Author's note:
Thank you nes for reviewing my piece before it goes public.
Disclamer: I do not own any character in Rurounin Kenshin. I just borrowed them to improve my vocabulary and grammar.
Warning: This is an uneventful chapter. Sorry….
Meet the Guardians
Kaoru slowly pushed her shopping cart along the hypermarket aisle. She knew exactly what she wanted to buy from the mart but she couldn't help scanning thoroughly at the goods displayed on the shelves.
"Ah… Sano loves this" She whispered softly to herself as she grabbed a few packets of roasted cuttle fish. She might still be mad at Sano for what had happened earlier in the morning but she felt obligated to make sure that he was well fed. Though junk food wasn't exactly nutritious, she had no objection as long as Sano enjoyed it. She had her heartily home cooked meal to counter the junk food in Sano's digestion system.
Holding three packets with her left hand and one packet with her right, she turned it over , observing the expiry date. Not that it was really necessary as Sano was bound to wallop all four packets by tomorrow, if he was home. Satisfied with the validity of one of the many Sano's television snacking binge, she threw all four packets into her cart. She continued her exploration with a humming tune.
Shoppers who didn't even know her name came to know this much about her – she adored this whoever named Kenshin. Every now and then, she would audibly whisper "Oh…oh… Kenshin loves this stuff…" or "…I am getting this for Kenshin" to the item in her hand or to the shelves.
She was studying the label of the instant mixed while at the same time considering which flavor would Kenshin have preferred when her mobile phone played a tune. She dug into her handbag with her free hand reaching for her phone. She took a quick look at the caller ID and smiled broadly before she answered it.
"Misao…." Was all that Kaoru could manage before, "Kaoru, I've landed in Tokyo. So, Aoshi and I will see you for dinner at Kenshin's at seven tonight. So, impress me with your new learnt skill." Misao cut off Kaoru excitedly.
"Why didn't you tell me earlier that you were coming? I could have met you earlier in the airport." Least to say, Kaoru was surprised by Misao's sudden visit.
"Huh? Didn't Aoshi tell you? Anyway I got to go, girl. I've got a meeting to attend soon. I'll see you tonight. Bye bye!" Misao hung up.
Kaoru was excited that Misao was coming over for dinner. She couldn't wait to electrify Misao with her new learnt skill. Misao had been laughing and criticizing her cooking for as long as she could remember.
'Wait a minute... Hiko is coming for dinner tonight. Misao and Aoshi are coming for dinner tonight… Which means…?' "Argh! I knew it! Aoshi wouldn't be so kind enough to give it up… Argh!" She almost threw the instant mixed that she was still holding to the floor in the fit of her temper.
Only yesterday did Aoshi said that he would be seeing Kaoru soon. However, she did not realize it then that it would be tomorrow.
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Kenshin stared painstakingly at the table calendar on his workplace. His right hand was idly spinning the pen in his hand. 'Today… was supposed to be just like any other normal day…' He sighed. He couldn't help feeling that with each passing event of the day, it couldn't have been worst.
His day started out really great - the short and almost conclusive moment with Kaoru until Sano's uninvited appearance. He was annoyed but it did no serious damage as this wasn't the first time and he figured that it wouldn't be the last either. Someone from above must have hated him – God seemed to enjoy playing tricks on him.
Secondly came Hiko's annoying call. Although Hiko did meant well, part of Kenshin's ego did not quite digest the fact that Hiko was telling him off for not taking good care of Kaoru. He could very well take good care of Kaoru without being told how! Sunshine reappeared again from behind the threatening dark cloud when Kaoru gave him a call. However, the warmth was dispersed the moment she announced that her brother was coming for dinner that night. It wouldn't be much worst for him when he called Hiko, in light that Hiko would take the cue and not appear for dinner, but instead, all Hiko could say was "Ah… So soon. Very well".
His day was just great. It couldn't be better. Momentarily he hoped that some major crises would hit Japan to help him evade tonight's dinner. Although he was positively sure that Hiko would have his head if he did not make his grand appearance tonight.
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As much as for the day was concerned, Sano was trying to avoid Kenshin - in case his good old ignorant self decided to push the very dangerous button. No doubt Kenshin was well known for his mild nature but his temper could vary between two extremes and Sano knew it all too well. Hence, Sano had been observing Kenshin from afar and noticed how a small dark cloud had been hovering over him. It was so unlike Kenshin to fiddle idly with his pen, in Sano's opinion.
"Oi! What's with pen?" Sano asked as he was walking up to Kenshin.
Kenshin sighed. "Kaoru's brother is coming over for dinner tonight." He said, still fiddling with his pen.
"Oh…" Though Sano sounded sympathetic and understanding, he hadn't a clue what was bothering Kenshin. 'What's the big deal with Kaoru's brother coming over for dinner tonight?' "Kaoru has siblings?" Sano voiced his query.
