"You invited me to a major holiday and spend time with people close to you; it's my turn to extend the invite."
"Are you sure? You don't mind having me for something so important?"
"It's not THAT important. But even if it was, I'd feel better having you to share it with. Do you think I'd celebrate the New Year's without you? I want to get my western kiss in too."
"Alright. What do you want me to pack?"
She made sure to get Saturday off at the hotel, but didn't have to worry about Coffee Works, since Charlie gave it to her.
She had all day Friday to spend with him and had him pick her up as early as possible in the morning. She was excited to spend their first New Year's together. They were ticking off major and some minor holidays of both western and Buddhist nature the longer they were together.
She marveled at that and thinking back to the first time they met, having to pull out letters since she forgot the exact date, put them around the beginning of July almost two years ago.
That was mere friendship back then; when they did the whole pen pal routine. She calculated their dating from that first kiss at the end of March last year.
It didn't seem like it'd been that long... a year and five months since they became friends and nine months since they dated. So much happened in those nine months with Kagome and Inuyasha that it blew her mind how she survived. Not even some of her class loads were so hard to tackle!
If this was the end result of everything they went through, she was happy to've gone through the trials and errors, every hardship and horrible emotion to get to this point. This feeling of deep love and happiness couldn't be fought against. She was caught every time she thought of Inaki, saw his face, was in his arms, kissed him...
But if she knew she'd end up helping clean the outside dojo with him, she might've asked to be picked up later.
"Mou, I already did that pillar." She piped up, leaning back from her work of the other front porch support beam.
He stepped back and circled the piece of thick wood, taking in the job and giving it a critical eye. "Are you sure? I don't see enough polish on this thing for my tastes. I almost didn't think there was any on this to begin with."
She resisted slapping the dirty, oily rag over his head. "That's because you overdue everything." She airily answered, turning back to her work. Her hand pressed against the beam, rubbing in polish that would last until its next cleaning in a few months. "You're going to warp the wood if you aren't careful."
He sniffed and put some polish on his rag - mostly to get her goat - and redid the job she already finished. "I've been cleaning this thing since I started practicing here and jiisan and tousan taught me how. I know what I'm doing."
She turned around to retort and the words died at seeing him go over what she completed not even ten minutes ago. "Anata!" She grit out, clenching the rag. "I. Just. CLEANED that!"
He grimaced at her wrath, stepping back with hands in the air as if to ward her off. "Hai hai. But I want to go over it again just for peace of mind."
She scowled and looked to the interior, feeling a little disappointed he didn't take her word and trust she could help. "Mou...what am I even bothering for??"
A hand whipped out as she made to leave and gripped as she tried to jar herself free. "Because I asked you for help." He dropped the rag and tugged her a little closer. "I know you wanted to spend time with me, but you also learned from your new memories that we have to get the whole place cleaned before New Year's. If I knew you didn't want to help, I wouldn't have asked you."
She looked away, lower lip still jutted out. "Tadashii...demo - "
He leaned forward and kissed the cheek facing him. "If it'll make you feel better, I'll take the outer walls and let you finish the porch."
Deadpan brown looked back. "WITHOUT going over it again?"
A sheepish smile appeared, but he nodded. "Aa, without saying a word except praise for a good job."
She stared for a second before giving a minute smile and stepping back. He let her go and retrieved his rag, grabbed the bottle nearby, and headed to the side.
Black swished, but she resolved to let it go and get things done. They finished the interior together and this was all that was left. The sun was almost directly overhead and she wanted to finish before lunch. She might not be so energetic after good food to come back for more exertion. A grin appeared as she poured polish on her rag and got back to work.
It was a good feeling to be so productive and she WAS glad Inaki asked her aid. This certainly was much different than any work around the house or the hotel.
She knew one reason she was partially excited to do such medial tasks of cleaning and scrubbing was due to acquired knowledge about this holiday. The Japanese celebration definitely beat western any day and she was glad to be apart of this year's.
She was eager and anxious for tonight. There was a Bonenkai at the start of sunset and the whole neighborhood was invited. She heard from Jayden they had one the beginning of last week and wanted to end the year with a party. Also, they were having a Shinnenkai to ring in the New Year tomorrow night.
She wanted to help cook, now that she knew of the dishes for the festival, but was told all the women would be helping and there might not be enough walking room. All the men were ordered to keep out of the kitchen as much as possible to stay out of their way, but there was enough to do for them with repairs and cleaning, so no one was worried.
Jayden offered to let her wear another furisode for tonight and tomorrow. The girl promised they'd be different so no one would think she only owned one or didn't have extra to change into. It made her wonder just how many Inaki's sister had!
She wondered what kind of outfit she would get to borrow. Whatever it was, she knew it would be as beautiful as the last one she wore. A wry grin appeared at the thought of putting one on. Wouldn't Jayden's jaw drop when she showed off newly acquired skills without needing to be shown! It was going to be amusing to any degree, given that tying an obi took a while and if she could do it by herself, Jayden was going to wonder just where she took lessons.
Lunch was nice, except they had to find an extra zabuton and squeeze to make room for her. She hadn't eaten with the Yamois in so long it was almost strange to. Having the inside track to every minute custom, even as small as the proper way to hold and pick up chopsticks, made her feel like a different person. Sure she was, but she resolved to be more her...with a little use to Kagome's emotions.
