Freedom
Chapter 14
The Trouble Maker
By, DarkKishi

~*~*~*~*~

Moshimo kiseki wo hitotsu okoseru to iu nara
Kono isshun wo e no naka ni tojikome
Kawaru jidai no sawagashisa nante shirazu ni
Tada anata dake mitsumetai

~*~*~*~*~

Kenshin, Kaoru, and Sano walked in the new apartment with some of the new things they'd bought when they found some furniture in the living room. It was all the things that hadn't been wrecked form Kaoru's apartment.

Kaoru slowly walked over to the pile and found an envelope taped to the headboard of the bed with Ms. Kamiya Kaoru', printed on it. She pulled it off and opened only to find some money. It was what was left of her reward money after shopping for groceries and putting the rest in the bank. She sighed before closing the envelope and placing it in her coat pocket.

Anything important? Sano asked once she turned back around.

No, just the money I left at my other apartment. She explained

Kenshin and Sano nodded when the phone rang. Kenshin walked over to it and answered with a simple , thinking it was Mr. Toyogawa.

Um excuse me, but may I please speak with a Mr. or Mrs. Himura? A female voice asked somewhat taken aback by the uncustomary greeting.

Kenshin felt a small smile cross his face at the assumption of him being married. This is Mr. Himura. What can I do for you?

This is Myoujin Yahiko's school. It is our understanding that he is staying with you. She responded.

Um, yes that's right. Is something wrong? Kenshin asked.

Well, we have had a problem arise and you are requested to come to the principals office right away. With that the line went dead.

Kenshin let out a sigh before hanging up the phone. Well I have to go down to the school. Something happened with Yahiko.

You mean he got in trouble on the first day? Sano asked. When Kenshin nodded Sano's eyes widened. Wow. Come on Missy, let's tag along.

Kaoru nodded with a large grin before they both turned to Kenshin, asking his permission.

Kenshin once again let out a sigh. Yea, I guess were all his family, right?

~*~*~*~*~

Kenshin walked up to the secretary at Yahiko's school with Kaoru and Sanosuke trailing behind. Excuse me, but I just got a call requesting I come down.

Oh are you Mr. Himura? The woman asked as she looked up from her papers. Kenshin only nodded as she looked behind him. Excuse me, but it's a family matter. She said in reference to Sano.

Oh, This is his...uh...therapist. Kenshin lied.

Yes hello. I'm Dr. Sagara Sanosuke. Sano said extending his hand.
The woman gave a skeptical look before excepting it. She then noticed Kaoru standing behind the two. Well, you must be Mrs. Himura, then.

Kaoru looked to Kenshin for reassurance and only got a shrug. She turned back to the other woman and grinned. Yes ma'am.

Well then, why don't we get in there. Yahiko is already in there. The woman said as she got to her feet and began to lead the group to a door. She knocked and then opened the door when she got her reply. Sir they're here. She gestured to the group as they stepped in. This is Mr. and Mrs. Himura. Yahiko giggled a little before catching the glare from Kaoru, but the woman just kept speaking. And this is Yahiko's therapist, Dr. Sagara Sanosuke.

That really made Yahiko laugh, but he tried to stifle it this time at least.
The principal nodded and then gestured for them all to take a seat. Yahiko and Kaoru sat on the couch at the back of the room while Kenshin and Sano sat at the desk.

Sano struggled for the longest time trying to settle in to a position that he thought a therapist would sit in. Finally, he decided to sit with one leg propped on the other and his finger tips pressed together to form a triangle, under his nose.

Well, now that everyone is comfortable, I have some upsetting news. The principle began. Yahiko and another boy got into a fight. Luckily a teacher was able to end the fight, but since fighting is absolutely unexceptible, then we have to suspend Yahiko for a couple of days.

Sano turned around with a wide grin. Wow. Sure didn't take you long to show them who's who. He even punched one hand into the other to emphasize the words who's who'.

Dr. Sagara, I'm sure you realize how big of a problem this is. The principal said.

Oh, yes, yes. Sano tried to cover. I think we should discuss this more at our next appointment. He said in a low tone to Yahiko.

Kenshin got to his feet and walked over to the couch. He then sat down next to Kaoru and looked across her at Yahiko. Only one word left his lips, but that was all that was needed.

