She doesn't even know Kenshin. However, what if Kenshin is the one to fall for her? I mean, she's beautiful, smart, charming and so damn fine! Who could not fall for her?? Shit! I can't let that happen! I know Kenshin's my friend but if the case is involving the love of my life I'd do anything.
Deep in thought, Sanosuke didn't realize Setsuka was calling for him. He saw 2 figures in front of him and one at his side but their faces didn't register in his unfocused mind.
"Sano!!" Setsuka yelled, shrugging the daydreaming man.
"Wha?! Oh, Kenshin… good, you're both here. I'd like to introduce you to someone, this is Setsuka Deishi."
"My!… Sano brought home a nice lovely young lady." Kenshin complemented. Setsuka couldn't help but look down after being flattered like that. Kaoru threw a sharp glance at her, maybe feeling a bit of jealousy.
"Ain't Sano the greatest?!" Yahiko yelled from behind them, throwing his fist up in the air as he did so.
Sanosuke saw the glint of excitement in Kenshin's eyes, so in the fear that Kenshin might be interested in her…
"She's my girlfriend."
…Sano just blurted it out, all the while wrapping his arm behind her shoulder and pulled her close to him.
Setsuka was barely stupefied with what he did. She turned redder than she already is.
"Oh I see…"
"So how long have it been the two of you?" Kaoru asked.
"Sano, where'd you find her?" Out came Yahiko.
"Why didn't we know about this?" Kenshin added.
They were stormed with so many questions that Sano couldn't even understand the others.
"Dame!!! Kore wa yamete yo!!!" Everybody halted. Setsuka didn't take the time to remove Sano's claiming arm, instead, she stomped at his feet so hard that it made him wail.
"Itai!! What did you do that for?"
"You are not my boyfriend! How dare you say you are?!"
"Well, I could have if you've given me the chance!"
"What made you think I'd approve? Oh, you're assuming too much!"
"I am not! I know you feel something for me!"
"Sano, you're embarrassing me."
"Ha! So you do feel something for me."
"Don't flatter yourself, and that's besides the point. You just claimed to be my boyfriend! Have you no shame?!"
"Why would I be ashamed of being your man?!"
"This fight is meaningless." Setsuka crossed her arms and faced the other way.
"I don't think so… you're blushing!"
"Aah!! Get away from me!"
Kaoru and the other two laughed at their quarrel. Then a thought just passed by Kenshin, about how Kaoru would have reacted to a situation like this. Kaoru had probably thrown a dozen objects by now.
Sano continued his tease, so naturally Setsuka would get more pissed.
"Oooww! You didn't have to step on me again…"
Setsuka ignored him and moved her eyes away from Sano to get acquainted with Kenshin and Kaoru.
"I'm really sorry for this. I didn't mean to be so loud, especially now that it's our first time to meet."
It was then that she got a good look at the two of them.
Oh Kami-sama…!
Setsuka's eyes widened in disbelief. She froze at the thought.
"Sh..shinta…" Setsuka whispered to herself.
H…he's… he's Battousai!!!
Kenshin heard her say his name, his real name, but he didn't look at her. He honestly wasn't sure what she murmured a while ago, nevertheless he had the feeling that his hunch is right.
Setsuka's cheerful expression faded abruptly, then she subconsciously held her sword under her shawl without making a sound or any noticeable movements. Not knowing what was going on with Setsuka, after considering her apology, Sano continued talking about her.
"…She's here for a visit. Unfortunately, the inn she was supposed to stay was already full so I thought of asking you 2 if she could stay here. She's a good person and she---"
"Sano, there's no need for assurances like that." Kenshin said smiling at him.
"We'll be glad to accept Setsuka-san here. The more the merrier, as they always say." Kaoru lightly laughed, trying hard to hide her welling eyes because of crying.
"Well then, Setsuka, these would be your companions here from now on. Kaoru Kamiya, Kenshin Himura…"
Setsuka flinched at the mere mention of Kenshin's name. She closed her hand around her sword tighter, producing a sound so familiar to Kenshin that he didn't have a doubt what it was. Fortunately, Kenshin was the only one keen enough to hear and distinguish it, Kaoru just looked elsewhere.
"…and I'm sure you already know the bratty Yahiko." Sano ended, looking at her. Kenshin looked at her trembling hands then tried to catch her eyes with his but she looked her sharp gaze away fast. Setsuka spoke right away to avoid suspicion on her sudden change of mood.
"Thanks a lot Kamiya-san, but you could tell me if you're just obliged to accept me because I'm a FRIEND of Sanosuke. I'd understand if I'd just add work for you."
Although with a serious tone and face, she still emphasized the friend part. But even with that, Kenshin felt his hunch was just confirmed. And now, she was probably trying to avoid him. What he didn't know was the reason why…
Do I know her? or DID I know her? Her eyes are familiar but I can't remember anyone like her in the past.
"Don't be silly Setsuka-san. Believe me, you'll be more of an angel sent than a burden. Come, let's go inside."
I gotta get out of here…
-------------End of Chapter 2-----------
Author's note: Hmm… that last line must've triggered some curiosity, I certainly hope so. And you know what, even I feel a bit awkward with Sanosuke being protective and sweet. But that's also something I like about him, in fanfiction that is. He was totally not like that in the series.
All right, I'll try to do more in the next chapters.
Oh and don't forget the reviews!!! Thanks!