Disclaimer: Yes, I do realize that neither Fruits Basket nor the Fruits Basket characters are my property.They are and always will belong to Natsuki Takaya, what a lucky woman! Or brilliant at any rate.
The plot and all OC's do belong to me and I am having a lot of fun with both.
Author's Notes: Oh my, it's been a month since my last post. I am so sorry it's taken me this long to update. I had the chapter finished except for the ending, and that took a strange twist, one I didn't plan on, so I had to wait until I wrote the next chapter to see if it was going to work. On the bright side, I have another chapter ready to go after this one and the two following are writing themselves practically. I hope you all will enjoy them. Beginning with this chapter, I think there is a little bit different style and flow in play. I've found it a little difficult to advance the plot if I keep it too terribly dialogue heavy so in this chapter I resort to a bit more narrative flow. Hopefully the transitions are smooth enough that it doesn't throw anyone off pace. Thank you so much for taking the time to read, and please know that all reviews are greatly appreciated.
Chapter 11 Shigure's Game Plan
The next morning started out almost the same as the one before. Tohru once more ventured to the beach to watch the sunrise and Nikos was once again there before her. She smiled happily. This was going to be a nice morning routine. She liked having someone with whom to watch the sunrise. Nikos was a good companion. It was easy to stand quietly with him and listen to the splash of the waves and the sleepy morning melodies of the birds being wakened from their slumbers by the ever-brightening rays of light.
"Tohru-kun, this is becoming a habit to meet here at this time isn't it? I must admit it is nice to share this time with someone who enjoys it as much as I do."
"I'm glad. I don't want to intrude, but this is one of the best times of the day. The only other person I know who likes the morning as much as I do is Kyo-kun. I'm glad I've found a friend here that likes it too. You know what? I bet you and Kyo-kun would be good friends."
"Perhaps…what are you planning this morning Tohru-kun?"
"Well, I thought just maybe you might be here and I thought just maybe you might be willing to guide me through the secret passage. So…" Tohru took a flashlight out of one of her pockets and showed it to him. "And I thought maybe in return for you guiding me through the passage that I could fix you breakfast, that is if you want to do that of course."
Nikos grinned. "It seems you've thought of everything Tohru-kun and I would probably be a fool for declining breakfast. Shigure says you are an excellent cook."
"I don't know about that…Shigure-san does exaggerate at times, but I will do my best!"
"I won't refuse to guide you through the passage with or without breakfast. You kept your end of the bargain so I will keep mine. Shall we go?" He accepted the flashlight and then grasped her hand with the one he still had free. "Let's go Tohru-kun. I haven't been this way in a while so I am looking forward to it."
As Tohru followed Nikos into the cave she felt like she was stepping into another world. The flashlight picked up flashes of red ochre and sparkling mica in the cavern walls. Stalagmites and stalactites glistened with moisture. "This is beautiful Nikos! But…"
She looked around the large room and didn't see any other openings aside from the one they had just stepped through. "But where is the secret passage? All I see is a big cave."
He grinned. "Follow me Tohru-kun and prepare to be amazed and delighted. Remember, this is a secret passage. Do you really think the entrance will be easily found?"
He led her to the back wall where several large stones had been placed at some forgotten time. There was one rock with just enough room to step behind it and see…a blank wall. Nikos laughed at the confused look on Tohru's face. He reached up to the top right hand corner of the blank wall and gave it a light shove. There was a low groaning sound and the whole wall opened inward to reveal a long narrow passage with several small rooms off to either side. It looked like it went on forever and there were traces of rocks and debris where one could tell the ceiling and walls had been shaken by minor tremors. Tohru realized why Nikos had said it could be dangerous if she tried to navigate the passage on her own. She hesitated at the beginning of the passage.
"You haven't changed your mind have you Tohru-kun?"
"Uh…no... not at all. Lead the way Nikos." He grasped her hand and felt it trembling.
"Are you sure Tohru-kun, we don't have to go this way."
"I'm sure. Let's go."
"As you wish…" Nikos led the way through the passage. He paused from time to time to point out various attractions within the rock including a couple of small grottoes glowing with phosphorescence. He turned off the flashlight so Tohru could get the full effect of the glow."
"This is amazing!" Nikos took the passage slowly since it was Tohru's first time through. He wanted to allow her plenty of time to take in all the natural wonders to be found there. After about 15 minutes they arrived at a wooden door that closed the tunnel off from whatever was on the other side. He pressed a sequence of panels and the door opened into Tohru's quarters.