"Yes and it happens to be the infamous Shinomori Aoshi." Kenshin nonchalantly explained.
"Wow! Kaoru's brother is a celebrity! No wonder she has never mentioned it." Sano thoughtfully concluded. However, it still didn't answer his first question. "So, what's wrong with dining in with the infamous businessman?"
Kenshin looked at Sano and sighed. He couldn't even begin to explain to the clueless man in front of him. Though, he was thankful that Sano did not pick up and ask the obvious - why did Aoshi and Kaoru carry different family names. He was not really in the mood to explain.
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Kenshin was helping Kaoru in the kitchen. They worked very quietly, each drowning in their own sea of worries – worried about what would happen tonight when the two great men meet face to face.
"What's with the two of you? Why are both of you so quiet today?" Sano asked, observing Kenshin and Kaoru, who wore the same troubled face.
The couple turned to face Sano, who was sitting at the dining and looked momentarily at each other before answering at once, "Nothing."
"Yeah. Right. Like I would believe you. Do I look like an idiot? Huh!" He asked, pointing his index finger at himself.
Kaoru and Kenshin exchanged looks again before answering conclusively, "Yes" and went back to preparing dinner.
Sano's eyes widened. He couldn't believe that those people he cared about practically brushed him off! 'Am I NOT part of this family!' Before Sano could muster his discontentment, the door bell buzzed.
Kenshin was immensely tensed up upon the buzzing sound. Kaoru noticed it but said nothing. Instead, she dried her hand and offered, "I'll get the door."
Kaoru opened the door and was immediately greeted by Misao's loving hug. "Kaoru! I missed you so much!"
"I missed you too, Misao." Those two women resembled two long lost siblings.
When the ladies finally broke their hug, Kaoru looked away from Misao, towards Aoshi who was standing behind his fiancée. Kaoru proceed to give him a brief hug.
"You are early." Kaoru casually stated as she slowly released Aoshi.
"Misao couldn't wait to see you again." Partially Aoshi was not lying.
"Aoshi darling, I remember quiet well that it was you who deprived me of my much needed relaxing bath." Misao replied, revealing the other side of the coin.
"Ahem!" Sano coughed, drawing their attention to both Kenshin and himself. He felt they were being left out.
"Sano! Good to see you again!" Misao exclaimed excitedly as she stepped further into the apartment.
Kenshin had somehow managed to keep his presence insignificant.
"Kaoru, would you care to do the introduction, please?" Aoshi asked, formal as always.
'What a pompous man! This is not a business meeting for God sake!' Kaoru felt like kicking Aoshi. He already knew who they were and yet he still insisted on formal introduction. Nevertheless, she complied.
"Aoshi, this is Sano. Sano, Aoshi, my brother" Kaoru introduced them.
Aoshi stepped forward and took Sano's hand. "Pleased to meet you."
"It is an honor to meet you, Mr. Shinomori" Sano said, genuinely pleased to meet Aoshi.
"Aoshi. No need for the formality." Aoshi said, giving a small smile and politely turned away from Sano.
Without waiting to be formally introduced, Aoshi moved towards Kenshin, who was standing almost but not entirely invisible to the eye of the ever watchful eagle.
"Himura Kenshin." Aoshi said his name with much hostility but remained polite by extending his hand to Kenshin.
Kenshin shook Aoshi's hand but immediately regretted it when Aoshi's grip was meant to crush bones.
"Pleased to meet you." Kenshin managed without showing sign of any pain. He could have return Aoshi's favor but that would just increase the tension between them.
Aoshi did not respond nor did he show indication to let go of Kenshin suffering hand.
"Aoshi darling," Misao touched Aoshi's arm "…What are you doing? Let go of Kenshin already." She whispered.
"Aoshi…" Misao gritted her teeth when Aoshi tuned her off.
Aoshi reluctantly let go of Kenshin's throbbing hand and walked right past him to the living area.
Kenshin immediately slipped his hand into his right pants pocket. He proceeded to the living area as everyone went after Aoshi.
Sano and Kaoru smelled the tense air floating around them. While Kaoru had expected this to happen, Sano was just lost.
"Well, please have a seat while I'll set for dinner. You guys are really early I'll bring out some refreshment. Kenshin, I could use some help." Kaoru said, trying to shield Kenshin from her sudden abusive brother.
Kenshin was most delighted at Kaoru's request, feeling that he could actually breathe again. Unfortunately, his happiness was short lived when Misao offered to help instead.
"Women belong to the kitchen while you men can sit here and relax and talk about guy's stuff." Misao suggested, dragging Kaoru to the kitchen, leaving a helpless looking Kenshin behind.
"Misao, why did you do that for? Aoshi will swallow Kenshin alive!" Kaoru whispered angrily at Misao once they were in the kitchen.
"I am doing you a favor here…" Misao whispered back.
