MISMATCHED
By Yuki
Right On Track
Chapter 2
MISAO
She was walking through the yard, patiently waiting for her Aoshi-sama. Hadn't she said that he was supposed to be here an hour ago? It wasn't like him at all to be late. She paused. Come to think of it, he was never late. Had something happened to him? No, it can't be that. It had been quiet and peaceful lately. There was only one logical reason her brain can come up with. She clenched her fist. He'd better not be avoiding her again. Not this time...especially not this time.
She had invited Kaoru and the rest of her friends in Tokyo. She hadn't exactly told them the whole truth. She had invited them in advance, even without Okina's permission. And then after sending the letter and receiving an excited confirmation from Kaoru, she had by that time a full proof plan on how to sweet talk Okina into celebrating the coming of Autumn.
"Why are we going to celebrate Autumn?" Okina had asked slightly confused.
"Because it's a tradition!" She had vehemently argued, knowing fully that it was never a tradition. But what the heck, food and celebration was always a good excuse to have friends over.
"It is?" Okina once again asked.
Misao nodded complete with wide pleading puppy eyes.
Okina can never really say no to those blue green eyes. "Ok, then if you say so my sweet Misao-chan." Okina said.
"Yatta! Kaoru and the rest of the gang would be arriving tomorrow." She announced.
"They are?" Okon suddenly chimed in.
"Is Hiko-san coming too?" Omasu just couldn't help but ask.
"Well I don't know about Hiko, but Kaoru says Megumi is coming, Himura would sure be there and Rooster Head too."
"All of them?" Aoshi asked coldly.
"Uh-huh." Misao nodded tentatively. Unsure about the sudden flash of annoyance in Aoshi's blue eyes. "Is there any problem with their visit Aoshi-sama?" She asked lightly. She knew Aoshi and Kenshin hadn't been exactly the best of friends. But she had hoped that this would change.
Aoshi shrugged and had walked away.
"I'll take that as a yes and no." Misao muttered.
The memory caused Misao to cringe. Aoshi hadn't spoken to her ever since. Well, except for the clipped, "I'll go now's.", "Goodbye's." or "Good night's". Not that it was such a big change anyway. But it pretty much ruined Misao's autumn plan. See, she had written to Kaoru that it was now or never, she wasn't going to wait for Aoshi to make the first move. And Kaoru had agreed. She had even said that she might even do the same thing. Misao didn't know about Megumi, but the hidden agenda in this particular get-together was, well: Boys. Or should I say, men. Clueless, thick headed Men, Misao thought, internally strangling Kenshin and Aoshi.
Ever since Aoshi had gotten interested with all the Zen-stuff, he had been thrice as cold. Not that she didn't like the peace he had now. That was great too. Except she just wished he didn't have to be so aloof and cold and distant and well, grrr.... She balled up her fist and growled. Men. "Buncha lunatics!" She screamed into the silent yard. Disturbed, a flock of birds nestling at a nearby tree quickly sought the heavens for a little peace. The sudden flight cause the tree to shake and golden leaves fell across the yard.
Ooops. Okon had just swept the yard...
"Misao."
Misao turned her head, thoroughly embarrassed "A-aoshi-sama. How long have you been standing there?"
Aoshi did his shrug thing and walked towards her. Misao cursed. She should have felt his presence. Not just because she was an Oni, but also because this was Aoshi we're talking about. There was once a time that she can even distinguish the sound of his breathing.
It was calm and even, a slight snore every couple of minutes or so. He had the cutest breathing pattern, compared to Okina of course....
Aoshi regarded her coolly for a moment. "Shall we go now?" He asked her.
Misao almost jumped, had she been thinking... this was getting worse, now she's preoccupied with thoughts about Aoshi's breathing! Lame! Lame! Lame! Misao sighed. Get a grip!
"Misao? Shall we go now?" Aoshi repeated. Misao faced Aoshi and nodded, feeling self-conscious. Was there a hint of invitation in Aoshi's voice? It sounded like, 'Shall-we-go-now-for-a-date-my-sweet-Misao?' to her. She smiled up at him, a little breathless. Aoshi turned and walked away.
Or, it could be that she was just delusional.
They silently trudged along the dirt road leading to town. Himura and company are expected to arrive today. She had checked the schedule and was glad that the ship would be arriving in the afternoon and that had meant that she can ask Aoshi to accompany her to the pier. She had been so psyched. She had been dreaming about this very moment.
A romantic walk on a cool autumn afternoon, with red and yellow leaves falling so softly around them, and then, Aoshi would turn to look at her, smile and say...
"Watch out for that stone Misao."
Huh?
"Stone?"
She gasped in surprise as she tripped on said stone in question. Aoshi caught her easily. She swallowed hard. So close...and yet so far away. She looked into his cool blue eyes.
Cool. An improvement from cold, wouldn't you say Misao-chan, she thought to herself. And then, her mental faculties just shut down and all she could think of was the feel of Aoshi's strong hands and arms wrapped around her as he helped her stand up. The way his hands seemed to linger on her waist didn't help her equilibrium any better.
She looked up at Aoshi and opened her mouth. Say, 'thank you Aoshi-sama,' her mind ordered her. Say anything. Except she couldn't obey, because she was staring straight into his eyes and the emotions that weren't there the last time she looked, well, they were there now....
Concern...and something stronger that that.
Something...
"You should be careful Misao." And with that, he let her go, turned and continued walking away.