"I can't believe it! It really does go through to my rooms. This is such fun! Thank you Nikos!"
"My pleasure Tohru-kun" He leaned down and kissed her lightly. "That's my reward for showing you the way," he said with a grin.
Tohru was a little flustered. "Uhh…okay. Please follow me; I'll go start breakfast now."
As Tohru prepared breakfast Nikos sat at the kitchen counter and explained that Kythira was honeycombed with a network of caves. The caves had been used in ancient times to hide from marauding pirates. Some of them had been used to store food and other supplies while still others provided temporary living quarters. Tohru was very excited about the caves. "Perhaps Shigure-san can use some of this information in his new novel. This is fantastic Nikos!"
"What information Tohru-kun?" The sound of Shigure's voice caused Tohru to jump as he entered the kitchen.
"Shigure-san, good morning. Nikos was just telling me about the caves in this island. I just thought that perhaps you might be able to make use of them in your novel."
Shigure turned his gray gaze to the table where he noticed Nikos for the first time. "I suspect I will do that Tohru-kun." Shigure sniffed the air and smiled. "Something smells absolutely wonderful Tohru-kun. I must be just in time for breakfast."
"It's almost ready. Sit down and I will bring you and Nikos the coffee. You do want a cup don't you Nikos?"
"Yes, thank you Tohru-kun."
"You are here early this morning Nikos. I didn't think anyone would be here until much later today."
"I didn't plan on being here this morning but Tohru was down on the beach for the sunrise again and invited me for breakfast. After you extolling her cooking so eloquently, I had to find out for myself."
"I see, yesterday seems to have been the beginning of a daily routine for the two of you. Tohru-kun, what will Yuki and Kyo think of you meeting up with a lover every morning?" he asked with a grin.
"Shigure-san, it's not that. Even if it was, I don't think they'd mind, though."
Nikos heard Shigure mutter something under his breath that sounded kind of like "Yuki and Kyo are fools!"
Shigure started to say something else but Tohru's phone rang and the moment was lost.
"Momiji-kun, hello, how are you?... Not a lot, I am just preparing breakfast for Shigure-san, Nikos, and me. Nikos…oh, he's a friend. He is our interpreter here on Kythira. Mmmm…no, he's about Kagura's age…" And the conversation continued for a few minutes more. "Thank you Momiji, Be safe. I'll talk to you again later." She sat the phone down and began serving up the plates. Just as she set them in front of the two men her phone rang again.
"Kisa-chan…! Hello...Yes, I'm having a wonderful time. Just yesterday we…" And another 15 minute conversation ensued. Nikos and Shigure were done eating by the time Tohru joined them at the table. She noticed their empty plates and cups. "Was there enough to eat? It wasn't too bland was it?"
"It was delicious Tohru-kun," the two said in unison.
"Oh good, let me get you some more coffee."
"Tohru-kun, sit down and eat, I'll get the coffee. Nikos, do you want another cup?" Shigure offered.
Nikos accepted his offer and Tohru began eating. She was about halfway through the meal when her phone rang once more. "Hello, Kagura-chan, I'm so glad you called. Yes Shigure-san is well…"
"Tohru-kun, we'll be outside when you're done if you want to join us."
"Okay Shigure-san."
The two men retreated to the ocean side verandah. "Now, do youunderstand why I wasn't very pleased about the phones?"
"I do Shigure. She really is popular with your family members isn't she?"
"She is. She's our flower that dispels the Sohma darkness with its light."
Nikos looked closely at the novelist. "You really do feel that way don't you Shigure?"
"Not just me, all of us, including Akito though some find that hard to comprehend."
Tohru joined them a half hour or so later. "That was nice. It was so good to hear from everyone."
"Who called after Kagura?"
"Oh, Kyo-kun called. I guess he was too shy to call me back yesterday after Yuki rang off." She sank into one of the reclining chairs and stretched contentedly. "This is comfortable. I think I'll sit for a few minutes before I begin preparations for tonight's dinner. I am so happy everyone will be able to come!"
"Will you need help Tohru? I'm pretty handy in the kitchen," Nikos offered.
"Me too, I want to help too," Shigure chimed in.