"And how is that a favor?" Kaoru asked, really wanting to know.
"Look – You want Aoshi to like Kenshin and have them both to get along like a big happy family, don't you? So, this would be a good start to cultivate them." Misao explained softly.
"I hope you are right…" Kaoru knew that it would take more than just one dinner to change Aoshi's impression on Kenshin. She couldn't blame Misao for being so naïve since Misao barely knew the depth where the problem stemmed. It was not just Aoshi simply surmising that Kenshin was unworthy of her love.
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The three men settled themselves on the sofa with some green tea. Aoshi sat in the middle of a three seats couch. Kenshin and Sano both squeezed themselves on a two seats couch with Kenshin nearer to Aoshi.
"So Aoshi, how long will you be in town?" Sano asked, trying to ease the uncomfortable and hostile silence that he felt.
"Until all concerns have been taken care of." Aoshi averted his eyes from his cup of tea to Kenshin.
Kenshin remained his calm.
Sano thought it would not be wise to ask 'what business?' though he was tempted. He was about to continue his small talk when his mobile phone called for his attention from his room. He felt bad for leaving Kenshin alone with Aoshi but it would not be good either if he ignored the call. Honestly, 'I've got the power' ringing tone was rather annoying when unattended.
Kenshin was left alone with Aoshi. Aoshi was not looking at him nor did he show an indication of his existence.
"So… how's the business at Aoiya's?" Kenshin tried to break the ice barrier.
Aoshi turned to stare down at Kenshin like he was some kind of nuisance. "Himura, don't force yourself to converse. I enjoy my peace."
"I'm sorry." Kenshin cleared his throat. He had never felt this low before. Aoshi was just unapproachable! He wondered briefly why Aoshi hated him. Then again, there were many possible reasons which he could probably start off with.
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Aoshi was not a loud speaker but was loud enough for the two ladies in the kitchen to hear his remark to Kenshin. Kaoru looked at Misao sternly. Misao smiled apologetically before she washed her hand and excused herself from kitchen.
"Kenshin, why don't you go help Kaoru. I'll entertain Mr. Mean-y & Cold here." Misao sat herself next to her fiancé.
"If you'll excuse me, I'll go help out in the kitchen." In no time, Kenshin leaped from the sofa to the kitchen.
"Aoshi, what is wrong with you? Can you give that guy a break? You are scaring him!" Seeing no reaction, Misao moved closer and whispered to Aoshi's ears. "Aoshi! Are you even listening to me!" She hissed quietly.
"Yes, dear. I am listening." Aoshi eyed Kenshin as he set himself next to Kaoru in the kitchen.
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"Here, help me dice up the carrot." Kaoru took a glance at Kenshin from the corner of her eyes as she laid the knife and the chop board on the kitchen top.
"Alright. Thank you." Kenshin knew that Kaoru had intentionally asked him to help out in the kitchen.
As Kenshin picked up the knife, a soft touch landed on his right hand. He looked up to Kaoru and saw her mouthed, "You'll be alright." She smiled reassuringly and he felt better already. He returned her smile, genuinely. 'For you, I will… Whatever it takes…'
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Aoshi watched Kenshin moved closer to Kaoru. Too close. He moved to get up from the sofa.
"Aoshi dear, where are you going?" Misao had a fairly good idea what he was up to.
"I need more tea." Aoshi said lamely.
"OH, no you don't." Misao pulled Aoshi back to his sitting position and locked her arms around his. "You are NOT getting anywhere near the kitchen. Leave them alone." Misao pecked Aoshi on the cheek. She grabbed hold of the television remote and pushed some buttons.
Aoshi took a deep calm breath and diverted his attention to the television.
"Hey… what's on television?" Sano came out from his room and flopped on the two seats sofa. "How come you and Kenshin swapped place?" He asked Misao. He had a feeling that he just missed something.
"Aoshi looked bored, so I came to entertain him."
'I don't see him looking any better than before….' Sano was not convinced but he accepted the explanation, anyhow. Feeling rather uncomfortable with the sight of Misao clinging tightly to the ice cool Aoshi, he got up from his seat and walked to the balcony.
"Where're you going?" Misao raised her head from Aoshi's shoulder.
"Taking some fresh air. I feel suffocated when love is in the air…." Sano said with his back to Misao.
Misao stuck her tongue out as a response and nestled her head against Aoshi's shoulder.
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For a while, Kenshin and Kaoru worked in silence in the kitchen and set up the dining table.
Misao and Asohi were enjoying the comfort of each other. Occasionally, Aoshi would glance towards the direction of the kitchen.
Lonesome Sano was seemingly into the curtain fall of the dusk.
"Ah…. Hiko's here." Sano announced. He turned around and walked right into the living room.
Aoshi made soft gesture for Misao to release him when he heard of Hiko's arrival. Misao obliged and let go of Aoshi's arm before she straighten herself.