They were a little surprised at how distinct she was with knowledge of every custom at the table. No one said anything, but she could see wonder and questions on their faces, and it was a fight to keep from laughing and even smiling at them.
She offered to help dust the basement and Inaki helped his father in tinkering with the heater to make sure everything was working smoothly like always. She thought it was cute that he wanted to be in the same room with her while they both had jobs to do; he didn't voice it and even though this was his home, he almost followed her around.
The women were busy getting cooking started and after a while, Jayden found her and mentioned they were the first to get dressed. She was pulled away from some of the dusting near the stairs, Inaki doing his workout area nearby, and easily dropped the rags and supplies on concrete to go wash her hands.
"I know just the outfit for you K-chan." Jayden gushed, dropping in front of her trunk.
She plopped on Inaki's bed to watch the girl pull out everything from the seemingly bottomless pit. "Just how much stuff DO you have in that thing??"
Jayden grinned and kept depositing geta, zouri, sensu, obiita, obimakura, koshihimo, juban, datejime, and obi onto the bed. "If you're implying I have a hole drilled through this and the floor, think again."
She giggled, but held hands in the air. "Never thought such a thing. It just occurred to me when I wondered what you would graciously loan me this time that you had a lot of furisode."
Jayden paused and leaned back on her heels, idly staring at an obi resting in her lap. "Ee... Well...I won't have much use for them soon."
She blinked, watching a smile slowly blossom on the woman's face before brown widened. She jumped up with a squeal, hands clapping in excitement. She gave Jayden a startle, but the woman recovered and continued rooting for their outfits. "Ah! When's the date? I never heard Inaki say anything about it - the baka." She fell to Jayden's side and rested hand on shoulder. "So when did it happen? How did it happen? Ne??"
Jayden paused and shifted to face her. A hand rose and showed off a silver and gold entwined ring. There were two tiny stones on them of different colors. "Koishii proposed while you two were in Tokyo. He wanted to give it to me for a Christmas present, even if we don't celebrate the holiday. He said he talked to tousan about it before making it public. I don't think Inaki remembered to tell you. This is my birthstone and the other is his."
"Wai...that is so romantic!" She beamed and peered close, not touching the ring while not invited to. "So have you two figured out a set date?"
Jayden nodded, taking her hand back. "We agreed on spring, while it's not so hot. We want it outside and he doesn't really want to wait. It was either that or autumn."
"I can imagine. You two have been dating for years haven't you?"
"It'll be almost five years. I was hoping he'd ask me sometime by this upcoming year; I'm just glad I got my wish."
She leaned over to hug the girl, still grinning. "Wai! Congratulations Jayden-chan! I know you'll be so happy - you two look good together and you're so cute too."
Jayden chuckled, returning the embrace. "Thanks. Now...how bout we get dressed, ne?"
"Un." She headed for Jayden's bed, looking at all the things on it. She grabbed two pair of everything they'd need, leaving the obi because she didn't know what color she'd need. There were half a dozen there before Jayden started carefully piling the main articles over everything.
"I think this'll be good. You want to start the New Year out right and this color is just the trick."
It was definitely red, that was certain. Beautiful, gold, silk thread forming chrysanthemums and smaller flowers, while white-stitched cranes flew around. The pattern was the same, but it was so beautiful. "Kirei..." She breathed, reaching out to touch fabric.
Jayden grinned and reached inside again. "I knew you'd like it." An obi of gold background with orange and white lines decorated its front. "This'll do for the rest. I just need to get you a kanzashi and you're all set."
She held the obi and ran fingertips over it, pleased that Jayden always took great pains to make her look lovely. "Doomo arigatou Jayden-chan for your thoughtfulness." She murmured, blinking back tears. It was almost like having an older sister in a way, though this was different than her relationship with Sam. This was a more mature sister-like bond.
Brown met brown. "You're welcome." The woman's brow furrowed in thought at something just occurring to her. "You must divulge where you learned such fluent Japanese. You've been using words and phrases all day long. You must've picked up a lot in Tokyo, didn't you?"
She gave a sheepish laugh. "Ah well...I picked it up quite easily in the past few months. I heard a lot of it around Inaki and...well, it was easy to learn by ear I guess."
She felt kind of bad for mildly lying to Jayden, but even if the family was Buddhist, logic dictated that she would be nuts if she started telling of her reincarnation.
Jayden hummed as she dug for her things. The girl pulled out a deep purple furisode with detailed towers and bridges. Cherry blossoms and trees added to the majesty of the thing. A monochromatic goldish obi completed the picture, intricate patterns of clouds and carriages to finish the city-like scene.
Jayden handed her a juban and without thinking, she stripped and slipped arms through sleeves. She crossed both sides and was reaching for a datejime without undoing everything when she caught sight of Jayden. The woman was looking at her with a mix of surprise, confusion, amusement, and awe. She mentally panicked a degree, trying to formulate an explanation without going into the reincarnation thing. They agreed the whole issue was between them and weren't going to tell either friend or family.
"Ah...I - uh - "
"You sure seem to pick things up rather quickly K-chan. I'm amazed at your comprehension."
She grinned and continued tying the cloth and stuck edges inside the front. "I do my best." She kidded, reaching for her furisode.
"Then you don't need help with the rest of your clothes?"
Black idly swished as she started measuring the excess to go around her waist. "I'll need your help for the obi. Now that I know how to tie one without being a doll, it should go faster for the both of us. Then we can get back to help, ne?"
"Well, I wouldn't mind taking a break..."