Tohru looked surprised. "Well, if you really want to, I can use the help. Thank you very much. But you don't have to, you know, I can handle the meal all by myself with no problem. Shigure-san, you could get a book and read while you relax, and Nikos, I'm sure you'd like to spend some time with the Sandersons and your family so it really isn't necessary…"
"Nikos, doesn't it sound like she doesn't want our help? And after we went to all the trouble to let her know that we were more than willing to do so…" He looked toward Tohru for her reaction.
"Shigure-san, I didn't mean it that way. I really didn't. I'm so sorry…"
"Tohru-kun," Shigure's hand came to rest on Tohru's and she immediately stopped babbling. "Just say yes and let us help. We want to."
"O-okay. Come along then if you are certain." Tohru put Shigure and Nikos to work slicing up vegetables while she prepared the sauces and the fish for that evening. After that was all in readiness, she set to work on the desserts. By the time they had finished their tasks she had two cakes in the oven and was humming happily as she prepared a pot of tea.
"How about some tea and cookies?" she invited. "Sofia-san baked the cookies on Friday and they are still delicious!"
The three of them made their way back out to the verandah. After finishing his tea, Nikos excused himself and made his way home. Shigure breathed in the fresh air and allowed himself to relax. Nikos was a worthy rival. He kept Shigure on his toes andwhile hewas enjoying every moment of the challenge it was nice to finally relax.
Tohru and Shigure spent the rest of the afternoon together exploring the area adjacent to the villa. She showed Shigure the spot on the beach where she and Nikos stood to watch the sun. She showed him the cave and the secret passage. Both of them agreed they should explore the cave network a bit on their next free day. About an hour before everyone was expected Tohru began the final part of the meal preparations, the cooking. Shigure busied himself setting the table after adding the extensions to expand its length. He sat at the kitchen counter as he and Tohru discussed the evening and what they should do after the meal. He had to admit that he was enjoying her company immensely; she was so easy to be with.
Shigure decided to wear his traditional Japanese Kimono that evening and excused himself to shower and dress. Tohru followed his lead and went upstairs to change into one of hernew dresses. She chose a dress in a soft pink shade and tied the front of her hair back with a white ribbon. Rin had taught her how to apply makeup and she decided that this night presented a good occasion for wearing it. A look in her mirror told her she looked presentable and she returned downstairs just as the front doorbell chimed. She opened the door to Marina and Dmitri. As she admitted them, Marina presented her a box of chocolates and a bottle of wine.
Tohru bowed "Thank you very much. Please come in and have a seat." The next to arrive were Sofia, Stefanos, and their daughters. Kyriaki and Nomiki hugged Tohru warmly as Sofia presented a bouquet of flowers to her, and Stefanos offered a gift of fine cigarettes to Shigure.
Last to arrive were Petros and his family, and Alfred and Esmeralda Sanderson.
"How wonderful to see everyone tonight... Please come in and make yourselves comfortable." Tohru invited with a gracious smile.
Not to be outdone in their gifts, Petros presented a canister of gourmet coffee to Tohru while Nikos offered a crystal vase that fit Sofia's bouquet perfectly. Everyone began to break up into smaller groups with Tohru and the four younger women all going to the kitchen to finish up anything left undone; Sofia and Stefanos joined the men who had clustered around the bar as Shigure offered drinks to everyone. Petra debated on what she should do, but decided it would be much more interesting to join the group in which Shigure resided. Shigure's ears picked up a lot of laughter and chatter from the kitchen and he wished he were there instead of stuck where he was with Petra clinging to his side.
Out in the kitchen the girls, with Zoe to act as an interpreter, were having a wonderful time. It didn't take very long to place the food on the table and have everyone come take their seats. Petros offered up a prayer of thanks and dinner commenced.
As Tohru accepted compliments from everyone on the delicious meal, Alfred noted Shigure beaming with prideand smiled complacently; If one did not know better he would think that Tohru was Shigure's wife and that he felt honored that her skill was acknowledged. Things seemed to be going quite well and he had good news to report to the young Master Sohma.
After dinner they adjourned to the living room where Esme sang as Alfred played several rollicking tunes on the piano. After a bit, Dmitri, anxious to show off his wife's talent, requested Alfred play a couple of songs that were known by Marina and which he wanted her to sing. Everyone was as delighted by Marina's soft contralto as they had been by her musical speaking voice. She finished the second song amidst much applause and returned to Dmitri's side. Shortly after that the sound system was turned on and various CD's were selected as everyone took turns on the dance floor.