Something she would never see again. Ohhh, good one Misao. Trip on a stone why don't you. Make a fool out of yourself. Stand there, with your mouth hanging open.
Misao snapped out of it. She sighed and shook her head, clearing her thoughts. "Wait up Aoshi-sama!" She cried, trying to ignore the burning pain spreading to her chest. A wild mix of happiness, anticipation and fear.
She closed in their distance and a moment later, she was beside Aoshi again. She gave him a lightning fast glance, one she was sure he'd notice, despite how fast she managed the glance. Aoshi always noticed everything. Except her, of course. She kept the frown hidden on her heart. She was very tempted to reach out and take his hands, but damn that stupid trench coat. Always in the way.
She rolled her eyes. Aoshi-sama. They walked silently the rest of the way. When they turned to a sharp corner, Misao caught a glimpse of the sunset-dipped sea. She felt a burst of excitement. One of those ships heading towards the pier has Himura and the gang! In no time, she'd be chatting up with Megumi and Kaoru! She let out an excited squeal. "Look Aoshi-sama!" She pointed at the red-orange sun setting over the horizon. The usual gray blue ocean looked like a big golden bowl. Little yellow sparkles played over the surface. It was one of the most beautiful sights she had seen.
She giggled despite herself. She skipped past Aoshi. "C'mon Aoshi-sama! Himura and Kaoru-chan might be there already!" She turned and saw Aoshi nod, a ghost of a smile tugging at his lips.
He's smiling.
She giggled again and ran towards the pier. Her cheeks flushed as she enjoyed the autumn breeze and the pounding of her heart.
Aoshi smiled!
AOSHI
He watched her as she ran downhill. He almost told her to be careful, she might trip on a stone, but he bit his tongue. Misao didn't like to be treated like a child. Understandable enough, since she is no longer a child. Except of course a part of Aoshi's brain refused to let that information register in.
Misao hadn't been acting like herself lately. She had always been, not violent, but...bouncy... vibrant. And now, well, if she were a color, she would be a shade darker than usual. It was the only way Aoshi can explain it. Okina had told him it was called growing up. He had scoffed at that. He knew what growing up meant.
Changes. Himura had said that when he had visited the Kamiya dojo. Misao's changed. She's no longer a child Aoshi. Look at her. Beautiful. Sweet.
She's no longer a child.
He felt his heart constrict at the sound of that. He liked Misao just the way she was. Always happy and carefree. At least until you came along and ruined her life. He thought bitterly. But he was slowly trying to pick up the little pieces. It was a slow process. And he wanted to take his time.
He was a little unsure and scared of what these changes would bring.
He could hear her laughter. The sound washed over him and he let himself smile. He would always smile for her. Even though it had always remained unspoken, he was aware of Misao's feeling for him. And his feelings for her too. It was just that...
"Aoshi-sama! Look!"
He hurried his steps and in two long strides he was beside Misao. She was pointing at the sparkling amber sea. He looked away. It reminded him of Battousai's eyes. He didn't need any reminders of his own foolishness. Instead, he turned and looked at her. At his Misao.
No matter how Aoshi tried to ignore the changes, it was right there, staring him at in the face. It wasn't just the physical change that enchanted him. It was also the change within her.
She was becoming a woman now. Not as graceful or subdued as the girls her age. But it was showing. Just a moment ago, when he had helped Misao up, the old Misao would have pushed him away and be stubborn and indignant, and tell him that she could do it, she can take care of herself. But no, she had clung to him, had look deep into his eyes. And he feared what she saw in them. He would not let her know how tortured he was that he couldn't hold her the way she needed him to. The way he wanted to.
She turned to face him and he could see the way her cheeks reddened at his obvious attention. He looked away fast. Not fast enough to notice the confused frown that passed across Misao's face.
Oh, good one Aoshi. She's growing up. She's already getting confused on a lot of things, go right ahead and mess up with her head.
"We should get going, it would be dark soon." He said, as usual, walking away. That's right, Shinamori, just walk away. Not the bravest thing to do, but it certainly helps a lot.
He tried very hard to convince himself.
KAORU
The pier around them was bustling with life. It didn't matter that it would be dark soon. Traders and tourists milled around the place. Small boys running around, little girls clutching at their parents. Everything around them seems so animated and excited.
Kaoru couldn't help but yawn. It had been such a tiring trip. Sanosuke, the moron got sick. And she thought having a certified doctor with them would help. Ha. Big laugh. She wound up taking care of Sanosuke. It wasn't really that bad taking care of Rooster Head, except for the occasional verbal tussle and name-calling, she ended up spending some time with him and enjoying herself. But still...
Even worst than Sano's flu was Kenshin and Megumi spending too much time together. Kaoru had been hoping to, well, she wasn't sure what exactly she was hoping, but it would have helped if Megumi, Sano and Kenshin were cooperating. She had planned this vacation so she can spend some time with Kenshin, work up the courage to tell him how she feels about him and then let him decide what to do.
Not happening.
She sighed again, closed her eyes and idly rubbed her temple with her hands.
"Tired?"
She turned, surprised to hear his voice. "No. I'm ok Kenshin." She immediately dropped her hand and made a show of excitement.
She failed miserably. "Just a head ache Kenshin. Don't get yourself so worked up. Head aches happen to normal people." She blabbered on. Kenshin smiled and startled her by reaching out and taking her hands.
"I'm sorry I can't do anything about it. We'll ask Megumi if she has any medications."