Yahiko stared back at him for sometime before looking away, almost in shame. Honor. I hit him for my honor. I did what you said Kenshin. I made the decision to tell the truth. Some of the kids looked scared when I told them. So I said that I now lived with you and that you'd already saved Kaoru from gangs. They asked if I had a really hard time and I said yes, but not compared to Kaoru. The boy I hit said that his father worked for the police and he said that there was no excuse. A person is a thief and will always be a thief. I told him it wasn't true. I said that Kaoru and I were forced. I said that Kaoru's gang even went as far as to try and shield her from any knowledge of what it was like to be free. That's why she can't read.

Kaoru turned to Kenshin when she heard this. I never even thought of that.

I figured that was why once you told me that he was manipulative. Kenshin explained and then turned back to Yahiko.

He said that we were just a big family of lawbreaking idiots and should all be put in jail. Everyone started laughing so I... Yahiko got to his feet and began to raise his voice. So I hit him. I hit him hard too. I had to protect my honor and Kaoru's!

Sano and Kaoru just stared at him while Kenshin kept his eyes to the ground with a solemn look. The principal began to talk, but Kenshin's smooth voice stopped him. Kenshin slowly spoke and leveled his gave to Yahiko. I guess I must thank you for protecting Miss Kaoru's honor.

Kaoru was so surprised at Kenshin's comment, as well as everyone else, that she turned her gaze to him.

Kenshin looked at her for only a second before looking to Yahiko. People for the longest time have decided that the best way to gain respect from another is by being someone that they feel open to. Even I have decided that, that logic was better than my old. Believe me, I was the most feared person at one time, but for ten years I have struggled to be the person I am now. All though I now see that your logic is far more proven then mine. The best way to handle a person is by force. Sooner or later people will never even dare bother you, in case they ruffle your honor. Kenshin paused and let a smile pass as he saw the look on Yahiko's face. But then again, I know that ten years ago I was a very lonely and depressed person. If I'd gone on in my way, I never would have looked twice at you Yahiko. For that matter, when Miss Kaoru stepped into my apartment, I'm afraid, that she would not be at my side at this time.

Everyone, but the principle knew that he meant Kaoru would have been killed.

I didn't think of that. Yahiko admitted as he took his seat again.

Kenshin smiled and knew there was no reason to press the subject. He wouldn't try and bully someone again. Sir, as you can decipher, life has been a little out of the ordinary for Yahiko. Miss Kaoru is not really my wife, but a woman trying to run from a very abusive past. Yahiko is living with me because he deserves a better chance at life. Dr. Sagara is no doctor. He is my friend and someone who helps protect Yahiko and Miss Kaoru. Kenshin paused and assessed the faces before continuing. I understand your policy for fighting, but given the unique situation, could there not be another means of punishment?

The principle thought before nodding. As long as Yahiko promises to be on better behavior from now on.

Yes sir. Yahiko said.

Ok. Then tomorrow your teachers will send home extra work for you. It will be for the rest of this week and I expect it to be turned in on time. Understood?

Yahiko nodded solemnly before Kenshin got to his feet followed by everyone else. Thank you sure and I'm sure Yahiko will not be seeing this office anytime soon. With that Kaoru, Sano and finally Yahiko, followed Kenshin out of the room.

~*~*~*~*~

The rest of the day was a quiet one. Kenshin ordered Yahiko to go directly to his room and work on his homework while he, Kaoru, and Sano moved the furniture into their rooms. Everyone slept in their new rooms and the next morning Kenshin made sure Yahiko was at school on time, even though Yahiko complained that he was going to be there before everyone else.

Kaoru woke up at around ten that morning and wasn't surprised to find Kenshin at the stove. Good morning Kenshin. She said in a cheery voice.

He turned to look at her and smiled. Good morning Miss Kaoru. I was hoping that you'd wake up soon.

She asked.

Yea, I need to go to the store and didn't want to leave you here alone. He told her.

Okay, but can I eat first? She sat down at the table and asked with pleading eyes.

Of coarse Miss Kaoru. Kenshin quickly brought her food to her.

~*~*~*~*~

Kaoru followed Kenshin up one aisle and down the other of the grocery store, her eyes wide in amazement. They hadn't been there long at all before Kenshin had boxes and bags in his basket.

Kenshin slowed down until Kaoru and he were walking side by side. Miss Kaoru, is there anything special that you'd like to get?

Something special? She repeated.

Yes, like ice cream, a pastry, a certain type of sushi, anything. Kenshin told her.