She laughed and started tying koshihimo to keep the front closed to work with. She grabbed another datejime and finished off half of the job, taking a minute to survey her first solo piece in the mirror.
It wasn't too bad. The red was definitely bright enough and she knew Inaki would have no trouble finding her throughout the night. It was a beautiful piece, and she was glad and proud to wear it.
She mentally noted how alike Kagome she looked in this thing, but that wasn't a bad thing. Kagome was rather beautiful and she was beginning to accept more of her looks due to the rest of her emotions now hers. She felt very feminine in this and twirled the lengthy sleeves in childlike glee.
Her head shook before moving on to get the obi taken care of. That was going to take the longest and even if she knew how to do a simple box back, it would be faster if Jayden could help.
She grabbed an obiita and secured the clasps. Jayden was right there when she started wrapping the lengthy material and together they had up to the obimakura. She slid that on while Jayden held the back together before proceeding. They wound an obiage around the obi and she quickly tied it a temporary bowtie over her chest. This was much easier without having koshihimo to worry about and in no time, Jayden was threading an obijime through the obi box. She quickly tied the thread and secured the loose ends, finishing with the obiage and stuffing that inside the obi.
"Ah...tsuini owatta..." She mumbled, flexing fingers and stretching arms.
Jayden chuckled and together the two repeated the process after the second furisode was on. "I must say K-chan, we do look very nice."
She grinned and stood aside so they could both admire their handiwork in the mirror. "I definitely agree."
"Now for the kanzashi!"
"We're not done yet??" She nearly whined, wanting to plop on the bed. She only restrained herself with help from the obi's width, remembering how hard it was to sit or lean in these things.
"No, but you can sit for a while so I can fix your hair."
"You can just stick it in a ponytail for all I care. Inaki isn't going to mind with the rest of this on me." She grinned, but sat up for the woman to get better access to her mane.
"Part of the fun is to impress your man." Jayden nearly lectured, tapping a finger on her crown. "Besides, it's much more fun to render them speechless and rather silly-looking when they keep opening and closing their mouths."
She giggled. Brown closed in bliss at slender fingers combing her hair the way they needed. She remained lost for a while, vaguely pondering what her hair would look like before she pondered the kanzashi Jayden picked out. She inquired about it before it was handed over for inspection.
It was pretty. Two red fabric flowers with green ribbon and goldish wire at the top. She kept it upon instruction, but moved hands back to be makeshift clips while Jayden did something else with her hair. It was finally tied back and her arms dropped to grab the ornament. After securely deposited, Jayden tapped her and she stood.
"I have something special in mind, but I still need your help. I'll try and direct what I need from you, okay?"
"Hai."
She started out with a simple, loose ponytail at the crown of Jayden's head. The loose part underneath was separated into two sections, both limply twisted and stuffed above the ponytail holder and left free. Jayden's hands snaked back and undid some of the twist to let it hang open and give volume. The ponytail was twisted into a bun and tied, the kanzashi stuck just above the holder to keep the two sections from coming apart tonight.
She had to admit, the girl was original. "Did you take classes for this?" She wondered, searching for a mirror to see her own design.
Jayden stood and patted everything to make sure it was the way she wanted it. The woman snatched a hand-sized mirror and handed it over. "No, but I'd like to be a hair dresser. I feel I have the creativity for it...or at least interesting designs to go with these things."
"Very correct." She idly answered, trying to get the reflection just right.
Brown widened and her jaw dropped as she peered close, trying to catch details. Jayden took the chunks of hair normally resting over her ears and braided them along the back of her head to the center. They tied there and the rest hung wild, the kanzashi covering the tie in the center.
She beamed at the woman, resisting the urge to hug her and muss something. "It's beautiful! I love it - I absolutely love it!"
Jayden smiled and nodded in appreciation for the praise. "You have nice hair to work with." The woman smirked. "I almost think you my doll for the way I get to dress you up."
She looked down at the furisode, giggling. "I feel like it. But it's fun and I don't mind."
"Now for the finishing touch." Jayden handed over a pair of white tabi and the two sat to slip into them. Jayden carefully kneeled to put everything else away and she grabbed zouri for them to take downstairs. "We'll get slippers on down there. I don't have any in my room, but I wouldn't want my tabi to get too dirty."
She nodded and shut the lights off as Jayden passed. 'I wonder what Inaki is going to say this time.'
The last time she wore one of Jayden's furisode was in a transitioning period when Inaki started showing interest...and nearly kissed her. She couldn't believe it'd been so long since that happened and she wondered what he'd do this time. Now that he had free reign over her body, would he take advantage of how she looked and try something? It was a little hard with his entire family wandering around, but she still tingled thinking about it.
"Kaasan, we're finished. How is everything cooking? Did you start the soba dough yet?"
"Musume you look lovely. You too K-san."
Her head inclined with a smile, not wanting to bow with the obi restricting movement. "Thank you very much. I can't wait to see what you have as well. Everyone seems to have such beautiful clothes. They're almost like art." She stopped next to the woman, meeting her eyes. "Are you sure there isn't anything I can do to help?"
"Well your cleaning is done now with that on. If you don't mind, you could go decorate the front and back engawa with a few pieces we constructed yesterday."
"Hai." She beamed, glad to be able to do something more than just stand or sit around.