"I'm not asking you to do anything about it Kenshin." Kaoru said tightly. "Stop acting like I'm a toddler. I can take care of myself ok?"
"Arguing like a married couple that you are. Well, except of course you're not married, so that makes it kinda confusing doesn't it Jou-chan" Sano said walking up towards them with a several bags hauled over his shoulder.
Kaoru rolled her eyes. "You do realize that what you said absolutely made no sense."
Sano gave her a charmed smile, "Sure did." Sano glance down at Kenshin and Kaoru's joined hand. He let out a smirk. "Was going to ask you to help with the baggage Kenshin, but I guess you have your hands full."
Face burning, Kaoru instinctively tighten her hands to ball up a fist. Except that only the left hand cooperated. She stiffened when she realized that she had just tighten her grip on Kenshin's hand. Would he drop my hand? She looked down at her feet, embarrassed, but pleased that Kenshin's grasp remained and he squeezed back.
"Yup. Just what I thought. Well, have you two seen where Kitsune ran off too?"
As always, Kenshin explained. "She said she's just going to buy something, for Misao and the rest. It's only polite that guests give something...."
"You're too polite Himura."
They all turned towards the voice.
"Misao-chan!" Kaoru squealed. She ran over to Misao and hugged her.
"Kaoru-chan!" Misao returned the hug.
The boys were less than affectionate with their greeting.
"Aoshi." Kenshin nodded.
"Himura." Aoshi nodded back.
"Shinamori." Sano grunted.
"Sagara." Aoshi said, just as coldly.
"My, my, aren't we all a little friendly with each other." Megumi said walking in between the boys. She turned towards Misao, "Weasel girl."
Aoshi stiffened slightly.
"Kitsune-chan."
They smiled at each other and hugged. Then Megumi faced Aoshi, her smile was a little tight, but it was a smile nonetheless. "Aoshi-san."
"Megumi." Aoshi greeted, with a little hint of uneasiness in his voce.
Kaoru rolled her eyes again. She glared at Sano who shrugged at her. Kaoru disentangled herself from Misao and approached Aoshi. "Aoshi! How have you been? Nice of you to join Misao in welcoming us."
Aoshi nodded curtly.
Sano barely held his laughter in check. He coughed and cleared his throat when Kenshin shot him a look.
Kaoru wasn't going to give up. "Well, let's get going shall we?" She smiled at Kenshin and then took Misao's hand as they lead the group.
"Dinner's already served, right Weasel girl?" Sano asked from behind.
"And I missed you too, Rooster Head Punk!" Misao returned, giggling.
Kaoru caught Aoshi frowning. Take note of that, might make Misao happy to know that it bothers Aoshi that Misao and Sano are all chummy.
"This is going to be the best vacation ever!" Misao announced, laughing merrily.
Kaoru wished so too.
KENSHIN
The three girls led the way. They were chatting up a storm. He could catch a few of their words and he smiled at such mundane topics that obviously held their attentions. Once in a while they would start giggling and it certainly helped eased some of the tired muscles in his body. It was getting dark, but he could navigate fairly well, so did Aoshi and Sano. He kept watch at the three girls though. Misao was flaked on the center. She had grown taller than the last time he saw her. She's got more curves too. Not as developed as Megumi though. Well, it would take time. And besides, she and Kaoru are meant to have a different body structure; after all, they are also trained warriors in a sense.
Kaoru. He smiled. He missed her a lot. They hadn't had much time to talk or just be together at the ship. He couldn't entirely blame the whole thing at Sano. He just wished he had spent more time with her.
Except that, remember, Kenshin, you planned on staying on a safe distant away from Kaoru?
Kenshin bit out a groan. Yes, I remember annoying self, he thought. And he meant to do just that.
Yeah, taking her hand and fussing all over her does the trick, doesn't it Kenshin?
Stop! This has got to stop, Kenshin angrily thought. He was not going to have a conversation with himself. He glanced longingly at Kaoru, Misao and Megumi. He wondered briefly if he could join their conversation. But scratched the idea immediately. First, because they were obviously talking about girl stuff, it would be rude to interrupt. Second, Sano would tease him endless if he run over to the girls and joined in their discussion of which colored obi looked better with purple kimonos. He glanced at Sano and Aoshi.
The three of them on the other hand were as silent as an old cemetery. Probably not the best analogy, Kenshin thought grimacing.
"You ok, Kenshin?" Sano asked him.
Kenshin nodded. He turned at Aoshi. Hmm, another challenge for Battousai. What to say to get a reaction from Shinamori. "So, how is everyone at the Aioya?"
"Fine."
Silence.
Kenshin cleared his throat.
Sano coughed. His usual cover up for a snicker.
Kenshin shot Sano a look. Sano smiled and made rude hand gestures. He obviously had the same challenge in mind. Kenshin shook his head, embarrassed. He was not going to ask Aoshi *that*.
Sano rolled his eyes.
And their silent walk continued on.
SANO
Man, this sucked thrice than their trip. He could almost fall asleep. It was nice and all to have a walk, especially when he saw the view of the ocean from up here, but now that it was dark, mosquitoes were feeding on his dear precious, rare blood. "How long does it take to arrive at the Aoiya?" He asked no one in particular. He heaved the bags over his shoulder. Kenshin, for his worth, has taken his and Kaoru's bag. But Megumi's bag was a lot heavier than he expected.