Kaoru stood there thinking with her arms folded over her chest. I remember getting ice cream when I was little.

Then ice cream it is. Follow me and we can pick it out. Kenshin said and began to walk down the aisle until they came to one that was oddly colder than the others. After some time they decided on the ice cream and Kaoru even picked out some toppings.

After Kenshin got everything else that they would need, the two hurried home.

~*~*~*~*~

Once home Kaoru helped Kenshin put away the groceries, except for the ice cream and toppings. Miss Kaoru, it will melt if left out. Kenshin told her.

Can't we have some now? Kaoru asked.

I guess it wouldn't hurt. He said with a large smile. He got out two bowls and a scooper. Kaoru watched intently as he scooped the ice cream into their bowls and then he began to put the different toppings on. Kenshin laughed as she jumped because the whip cream can startled her.

It's not funny. She told him sourly.

Kenshin smiled at her. I am sorry Miss Kaoru it's just that you look so cute right now. Kenshin said before he even thought the words. Instinctually Kenshin put his hand behind his head and blushed a bright red. Oro. I have become to forward. Kenshin said. He then picked up his bowl and began to walk away.

Kaoru followed him, leaving her bowl on the counter. She said as she sat down next to him on the couch. Do you really think I'm cute?

Kenshin snapped his gaze to her and allowed his eyes to become wide. He thought before finally shacking his head.

Kaoru gave him a shocked look before her eyes got sad. I just thought you meant it.

No, I don't think your cute. He told Kaoru again. Before she could say anything, Kenshin put his bowl on the table and grabbed her hand. I think your beautiful.

Kaoru stared at him stunned before lunging forward. Oh Kenshin!

Kenshin was so shocked by her actions that he fell flat on his back with Kaoru on top of him, her hands wrapped around his neck. Miss Kaoru?

Kaoru looked into his eyes and smiled. Slowly a blush began to spread onto her face.

Miss Kaoru, I-I... Kenshin tried to say the words that so desperately needed to be said, but he couldn't. He gently held her chin with his thumb and pointer finger. Slowly, he pulled it towards him, coaxing her lips to his. Finally it was success and Kaoru's lips were upon his own. The kiss was slow and soft, but soon it picked up speed as well as intensity.

Kaoru was lost in the world that had been awoken by Kenshin. After sometime she felt Kenshin begin to pull away and regretfully, so did she. She stared deeply into his eyes and only until she found herself gasping did she realize that she was out of breath. She felt his hand on her head and obliged to its coaxing. Slowly she laid her head on his chest. Kaoru smiled at the fact that she could hear his heart beat, feel his chest moving up and down, and smell his intoxicating scent. She knew the smell mostly because it was on the yukata that she kept, but she didn't know the name to express it. She could feel his fingers running through her hair and her smile grew.

Miss Kaoru I know I'm not good enough to be with some one like you, but I love you. Kenshin paused when Kaoru looked up at him. When I was told that you were leaving something broke. When you did move out, I couldn't sleep. The apartment felt empty. Finally when you were taken they locked me in the cell because Sano and Mr. Toyogawa knew how dangerous I become when upset. I thought I'd let you down and that I was hopeless. I didn't sleep until you were back with me and safe.

Kaoru just stared at him and watched as shame cross his features. Even with all that said and you still find yourself unworthy. Doesn't every woman dream of a man who thinks the world of them. My father told me that you know it's meant to be when you only feel like a living whole person when the other is with you. Kaoru smiled and laid her head back on Kenshin's chest when she saw him nod. I feel empty with out you around too. Himura Kenshin, I love you. She told him with such finality.

And I you Miss Kaoru. Kenshin whispered before he kissed the top of her head.

~*~*~*~*~

Kenshin reluctantly got up from under Kaoru, who was still asleep, and opened the door. Yahiko strolled in and peeked over his books. Good after noon Yahiko. He whispered.

Look what you've done to me! I'll never get this done! Yahiko complained.

Shh Yahiko. Miss Kaoru is asleep on the couch. He told him. Why don't you start all that work before dinner. Kenshin smirked as Yahiko stomped off to his room before walking over to the couch where Kaoru laid. She now laid on her side with her hair recklessly shielding her face. Kenshin sat down in front of her stomach and brushed the hair out of her face. He saw that the wound on her had from a while ago hadn't completely healed yet. He then began to wonder how many scars she had before remembering that they had just kissed earlier. I'm so lucky. he whispered.