Mamorah poked her head into the conversation, drying hands on a towel hanging off her apron. "Musume, go and get that son of yours and have him help. She won't be able to do the overhead with those sleeves and he can carry it for her." The elderly woman winked. "We'll leave the design to you, ne?"
She eagerly nodded, mind twirling with ideas of whatever they had in the mental map of the place. She leaned against the counter opposite the sink to keep from getting dirty, watching Jayden thread a tie around her body to keep sleeves from getting dirty. An apron protected the front before the girl started in with the noodle mix.
She watched in fascination, knowing how to make buckwheat noodles by hand, as water and flour combined to make the mix. Footsteps jarred her just as Jayden was getting to the rolling pin and she turned to them.
A sheepish smile graced her face as Inaki stared with nearly bulging eyes and open mouth. Unlike last time, she now knew he was pleased with the outfit and slowly twirled for him. "You like I take it?" She asked, taking a few steps to him.
He finally blinked when hand brushed chest, swallowing hard. "Utsukushii..."
She blushed and leaned in to kiss him. He accepted, but didn't kiss her as long as he wanted with the women in front, avidly watching them with almost matchmaking glances. Oh the thoughts in their head if he and K weren't dating... "You're supposed to help me decorate the place." She informed, stepping back to let Kristine by.
He nodded. "I think I'll get dressed too in case it takes a while. If not, it'll be warmer." He grinned and backed up to the steps. "I think you'll like what I have in mind. We'll match."
She blinked, mouth open to ask what he meant, when he hopped the steps and headed down the hall. She was left standing there before forcing herself to move. She didn't want to lag around in the middle of a traffic area and could make herself busy by checking out where she would be and get ideas.
She slipped into zouri and pulled the patio door open. It was certainly chilly and she made a mental note to ask for a shawl or haori, if she could find a way to make it fit. It would be a shame to cover the furisode, but she didn't want to freeze or stay inside all night just to keep warm. If she was lucky, there would be sake served tonight and she could sneak some.
She stood above steps, mindful not to catch silk the railing and snag it, looking at neighboring backyards. Her breath fogged and it made her think of snow in Tokyo and those few stops in California. She wished it WOULD snow, though she wouldn't be able to walk around in zouri. Even geta would be too short, but it would be worth it to stand in it with Inaki next to her.
She thought back to the fun days they played in the snow at Tokyo, wanting those back. In a Japanese-style house, complete with clothes - only on holidays, but still... - and mannerisms, it made her wish for Kagome's country again. She couldn't help the peaceful feeling it invoked. If she closed her eyes, she could picture Chuo Park blanketed in snow and running through it. She could still see the frozen river; the trees even more beautiful covered as they were...
She sighed, feeling a little nostalgic. What she wouldn't give to go back right now. It was an empty wish - she couldn't go with classes mere weeks from starting. 'Still...it would be nice to go again. Maybe stay a little longer than a week.'
Arms snaked around her waist and she yelped. Flaming red covered the furisode and such a familiar blood color tickled her senses. She stepped out of his embrace, not wanting the box closure to come undone and turned.
Her mouth dropped. He was wearing what looked like Inuyasha's fire rat, minus the magic! His hair was unbound and the only thing that made him Inaki and not Inuyasha was the white tabi and zouri.
She blinked, searched for words, blinked, moved her mouth, blinked again, and finally forced herself to stop gaping like a fish.
It was like a step back in time, back in life. Did Inaki wear this on purpose for some reason, or was this something that his other self influenced in some unknown way? The only difference in the design was the lack of slits on the shoulders giving away to the juban underneath. There was still the same hakama with elastic at the ankles and haori. All he needed was the prayer beads.
"Like?" He asked, twirling. She ignored the hair brushing against her, too at a loss for words to pick her brain up. "I wanted to wear something nicer than normal to celebrate such a special New Year's."
"Why?"
He blinked. "Why what? Why dress fancy to celebrate?"
"Why that?"
He gave a dry look. "You're not going to get on my case about wearing this are you? I just got something from obaasan coming out here."
Hands gripped haori, not really seeing him, trying to push away the sudden flash of Kagome's memories with human Inuyasha in them. She absently stared at his chest, focusing on the color to keep her from getting swamped.
"Are you okay?"
"This...you're wearing this."
"Yes..."
"The same thing. Why? How can that be? Sure it's not exactly and the powers aren't there, but how can that be?? What kind of fated twist is this?!"
He sobered a little, hands covering hers. "I didn't realize exactly what this was either until I saw his memories, but I'm not going to throw it out just because they look so similar. This was my seijin no hi present and I do like to wear it from time to time."
She nodded. She was directed to his sight by a hand, blinking to focus on him. It took a second before the images vanished entirely, leaving her with concerned brown.
She stepped back, rubbing a hand against her face to loosen the tension. "I'll - I'll be okay. It just came upon me all at once. It's the first time I ever experienced dreams or flashbacks in the daytime without her influence. Your outfit was too much of a catalyst I suppose."
"Should I take it off if it triggers her so much?"
Black swished negative. "I'll be fine. It's passed. It was just seeing it again after so many months. Last time I saw it, Kagome was more in the forefront." She gave a smile to reassure him, resting palms over haori. "Mou daijoubu."
He nodded and leaned down for a kiss. "Everything is stored in the traditional room. Give me a minute to go fetch a box so you can get started decorating."
Dinner was as good as lunch, if not more. It'd been a long time since she had buckwheat noodles, and the taste was the same as Kagome used to enjoy.