Shigure skillfully avoided full contact with the women as he did his share of dancing. He was enjoying himself thoroughly with all the beautiful women in the room, even Sofia and Esme were beautiful for their ages.
At one point in time Tohru found herself standing on the sidelines with Nomiki and Zoe. She watched Shigure as he danced with Petra and realized her heart was beating a staccato in time to his steps. He was so graceful and beautiful on the dance floor she couldn't take her eyes off of him. "Shigure-san is a wonderful dancer isn't he?" An affectionate smile lit her face as she spoke. Zoe and Miki agreed enthusiastically. Zoe had a suggestion to make and she watched carefully as Tohru responded. "Tohru-kun, why don't you go cut in on his dance with Petra? She's been monopolizing him most of the evening."
"Oh no! I couldn't! He seems to be having a lot of fun with her." Tohru's voice was a little wistful and Zoe made a mental note of the tone so she could relay it to her brother and the Sandersons.
Shigure grinned wolfishly as he overheard the conversation. It was time that he asked Tohru to dance. " Petra-san you are a lovely dancer and I am having a wonderful time, but there are so few of us men that I feel I really must go invite someone else to dance.
"Must you Shigure?' Petra pouted up at him and Shigure allowed his face to take on a mournful look. "I'm afraid I must. After all, I am the host and it is only right that the host dance with the hostess at least once during the party." He bowed and glided to Tohru's side.
"Tohru-kun, it occurs to me that I have neglected you terribly tonight. Won't you let me make it up to you by accepting this dance with me?"
"No, that's okay Shigure-san. You don't have to ask me to dance if you prefer dancing with the others. I am very happy to see Shigure-san having a good time."
"Tohru-kun, are you trying to be kind to me, or is it that you just don't want to dance with me? I'm so hurt Tohru-kun that you are turning down my offer. How can you be so cruel?"
"Shigure-san, that's not what I mean at all…I really do want to dance with you, I just don't want to interfere in you having a good time. If you really want to dance with me then I accept."
Shigure smiled triumphantly over Tohru's head. "You've just made me a very happy man Tohru-kun."
He led her out onto the carpet. She was light as a feather in his arms. Her smile was so sweet and her eyes were so beautiful, he knew he could hold her forever and never tire.
Esmeralda snuggled close in Alfred's arms. "Look at those two dear, they look as if they've forgotten anyone else exists. I really believe we're doing the right thing in encouraging them to be together."
Gradually the night drew to a close. Sofia and Esme, with Petros and Alfred's help cleaned up the kitchen and dining room. Tohru came back to help and they shooed her off and told her to have a good time with everyone. Once the clean-up was complete, everyone began to leave for their respective homes. After a short while, Shigure found himself alone with Tohru once again. He put on some slow dance music and took her hand.
"Dance with me again Tohru-kun. I know it's bedtime but I'm not ready for the night to end."
"With pleasure Shigure-san..." Tohru moved into his waiting arms and he held her as close as possible. He rested his chin in her soft hair and removed the ribbons so that the soft strands hung freely across her shoulders.
"Tohru-kun…"
"Hai, Shigure-san…"
"I never imagined I would find this much contentment when we came to Greece."
"What do you mean Shigure-san? Were you unhappy in Japan?"
"I was very happy in Japan, but this is a different kind of happiness, one I haven't experienced in a while. If only…"
"If only what Shigure-san?"
"Nothing Tohru-kun, I was just thinking out loud." He made the mistake of looking into her soft eyes and his earlier resolve crumbled. Surely a kiss before bedtime would be okay.
Tohru was watching Shigure's eyes and noted the change in his expression. Instinct took over as she recognized the look in his eyes.
She lifted her hand and traced his cheeks with her finger tips. She stood on tiptoe to reach his lips. As her lips touched his, Shigure felt the world rock wildly and then fall into place. He willingly returned her kiss; his misgivings lost in the pleasure of the moment.
Tohru sighed blissfully as Shigure responded to her gesture. She had been a little afraid he would resist as he had been a little distant all day. Somewhere along the way this man had become very important to her. She loved all the Sohma, but Shigure ignited something deeper within her. She resolved to take full advantage of this evening because tomorrow they would begin their research and exist within a crowd of people once more. Tonight it was just the two of them and she didn't want it to end any more than Shigure did.