Though it may not be obvious to the rest, Kenshin and Kaoru were sweating profusely for tonight calamitous dinner event. Nonetheless, what had to happen eventually would happen in the end. Hence, they both inaudibly took in deep breaths and braced themselves towards the fateful night. They momentarily exchanged looks and coherently thought, 'What ever happens it will not change us….'
Kaoru took a step before Kenshin towards the door.
Aoshi stood up in anticipation.
Opening the door, Kaoru was greeted with Hiko's warm presence. "You are early."
"Hello, Kaoru. I decided that I miss you." Hiko greeted the hostess in front of him with a peck on her cheek before stepping into the apartment.
Though it was not the first time Hiko had kissed Kaoru, Kenshin could not help but feeling a slight pinch of jealousy.
"Good evening, Shishou." Both Kenshin and Sano greeted Hiko concurrently.
Hiko merely nodded. His focus landed on the child prodigy.
Aoshi walked to Hiko and held out his hand. "Good evening, Mr. Seijuro. Shinomori Aoshi - Kaoru's legal guardian, a pleasure to meet your acquaintance."
Kaoru couldn't help rolling her eyes. She was twenty one years old and she still had a guardian!
"The pleasure is mine." Hiko shook Aoshi's hand. "You must be Makimachi Misao." Hiko turned his attention to the petite girl standing close to Aoshi.
"Yes, indeed. Mr. Seijuro. Pleased to meet you." Misao acknowledge with a broad smile.
Hiko and Aoshi both initiated the walk to the living room. Misao and Sano followed suit. While Kaoru and Kenshin couldn't decide whether to continue their task in preparing dinner or join their respective guardians and watch over them.
"Kenshin, why don't you join them and I'll get dinner done?" Kaoru timidly suggested. She wasn't sure whether she was making the right decision. She wished to sit next to Aoshi and glare at him to make sure he did not blow her cover. However she could not just leave dinner to someone else. If she allowed Kenshin to join them, then she might risk not knowing what he could have gathered from the conversation.
"Wait. Hang on." Kaoru grabbed hold of Kenshin right index finger before he turned around to the living area. She had to do some quick thinking but nothing seemed to be favorable to her. "I can't decide." She shook her head lightly and spoke of her thoughts softly.
Kenshin observed the worries that crossed her face. He wanted badly to sit next to Hiko and be ready to knock him out cold should he show the slightest hint to expose Kenshin's card. Despite all, Kenshin was more concerned for Kaoru. He couldn't leave her by herself to battle her own worries.
"I'll help you with dinner." Kenshin decided for her. It didn't matter if Hiko decided to cross the line and ruin everything because in the end, what mattered would only be Kaoru. Only Kaoru… 'So, who cares what ever happens as long as I still have her by my side.' He resorted.
Kaoru was skeptical of Kenshin's decision. She knitted her eye brows.
"Don't worry. They'll be fine. Sano and Misao will be there to watch over them." Kenshin assured her. Though she did not tell him what she was so nervous about tonight's dinner, somehow there was a subtle understanding that they both were worrying about the same issue.
"You're right." Kaoru finally smiled. With the presence of Misao, Aoshi would not reveal her identity. Aoshi was not be ignorant enough to do so. Suddenly, dinner did not seem like a bad idea anymore. "Come on, let get dinner ready."
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"You made yourself well known to your industry at a very young age. I am impressed." Hiko truthfully commented, holding a cup of sake to his hand
"I am well supported by my management team." Aoshi was unaffected by Hiko's praise.
"Indeed but you should not be too humble. You are good at what you do."
"No living thing works in isolation. My success is not derived by my own effort but the complimentary effort of the Aoiya's staff. Proper strategies or planning is useless without excellent execution." Aoshi spoke of his opinion.
Hiko sniggered. "I like the way you think."
"Dinner will be served shortly." Kaoru called out as she and Kenshin set the dinner on the dining table.
"Very well. I shall have my secretary to set a lunch appointment with yours on Monday. There is much that I wish to discuss with you. Perhaps there would be an opportunity for us to venture into something profitable." Hiko suggested.
"I would be honored to be working hand in hand with such large conglomerated such as yours." Aoshi unofficially accepted the lunch invitation.
"Good. Then we shall adjourn our business conversation till next week. We should not be mixing family dinner and business lunch together."
Aoshi nodded. Though his facial movement did not betray him, he was surprised that Hiko had actually regarded tonight's dinner as family dinner. To a certain extent Hiko's statement bought a certain level of comfort to him but he could not let his guard down. He had to be one hundred percent sure of Hiko's motive for serving Kaoru with such great hospitality and warmth.
Hiko smiled and raised himself from the sofa, walking to the dining table.
Everyone in the living area followed Hiko's lead and sat themselves comfortably at the dining table.
