Disclaimer: I do not own Rurouni Kenshin or its character.

I do not think there are any elements I need to warn you about. I might be wrong. There is a bit more of Kaoru's past here but nothing explicit. Well then, enjoy reading this chapter!

Chapter 5

An Announcement of Fate

Dinner was a private affair or as private as it could get. Kenshin had not expected it to be so since it was improper for an unwed woman of Tomoe's position to entertain guests without a chaperone. Society and propriety insist that no men and women unwed and unrelated stayed alone for long hours. However, when he first sensed a presence hidden in the shadows, he realised that Tomoe had already covered that aspect. They were only under the pretence that they were alone. Still Kenshin felt vaguely uncomfortable and realised why. It was a presence he was intimately familiar with.

He had not expected to see her here. He had known or guessed that she was a maid or a servant. Yet he had not expected to see her in Tomoe's home. It occurred to him that he should have trusted his instincts the night of the ball when he scented Kaoru on Tomoe. Even then, he was shocked to see her there, bowing before him and his men. His heart clenched at the mere thought of it. He did not like seeing her as a submissive. It did not suit her character at all.

The woman he had met by the river had a bright ki and was full of life. When she was angry, she looked like a bright flame, lit to destroy all who come across her. He had been intrigued by that flame just as much as he was attracted to the pain and sorrow he sensed deep within her.

Kenshin sifted uncomfortably and smiled winningly at his hostess when she looked at him curiously. His mind raced back to the utter terror he saw in Kaoru's eyes and he wondered why she looked so horrified. He was not going to expose their relationship since it would hurt both of them but she did not need to look like she was going to be beheaded at any second. She looked almost like someone would hurt her badly if they found out that Kenshin had been interested in knowing Kaoru seriously.

Would they? Would they hurt her?

He studied Tomoe and masked a frown that was threatening to show. The woman before looked soft and fragile. Kenshin was sure she would not hurt Kaoru at all. Tomoe was Lady Saya's daughter and from what he knows about her, Lady Saya was a warm hearted woman who even loved the child of her mistress. That thought made his pause before he drank the wine in his goblet.

Who was Lady Saya's stepdaughter?

"Is something wrong, my Lord?"

He looked up at Tomoe's soft voice and smiled. "Nothing at all. I was wondering if I am too fast for you. The ball was only last night and you must be exhausted but I am already putting myself in your way."

Tomoe smiled graciously, her eyes calm and gentle as she looked deeply into his. "I admit, your visit surprised me. I did not think you would remember me at all."

"It was your scent," Kenshin answered automatically and mentally cursed himself for a fool. He could not admit to Tomoe that he scented Kaoru on her. He cleared his throat and smiled embarrassedly when Tomoe looked expectantly at him. "Your scent...plum blossoms."

Chocolate coated eyes looked deeply in amethyst ones and seductively lured him in. "My scent...I see."

He highly doubted she did but he sensed a change in the air and his eyes involuntarily left Tomoe to seek Kaoru out in the shadows. When he saw her, he could have sworn she stiffened and the tension in the air automatically increased.

Tomoe noticed Kenshin's wondering gaze and followed his eyes. Her features did not change as they recognized who Kenshin was looking at but a discreet nod made Kaoru straighten up, bow and disappear. Tomoe saw Kenshin's startled eyes before they swung back to her.

"Now, we are alone," he finally said at the odd silence that greeted them.

Tomoe nodded. "Yes, we are. Did something catch your attention, my Lord?"

Kenshin shook his head. "Not at all."

Tomoe smiled. "The food, was it to your liking?"

He glanced once more at the deliciously prepared fish on his face and grinned wolfishly. "It is the best. My compliments to the cook. She has outdone herself."

His hostess smiled gently once more and Kenshin wondered if he could get her to show some other feelings, such as anger and passion. He frowned at that thought and forcefully made himself concentrate on Tomoe instead of Kaoru.

"I particularly enjoyed the appetizer. I have never tasted fruits prepared so...uniquely before. I would love to taste it again."

The dark haired woman nodded her head in agreement. "I believe it is an old and ancient recipe. Not many still have it anymore."

Interested, Kenshin leaned closer. "Do you often find out about the food your cook serves?"

Elegantly eyeing him, Tomoe shrugged. "I believe that behind every dish, there is a story waiting to be told. It is fascinating."

"Do you cook?"

"I am a fairly accomplished cook. I can handle the occasional dinner but I have not cooked for more than two."

He was on the verge of asking why only two and held his tongue. It was not the time or the place.

"It is a cool day and Dioni has been gracious enough to give us such a wonderful weather. I see you have a beautiful garden as well. Although unchaperoned, would you mind taking a walk with me?"