Shigure opened his eyes so he could see her face. It was soft with emotion. Encouraged by her sighs he returned to kissing her. For just a little while longer he would allow himself to explore this precious feeling. Tomorrow he would be firm in his resolution to step back, but tonight was just for them.
"Shigure-san, I think this is how Mom must have felt when she was with my dad. It's such a warm, safe feeling, that of being cared for a lot by one person. I am so happy to be here with you."
"Thank you Tohru-kun." His fingers were gentle on the contours of her face as he traced the shape of her eyes, her cheeks and her mouth. His lips followed where his fingers led and Tohru melted into his embrace.
"Tohru-kun" his lips were warm against hers.
"Mmmhmmm…" she murmured.
"We really have to stop this. It is probably time we said good night."
"But why Shigure-san?"
"Because…" and he couldn't come up with a good reason that didn't give away too much of what he was feeling until his eyes fell on the clock. "Because it is very late and we have a busy week ahead of us."
He placed his hand at her waist and steered her toward her room. They stopped outside the door and her eyes held an open invitation as she took his hands in hers.
"Not tonight Tohru-kun. It is best if I say good night. Sleep well and wake."
"Good night then Shigure-san." The vague disappointment in her voice almost stopped him from doing what he knew to be right. She didn't really know what she was asking and that was the whole of his problem in taking what she seemed to be offering. He kissed her one more time and released her hands then turned toward his rooms. He knew she was watching him as he left. He also knew that if he looked back he would change his mind; he only had so much strength when it came to resisting her charms. It would be so easy to make love to her, but…
After that night, Shigure did stiffen his resolve. He and Tohru fell into a daily routine that left little time for intimacy. With the help of Zoe and Nikos they combed through the pages of history and myth in the historical archives. They wandered through the museums studying the exhibits and Shigure began to write in the evenings as Tohru sat on the other side of his desk and sifted through the notes and organized them. Another component to each of their days was the Greek lessons with Nikos teaching and Zoe assisting. Often the lessons turned into a two-way street as Kyriaki and Nomiki often joined them. Tohru and Shigure learned Greek and Kyri and Miki learned Japanese.
Sometimes in the evenings Shigure could hear the girls laughing and chatting while he worked on his writing. He would smile knowing Tohru was happy. He hoped it also made up in some measure for the slight distance he had placed between Tohru and himself. It was the only way he could keep his sanity and he hoped she would understand eventually. With just that little distance he was able to return to his former role as Tohru's friend, employer, and confidante. He found himself missing his role as her potential lover but that was the way he had to keep things. There were times he wanted to hold her and kiss her, and so much more, but fortunately she spent most of her evenings with Zoe, Miki, Kyri, and occasionally Marina. This kept him from being placed into situations where temptation was rife.
Frequently during the afternoon Dmitri would take them out on his boat and they would visit other islands and attractions. The big rock Dmitri had pointed out as containing a cave proved to be all that was promised and more. Saturdays were the days he and Tohru spent together walking in the village and doing the shopping or exploring some of the island's features in more detail. He found he could keep things on an even footing but sometimes…Sometimes he would catch Tohru watching him and see the questions in her beautiful teal eyes. To keep the questions from being asked, he would immediately offer a distraction and he usually succeeded. Her questions were better left unanswered for now.
He could see she was confused by his sudden disinterest in pursuing the relationship they began developing the moment they left Japan. He would find himself consumed with guilt but then shake it off and proceed as if nothing had happened. It really would not do for him to pursue it any further because the kisses would lead to so much more and she wasn't ready for that, he was certain. Fortunately for him and his frustrated desires, the lovely Petra was always nearby and willing to give as much or as little as he wanted and he frequently wanted everything. He shamelessly used her and took advantage of her willingness, but only when he knew Tohru would be out for the day with Nikos or the girls. In a way he felt like he was cheating, but then again, he considered it damage control. Of course it really wasn't that often that Tohru was absent so Petra was often frustrated. Petra's feelings weren't something that mattered to him, but Tohru's were so he took great care to insure that Petra did not catch on to his feelings for Tohru. If she did, he had a feeling that Tohru's life would become quite difficult. As it was, Petra easily bought into his story that indiscretion if known would be harmful to his career and his potential earnings. Of course, the chances were, the opposite would be the case. Authors with certain notoriety were actually quite popular in Japan. Even so, it was a good cover story and made life easier.