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They were half way through dinner and all seemed to be going well. None of the guardians said anything that they should not. Thanks to Misao's public relations skill (which she had acquired way before she was in charged of the public relation sector in Aoiya,) dinner was pleasant and entertaining.
All were entertained except for Kaoru when Misao started her chronicle of Kaoru's culinary skills.
"I still remember it all too well the first time Kaoru decided to pick up a knife and had her first go at cooking. When was it?" Misao briefly looked up to the ceiling with her chopstick sitting at the corner of her mouth before she turned to Aoshi for confirmation. "It was three years ago, wasn't it Aoshi?"
"More or less…" Aoshi recalled trying to educate Kaoru to be more ladylike but failed miserably. Although he had housekeepers to prepare meals for them, it didn't mean the both Misao and Kaoru need not to learn how to cook. It was an essential aptitude for Japanese ladies, modern or not. Misao just loved cooking and Kaoru was the direct opposite. Kaoru was only interested in eating.
'Why must I cook for the sake of men? Aren't they supposed love me for who I am and not for what I am not? If a man simply can't fall in love with me just because I can't cook then I say - to hell with him! I don't some male chauvinist for a life partner! I will cook only for myself and since I have people cooking for me, why should I learn cooking. Otherwise, they wouldn't have a job to do! Besides I have more important things to do like homework.' Aoshi vividly remembered Kaoru's reasoning. It wasn't until 3 years ago when she finally met 'him' that she started picking up cooking utensils. 'Look who is talking now…' Aoshi thought to himself.
"Oh my god. It was so horrible! Even Aoshi, who hardly shows any facial expression, scrounged his face when he looked at the presentation of the food. He couldn't even bring himself to eat it after smelling it, ne Aoshi?" Misao turned to Aoshi to affirm her story.
"Mmmh." Aoshi agreed.
"What happen then?" Sano was curious. Aoshi being a man that he was, Kaoru couldn't have possibly made him ate it.
"Ahem…." Kaoru coughed, pretending to have a discomfort in her throat. She was trying to signal Misao to drop the subject but with no luck – Misao did not take the cue.
"I ate it." Aoshi said.
"You ate it!" Sano was surprised.
"Not really. He didn't really eat it. He spooned into his mouth alright but before he could even swallow, he had spitted it all out. So, he didn't eat it but I actually ate it and regretted it because I ended up being stationed in the toilet for the next few hours! I was so weak in the knee by the time I was relieved from my 'cell'. I think I lost a few pounds that night and I really thought that I was going to die…. It still gives me the goose bumps to even think about that episode." Misao recalled in agony.
"WAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Sano was laughing hysterically, his hand slapping on the surface of the dining table.
Kaoru's face was red in both embarrassment and anger. How could Misao embarrassed her like that? With Sano's hysterical laughter, she could take it no further. She raised her shoulder higher and opened her mouth to say something but immediately disregarded it and slumped back her seat. She could not think of anything to defend herself. What Misao said was indeed the truth. There was no exaggeration.
"So, what happened then? Did you guys bar her from entering the kitchen after the incident?" Sano was still laughing his heart out. "Because if you guys did, it explained why a few years ago, she ended up in our kitchen and tried to poison both Kenshin and I with her cooking."
'Poison! Was that what Kenshin thought of my cooking back then?' Kaoru was aware that her cooking was a disaster three years ago. She knew that Kenshin had been struggling to eat it. She clearly saw it in his face. That was why, right after that day, she never cooked for Kenshin again, not until recently. Despite the fact that her cooking had improved tremendously and Kenshin had been enjoying her cooking, she couldn't help feeling depressed.
"We literally put a 'No Kaoru' zone in the kitchen but that didn't seem to deter her from trying to make us sick again. Of course, Aoshi and I got smarter than to be one of her guinea pigs again. So we got the others to take turns to try. As of today, ask anybody from the Shinomori's household about Kaoru's cooking and they'll practically turn pale within a split second… That's how bad it was." Misao sighed as she dug her chopsticks into her bowl of rice.
"It wasn't all that bad, really." Kenshin's voice was finally heard. He was getting really uncomfortable over the conversation and how it was dampening of Kaoru's mood.
Except for Hiko, all stared at Kenshin with their mouths slight agape.
"Not that bad! What do you mean by 'not that bad'? We turned blue! How not-that-bad is that? Kenshin... ummp.. "Before Sano could complete his sentences, he felt a pang of pain on his entire left foot. Apparently, Kenshin had stomped on his foot under the dining table!
"Kaoru's cooking is really not that bad. Probably at the beginning we had not quiet acquired the unique cooking style of hers." Kenshin reasoned.
'Uniqueness tastes of her cooking?' All except Hiko and Kenshin thought of the same.
'That is a really unique way of putting it…' Misao thought further.