If you're lucky, then I'm blessed. Kaoru whispered.

Kenshin looked down at her and smiled. Yahiko just got home.

That's nice. I think I'm going to take a shower. Kaoru said as she began to get up.

Kenshin stayed on the couch and watched as she disappeared down the hall.

Kenshin. Could you come here? Kaoru called from the bedroom.

Kenshin got up and walked to the room at the end of the hall. What is it Miss Kaoru? He asked once he entered the room.

Can we take these clothes back? Kaoru said holding up a pile.

Sure, but where did you get them? Kenshin asked.

Kaoru looked down at them before stuffing them all in a back pack. I stole them when I was kidnapped, but I was caught. The owner let me have them any ways.

Kenshin walked over to her and grabbed the bag. We'll take them first thing tomorrow.

Can't we take them now? Kaoru smiled when he gave her an odd look. I just want to get rid of everything reminding me of that life.

Kenshin sighed and let out a smile pass over his features. Fine. Yahiko, Miss Kaoru and I are going out for a little while! He called out.

~*~*~*~*~

Translation~
Natsu no E (Picture of Summer), Rurouni Kenshin,
Kenshin and Kaoru Image Song

Moshimo kiseki wo hitotsu okoseru to iu nara
Kono isshun wo e no naka ni tojikome
Kawaru jidai no sawagashisa nante shirazu ni
Tada anata dake mitsumetai

If I could cause just one miracle
It would be trapping this moment in a picture
Not knowing the noise of a changing era
I just want to stare at only you.

A.N.~
Oh my! Finally the first kiss! I really liked this chapter and I hope ya'll did too. I didn't get that many responses about the rating of this story, so before I make my decision then I will wait for more answers. Also, thank you everyone who said that they'd draw me some art! I really appreciate it! If you have the time, then please visit my web site and sign the guest book, I am really proud of it.

For the Reviewers~

Inuyasha~ Okay i rated this story R because I was unsure if that some of the scenes might be to much for a Pg-13. I can tell you that before this story ends that there will be a much more um... graphic scene of abuse that Kaoru will have to endure. I also know that people have a lot of trouble with abuse and I was unsure how some would react to this. I am willing to change it to a Pg-13 and am currently having a vote on that. What do you think?

slayer chick~ there is nothing better than a broken heater, ne? Thank you so much for offering to do some art. I'm so happy! Just have fun and I'll wait for ever!

Izi~ Lame is good! Thank you for all the complements!

Kenshin-gotenks~ Thank you, and I love it when authors update on a regular basis. It gives me something to rely on! ^_^

Angle1~ Thank you for voting about the rating. I think Kaoru is a little unsure about everything at the moment. Life has been so confusing for her. In the beginning her main focus was obtaining freedom, but who couldn't resist Kenshin? Not me!!!!

Inuyasha~ I thought that it was cute to. I just love that whole scene! I just thought it was so beautiful!

ABC~ Yippee!^_^

Crystal Renee~ Don't worry, the love bug is only good when you're dating someone. For me it stinks because you see all the love birds being all cute and then I go home for some peace, but no, even my story is hit by the love bug. Thank you for offering to draw some art. believe me, I'm the same way when it comes to my art. Also, there is nothing particular that you need to draw. Just a scene or anything that you like a whole lot! I loved the whole hand holding scene also!

mitenshi~ Oh goody! I thought so hard to write the best summary. Also, I'm so happy that you are enjoying the story.

BillabongBob~ Actually i did know the meanings of the names. While the show was being aired on cartoon network during Toonami, my cable got disconnected so i resorted to reading everything I could on the web about the show, until we ot the money to get cable again. You have no idea how many different web sites I've been to! Heehee.

aglaia102~ Have no fear chapter fourteen is here! Hahahaha! ^_^

In My Head~
I'm so happy now! I just got Shonen Jump with the sneak preview of Rurouni Kenshin! It says that Rurouni Kenshin, volume 1 will come out on Nov. 10th! I'd say more, but I have a headache and I need to start making my wish list for christmas and my birthday. Mou, I hate making wish lists, because I feel so selfish, but mom told me that I had too.

Dark Kishi,
PLEASE REVIEW! I LOVE THEM ALL!!!!
There are no bad reviews, only unwritten ones!

We Walk In Shadows
One Step At A Time
Until That Day
We Can Cross The Line.