AN: I know, it's been over a year. Ravyn's a bad author, I'll be ironing my hands later. To be honest, dear Reader, my life completely fell apart last year, and I'm only just now crawling out of the grief-and-depression hole. There'll be an actual explanation at the end of the chapter, for anyone who wants to bother reading that. Thank you SO SO much to any-and-everyone who's still reading, I love you all! Now, without further ado, back to Sky and her boys!

Triggers: Hmm...none that I can think of. There's a brief conversation about sex, and a non-graphic nightmare later. But it's mostly fluffy, honest!


-Several Hours Later-

Sayuri and Itsuki insisted that "dear Pixie" stay for supper, much to her surprise. But conversation proved easy and light-hearted during the meal. Even Yorihisa had loosened up, chatting quite comfortably with the other adults and occasionally directing a comment or two at the teens. Honey and Satoshi kept everyone laughing, and by the time dessert rolled around, Sky was feeling much better about everything.

Afterward, the teens congregated in the Morinozuka's entertainment room. Satoshi had demanded that he be allowed to spend time with her. His bright grin and sunny disposition didn't give her any choice but to obey with a happy smile of her own. She was nestled quite contently between the brothers, Takashi's arms wrapped firmly around her. Honey lay sprawled over both his and Sky's laps, much to everyone's amusement. Sky ran her fingers lightly through his hair repeatedly, completely unsurprised when he fell asleep halfway through the movie. A tender smile played across her mouth as she gazed down at him.

"It is getting late, I guess. I should head home."

Takashi made a negative noise and tightened his grip slightly. Even Satoshi pouted at her. He was quiet, however, unwilling to risk waking his cousin. Sky laughed softly at them both.

"Oh, alright, fine. I can finish the movie, I suppose."

She grinned at Satoshi, then tilted her head up to nuzzle Takashi's cheek. They finished the movie in a comfortable near-silence, which was only broken when Takashi released her as the end credits played. He stood and gathered Honey in his arms, speaking quietly.

"Don't leave."

She shook her head lightly. There was no way she was leaving, not without a goodbye kiss. Not that she'd say that out loud with Satoshi in the room. She enjoyed embarrassing her wolf sometimes, but not that much. Well, maybe just a tiny bit of embarrassment...

"Don't worry, mo shíorghrá, I'll wait right here."

As usual, a slight blush crawled up his cheeks at the Irish phrase. Completely thrilled, she couldn't help the giggles that bubbled up. She covered her mouth immediately, but it was too late; Honey stirred and blinked, squinting against the bright lights. She leapt to her feet and stroked his hair softly, speaking gently.

"It's alright, precious, go back to sleep, everything's fine."

"... 'Kay. 'Night, Pixie-chan..."

"Sweet dreams, a dhlúthchara."

She pressed a light kiss to his forehead as his eyes slipped closed again. A little sigh of relief escaped as Takashi strode from the room, the little blonde cradled close. Her imagination got the better of her for just a moment, and a vision of her beloved cradling a tiny form with jet-black hair flashed across her mind. Before she could dwell on the sweet image, a throat was cleared behind her. She'd almost forgotten Satoshi was still there; it was really far too odd for him to be so quiet.

"Wow. No one but Taka has been brave enough to get that close to Mitsukuni when he wakes up."

She laughed quietly and smiled, delighted by the awed look the younger teen was giving her.

"Aw, it's no big deal. He's a total sweetheart."

"Only to you, big sister."

She opened her mouth to reply, but the words stuck in her throat as her brain caught up. Her jaw dropped momentarily, and she closed it with a snap. Tears pooled in her eyes, causing Satoshi to panic. Luckily for him, Takashi returned before he could freak out too much.

"Sky?"

She whirled around and flung herself in his arms, grinning radiantly despite the tears. Thoroughly confused, he held her close, watching a completely flustered Satoshi flail helplessly.

"I didn't do anything, I swear! We were just talking, and she started crying for no reason!"

Sky hid her face against Takashi's shoulder and giggled, the sound watery but full of joy. After just a moment, she pulled away and locked eyes with her wolf, smiling brightly.

"He called me big sister."

"Ah."

He stroked one hand down her rainbow locks, a serene look replacing the worry of a moment ago. He cast his gaze over to his brother, and the confusion written plainly on Satoshi's face caused a seldom-heard laugh to escape. He shook his head and offered a quiet explanation.

"She's happy."

"Happy doesn't begin to describe it."

Sky turned to face the younger Morinozuka, scrubbing her hands over her eyes. She took a deep, calming breath and let it out slowly. Then another. And one more.

"The fact that you so readily accept me as part of your family means so much to me."

Before he could reply, she pulled him into a warm embrace. The younger teen was momentarily shocked, then returned the hug with good cheer.