"None of us were good at anything when we first came to the world. I might excel in kendo now but I didn't master it the moment I picked up my first bokken. Ask Shishou, how many times had he beaten my ass to the ground before I could miserably touch his shoulder with my bokken? It took me years!" Kenshin revealed.
"Kaoru's cooking is not of professional standard but at least she tried her best at it and still kept trying till today to deliver us a wonderful meal. Aren't you all enjoying your dinner tonight?" Kenshin's tone grew slightly agitated.
"Kenshin…." Sano tried to calm Kenshin but was not given a chance.
"Sano, for a person who does not even know how to fry an egg, you should not be laughing at Kaoru. You should mirror yourself before you condemned others." Kenshin snapped at Sano.
"But I was…" not condemning her... Sano had better shut up as he knew that he had pushed the button when he met Kenshin's eye.
Misao, looking at how things had turned out, gave a small smile. "Relax Kenshin. You don't have to get so worked up over the conversation. It was just dinner talk. You know, break the ice kinda of thing? We are not suggesting that dinner was bad. It was just for humor. I am sure that Kaoru wouldn't mind since she had successfully amazed us tonight with her cooking. Am I right Kaoru?"
"Huh? Yes, what?" Kaoru stopped looking at Kenshin who was sitting next to her and turned to Misao. Kaoru was stunned and baffled. She did not expect Kenshin to stand up for her so firmly.
"You want to know what I think?" Kenshin, who was not even aware that Kaoru was staring at him, asked Misao. "I think that we should not make fun out someone else's struggle to please the people that she cares for, regardless the circumstances. I do not believe that anyone would enjoy being reminded of its past struggle in form of a joke! All she wanted to do was to prepare a nice meal for her family and friends… What is so funny about that!" Kenshin was on the verge of losing his temper.
Kaoru was deeply touched. She could just throw herself at Kenshin, hug him tightly and kiss him senselessly until he was out of breath. If there was only the two of them in the apartment.
"You are right, Kenshin. I should not use Kaoru's short coming as an ice breaker. I did not take into consideration of her feelings. I apologize. I was wrong." Misao said apologetically. "Kaoru, will you forgive me? I didn't really mean what I say. Your cooking is really good. I really enjoyed it and am really proud of you. You have improved so much." Misao dropped her childish tone that she normally wore. She was serious.
Kaoru sensed that Misao really meant what she said. "No worries. It didn't really matter what you said because I know that I am good." Kaoru smiled proudly.
Kenshin saw Kaoru's smiling face and the building rage within him immediately died down.
Under normal circumstances, Aoshi would not allow anyone to talk to Misao as rude as Kenshin just did. However, Misao had it coming to her. She loved teasing Kaoru but this time she had went too far. He saw how Kaoru's expression had changed and believed that Misao saw it too. Misao was a very considerate person and was sensitive to Kaoru's feeling. He guessed that Misao had intentionally done it so to prove something to him. She was partially successful as he gave more positive thoughts about Kenshin but that didn't mean he liked Kenshin any more than before.
"Kaoru," Hiko, who had remained impassively quiet till now, grabbed hold of Kaoru's small hand, "...I do not know how bad your cooking was three years ago. Judging from the response that I gathered, it must have been pretty bad. But since you came to live with Kenshin, I have had a wonderful dinner in this apartment. And I thanked you for that." Hiko squeezed Kaoru's hand with a warm smile.
Kaoru felt like tearing. She nodded and squeezed back.
Aoshi carefully observed Hiko.
"Speaking of which, it is really amazing what one can achieve if he put his heart into it. Kaoru never lifted her finger in the kitchen until three years ago. She was sooo against the stereotype thinking about how a woman should be domesticated. A step into university and she was transformed. Kenshin, you were the first few that she had met during her freshmen year, what do you think that happened to her?" Misao propped her right elbow on the dining table and rested her chin on the right palm, waiting an answer from Kenshin.
Kenshin blinked.
"Ah… Misao, how was your flight?" Kaoru abruptly interrupted. Kaoru knew that Misao was trying to help her – hinting Kenshin. However, in Kaoru's opinion, the best way for Misao to help was to shut up.
Misao smirked at Kaoru. Sano saw it and smirked as well.
Kaoru shot Misao a sharp glare.
Kenshin was looking forth and left between Kaoru and Misao with a questioning look.
Hiko seemed to be enjoying his sake.
"Anyway, how's your job hunting going?" Misao decided to change the subject since her second objective had been achieved.
Kenshin and Sano looked at Kaoru. They really wanted to know but didn't have the guts to ask.
Kaoru had been restraining herself from climbing across the dining table to strangle her best friend. 'What is she doing!'
"Still in progress. Thank you for your concern." Kaoru withhold her tone that was threatening to ascend.
"Well, in that case, I have good news for you! I met Prof. Kanryuu some days ago while he was on a field trip to Kyoto. He asked about how you were doing and so on. And guess what?" Misao was excited of the news that she was about to break.