They had a small dinner of soba, rice, grilled sea bream, and daikon and carrot pickles. She was pretty stuffed by the time she finished even one round they piled on her plate and there was still another feast soon!
This was only a small side meal. There were much more soba, fish, steamed shrimp, daikon, rice, and a few others she never got a good chance to look at. Somehow, all that food was going to be kept piping hot for the next half an hour or so while everyone got dressed and welcomed guests.
She headed out back after trying to help clear the table and was practically dragged outside by Inaki after the women forbade her to touch the dishes. She knew it was embarrassing for a guest - though she'd been friends with Inaki for nearly a year and a half - to even think of helping the host. It was bad manners, as the host was responsible for the comfort of their guest, and she cringed at the reminder. She didn't do it on purpose or to make the Yamoi women think they couldn't do anything in their own house, but she was too helpful for her own good.
She turned away from the outside, previously staring at a badminton net, to go apologize, but Inaki kept a firm grip on her arm and wouldn't let her near the glass door. She whined she had respect and apologies to make up for, but he assured his family knew she was only trying to help and it would make it worse if she went in instead of staying out of their way to let them work.
It was amazing they allowed her to help set up, but maybe they gave in because she asked so many times. She suddenly felt like a nuisance and blushed, bangs covering eyes.
No one made comment about it, except for how nice everything looked. There was only a dozen pieces made, but she made them work around doorways and steps of both engawa. Everyone liked her simplistic style, but she wouldn't take their praise because she just set up what they made. It was hardly worth getting a small ego over something she barely participated in.
People started arriving in near swarms, apparently meeting at other houses and heading over at once. Some brought presents and many allowed them to be opened right away, saying food was inside for the party.
There was definitely plenty of sake and she needn't worry about that extra padding for warmth. Plum sake was brought as well and as soon as everyone gathered, special glasses for the alcohol were produced and filled.
This would be the first time ever she got to have it in this life. She didn't recall seeing a memory of Kagome or Kikyou trying some, but she betted Kagome might've tried a sip in her days. She asked Inaki to get them some and in minutes, he produced two glasses and handed warm porcelain over.
She made to drink it, but seeing he hadn't brought it to his mouth made her pause. In fact, no one had taken a sip and many simply kept it in their palms as if to keep it from going cold. She mentally wondered, looking around and spotting Kristine and Mamorah still pouring drinks. It seemed everyone had a cup except them and when the Yamoi family was equipped, the elders and parents held up their glasses. Everyone mimicked and with a loud chorus of 'dozo' from the family, neighbors openly slurped.
This was the first time she had alcohol of any kind, not seeing what the big deal was with drinking in the first place, and was glad this was it. She didn't know if this was regular or plum sake, but it was good!
"Irreshaimase minna-san!" Mamorah nearly bellowed, stopping next to them at the railing. "We are pleased so many could stop tonight to finish out this year with us and would like to thank you all again for coming. Thank you for your gifts and generosity; thank you for your friendship. Kanpai!"
"Kanpai!" Everyone finished off the rest of the tiny cups and talk spread throughout the backyard immediately after, many hunting for refills.
She almost felt giddy. The alcohol had very little effect except burning her throat as it went down, since she had dinner not that long ago. The atmosphere was as intoxicating as the sake and for a split second she looked past who she was and the largest trial of her life to gain an epiphany never seen before.
She felt like she fit in, not on a polite basis so people wouldn't make her uncomfortable; not because she was now of their ethnicity in a way; and not really because she knew every habit. She was who she was no matter what soul she had and everyone in eyesight accepted her as friend and friend of the family. The Yamois never judged her or patronized her because of her beginning ignorance - they were always nice. The neighbors she encountered in the few parties like this seemed interested in her and her life, though they asked few questions to keep from being impolite.
It wasn't the clothes she wore, or the way her hair was done, the food she ate, or the mannerisms she tried to exhibit to fit in. Nothing alone was reason for this; it was everything at once and none of it.
She wanted to hug someone. Now. She was so happy and euphoric as this was the first time she felt so mentally free and open. She could behave as an outsider to their culture or privy to every act and they would still like her regardless.
Awe and glee lit her face and refused to dissipate. This truly was the end of the year and just as Inaki's family practiced, she could forget last year and do twenty ninety-nine as a brand new one. It wouldn't be just another year; this was one with so many major steps - she would make this one count!
"Don't tell me you're drunk already. Lightweight."
She quickly set the glass down and clasped hands, meeting his eyes and bypassing teasing. "You have no idea how good I feel! The insight I just gained...the notion I just comprehended - it's blowing me away!"
A brow rose, but he smiled at the purity of joy she excluded. "It must be big whatever it is." He answered, grabbing china off railing. "I'll get you another round and you can tell me about it, ne?"
She nodded and turned to watch the crowd, still smiling. Brown took in so many colorful furisode, irotomesode, houmongi, hakama, and haori. She relished seeing such variety of beautiful clothing and betted she probably always would.
In no time a red arm snaked over her shoulder and produced a rather full, steaming cup. She quickly took it to keep from spilling anything. Inaki rounded and turned to face her, holding his glass up. "So, what do we toast to? Everyone got the mass in, let's have our own."
She thoughtfully hummed, even if the answer was obvious. She wanted to toast to acceptance, bliss, beginnings, cementation of old relationships, and to grace. "Love." She blurted. She mentally scolded herself and made to take it back, but it was still something nice to toast. "I'm a sap, but it can never get too much attention."