"We'll be there Sano. It's just a few more minutes." Misao answered him.
"Man, I'm hungry." He complained.
"You're always are." He heard Megumi said.
"I heard that!" He accused her, letting his irritation drip into his voice.
"I meant for you to hear it, baka!" Megumi screamed into the night.
Sano cringed. And as he noticed, so did everyone. "Heard that too." He mumbled. "What's up with your bag anyway? Did you bring your whole clinic or what?"
"It's a girl thing Sano. You wouldn't understand. The only piece of clothing that you have would be the one you're already wearing."
"That's not true! I have my *other* jackets, they just look the same!" He answered indignantly.
"Sure they do." Megumi answered, fox ears and all.
Sano shook his head in disgust. Women. "Hey, Shinamori, what's up with this Autumn Celebration anyway?" Sano asked. "Do we go to some sort of festival or something?"
"No."
"So, um, what exactly do we do?" Sano asked again.
"We have fun. We eat, we go out, see places and then go shopping." Kaoru answered her voice back to her usual animated self.
He was glad that she wasn't feeling bad anymore, but that was the girls' idea of fun, not his. "Yeah, that's your activity. But what about us?"
"What about us?" Kenshin asked, his violet eyes confused.
"You know, um, men stuff, like..." His eyes brightened, "gambling houses. Hey, Shinamori any gambling house you know of?" He said a little too cheerfully, he hadn't meant to sound too exited, but what the hell. He was kinda excited about this trip. After surviving the flu from hell, he had high hopes for this vacation. It should be at least fun for him.
"No." Aoshi said. Clearly his most favorite word.
"No huh? Well, there's always the...Sake house." That got his mind working, he turned at Kenshin, "I bet if we raid your Shishou's cabin we can get a lifetime supply of sake. Get us both dead drunk! Whaddya say?"
Kenshin looked horrified. "Sano!"
"I know! Hey, Shinamori, any Geisha house?"
"No."
"Damn!"
MEGUMI
Geisha house? Had she heard Sano right? She strained to hear what the guys were talking about, but they were silent now. Megumi shook her head. Whatever Sano was planning to do with his life, it was none of her business. She should not care.
She turned towards Misao. "There are plenty of Geisha houses here in Kyoto, right Misao?" She asked and then mentally kicked herself.
Misao frowned. "Ugh, yeah. There's actually a section in town where those Geisha's live. Why are you interested Megumi?" Misao asked, her frown deepening.
"Ugh, nothing." Foxy laughter. "Ugh, just curious you know. Those Geisha's are everywhere aren't they." Another batch of foxy laughter.
Misao nodded politely.
Get a hold of yourself Megumi! She took a deep breath. "So, Misao, I see you're starting to get some curves." She said, deftly changing the topic. Although with the mention of curves, she immediately thought of the curvaceous Geisha that Sano said he used to be 'acquainted' with. Not that she actually believed him or anything.
Misao blushed. "I am? Wow! I never really noticed." She seemed delighted by this discovery.
"You wouldn't if you keep wearing those silly uniforms of yours. It shows off the thigh and legs, but the not exactly the shape of your waist." Megumi sighed. "You're just as bad as Kaoru when it comes to fashion."
"Excuse me?" Kaoru screeched.
From the corner of Megumi's eyes she saw a curious movement from the men as they all half lurched forward towards them then stopped dead in their tracks. Megumi wondered if it was second nature to them to be overly protective or just be nosy.
Megumi scoffed. Men. She turned at a glaring Kaoru and Misao. Girls. She scoffed at them too. "It's true. You two should both learn how important it is to dress up, unless you want to be mistaken for young adolescent boys every once in a while."
Misao and Kaoru growled.
"Oh right. And we wouldn't want to be mistaken as brothel girls once in a while too." Kaoru sneered.
Tension crackled in the silent night.
"Its the Aioya de gozaru!" Kenshin immediately screeched out of nowhere.
The tension eased up a bit as the women gave each other one last slighted look. Megumi smiled. Ah, at last. A nice dinner and then a warm bath. It would do her a lot of good. It may actually help her calm her annoyance over...well, over stuff...
"Wow! Okina really did it this time." Kaoru breathed.
Megumi and Misao turned to look at the Aioya. The colored streamers were nicely put by the doorframe and Sano liked the orange and red colors surrounding them. Misao had done a great deal of decorations herself, a bunch of 'newly' shed leaves flew gracefully across the lawn and highlighted the beauty of the garden. And there were possibly hundreds of little lanterns lighting up the whole lot. There were lamps on trees and on every post of the house.
"Ahhhh! It's too bright! I'm blinded by the light!" Sano joked. Megumi glared at him, for no reason at all. Sano smiled back.
Misao giggled. From here she could hear the bustling excitement inside. She sniffed he air and smelled the familiar smells of the different food specialties being cooked and served. Okina obviously had wanted to impress the group from Tokyo. "Come on in you guys. I bet the food is already served." She beamed at her guests and smiled widely at Aoshi, who for his part gave her a slight nod. Not exactly the answer to an enthusiastic smile, but it was better than nothing. She sighed.
"Yatta!" Sano said half running towards the Aioya. He passed between Misao and Kaoru and took their hands, dragging them towards the house. "Food!"
Megumi, Aoshi and Kenshin stood and stared as the three disappeared through the door. A sharp, cold wind passed them.
Megumi sighed. Things are bound to get interesting now that they are all here. Oh, she couldn't wait.