Kenshin stood before Tomoe and offered his arm. Tomoe nodded and rose to accompany him.

"Do not worry about propriety, my Lord. There are always eyes watching."

"Does that not feel intruding?"

"Hardly. We all need to know what is going on under us."

Kenshin nodded at that and they walked away in companionable silence, their way lit by moonlight.

XXX

Kaoru did not know what to do. She had been ordered by Tomoe and Enishi to stay in the shadows and watch. She knew before that Tomoe had merely wanted to brag about the power she will soon be awarded with. She wanted Kaoru to see and feel helpless against her and Enishi and she nearly succeeded.

What Kaoru had been truly startled with was the appearance of Kenshin.

How could she have been so stupid? She should have realized that a new face meant the ruler's son who just returned home. She should have known. Instead, she had yelled at him and talked to him. If Tomoe ever finds out, she will be at the siblings' wrath for months.

Kaoru could not afford to have anyone disturb her well laid plans for now. Her mother was going to come home and Kaoru needed to find a way to get the land deeds from Enishi and bring her mother away. She could not do so if she brought attention to herself.

She had also been startled to see Aoshi. He had no reaction in meeting her but she saw eyes narrow the tiniest bit when terror sneaked into her own. He must have been wondering about that...

Speaking of the devil...

He stood outside, his back against the house but Kaoru knew he knew she was approaching. She simply stood behind him and then, beside him. They were quiet, neither willing to break the silence. Kaoru allowed herself to see what Aoshi was looking at. The night was young and the moon was high in the sky. Kaoru saw the stars lit like tiny candles in the dark, accompanying the moon. They sky was clear, the air was cool. She smiled.

"You are feeling better."

She simply nodded, unwilling to speak. His body was so warm beside her and he felt like a sturdy rock, hard and comforting. Kaoru wanted nothing more than to lean against him and rest her head on his shoulders. She felt so tired and drained after meeting Kenshin.

As though he sensed her thoughts, Aoshi shifted and slid and arm around Kaoru's shoulders. He tugged her closer to his side until she was cocooned his arms. Kaoru automatically tried to pull back but he was stronger and he held her against him. She forced herself to relax and looked up to read his expression but he kept his eyes forward. Touched by the awkward embrace, Kaoru leaned closer to the comforting warmth and closed her eyes. It felt safe, she thought longingly. It felt right.

"You do not have to force yourself to hold me, Aoshi-san."

"I am not forcing myself. You looked like you needed it."

"Thank you. Have you eaten?"

"No. I do not feel like eating anything made here."

Kaoru smiled at that and slipped a hand up to grab his shirt. She simply held on to him, needing more contact and for the first time, male contact did not disgust her.

"Tae is a fantastic cook and you'll regret not trying out her food."

"I'm sure she is good," he replied dryly and felt his heart lighten at the smile on her face. "Why did you look so scared just now? Was it because of me?"

Kaoru bit her lips and shook her head slowly. "I know you will not say a word. I trust you. There is another matter that concerned me, that is all. Please, I can't say anymore."

Aoshi was not happy about it but he nodded. "I understand. Do not worry. If it is too much for you to handle, you know you can send for me."

"Yes, I know. Thank you."

That was the scene Sano walked into. He had not been expecting it and he was shocked to see a woman wrapped in Aoshi's arms. As far as Sano knew, Aoshi had never indulged in sexual pleasures and he did not have a special someone in his life. If he did, he was very discreet.

Sano approached the couple, intent on finding out who she was when Aoshi sensed him. Instantly, the tall man took a step back from his woman and she too turned to look at him. Sano would have said something to tease Aoshi but stopped when he saw her face turn white at the sight of him. She wanted to pull back from Aoshi's arms but the taller man kept his arms locked around her. He leaned forward and whispered something into her ears and she calmed down. Although her face was still pale, she stopped trying to escape and when he was sure she was fine, Aoshi let her go.

Sano recognized her.

He remembered her as the woman who paled when she looked up and saw the three of them. Was it because of Aoshi? Who was she anyway?

She was quite a looker, her thought as he eyed her curiously. Large blue eyes watched him wearily and when she smiled softly, Sano felt his heart melt. Despite the lingering fear, the smile made her look really beautiful. Sano had never seen such scared innocence in anyone. He sensed that within her. She felt like a woman who was innocent and yet she seemed like someone who had seen her share of darkness. Whatever it was, Sano felt a companionable pull towards her and he smiled jovially.

"So you are the woman who caught this ice-block's eyes. I was wondering who would he lose his heart to if he had any, that is," Sano said with a grin. The young blue eyed woman looked uncomfortable but her eyes narrowed when Sano insulted Aoshi.