"Thank you... little brother."

They grinned broadly at each other when they parted, and Sky reached out to ruffle his hair. Stepping back a pace or two, she found herself nestled in the confines of Takashi's arms again, and sighed in contentment. She was just about to bid goodnight to Satoshi, when the door opened behind them. She craned her head over Takashi's shoulder, then blushed slightly and briefly pondered disentangling herself from her wolf at the sight of his mother in the doorway. But the woman's soft smile set her at ease, and she relaxed slightly.

"Oh, where is Mitsukuni? Your aunt and uncle are ready to leave."

"Bed."

With a tiny grin at Takashi's terse answer, Sky offered a more detailed explanation.

"He fell asleep about halfway through the movie, and no one had the heart to wake him."

She would have said more, but she couldn't quite hide her own exhaustion. She covered her mouth with the back of her hand, unable to stifle a yawn. It had been a very long -but ultimately good- day, and she was looking forward to putting on something more comfortable and getting some much-needed sleep. She rubbed her eye, failing to notice the soft smile from her wolf and the flash of mirth in Sayuri's eyes.

"It's been a long day for you, my dear. I'm sure you're more than ready for some sleep, yourself."

"Yes, ma'am. But I'd gladly do it all over. I can't begin to tell you how grateful I am."

Pretty cobalt eyes glistened once again, and she hurriedly swiped at them. A quiet, self-deprecating laugh escaped her lips as they twisted into a wry smile.

"Sorry. I'm such a cry-baby sometimes; I hate it. I don't know how Takashi puts up with me."

Takashi's arms tightened around her in response, and he nuzzled her cheek lightly. She returned the gesture with a content little sigh before yawning again. A silent chuckle rumbled through his chest at the surprisingly cute sound. Sayuri watched the couple for a moment longer, then nodded to herself.

"Pixie, please come with me for a moment. Don't give me that look, Takashi, you'll be able to tell her goodnight in a few minutes."

Sky turned and grinned just a little at the slightly frustrated look he was aiming at his mother. She leaned up and kissed his cheek softly, then quietly followed the Morinozuka matriarch down the hall. Sayuri ushered her into a cozy, feminine sitting room, and gestured to a pretty little sofa. Confused and very slightly apprehensive, she sat primly beside the regal lady.

"There's something I'd like to offer you, but there are a few things we need to discuss first, my dear."

"You've already given me so much, Mrs. Morinozuka, I couldn't possibly ask for anything else."

Sayuri smiled lightly at the young girl's sincerity and patted her knee gently. Sky was just a little nervous, but she really liked Takashi's mother, so she was able to stay calm enough. At least, at first.

"There's a rather unsettling rumor that I'd like you to clear up for me. You see, I heard that you and my son shared a room on your little vacation."

"Yes, ma'am, that's true."

"I see. And just how long have the two of you been intimate?"

Her voice had grown cool. Sky blinked in confusion at the abrupt change, then blushed deeply. She groaned quietly, barely stifling the urge to pull her hair in frustration. She took a deep breath and spoke in a clear, unwavering voice.

"We aren't, not in the way that you mean. It's true that we shared a room on the island, yes. And it's no secret that Takashi sleeps in my room when he stays over. But our... physical intimacy is limited to kissing. When we share a bed, we sleep, that's all."

"You really expect me to believe that?"

"Yes, I do, because it's the truth. I have no reason to lie. I can understand why you'd think we've crossed that line. But there is nothing sexual going on. My mother assumed the same thing, and caused a rather nasty panic attack while I was unpacking my suitcase."

Her blush intensified, mortified color flooding her cheeks at the memory. Sayuri was clearly unconvinced, but curious, and waved a hand for her to continue. She cleared her throat quietly and resumed her story.

"I hadn't realized that she'd slipped a little surprise into my suitcase, until I opened it to start unpacking. I... I guess the condoms were her way of saying she accepted our relationship, but all it did was freak me out. Takashi got me calmed down, and we just pretended that box didn't exist for the rest of the trip. Well... almost."

"Almost?"

"Yes, ma'am. Um... on our last night there, I brought up the subject. Takashi was a perfect gentleman, of course, he never said anything about it. It was all me, my paranoia kept making me think about it, and I felt like I had to say something. We ended up having a very serious talk, and we're going to wait. We aren't taking that step until our wedding night."

Sayuri was quiet for a few minutes, going over everything Sky had said. Just as the teen's anxiety was starting to ramp up, she nodded slightly. Laying a gentle hand over Sky's, she spoke quietly.

"I believe you, dear. I know this isn't easy for you to talk about, but it was necessary. You see, I'd like to invite you to stay the night. Since Mitsukuni is staying, and Satoshi is already so very fond of you, I think it would be good to have a nice family breakfast."