By Yuki
Right On Track
Chapter 2
MISAO
She was walking through the yard, patiently waiting for her Aoshi-sama. Hadn't she said that he was supposed to be here an hour ago? It wasn't like him at all to be late. She paused. Come to think of it, he was never late. Had something happened to him? No, it can't be that. It had been quiet and peaceful lately. There was only one logical reason her brain can come up with. She clenched her fist. He'd better not be avoiding her again. Not this time...especially not this time.
She had invited Kaoru and the rest of her friends in Tokyo. She hadn't exactly told them the whole truth. She had invited them in advance, even without Okina's permission. And then after sending the letter and receiving an excited confirmation from Kaoru, she had by that time a full proof plan on how to sweet talk Okina into celebrating the coming of Autumn.
"Why are we going to celebrate Autumn?" Okina had asked slightly confused.
"Because it's a tradition!" She had vehemently argued, knowing fully that it was never a tradition. But what the heck, food and celebration was always a good excuse to have friends over.
"It is?" Okina once again asked.
Misao nodded complete with wide pleading puppy eyes.
Okina can never really say no to those blue green eyes. "Ok, then if you say so my sweet Misao-chan." Okina said.
"Yatta! Kaoru and the rest of the gang would be arriving tomorrow." She announced.
"They are?" Okon suddenly chimed in.
"Is Hiko-san coming too?" Omasu just couldn't help but ask.
"Well I don't know about Hiko, but Kaoru says Megumi is coming, Himura would sure be there and Rooster Head too."
"All of them?" Aoshi asked coldly.
"Uh-huh." Misao nodded tentatively. Unsure about the sudden flash of annoyance in Aoshi's blue eyes. "Is there any problem with their visit Aoshi-sama?" She asked lightly. She knew Aoshi and Kenshin hadn't been exactly the best of friends. But she had hoped that this would change.
Aoshi shrugged and had walked away.
"I'll take that as a yes and no." Misao muttered.
The memory caused Misao to cringe. Aoshi hadn't spoken to her ever since. Well, except for the clipped, "I'll go now's.", "Goodbye's." or "Good night's". Not that it was such a big change anyway. But it pretty much ruined Misao's autumn plan. See, she had written to Kaoru that it was now or never, she wasn't going to wait for Aoshi to make the first move. And Kaoru had agreed. She had even said that she might even do the same thing. Misao didn't know about Megumi, but the hidden agenda in this particular get-together was, well: Boys. Or should I say, men. Clueless, thick headed Men, Misao thought, internally strangling Kenshin and Aoshi.
Ever since Aoshi had gotten interested with all the Zen-stuff, he had been thrice as cold. Not that she didn't like the peace he had now. That was great too. Except she just wished he didn't have to be so aloof and cold and distant and well, grrr.... She balled up her fist and growled. Men. "Buncha lunatics!" She screamed into the silent yard. Disturbed, a flock of birds nestling at a nearby tree quickly sought the heavens for a little peace. The sudden flight cause the tree to shake and golden leaves fell across the yard.
Ooops. Okon had just swept the yard...
"Misao."
Misao turned her head, thoroughly embarrassed "A-aoshi-sama. How long have you been standing there?"
Aoshi did his shrug thing and walked towards her. Misao cursed. She should have felt his presence. Not just because she was an Oni, but also because this was Aoshi we're talking about. There was once a time that she can even distinguish the sound of his breathing.
It was calm and even, a slight snore every couple of minutes or so. He had the cutest breathing pattern, compared to Okina of course....
Aoshi regarded her coolly for a moment. "Shall we go now?" He asked her.
Misao almost jumped, had she been thinking... this was getting worse, now she's preoccupied with thoughts about Aoshi's breathing! Lame! Lame! Lame! Misao sighed. Get a grip!
"Misao? Shall we go now?" Aoshi repeated. Misao faced Aoshi and nodded, feeling self-conscious. Was there a hint of invitation in Aoshi's voice? It sounded like, 'Shall-we-go-now-for-a-date-my-sweet-Misao?' to her. She smiled up at him, a little breathless. Aoshi turned and walked away.
Or, it could be that she was just delusional.
They silently trudged along the dirt road leading to town. Himura and company are expected to arrive today. She had checked the schedule and was glad that the ship would be arriving in the afternoon and that had meant that she can ask Aoshi to accompany her to the pier. She had been so psyched. She had been dreaming about this very moment.
A romantic walk on a cool autumn afternoon, with red and yellow leaves falling so softly around them, and then, Aoshi would turn to look at her, smile and say...
"Watch out for that stone Misao."
Huh?
"Stone?"
She gasped in surprise as she tripped on said stone in question. Aoshi caught her easily. She swallowed hard. So close...and yet so far away. She looked into his cool blue eyes.
Cool. An improvement from cold, wouldn't you say Misao-chan, she thought to herself. And then, her mental faculties just shut down and all she could think of was the feel of Aoshi's strong hands and arms wrapped around her as he helped her stand up. The way his hands seemed to linger on her waist didn't help her equilibrium any better.
She looked up at Aoshi and opened her mouth. Say, 'thank you Aoshi-sama,' her mind ordered her. Say anything. Except she couldn't obey, because she was staring straight into his eyes and the emotions that weren't there the last time she looked, well, they were there now....
Concern...and something stronger that that.
Something...
"You should be careful Misao." And with that, he let her go, turned and continued walking away.