"Aoshi-san is not an ice block and he has a very warm heart, thank you very much. I am not his woman."

Had spine, Sano mused. Not a submissive. That's odd, her fear made her a submissive, right?

"Well, he always seems so cold, cool and calm. As I said, ice block."

Kaoru's eyes narrowed. "Do not speak to Aoshi-san like that!"

Aoshi placed a hand on Kaoru's shoulder to rein her in. He had been irritated to see Sano but the brunette goading brought colour to Kaoru's pale face and for that he was grateful. He did not like to see her so pale.

"She is not my woman, Sagara. Drop it."

Sano simply shrugged. "Have you eaten? I'm starving and everyone seems preoccupied by Kenshin and his woman."

Aoshi shook his head.

Kaoru sighed and slipped on her mask as a maid and smiled at both the men. "Well, Aoshi-san, Sagara-san, why don't I serve you dinner? If you would follow me?"

"Alright! Food! Finally!" Sano yelled as he walked beside her. Even as they walked, Sano realised Aoshi cleverly took his place between Sano and Kaoru as they made their way to another room. Sano snickered. Looks like Aoshi is possessive.

As Kaoru seated them and served them, Sano could not help but realise the extra care she took with Aoshi's plate. She served him carefully and always checked with him before she served him anything. There was a certain camaraderie between that was impossible to miss.

"So....you never told me your name," Sano said as between mouthfuls. Kaoru simply raised an eyebrow and the commanding look made Sano chock as he forced the food down his throat. Goodness, the woman was something. For a moment, he thought of her as a damsel in distress, then she looked like an avenging angel. Now, she looked like the woman of the house, confident and commanding.

" I do not believe it is necessary for me to tell you my name. Is it important?"

"Well, I need to call you something, don't I?"

Kaoru smirked. "Would Aoshi-san tell you my name?"

Sano looked at Aoshi and the stoic man did not even send any sort of signal.

"Doubt it. The man seems possessive of you as it is."

Kaoru frowned at that. "Aoshi-san is merely looking out for me."

Denial, Sano thought and snickered inwardly. Looks like Aoshi is facing a one-sided romance.

"Well, your name?"

"I do not feel like telling you."

"I can find out...," he warned but Kaoru simply laughed.

"I wish you all the luck." No one spoke her name in the house unless she was summoned for.

"I'm Sanosuke, son of Sagara. My friends call me Sano. You?"

"I work here and I do not feel like disclosing my name. Anything else?"

"Cheeky woman. Alright, if you are playing it that way, I can play this game too. How long have you been working here, jou-chan?"

"Jou-chan?" Kaoru cried out as she glared at Sano. The familiarity of the call did not suit them as they just met.

"Yes. Jou-chan. You refuse to give me your name so I have the privilege of calling you whatever I want."

" I refuse to be called Jou-chan!"

"Too bad. I've decided to call you Jou-chan, jou-chan," Sano replied as he winked at her. Kaoru felt like hitting him and then, she laughed.

He felt like he was hit by a ton of bricks. The woman had a beautiful laugh. Sano watched as her cheeks flushed and her eyes danced with mirth. She looked so beautiful that his heart ached. She was meant to be the mistress not the maid.

Aoshi remained silent. He watched the banter between Kaoru and Sano and wished Kaoru had been born into the Sagara household at least. He might not have met her as his master's student but she would have been spared the pain she had faced for years.

Sano insisted that Kaoru joined them for the meal. She protested and he insisted. When Aoshi finally urged her as well, Kaoru relented and joined the two men. She knew she should not have eaten with them but she was so tired and hungry that she could not resist well. So they ate and they laughed and they talked.

Kaoru liked Sano. He was truly a lovable man. He was fun and playful. She had not felt so alive in a long time. She was happy that she managed to meet him at least once but she knew, unlike Aoshi, he would not remain. Sano looked like he was from a good family and when finds out who she is, he would avoid her.

That thought saddened her but she knew it was only a matter of time and relished in the moment.

Dinner passed by quickly and Sano got up to excuse himself.

"I better check if Kenshin is ready to leave. Meet us in front, Aoshi."

Aoshi simply nodded and watched Sano leave. Kaoru waved at the brunette and got up to clear the plates.

That was the scene Kenshin walked into.

He had been hoping to catch Kaoru alone the whole night but he could not leave Tomoe alone even once. He wanted to talk to Kaoru but the chance did not present itself until the night had drawn to a close. He had excused himself from Tomoe under the pretence of using the facilities and hunted for her. When he sensed her in the room, he felt a touch nervous and felt utterly foolish for feeling as such.