Sky's smile was small, but joyful. She sighed quietly, relief and contentment mingled in the soft sound. Sayuri couldn't help but smile back; the young girl's joy was lovely to see.

"But you see, we're a bit more old-fashioned around here. It's rather improper for unmarried ladies and gentlemen to share a room, so you'll be required to sleep in a guest room."

"Oh. Well, that's fine. I'm just grateful for the invitation. And I think a family breakfast sounds wonderful. Maman and Papa aren't usually home in the mornings, so I really only get family meals on weekends when everyone sleeps over."

They chatted lightly for another minute or two, until Sky couldn't stifle yet another yawn. Sayuri tugged her to her feet and led her back down the hall. They didn't have to go far; Takashi was striding toward them with a concerned look. Sky smiled radiantly and launched herself into his arms, too tired and happy to be proper. She flung her arms around him and nuzzled against his neck.

"Isn't it wonderful, a ghrá? Your mother wants me to stay the night! I have to stay in a guest room, but still! We can see each other first thing in the morning, isn't that great?"

Takashi was thoroughly shocked, by both Sky's rather enthusiastic embrace, and the new information. He automatically curled his arms around his beloved and held her close, but his eyes sought out his mother.

"It's true, son. It would be good for Pixie to have breakfast with family. Especially since Mitsukuni is staying, as well. I must insist on the guest room, though; you know our rules."

"Yes, Mother."

"Go on now, take your lovely girlfriend to her room before the poor thing falls asleep right here. Goodness knows, she's earned a nice long rest."

"Yes, Mother."

"Good night, Mrs. Morinozuka, and thank you again."

"Good night, Pixie dear."

Sayuri smiled fondly at the pair, then stretched up and ruffled her son's hair, much to Sky's amusement. She couldn't contain her quiet giggles as Takashi led her down another hall. They ceased only when he stopped at a familiar door and ushered her inside. Glancing around, she blushed faintly. Oh... A second silver picture frame had joined the first on the bedside table. As Takashi strode to his closet, she stepped forward to investigate. She brushed her fingertips across the first frame, smiling tenderly at the memory of twirling around the crowded dance floor with her beloved. Picking up the new frame, she was momentarily startled by the picture it held. Who had a camera right then? Sneaky buggers... Her blush intensified, even as her smile grew.

She stared at the picture, though her gaze was unseeing, her thoughts centered on the moment that was captured. Beneath the glass pane, the scene was completely innocent, yet intimate all the same. Dressed simply in a dark t-shirt and shorts, Takashi had his arms wrapped lovingly around a sundress-clad Sky as the two shared a tender smile. Seconds earlier, he had whispered emotional words of beauty for her ears only. Lost in her memory, she didn't hear him walk up behind her, though she sighed happily as his arms once again curled around her waist.

"I didn't notice any cameras that night."

"Miko wanted to capture everyone's reactions to your dress."

"And she didn't tell me? That sneaky little... She's learning bad habits from the twins."

Takashi made a quiet sound of agreement, kissing her cheek softly. She carefully set the frame back in its spot, then turned and wrapped her arms around him, leaning in to nuzzle against his neck. But only for a moment, and then she pulled away just enough to smile up at her wolf.

"Not that I'm complaining, but why are we here? I thought I had to stay in a guest room."

"You don't have anything to sleep in."

The thought brought a blush to the cheeks of both teens. Takashi cleared his throat quietly, then gestured silently to the small pile of clothing on his bed. Sky's eyes lit up as the meaning became clear. She hadn't worn anything of his before, and the notion made her heart flutter momentarily. She grinned up at him, then leaned up and brushed her lips over his heated cheek.

"You're so sweet. Thank you, a ghrá."

He shrugged lightly and ran his fingers through her hair just once, then slid his hand down to hers, linking their fingers together. He led her back out of his room and a short way down the hall. Pointing out Satoshi's room almost directly across from his own, he stopped and opened a door a short distance down the hall. Sky took a quick peek inside, then a swift glance both ways down the long hall. With a grin full of mischief, she tugged him inside and away from the open doorway.

"Sky?"

"I know, I know, but I absolutely refuse to go to bed without a proper goodnight kiss."

-Later-

Sky groaned quietly and turned over for what seemed like the hundredth time that night. Why can't I freaking sleep? The bed she rolled around in was soft and luxurious, just as comfortable as her own bed at home. And yet, even after more than two hours, she was no closer to sleep than she had been.

With a frustrated sigh, she swung her feet off the side of the bed and sat up. She couldn't shake the feeling that something just wasn't right. Standing, she shook her head to clear her thoughts and slipped a borrowed robe over her shoulders, belting it tightly. Hope I can find the kitchen from here. She obviously wasn't going to be able to sleep any time soon, so she might as well go find something to drink.