Something she would never see again. Ohhh, good one Misao. Trip on a stone why don't you. Make a fool out of yourself. Stand there, with your mouth hanging open.
Misao snapped out of it. She sighed and shook her head, clearing her thoughts. "Wait up Aoshi-sama!" She cried, trying to ignore the burning pain spreading to her chest. A wild mix of happiness, anticipation and fear.
She closed in their distance and a moment later, she was beside Aoshi again. She gave him a lightning fast glance, one she was sure he'd notice, despite how fast she managed the glance. Aoshi always noticed everything. Except her, of course. She kept the frown hidden on her heart. She was very tempted to reach out and take his hands, but damn that stupid trench coat. Always in the way.
She rolled her eyes. Aoshi-sama. They walked silently the rest of the way. When they turned to a sharp corner, Misao caught a glimpse of the sunset-dipped sea. She felt a burst of excitement. One of those ships heading towards the pier has Himura and the gang! In no time, she'd be chatting up with Megumi and Kaoru! She let out an excited squeal. "Look Aoshi-sama!" She pointed at the red-orange sun setting over the horizon. The usual gray blue ocean looked like a big golden bowl. Little yellow sparkles played over the surface. It was one of the most beautiful sights she had seen.
She giggled despite herself. She skipped past Aoshi. "C'mon Aoshi-sama! Himura and Kaoru-chan might be there already!" She turned and saw Aoshi nod, a ghost of a smile tugging at his lips.
He's smiling.
She giggled again and ran towards the pier. Her cheeks flushed as she enjoyed the autumn breeze and the pounding of her heart.
Aoshi smiled!
AOSHI
He watched her as she ran downhill. He almost told her to be careful, she might trip on a stone, but he bit his tongue. Misao didn't like to be treated like a child. Understandable enough, since she is no longer a child. Except of course a part of Aoshi's brain refused to let that information register in.
Misao hadn't been acting like herself lately. She had always been, not violent, but...bouncy... vibrant. And now, well, if she were a color, she would be a shade darker than usual. It was the only way Aoshi can explain it. Okina had told him it was called growing up. He had scoffed at that. He knew what growing up meant.
Changes. Himura had said that when he had visited the Kamiya dojo. Misao's changed. She's no longer a child Aoshi. Look at her. Beautiful. Sweet.
She's no longer a child.
He felt his heart constrict at the sound of that. He liked Misao just the way she was. Always happy and carefree. At least until you came along and ruined her life. He thought bitterly. But he was slowly trying to pick up the little pieces. It was a slow process. And he wanted to take his time.
He was a little unsure and scared of what these changes would bring.
He could hear her laughter. The sound washed over him and he let himself smile. He would always smile for her. Even though it had always remained unspoken, he was aware of Misao's feeling for him. And his feelings for her too. It was just that...
"Aoshi-sama! Look!"
He hurried his steps and in two long strides he was beside Misao. She was pointing at the sparkling amber sea. He looked away. It reminded him of Battousai's eyes. He didn't need any reminders of his own foolishness. Instead, he turned and looked at her. At his Misao.
No matter how Aoshi tried to ignore the changes, it was right there, staring him at in the face. It wasn't just the physical change that enchanted him. It was also the change within her.
She was becoming a woman now. Not as graceful or subdued as the girls her age. But it was showing. Just a moment ago, when he had helped Misao up, the old Misao would have pushed him away and be stubborn and indignant, and tell him that she could do it, she can take care of herself. But no, she had clung to him, had look deep into his eyes. And he feared what she saw in them. He would not let her know how tortured he was that he couldn't hold her the way she needed him to. The way he wanted to.
She turned to face him and he could see the way her cheeks reddened at his obvious attention. He looked away fast. Not fast enough to notice the confused frown that passed across Misao's face.
Oh, good one Aoshi. She's growing up. She's already getting confused on a lot of things, go right ahead and mess up with her head.
"We should get going, it would be dark soon." He said, as usual, walking away. That's right, Shinamori, just walk away. Not the bravest thing to do, but it certainly helps a lot.
He tried very hard to convince himself.
KAORU
The pier around them was bustling with life. It didn't matter that it would be dark soon. Traders and tourists milled around the place. Small boys running around, little girls clutching at their parents. Everything around them seems so animated and excited.
Kaoru couldn't help but yawn. It had been such a tiring trip. Sanosuke, the moron got sick. And she thought having a certified doctor with them would help. Ha. Big laugh. She wound up taking care of Sanosuke. It wasn't really that bad taking care of Rooster Head, except for the occasional verbal tussle and name-calling, she ended up spending some time with him and enjoying herself. But still...
Even worst than Sano's flu was Kenshin and Megumi spending too much time together. Kaoru had been hoping to, well, she wasn't sure what exactly she was hoping, but it would have helped if Megumi, Sano and Kenshin were cooperating. She had planned this vacation so she can spend some time with Kenshin, work up the courage to tell him how she feels about him and then let him decide what to do.
Not happening.
She sighed again, closed her eyes and idly rubbed her temple with her hands.
"Tired?"
She turned, surprised to hear his voice. "No. I'm ok Kenshin." She immediately dropped her hand and made a show of excitement.
She failed miserably. "Just a head ache Kenshin. Don't get yourself so worked up. Head aches happen to normal people." She blabbered on. Kenshin smiled and startled her by reaching out and taking her hands.
"I'm sorry I can't do anything about it. We'll ask Megumi if she has any medications."