Then, he sensed Aoshi and he frowned. There were only the two of them in the room and Kenshin did not like the implications. He strode into the room and stopped.

Kaoru was clearing the table and Aoshi sat with his back against the door. Kenshin was not sure what Aoshi could have probably said but Kaoru's wide smile and twinkling eyes made his heart twist and he felt irritatingly jealous of his right hand man. Before he could say a word, Aoshi stood up and turned. He nodded at Kenshin. Kaoru's eyes turned to meet his and she bowed.

"My Lord," she greeted appropriately for a maid. Kenshin felt like ordering her to stand up straight but he did not want Aoshi to realise his infatuation with Kaoru. So he simply nodded.

"Where is Sano?"

"He went to search for you."

"Very well. Let us leave."

Aoshi nodded. Kenshin turned to walk away but his eyes caught a movement he never expected. Aoshi had reached up and squeezed Kaoru's hand briefly before following his master.

Yes, he did not like the implications at all.

XXX

He had been watching her.

Tomoe felt anger and jealousy spread viciously within her.

Kenshin had been watching Kaoru. He had been watching her since he was introduced to her people when he first arrived. He had been watching out for her, discreetly of course. She had noticed it. She would be a fool not to notice it. He had seemed tense and edgy and she knew who placed him in such a mood.

Yet she did not know why.

How could Kaoru meet Kenshin?

There is no way a woman of Kaoru's position would cross paths with a man of Kenshin's status. Tomoe knew that very well.

Would it matter?

She wondered about that as she lay naked on her bed, her gown flung to the ground. Would it really matter? She will be married to Kenshin soon and as a ruler's wife, she would live with him in his manor. Enishi would have total control of Kaoru and Tomoe was sure he would take very good care of her.

She frowned at that. Enishi has been showing signs of interest in Kaoru. That was unacceptable. He was on his way of making the same mistake as their father made. A mistake that Tomoe was certain would get him killed. She could not see why men desired Kaoru. Oh, there were men who desired her. She had met them all her live. Yet the men she wanted always seem to want her.

What was so great about her?

Tomoe trailed a hand from her lips to her breast. She fingered her nipple gently and felt the heaviness of her breast. She knew she was beautiful. She knew she was desirable. She had ensured that hard work and constant abuse kept Kaoru's natural beauty from showing. She was sure that woman's daughter was just passable in looks. Why were men so attracted to her?

It did not matter. Soon, she will be Kenshin's bride and she knew what she wanted to do as Kenshin's bride. She smirked.

There was a certain prisoner in the town jail who has been alive for far too long. She was sure a wife's request would ensure the prisoner's death.

After all, she needed ways to break Kaoru and what better way was there than taking away her only reason for living.

XXX

The journey back was quiet. The silence was unnerving. Sano had no idea what happened but whatever it was it made Kenshin extremely mad.

The redhead was fuming silently as he sat stonily opposite Sano and Aoshi. Aoshi had not said a word and did not voluntarily ask Kenshin either. He simply sat quietly, his eyes calmly watching the redhead while his mind whirled around Kaoru.

She was dressed shabbily tonight. He did not like that. He noticed that compared to other servants, Kaoru's dressing was beyond compare. It was horrible. He did not know how she could wear that faded gown but he felt more irritated that she would allow Tomoe and Enishi to dictate her life. If only her mother was free, Kaoru would turn her back on those evil siblings at once.

Kenshin knew instinctively that Aoshi's mind was not there. He was thinking of something else. Or rather someone else.

Was he thinking of Kaoru?

He frowned at that notion and tried not to let it get to him. He failed. He did not understand why the mere thought of Kaoru with someone other than him irritated him. This was Aoshi. Aoshi does not have a special woman in his life. Kenshin would have realised it. He would have at least scented Kaoru on Aoshi but he felt nothing. Except tonight.

Sitting so close to Aoshi in a closed spaced, Kenshin could clearly scent Kaoru on his man. He could smell that sharp scent of jasmine on him. Of course he would have the scent of jasmine. Kaoru had been serving him food, Kenshin rationalised despite the disbelief in his heart.

He felt like she had betrayed him.

She had told him that he would not want her if he knew about her. She had told him that he should not come around and meet her because it was improper. But was it proper for Aoshi to do it? She had been laughing with Aoshi, her blue eyes twinkling with mirth. Kenshin felt the anger in him rise to various levels as he steamed in his seat.

As Sano thought, the ride home was way too silent.

When they reached the manor, Syousuke, Aya and Megumi were waiting for their return. Kenshin simply entered his home, nodded at his family and turned to walk to his room when Aya called him.