Closing her door softly, she started down the hall. She didn't get far before she paused, certain that she couldn't be hearing what she thought she was hearing. She pressed her ear to the door to listen, and her blood ran cold with the confirmation. The pained, frightened cries she heard really were coming from her beloved.

Without a moment's hesitation, she burst through the door and dashed to his bedside. He was shifting beneath the cover, agitation in his movements as still more whimpered pleas fell from his lips. Sky's heart broke a little when she noticed the tears leaking from his tightly closed eyes. Takashi was crying. Takashi never cried! She dropped to her knees beside the bed and laid her hand on his damp cheek.

"Takashi, wake up. Come on, wake up. Please, mo shíorghrá."

He came to with a sharp gasp, lurching out of the bed and almost falling on top of her. After one agonizing moment, he recognized her, pulling her into his arms and burying his face against her neck with a whimper. Sky immediately wrapped one arm firmly around his trembling back, her other hand rising to settle on the back of his head, gently holding him close. She pressed a kiss to his raven locks and spoke quietly, making a valiant effort to keep her own tears at bay.

"It's alright now, mo shíorghrá, it's ok. It was just a nightmare, you're safe now. Mo mac tíre, you're safe, I'm here. You're awake now, I'm here, you're safe."

His arms tightened around her, even as his breathing calmed ever so slightly. He cleared his throat roughly before speaking, his words muffled against her skin as he kept his face hidden.

"You weren't. He was... He... And I wasn't... I couldn't..."

His tremors increased and a pained, broken sound ripped from his throat. Oh. Oh, no... She carded her fingers through his hair and dropped several feather-light kisses to his temple.

"Takashi, it was only a nightmare. I'm safe, mo shíorghrá. He's not here, he can't hurt me anymore. I'm perfectly safe, love, I promise. That monster is in prison in a different country. And I'm right here, in your room, in your house, surrounded by some of the best security and strongest people in the country. I'm right here in your arms, the safest place in the whole world."

Eventually, the shudders that wracked his body tapered off into light, occasional tremors, though he kept his arms tight around her as he lifted his head from the sanctuary of her neck. His tears had stopped, but the evidence was still clearly written on his damp cheeks and red, swollen eyes. Sky brought both hands up and tenderly wiped away the last of his tears, then gently kissed his forehead before nuzzling his cheek. She was beyond relieved when he nuzzled back and shifted to pull her sideways onto his lap.

"I guess seeing the proof made it worse than just hearing about it?"

He nodded slightly in reply, eyes still clouded with pain, and exhaled shakily. He curled one arm around her, laying his large hand almost protectively over her stomach. He sighed softly and rested his forehead against hers, closing his eyes momentarily, missing her tiny smile. She covered his hand with her own and gave a reassuring little squeeze.

"It's alright now, a ghrá. I know you're extra worried right now, but I'm ok, I promise. My injuries are all healed. My weight is back to a healthy range, and it's going to stay that way. I've got a whole pack making sure of that now. Especially my amazing wolf, who always takes such wonderful care of me."

His blush was lost in the dim moonlight. The last of the tension vanished as her stomach chose that moment to growl emptily. His quiet laugh filled her with relief and warmed her heart immensely. He brushed his lips over her cheek and spoke softly.

"Midnight snack?"

She grinned and nodded happily in reply, then stood and tugged him to his feet as well. Their fingers laced together, and he led her quietly down the halls to the kitchen. The soft moonlight coming through the windows provided enough light to see by, so they decided not to bother with the overheads as they raided the fridge. Sky nudged him into a seat with a gentle smile.

"Let me take care of you this time, a ghrá."

After a light snack, they made their way back to the Morinozukas' media room, neither ready to be alone again. Takashi started a random movie before curling up on the plush sofa with his beloved unicorn, eternally grateful for her very presence. They didn't pay much attention to the film, too content just to lie in each other's arms. Neither realized just how comfortable and sleepy they were, and both fell asleep before the movie was over.


AN2: See? That was mostly fluffy! Shhh, don't tell Takashi's parents they're kind of, sort of, almost breaking the rules!

As promised, the reason for my long absence. To be perfectly honest, life went to shit. I lost my mom, my job, my health insurance, and any sense of security I had, all in one day. (My job was literally to take care of my disabled mother. Her disability sucked majorly, obviously, but the job itself was fabulous. I didn't have to go out and get a job interacting with tons of people, which was great for my severe anxiety, and I got paid to do something I was going to do anyway. It just worked.) I fell into a rather deep hole with the grief and depression, and I'm only just now crawling up near the top of it. I still have no job, no health insurance, etc... But at least the plot bunnies have come back. It's a start! Thanks again for reading, especially those who have stuck by me during the sudden hiatus! I would give you all plushies and cupcakes if I could!