"I'm not asking you to do anything about it Kenshin." Kaoru said tightly. "Stop acting like I'm a toddler. I can take care of myself ok?"
"Arguing like a married couple that you are. Well, except of course you're not married, so that makes it kinda confusing doesn't it Jou-chan" Sano said walking up towards them with a several bags hauled over his shoulder.
Kaoru rolled her eyes. "You do realize that what you said absolutely made no sense."
Sano gave her a charmed smile, "Sure did." Sano glance down at Kenshin and Kaoru's joined hand. He let out a smirk. "Was going to ask you to help with the baggage Kenshin, but I guess you have your hands full."
Face burning, Kaoru instinctively tighten her hands to ball up a fist. Except that only the left hand cooperated. She stiffened when she realized that she had just tighten her grip on Kenshin's hand. Would he drop my hand? She looked down at her feet, embarrassed, but pleased that Kenshin's grasp remained and he squeezed back.
"Yup. Just what I thought. Well, have you two seen where Kitsune ran off too?"
As always, Kenshin explained. "She said she's just going to buy something, for Misao and the rest. It's only polite that guests give something...."
"You're too polite Himura."
They all turned towards the voice.
"Misao-chan!" Kaoru squealed. She ran over to Misao and hugged her.
"Kaoru-chan!" Misao returned the hug.
The boys were less than affectionate with their greeting.
"Aoshi." Kenshin nodded.
"Himura." Aoshi nodded back.
"Shinamori." Sano grunted.
"Sagara." Aoshi said, just as coldly.
"My, my, aren't we all a little friendly with each other." Megumi said walking in between the boys. She turned towards Misao, "Weasel girl."
Aoshi stiffened slightly.
"Kitsune-chan."
They smiled at each other and hugged. Then Megumi faced Aoshi, her smile was a little tight, but it was a smile nonetheless. "Aoshi-san."
"Megumi." Aoshi greeted, with a little hint of uneasiness in his voce.
Kaoru rolled her eyes again. She glared at Sano who shrugged at her. Kaoru disentangled herself from Misao and approached Aoshi. "Aoshi! How have you been? Nice of you to join Misao in welcoming us."
Aoshi nodded curtly.
Sano barely held his laughter in check. He coughed and cleared his throat when Kenshin shot him a look.
Kaoru wasn't going to give up. "Well, let's get going shall we?" She smiled at Kenshin and then took Misao's hand as they lead the group.
"Dinner's already served, right Weasel girl?" Sano asked from behind.
"And I missed you too, Rooster Head Punk!" Misao returned, giggling.
Kaoru caught Aoshi frowning. Take note of that, might make Misao happy to know that it bothers Aoshi that Misao and Sano are all chummy.
"This is going to be the best vacation ever!" Misao announced, laughing merrily.
Kaoru wished so too.
KENSHIN
The three girls led the way. They were chatting up a storm. He could catch a few of their words and he smiled at such mundane topics that obviously held their attentions. Once in a while they would start giggling and it certainly helped eased some of the tired muscles in his body. It was getting dark, but he could navigate fairly well, so did Aoshi and Sano. He kept watch at the three girls though. Misao was flaked on the center. She had grown taller than the last time he saw her. She's got more curves too. Not as developed as Megumi though. Well, it would take time. And besides, she and Kaoru are meant to have a different body structure; after all, they are also trained warriors in a sense.
Kaoru. He smiled. He missed her a lot. They hadn't had much time to talk or just be together at the ship. He couldn't entirely blame the whole thing at Sano. He just wished he had spent more time with her.
Except that, remember, Kenshin, you planned on staying on a safe distant away from Kaoru?
Kenshin bit out a groan. Yes, I remember annoying self, he thought. And he meant to do just that.
Yeah, taking her hand and fussing all over her does the trick, doesn't it Kenshin?
Stop! This has got to stop, Kenshin angrily thought. He was not going to have a conversation with himself. He glanced longingly at Kaoru, Misao and Megumi. He wondered briefly if he could join their conversation. But scratched the idea immediately. First, because they were obviously talking about girl stuff, it would be rude to interrupt. Second, Sano would tease him endless if he run over to the girls and joined in their discussion of which colored obi looked better with purple kimonos. He glanced at Sano and Aoshi.
The three of them on the other hand were as silent as an old cemetery. Probably not the best analogy, Kenshin thought grimacing.
"You ok, Kenshin?" Sano asked him.
Kenshin nodded. He turned at Aoshi. Hmm, another challenge for Battousai. What to say to get a reaction from Shinamori. "So, how is everyone at the Aioya?"
"Fine."
Silence.
Kenshin cleared his throat.
Sano coughed. His usual cover up for a snicker.
Kenshin shot Sano a look. Sano smiled and made rude hand gestures. He obviously had the same challenge in mind. Kenshin shook his head, embarrassed. He was not going to ask Aoshi *that*.
Sano rolled his eyes.
And their silent walk continued on.
SANO
Man, this sucked thrice than their trip. He could almost fall asleep. It was nice and all to have a walk, especially when he saw the view of the ocean from up here, but now that it was dark, mosquitoes were feeding on his dear precious, rare blood. "How long does it take to arrive at the Aoiya?" He asked no one in particular. He heaved the bags over his shoulder. Kenshin, for his worth, has taken his and Kaoru's bag. But Megumi's bag was a lot heavier than he expected.