Tohru settled into the daily routine she and Shigure established but she missed the closeness they had shared in their early days on Kythira. Sometimes she would see Shigure watching her and his eyes seemed…sad…as if he longed for something he would not allow himself. Sometimes he seemed on the verge of reaching out for her but he never did. "Why Mom? Why does Shigure-san seem so distant?"
He still teased her a lot, that was a given, but it was as if those early days away from Japan never happened. The only indication that those days had truly existed was his firm but gentle touch when holding her hand as they walked together to the village or as they were exploring the various island features. If not for that, she would almost believe those days had been only a dream, a figment of her imagination.
At night when everyone was gone home they would discuss his novel over a cup of hot tea and talk about the events of the day. The Greek lessons were going well and she was having a lot of fun. It was especially fun when Kyri and Miki attended because not only was she learning Greek, but they were also learning Japanese. With Zoe to assist conversations became easier and the girls were forming a steadfast friendship.
Often she and Nikos would spend time together after the day was done. He became almost as dear to her as was the Sohma family. She, Nikos, and the girls frequently went into the village for an evening of dancing and socializing. Shigure usually declined the invitations when offered citing his writing as the reason. Even with her confusion over Shigure and his actions, she was still happy and having a wonderful time. Tohru looked forward to the mornings when she and Nikos would watch the sunrise and just a little while later she would receive phone calls from at least three or four of the Sohma. Yuki called almost everyday as did Momiji and Kisa. At first she took her phone everywhere with her, but when she kept getting calls during the middle of the research she and Shigure were conducting in the library, she realized that Shigure was right and that it would be better to leave her phone at home during business hours. Most Sundays she would invite the Sandersons to come over and as many of her friends as were able. She was never alone if she wanted company, but there were times she was lonely and she knew it had to do with the gray-eyed man sitting across the table from her. After the taste of intimacy she had experienced, the return to the previous state of being between the two of them left much to be desired. When she attempted to talk to him about it, he would adroitly turn the conversation down another channel and she never realized it had been done until the moment was lost.
Nikos and the Sandersons watched this development with some concern. Esme wasn't sure what had happened when things had been going so well. Nikos recalled the conversation with Shigure where he had said he was going to back off for a while. He relayed the conversation to Alfred and Alfred's eyes began to twinkle.
"Now I understand; Esme darling, don't be blue. It's because of how much the Sohma gentleman loves Tohru that he is trying to stay back and give her some space to grow."
"If you say so dear, I know you are so much older and wiser than I when it comes to matters of the heart. I don't think I really understand though."
"You will in time." Alfred promised. "Perhaps this will help…remember the old adage, 'if you love someone set them free, they'll come back to you if it is meant to be…' that's what Shigure is doing at the moment."
Evan though he understood Alfred's theory, Nikos wasn't quite sure how Shigure intended to win Tohru's love if he was leaving the playing field wide open to the many participants eager to join in the game. He would play the game because the prize was Tohru's happiness and that was worth the effort. Tohru was a special person and she deserved to be happy and right now that happiness seemed to rest with the enigma that was Shigure Sohma. Somehow he would shove Shigure back in her direction.
He would talk to Shigure sometimes in the evenings when Tohru was visiting with his sister and the other girls. He would let slip occasional comments about how interested the local boys were in the cute, polite Japanese girl. Though there was a language barrier, it didn't stop them from dancing with her and from trying to steal a kiss or two. Of course, the language barrier was beginning to crumble with Tohru's growing proficiency in Greek. So far Nikos had been there to step in if Tohru's admirers became too ardent, but one day he might not be. Nikos watched Shigure closely after those comments and the slight tilt forward of Shigure's head told him he was hitting the mark. Nikos would whistle merrily as he and Zoe walked home afterwards.
And so things continued for the next few weeks until one Friday, the Friday right before the start of Japan's Golden Week, Shigure and Tohru came home from the day's excursion to find the house being turned topsy-turvy in a flurry of cleaning and of airing out several additional rooms.
"Sofia, what in the world is going on today?" Shigure asked in surprise.
"We just got a call and we are expecting visitors from Japan at any moment. A couple of your family members are arriving from what I understand."
"Is that so? Tohru-kun, did you hear? We are expecting visitors!"
"Really Shigure-san? Who?"
Shigure glanced at Sofia. "Well Sofia…?"
"It's a secret, Shigure. I was told not to tell." Sofia's eyes sparkled merrily.
"Oh, I can't wait! I love surprises! Who do you think it might be Shigure-san?"