On the other hand, Kaoru dreaded for what Misao was about to say. "What?" She asked nevertheless.
"He wants you to work with him in Tokyo-U!" Misao almost jumped on her chair. "He was really surprised that you still had not found a job but he was glad. Otherwise he might never render your services. So, I told him that you'll be delighted and you will give him a call sometime next week. Isn't that great!"
Kaoru was flabbergasted. She gave Misao a look which translated, 'Misao! What the hell are you doing!' She vaguely heard Sano and Kenshin congratulating her.
"I know. I know. You are excited about it as well but you can close your mouth now…" Misao smiled cheerfully. There, her final objective had been accomplished.
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As always, Kenshin and Kaoru were left in the kitchen to clean up after dinner while Sano entertained the guests.
"Is something wrong, Kaoru?" Kenshin noticed Kaoru still didn't look too happy.
Kaoru shook her head. "Nothing's wrong. I am just tired." How could she even tell him that she didn't want to take up that job offer? 'Why is Misao doing this!'
"Why don't you take a rest and I'll finish up the dishes." Kenshin transferred the soapy plate from Kaoru's hand to his.
"It is ok, Kenshin. I prefer to be here." Kaoru continued to soap up other dishes while Kenshin rinsed them.
Kenshin knew that something was amiss, but he allowed her to her thoughts for the moment. He should ask again after the guests had left.
"Kaoru, I am leaving now." Hiko announced from the living area.
Kaoru turned to face him and wiped her hand on the apron. "Leaving already? So soon? Why?" Normally Hiko stayed till about midnight.
"Ah... I had a long day. As much as I like to think that I am still young, my body defy me." Hiko walked closer to Kaoru and Kenshin. "Thank you, Kaoru, for the wonderful dinner. I shall see the both of you sometimes next week."
"Alright. Have a goodnight sleep then. Call me." Kaoru hugged Hiko and walked him to the door.
Kaoru and Kenshin were surprised to see Aoshi already standing at the door.
"I'll be leaving as well." Aoshi said.
"And I'll be staying here tonight." Misao said cheerfully.
Kaoru was delighted that Misao was sleeping over tonight. She had a score to settle with the lithe lady. However the more she thought of it, something did not quite fall in place. Hiko and Aoshi were leaving at the same time which meant they would be walking together – alone!
Kaoru turned to Kenshin, who seemed to have read her mind.
"Why don't I accompany the both of you?" Kenshin offered.
"Baka. You have never asked to walk me to my car. Why today?" Hiko knew what Kenshin was trying to do but he would not allow it.
Kenshin was tongue tied.
"I'll walk Mr. Seijuro to his car." Aoshi said.
"I'll walk you out." Kaoru cried out of a sudden.
"No need for that Kaoru. Carry on with your dishes. I am sure both Mr. Seijuro and I are fine walking ourselves out." Aoshi gave Kaoru, what seemed like a triumph smile.
Hiko opened the door and stepped out. "Good night all."
Aoshi said his good bye and left with Hiko.
Absentmindedly, Kaoru asked Kenshin, "Do you think anything will happen with just the two of them?"
"…. I don't know. I hope not…." Kenshin trailed off.
In any case, there wasn't anything they could do about it. It was clear to them those two men wished to be left alone with each other.
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Hiko and Aoshi walked in silent along the hallway until they reached the elevator. Hiko pushed the downwards button.
"Is there something that you wished to clarify with me, Aoshi?" Hiko asked as he walked into the elevator.
Indeed Aoshi had been waiting for this moment alone with Hiko to clear his worries. Unfortunately for Aoshi, before he could even speak his mind, Hiko spoke again when the elevator door closed them in. Hiko faced the elevator opening.
"I knew your parents rather well, Aoshi. We were long time friends. For political reason, however, we were not acquainted in the public eye. And I also knew that Aoiya's business was a secondary business. Your parent's primary job was as informant. They traded information with various parties including with the government. They were good people with good deed for they would only trade information with parties with no ill intentions." Hiko turned to watch Aoshi's expression before he carried on further. Aoshi showed no sign of emotion.
None of them press the 'G' button. The elevator remained stagnant on third floor.
"After their tragic dead, Okina, technically, your maternal uncle, had forbidden this part of the family business. He deemed it as too dangerous. He had abolished all networks, so he thought. But… I can help you reestablish your parents' path if you wish to. All networks still exist – only dormant for the time being. Those networks that Shinomori had build generations ago are loyal to the Shinomori. They will re-emerge when you are ready. I can help you reconnect." Hiko looked into Aoshi's eyes with intention to read his thoughts.
"Is this the reason why you are extending your generous hospitality towards Kaoru?" Aoshi finally spoke in a very calm tone.