He grinned and held his glass to hers. "No argument there. To love then."
"Love...and acceptance." She gently tapped their sides before daintily sipping the concoction. This was sake, but it had a slightly different flavor. It was a little sweeter and upon question, found she had plum this time. She catalogued the flavors and finished the rest.
An hour after milling around, eating, and talking, someone got out the rackets and a dozen people squared off. Many people crowded around the grass and engawa for a good view. Inaki was goaded by one of his neighbors to be a man and astonish her with how well - or not - he could play. Of course Inuyasha's pride wouldn't let that blow go by and with a quick squeeze to her arm; he headed down and snatched a racket.
A few people headed inside after twenty minutes and murmurs of karuta at the eating table broke out. Someone distinguished the type as iroha karuta and she was tempted to see the proverbs, but would be rude to leave Inaki to his game when he was partially playing to impress her.
Many around her commented on the game and cracked jokes at Inaki's expense while he couldn't hear. She knew it was all in fun and made a few herself, succeeding in getting a few to laugh and it cemented the new feeling and realization deeper in her mind.
There were a lot of remarks of how good she looked in Jayden's furisode, but this time she knew instead of accepting their kind words, it was more appropriate to think little of them. It was better to be humble and explain why she was wearing it than to let her ego swell. Her hair gained a lot of attention in both praise for the design, which also went to Jayden, and change. They were amazed it grew so fast, since many remembered seeing it shoulder-length at the other main gathering she was at.
She didn't need to lie and didn't feel like she was lying when she merely said her hair grew fast. No mention of Kagome, no thought of how to pick truth from lie, was needed. She was beginning to feel like adopted kin the more she talked with grandparents and parents of the neighborhood.
Inaki joined her as soon as his game finished, complaining about being overly warm and sweaty. Those that heard jeered in good fashion, which he returned, and she laughed.
"What time is it?" He asked, looking around as if to spot a wall clock.
"Do you see me with a watch?" She grabbed a hand and skillfully drug him around people the short distance inside. She ignored his whining about the heat produced from the stove and looked around. "It's eleven fifty." She announced, letting go.
He ignored those looking up from the game and stopped close, drawing her into his arms despite his comments of perspiration. "Good, I don't wanna miss getting my kiss."
Her head ducked, heating up from a few chuckles nearby. "I would prefer the entire neighborhood being absent if you don't mind." She backed away and grabbed zouri before heading for the front, since the party was in the backyard. Crisp air greeted her again as she pushed screen door aside and stepped out.
The night was cold, but it was clear and that only added to it. The stars shone and a large moon was nearly overhead. It was so romantic...the night couldn't possibly get any more so.
She turned, but Inaki wasn't there. Her head tilted in confusion, but she knew he'd join her - he wanted that kiss after all - and stepped to the sidewalk. More sky presented itself and she tried to find what constellations she knew.
The door opened and Inaki hopped the porch, sandals slapping on concrete. She gave a weird look when he was close enough to see, minutely ignoring the arms going around her. "Where did you go?"
He grinned and stepped closer. "To get a watch."
She giggled and carefully wove arms around in return, resting cheek on chest and smelling the tiny remnants of cologne mixed with his scent. She could hear him doing the same to her and smiled.
The silence was so nice. Even if sounds wafted from the backyard, they were faint, but enchanting. "You're a regular Rico Suave you know that?" She kidded, squeezing him. "Fancy clothes, under the stars, nearly full moon, quiet night, cool air...did you write the gods on this one for help?"
He snorted. "Nope, I just get lucky like that once in a while." He spied a quick glance at the time, seeing they had a few minutes. "It's been one hell of a year though. I never thought in a million years something like this would happen to me."
"Mm."
"I mean, I was a lazy son who had no plans for the future and no real college experience. Not much of a life. Then I met you by some freak accident that turned out to be fate and find out we were meant to be together after all. I don't care who we used to be; we're us now and our feelings are original without influence from them."
She pulled back with a small pout. "I don't want to think of them anymore. Kagome and Inuyasha are somewhere in some other realm together as happy as we are."
"Provided she's not sitting him to oblivion."
She smirked. "Or he's not calling her a bitch and baka every ten seconds."
"That has an animal connotation to it and you know it!"
She grinned and shifted arms over his shoulders, leaning a little more against him. "In all my time with and without you, I know my feelings are my own. Everything was worth it to come up to this. I don't regret or wish anything was different or never took place." Hands twisted and brushed against the nape of his neck, getting noticeable shivers. "I've learned to come to my own spot in life with the other aspects of my soul and who I am. I'm not worried about fate and destiny - I'm just worried about us being together."
Brown softened. "Well you don't need to think about that; there's no way I'm going to let you go...not knowing how I feel about you and visa versa."
She nodded and brown rolled when his arm rose to check the time again. "Baka."
"Hey, I've got ten seconds so I'll make this fast. I love you Kalie, so very, very much."
Her nose burned with impending tears, even as he leaned in. "I love you too." His mouth swooped down and captured hers, not letting her get anything else out.
It was a mild kiss compared to some of the steamier ones they shared. His lips didn't move much, if any, as if content to just touch hers until they had to let go. It was very tacky to display such emotion in public, but this wasn't the Heisei Jidai. Even though everyone was Japanese, they understood the depth of love and need for it to be released...especially in two young people as themselves.