"Sofia, you are enjoying this aren't you? From Nikos or Zoe, I would expect this reaction but from you…Sofia, my illusions are shattered!" Shigure's mock-injured tone made both Tohru and Sofia laugh.
Sofia confirmed "I am, but you won't have long to wait." She bustled off to make sure that all was in readiness for the new guests.
"Tohru-kun, there is no help for it but to wait I suppose. Are Nikos and the girls coming back today?"
"Nikos and Zoe are…Kyri and Miki haven't left yet and they brought a change of clothes over this morning so they wouldn't have to go home first. We are planning on going to the Red Fish this evening; would you like to come? Oh…but we may have to change our plans if we are expecting guests."
"Not to worry Tohru-kun. I'll stay home and entertain our guests; you go enjoy yourself with the others. I'll be okay…say, I heard a rumor the other day. It seems you are quite popular with the locals and that they may have stolen a kiss or two. Is this true?"
The fiery blush on Tohru's cheeks proved to Shigure that Nikos had been telling the truth.
"Tohru-kun, how could you? I thought you were saving all of your kisses for me…"
"Shigure-san, I'm sorry. I…"
"Tohru-kun," His tone of voice stopped the apology before she had a chance to really begin.
"Yes Shigure-san?"
"Let's have a cup of tea while we wait for our guests. It's time we took a break from all of our hard-working efforts. It's the beginning of Golden Week. We've already been here more than a month, can you believe it?"
"Is it that time already? I can't believe it, the weeks have really flown. I've had so much fun and we've been so busy."
"Yes and the novel is coming along splendidly. Thank you for your hard work Tohru-kun"
"I didn't do all that much Shigure-san, you are the one who has done most of it."
"But it would not have gone nearly as fast without your help."
The two of them were just finishing their cup of tea when a motor could be heard approaching the house. "Do you think they are here Shigure-san?"
"Let's go find out."
They stepped into the hallway just as the front flew open and Tohru found herself being swung around the room by an exuberant young man with blonde curls. "We're here Tohru, are you surprised to see us?"
"Momiji-kun, I am surprised, but this is wonderful!" Tohru smiled hugely at the enthusiastic rabbit and Shigure had to tamp down a surge of envy.
"Who else is here?" Tohru had to look around Momiji to see who else had come. He was no longer the short blonde boy she had met six years ago. That still surprised her at times, although he had been taller than her for the last three years.
"Hatori-san, it's wonderful to see you." Tohru rapidly approached the doctor and took his hands. "I can't believe you're here. Welcome. I know you and Shigure-san will have much to catch up on over the next few days."
"You're looking well Tohru-kun."
"Thank you. I've been very happy here. Shigure-san has been very kind to me."
"Miss Tohru Honda-san, have you no word of greeting for me?" Akito stepped into the door. It had taken him a while to decide to come in the house. The beauty of the sea had given him a sense of freedom that he had not often experienced.His spirit sailed the vast limitless waters for just a short time and he wished for more.It was with great reluctance he turned from its vista and entered the villa.
"Akito-san, how wonderful to see you! Are you well? Did you have a good trip?"
"I am well Honda-san. The trip was not too difficult. Hatori made sure I slept most of the way."
Shigure had stayed back to allow Tohru time to greet their visitors. With the surprise element in play he had expected Momiji and Hatori but not Akito. Akito's presence was truly a surprise. He had sensed Akito wanted to come to Kythira, but had not expected Hatori to allow it due to medical considerations. However, Hatori was his doctor and Greece was a long way from Japan, perhaps he should have expected this outcome. He stepped forward into the gathering as Momiji announced "We're here for Golden Week!"
"Akito, such a surprise to see you. Welcome. Ha-san, Momiji what brings you to this part of the world?"
A/N: Did Akito's appearance surprise you? It surprised me the minute I captured it in black and white.I had really decided I wasn't going to go in this direction, but as usual my subconscious had other ideas. Blame it on Shigure, blame it on Akito, if you will, but the next couple of chapters will prove to be interesting I think. I know they are to me. A word of warning if you continue to read, it is possible your concept of Akito will be blown out of the water. My perspective on this enigmatic God of the Zodiac is a bit different from most if not allI have read. Also, Akito is and always will be a guy in my fics. That's just the way it is. I write based on the Akito of the anime and I think his path is a very different one from that of the Akito in the manga.