Hiko sniggered. "Aoshi, for an intelligent man like you, it is rather stupid of you come to such conclusion. You disappoint me." Hiko shook his head in dismay. "Do you honestly think that I have any need to hold any form of leverage against you, in order to have you do what I demand? I do believe that you would know about my profile by now."
"……" Aoshi was trying to decipher what Hiko was implying.
"Old Man Kai called me some days ago. He was rather worried about his only granddaughter. I had informed him that she is in good hands; there is nothing for him to worry about. She is now where she should really belong." Hiko had hope that this piece of information would bring some light to Aoshi.
"Old Man Kai and I have a similarity. We would not allow any strangers near our family for whatever reasons. I would not put my son at risk and so wouldn't he with his precious." Hiko revealed further.
"Thank you." Aoshi smiled in relieved. Hiko knew all along of Kaoru's identity. His dismissed all his worries pertaining to Hiko. Which left him with only Kenshin to worry about.
Hiko smiled and pushed the 'G' button. The elevator moved downwards.
"Consider my proposal, Aoshi." The door opened and Hiko stepped out of the elevator
Aoshi followed Hiko out. "What's your interest in this?" Aoshi stopped just outside the elevator entrance.
Hiko turned around and faced him. "Simple. I want to secure a better future for my descendant. You know of Kaoru's background. It is a matter of time before she is forced to take up her heritage and play her role. She will need all the support that she can muster to survive in the man eat man's world.." Hiko turned and walked out of the apartment building.
Aoshi followed suit and walked beside Hiko to their respective cars.
"If it is not for your own, do it for Kaoru." Hiko added.
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Kenshin and Kaoru stood at the balcony, staring at Hiko and Aoshi's car.
"They took a bit too long to reach their car/cars, don't you think?" Kaoru said in whisper to Kenshin who was standing next to her. She was growing anxious.
"Mmh" Kenshin nodded.
"Oh..oh… there they come. Quick. Hide." Kaoru pulled Kenshin by the arm into the living area. They both hid behind the curtain of the sliding glass door. Kaoru peeked through the curtain with Kenshin standing closely behind her.
"What are they talking about?" Kaoru whispered merely to herself.
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"They are looking, aren't they?" Hiko sensed it without having to turn his back.
Aoshi turned around. "Indeed."
"Why did you not step in and clear the air for them?" Aoshi had made an assumption that Kenshin knew as much Hiko did.
"Because at this stage, it is between the two of them. They have to learn how to be honest with each other. Open their hearts to one another. They would need to trust. That is something the third party can't help them. This is not our place to step in. Otherwise it would only complicate matters as it is already." Hiko explained his stand point.
Aoshi understood Hiko's reasoning but he still did not comprehend why had Kenshin complicated the matter in the first place. "Why did he…" Aoshi was brusquely cut off by Hiko.
"Frankly speaking, I do not understand what is in his mind. He never wished to open to me." Hiko knew what Aoshi had wanted to ask. "Young minds today are somehow like to confuse and contradict themselves." Hiko stopped in front his car and turned to Aoshi.
"My son is a fool but he is no doubt a caring fool. I believed that Makimachi was trying desperately to prove it tonight." Hiko paused for Aoshi's response. Hiko spoke again when the young man said nothing, "I am disgraced and dishonored by his cowardly manners but I believed that he is trying to make his amendment."
"You think so?" Aoshi did not have the same faith in Kenshin as Hiko did.
"He will. He is in love with her as she is with him. Let them be. They will work it out themselves. We can only afford to be an observer." Hiko emphasized before he unlocked his car door and stepped inside the vehicle. "Goodnight Aoshi. I shall see you on Monday for lunch." Hiko said before he closed his car door.
"Goodnight." Aoshi then momentarily turned to look at one particular balcony. 'Let them be. It is not our place to step in.. .' He replayed Hiko word of advice. He sighed and thought that perhaps he should really let go and let them be. Whether he liked it or not, this was beyond his control.
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"What those two think they are doing?" Misao asked Sano when she turned to look from her shoulders
"Who knows! They have been acting weird for the whole evening." Sano replied.
"And why are we cleaning the dishes for them while the peeked from behind the curtain like some perverts!" Misao picked up a dirty dish.
Sano shrugged.
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Author's note: Sorry for the delay, was having a little problem writing it up. And also apologized the chapter being not-so-eventful. Will try to speed things up a little in the coming chapter. I am getting bored myself, still writing on the transitional period. The next coming chapter, will be K&K only. Erm… mostly, I hope.
And yes, I have changed my nickname. Was getting rather embarrassed with my previous nick.
My beta reader, nes had warned about the responding to review on my chapter, hence, I shall cut short on that. Nevertheless, thank you for the following who took the time to review :
nes, Via X Infinito, crazy fanfic lover and simplee sweet
And also thanks for those who have been being patience with me. Really appreciate it. With life more stable now, I shall update more promptly.