A few catcalls and hoots abruptly sounded from the front door. Both pairs of eyes popped open and they looked to the area, faces heating. Half of Inaki's family lined the doorway, neighbors pulling back curtains over windows and a few were bold enough to stand on the porch to watch.
She pulled away; face warm enough to keep her nose from freezing. Perhaps Inaki's little announcement in the kitchen got more curiosity and attention than he wanted or predicted.
They headed up the porch, Inaki getting most of the ribbing, while Jayden kept commenting how cute they looked when they kissed. Some of the other mothers gushed about young love and her face went even warmer by the time she got out back. She was relieved to know, after stepping into much better lighting, Inaki's face was red all the way to his ears.
The party ended late and by the time she got to bed, it was barely worth it to head there. She took Inaki's bed before he did, too tired from the events to fight exhaustion any longer. She changed, folded everything on the desk in case Jayden stumbled in as well, and flopped on the futon in pajamas. Sometime halfway between sleep and consciousness, the bed shifted and she felt an arm go over her waist. Lips nibbled on an ear for a second, almost heating her up if she weren't so weary, before a happy sigh and all was silent.
They were both woken too early - MUCH too early! She groaned and buried face under covers in spite of the messenger while Inaki sat up and rubbed his eyes. Having Inuyasha's sleep habits - and probably for the rest of his life - he pulled covers aside and stood. She was too sleepy to comprehend what was going on, as it was still dark outside, but knew she should have an idea.
"Up you - we're going to miss it."
"Miss WHAAAH! COLD!" She yelped and scrunched into a ball, all heat gone when Inaki yanked the comforter away. She moaned and looked around the room, finding Jayden stretching a short distance away.
"Come on lazy bones - you CAN'T miss this!"
She gave a few pitiful whines before giving in and sitting up, arms crossed to conserve heat. "Whatever it is, can't it wait?"
He snorted and folded the blanket before dropping it on top of the chest. "Not so likely."
She stared at the thick mass, highly tempted to grab it for a few more minutes as Inaki strode from the room. It would be amusing to see how he handled round two, but whatever it was, he wouldn't wake her without reason when she had so little sleep.
That prompted her to swing feet over and touch chilly tatami. She yelped and toes curled, feet shooting into the air. "What I wouldn't give to have a pair of socks..." She mumbled, toughening it out and standing. She bent at the waist to get some blood flowing, throwing arms over her head after, and bending backward.
"If you like, I can get you some slippers."
"Iie...I'm just being a baby." She replied, heading for her bag. She grabbed a few bathroom things and headed for the downstairs room since Inaki was in the upstairs yet. She passed Kekoy and nodded. "Ohayo Kekoy-ojiisan."
"Ohayo K-san." He answered, smiling. "You're going to observe the morning with us too?"
She nodded. "It's tradition, but Inaki didn't give me a choice anyway."
The old man laughed and patted an arm before striding by and letting her use the lavatory.
She was in an out in five minutes and when the door opened, the smell of coffee and Jasmine tea hit her nose. She greedily inhaled, not knowing which she wanted more. She gave a quick greeting to those huddling in the kitchen, some as slow as she was to wake up apparently, before dropping everything in her bag and grabbing a pair of clothes.
Inaki was coming out of the huge closet while tugging a sweatshirt over his stomach. She tossed jeans and sweater on his bed. "Out you so I can change."
He stopped short, giving a weird look. "I beg your pardon, but it's not like I haven't seen it all before."
"Maybe ototo, but give us girls our privacy. I would like to talk to K-san in private."
She went beet red at Jayden knowing they had a sex life, even if it was nothing new probably, and stuck her tongue out at her boyfriend. He returned the gesture and a quick ruffle to her hair before leaving. "Mou...ano baka." She grumbled, running fingers through locks she just fixed minutes ago. "What did you want to talk to me about Jayden-chan that was so important?"
Said person sat at the edge of her bed, resting a hand on the large trunk. "Please sit down K-san; I have a serious question for you."
She blinked and immediately plopped down, clothes forgotten. "I will do my best to answer then."
Jayden nodded and looked to polished wood. "As you know, I will be getting married in only a few months. I will need to get all new traditional outfits to wear. I will have no use for my furisode when that time comes."
She nodded. Only unmarried women could wear furisode, since the length of the sleeves was a sign enough of their unwed status. Jayden was going to need kurotomesode, irotomesode, and maybe a few houmongi. Even if they would undoubtedly be expensive, she betted on the family chipping in as a wedding present.
"So K-san," Jayden continued, "as Inaki is my only other sibling and I know of no itoko to give them to, I will need to give them away or sell them." Brown met brown. "After so many years of wearing them, it would cheapen the value and respect I have for their patterns to sell them to whoever will or won't treat them properly as I have. I know of a few friends in the city who I think might do them justice, but I have my doubts."
Her brow furrowed. "Surely you should be able to entrust such important clothing to your friends..."
Jayden's head shook. "I want to be absolutely sure. I want the person after me to love and care for them as I have. I've owned these for a decade and a half - I need to know they will be in good hands." Jayden reached across and took a hand, meeting her eyes. "I feel we have not been able to talk or spend much time between ourselves with you and Inaki always together. I feel bad for not asking for your time, knowing you are so busy with school and work - "
Her free hand quickly waved in defense of such downtrodden words. "Iie, iie! It's not your fault Jayden-chan. I kick myself for not thinking of you. I have given all my attention to Inaki and not bothered to get to know his family much, if at all. With the many months I've been here, I am not a very good girlfriend."