"We'll be there Sano. It's just a few more minutes." Misao answered him.
"Man, I'm hungry." He complained.
"You're always are." He heard Megumi said.
"I heard that!" He accused her, letting his irritation drip into his voice.
"I meant for you to hear it, baka!" Megumi screamed into the night.
Sano cringed. And as he noticed, so did everyone. "Heard that too." He mumbled. "What's up with your bag anyway? Did you bring your whole clinic or what?"
"It's a girl thing Sano. You wouldn't understand. The only piece of clothing that you have would be the one you're already wearing."
"That's not true! I have my *other* jackets, they just look the same!" He answered indignantly.
"Sure they do." Megumi answered, fox ears and all.
Sano shook his head in disgust. Women. "Hey, Shinamori, what's up with this Autumn Celebration anyway?" Sano asked. "Do we go to some sort of festival or something?"
"No."
"So, um, what exactly do we do?" Sano asked again.
"We have fun. We eat, we go out, see places and then go shopping." Kaoru answered her voice back to her usual animated self.
He was glad that she wasn't feeling bad anymore, but that was the girls' idea of fun, not his. "Yeah, that's your activity. But what about us?"
"What about us?" Kenshin asked, his violet eyes confused.
"You know, um, men stuff, like..." His eyes brightened, "gambling houses. Hey, Shinamori any gambling house you know of?" He said a little too cheerfully, he hadn't meant to sound too exited, but what the hell. He was kinda excited about this trip. After surviving the flu from hell, he had high hopes for this vacation. It should be at least fun for him.
"No." Aoshi said. Clearly his most favorite word.
"No huh? Well, there's always the...Sake house." That got his mind working, he turned at Kenshin, "I bet if we raid your Shishou's cabin we can get a lifetime supply of sake. Get us both dead drunk! Whaddya say?"
Kenshin looked horrified. "Sano!"
"I know! Hey, Shinamori, any Geisha house?"
"No."
"Damn!"
MEGUMI
Geisha house? Had she heard Sano right? She strained to hear what the guys were talking about, but they were silent now. Megumi shook her head. Whatever Sano was planning to do with his life, it was none of her business. She should not care.
She turned towards Misao. "There are plenty of Geisha houses here in Kyoto, right Misao?" She asked and then mentally kicked herself.
Misao frowned. "Ugh, yeah. There's actually a section in town where those Geisha's live. Why are you interested Megumi?" Misao asked, her frown deepening.
"Ugh, nothing." Foxy laughter. "Ugh, just curious you know. Those Geisha's are everywhere aren't they." Another batch of foxy laughter.
Misao nodded politely.
Get a hold of yourself Megumi! She took a deep breath. "So, Misao, I see you're starting to get some curves." She said, deftly changing the topic. Although with the mention of curves, she immediately thought of the curvaceous Geisha that Sano said he used to be 'acquainted' with. Not that she actually believed him or anything.
Misao blushed. "I am? Wow! I never really noticed." She seemed delighted by this discovery.
"You wouldn't if you keep wearing those silly uniforms of yours. It shows off the thigh and legs, but the not exactly the shape of your waist." Megumi sighed. "You're just as bad as Kaoru when it comes to fashion."
"Excuse me?" Kaoru screeched.
From the corner of Megumi's eyes she saw a curious movement from the men as they all half lurched forward towards them then stopped dead in their tracks. Megumi wondered if it was second nature to them to be overly protective or just be nosy.
Megumi scoffed. Men. She turned at a glaring Kaoru and Misao. Girls. She scoffed at them too. "It's true. You two should both learn how important it is to dress up, unless you want to be mistaken for young adolescent boys every once in a while."
Misao and Kaoru growled.
"Oh right. And we wouldn't want to be mistaken as brothel girls once in a while too." Kaoru sneered.
Tension crackled in the silent night.
"Its the Aioya de gozaru!" Kenshin immediately screeched out of nowhere.
The tension eased up a bit as the women gave each other one last slighted look. Megumi smiled. Ah, at last. A nice dinner and then a warm bath. It would do her a lot of good. It may actually help her calm her annoyance over...well, over stuff...
"Wow! Okina really did it this time." Kaoru breathed.
Megumi and Misao turned to look at the Aioya. The colored streamers were nicely put by the doorframe and Sano liked the orange and red colors surrounding them. Misao had done a great deal of decorations herself, a bunch of 'newly' shed leaves flew gracefully across the lawn and highlighted the beauty of the garden. And there were possibly hundreds of little lanterns lighting up the whole lot. There were lamps on trees and on every post of the house.
"Ahhhh! It's too bright! I'm blinded by the light!" Sano joked. Megumi glared at him, for no reason at all. Sano smiled back.
Misao giggled. From here she could hear the bustling excitement inside. She sniffed he air and smelled the familiar smells of the different food specialties being cooked and served. Okina obviously had wanted to impress the group from Tokyo. "Come on in you guys. I bet the food is already served." She beamed at her guests and smiled widely at Aoshi, who for his part gave her a slight nod. Not exactly the answer to an enthusiastic smile, but it was better than nothing. She sighed.
"Yatta!" Sano said half running towards the Aioya. He passed between Misao and Kaoru and took their hands, dragging them towards the house. "Food!"
Megumi, Aoshi and Kenshin stood and stared as the three disappeared through the door. A sharp, cold wind passed them.
Megumi sighed. Things are bound to get interesting now that they are all here. Oh, she couldn't wait.