Jayden patted her hand with a reassuring smile. "You are gracious enough to learn our language and customs, wear our clothes even though offered, and participate in our holidays. You are a special person K-san and I hope you will accept when I say I would like to give you all my furisode."
She sat in abrupt shock, mouth open. Words swirled in her brain of why, but her tongue wouldn't work. She gaped like a fish for a few seconds, feeling Jayden's skin tingle against hers as her body ran on autopilot and kept her upright. She feared she would slide off the bed in surprise and giddiness if it didn't.
"Please tell me you will K-san. I feel I can trust you and I've made up my mind. You willingly wear them every time and take especially good care not to get even the tiniest speck of dirt on them. It would make me very sad if you wouldn't accept them because you are too kind. I know they are expensive and there are a good number, but I feel you are worth it."
Tears sprang to her eyes and she moved to hug the girl without thought. Her head started nodding and didn't stop, bobbing like a doll on a wayward string. "Hai, hai...Yes I accept - I will take them." She pulled back, tears streaming down her face, taking the girl's hands in her own. "Thank you, oh thank you Jayden-chan! Totemo ureshii da! You have no idea how thrilled I am! I swear to take good care of them - I won't let you down!"
Jayden smiled and took her hands to wipe away tears. "I know you will...that's why I knew I could give them to you. I will have them wrapped and ready for you to take home before you leave."
She startled. "So soon? I get to take them home today?? You don't want to keep them for another holiday before your wedding?"
Jayden's head shook. "The next big holiday is syunbun no hi and I hope to be almost wed by then. I will be too busy with final plans to get dressed up. If I wear traditional clothes, I think I would try my mother's to see how they look on me. I must get used to the new sleeves."
She stood and pulled the woman with her, fiercely hugging her again. "I know I'm a little clingy right now," She mumbled, more tears forming, "but I know of no other way to show my gratitude. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!"
A knock on the door ruined the moment, but she didn't pull away. "Are you two dressed YET?? I want to get something in there!"
Brown rolled as she moved to clean her eyes. Jayden strode over and pulled the door open, revealing them both in pajamas. "Ototo...we're busy, come back in a few minutes."
His head easily peered over her shoulder, brow furrowing at seeing K so happy and crying at the same time. "What the hell did you tell her?"
Jayden smiled and pushed him back to shut the door. "You'll know in a few hours when you take her home."
It was a beautiful sunrise. It was cold as hell, but the family bundled up in blankets, thick tabi, and held a steaming mug to warm and wake them.
She watched the rainbow above and marveled at the luck recently going her way. Whatever she did to deserve this was divine intervention or a good streak after so much bad. It was amazing to compare everything since meeting Inaki. Introducing herself to him easily proved to be the biggest rollercoaster drama of her life, but she wouldn't take back any of it.
She leaned against her human pillow, getting no complaints as he wrapped an arm over her shoulders, and subtly took in the family. Jayden and her fiancé Chad sat close enough to share a blanket, Inaki's parents took up a few chairs next to each other, his grandparents held hands, and Setsumo sat next to them. She felt bad he no longer had his wife by his side to enjoy the New Year, but he didn't seem sad in the least. Of course, she couldn't tell because his face was rather expressionless, but there was nothing in his eyes to give away his feelings. He let that go and kept Mira in his heart and memories and she was sure to be sharing this with him on some plane of existence.
She smiled. Everyone was together, even at the crack of dawn and only a few hours of sleep after so much partying. She could see neighbors lining their porches same as them. Some waved and she returned it with everyone else, not embarrassed in the slightest. It was nice to feel they were all enjoying the sunrise together, even as spread out as everyone was.
Just like many other times she spent a quiet, contented time with the Yamois, she wished this feeling would never end. Time always seemed to stop when she was with this family, especially when she was in Inaki's arms. It was hard to think she had to go home today and it brought her down a little until she forcefully told herself she had hours. If she was lucky, she could leave by mid or late afternoon. It would be nice to stay over again since she had extra time, but not only would she feel an inconvenience, but she had work early tomorrow.
Her life called soon, so she mentally ordered herself to enjoy this while she could. Soon she would get swamped with final classes, graduation concerns, job schedules, and low time with Inaki. These holidays would be all she would have for time, so best to take advantage now and worry later.
I am a BEGINNER Japanese learner...so if these are not 100 correct...please let me know if you care to do so. I only have a web page to learn from, a dictionary, and a few months experience to work with.
Translations: Tadashii...demo-You're right...but Bonenkai-"Forget-the-year Parties" held throughout December Shinnenkai or "New Year Parties" are held in January
Obiita-Worn underneath obi and prevents from getting wrinkled Obimakura-Gives the obi volume Kirei-Pretty Obiage-Obi sash Tsuini owatta-Finally (we're) finished
Obijime-Tie over obi to help hold it Mou daijoubu-It's okay now/Really it's okay Daikon-Japanese white radish Sake-Type of alcohol fermented with rice
Dozo-Please (accept) Irreshaimase minna-san-Welcome everyone Kanpai-Cheers Houmongi-For both married and unmarried women, It's formal, but it could be semi-casual
Karuta-Game played on New Years with cards Iroha karuta-Card game of matching/finishing certain sayings or poems Ohayo-(Good) morning Totemo ureshii da-I'm very happy/I'm so happy