"Well, Kenshin, aren't you going to tell us how it went?"

Kenshin stopped and sighed. He turned and gave his mother a light nod and a tired smile.

"Maybe tomorrow. I am tired and I want to rest."

"But Kenshin..."

"Tomorrow, mother. Please. Goodnight."

Aya watched helplessly as her son stalked upstairs and locked his room door.

"Well!" she growled. She turned her eyes to the two men who accompanied her boy.

"Something happened?" Syousuke intervened, hoping to rescue both Sano and Aoshi from his wife's wrath.

Aoshi remained silent and Sano cursed inwardly. He saw Megumi looking expectantly at him and sighed. Oh, the things he does for love and friendship.

"I'm not sure. Dinner seemed to go on well and he took a long walk with Lady Tomoe. They seemed to hitting off pretty well. I'm not sure what happened to anger him," Sano answered truthfully as he kept his eyes on Syousuke.

"He was happy with Lady Tomoe?" Aya asked to confirm Sano's view.

Sano nodded. "He was, by any means, pleased."

Content, Aya sat back beside Syousuke. "That is good. He is pleased with her."

Syousuke smiled at his wife and turned to look at both his men. His smile died when he saw Aoshi cool countenance. "Is there something wrong, Shinomori?"

Aoshi shook his head. "Nothing, my Lord."

The look in Syousuke's eyes clearly conveyed he did not belief Aoshi but he said nothing. As long as the matter concerned Aoshi's private life, he would not interfere.

"Well, I'm sure you are both tired. You may retire."

Aoshi and Sano both nodded. When her parents rose, Megumi followed them up. She nodded at Sano. The brunette smiled back. Yet he did not indicate that he wanted to meet her so they simply parted ways.

"Going back home, Aoshi?"

Aoshi nodded, turned and left without a word. Sano resisted the urge of sticking out his tongue. "Unsociable ice block!"

He needed to talk to Kenshin and he was not sure if now was the right time. But Kenshin would want to know about that woman he had been seeing at the river. Kaoru. Sano needed to warn him before things got too sticky between them.

He did not like being the bearer of bad news but somebody had to do it. He was just sorry that he had been elected for the job.

He knocked on Kenshin's door twice and entered without a warning. Kenshin was laying down on his bed, his head resting on his arms and his eyes watching the ceiling.

"I do not want to talk to anyone right now, Sano," he warned as he kept on thinking of Kaoru and Tomoe.

"Yeah, well too bad. You have to talk to me. It's about Kaoru."

That name was enough to make Kenshin sit up on his bed. "You told me this evening you had some news about her."

"Yes, I do. Still want me to go?"

"Can it and start talking. What did you find out?"

"A lot and not good stuff, Kenshin," Sano warned as he sat before his friend. Kenshin frowned and his eyes darkened.

"She is not the type of woman to be hated, Sano. I know her. I did not sense that kind of darkness within her."

"She might have some kind of darkness within her, Kenshin. You will never know for sure."

"It does not matter. Tell me what you know."

An image of Kaoru sprung in his head and Kenshin savoured it as he listened to Sano.

"Kaoru is apparently the daughter of a woman named Hana daughter of Yoshiro. I do not know who her father is. Guess what? Hana is Lord Yukishiro's mistress."

Stunned, Kenshin stared at his friend. "Lord Yukishiro? Tomoe?"

"Yeah. She was also the lady who murdered Lord Yukishiro. No one knows why. Everyone I talked to said she was a raving lunatic. Kept calling him a betraying bastard. Well, I'd say she deserved it. Lady Saya was a well loved woman and Hana stole her husband from her. She is in prison now and apparently, Kaoru visits her every week without fail. Oh yeah, the Yukishiros have been pretty generous to Kaoru because they let her stay with them."

"As a maid..." Kenshin murmured.

"What? Did you see her just now?"

Kenshin nodded numbly. "Yeah, I saw her. So that was what she meant. She is a murderess' daughter. That makes sense. I still cannot believe that they let her stay with them."

"Makes Tomoe quite a saint, I tell you. If someone killed my pa, I would never allow any generation of theirs anywhere around me. Murder? That's huge stuff. She must have found him with another woman or something."

Kenshin shook his head. "We should not speculate. Anything else?"

"Yes, Lady Saya took Kaoru in and gave her a roof over her head. Makes Lady Saya a saint too. That's the other woman's child. She must have quite a warm heart to take Kaoru in."

"Like mother like daughter."

"In more ways than one. Look, this Kaoru is obviously not suitable for you. Not only is she a murderess' daughter, her mother murdered Tomoe's father. Your mother will kill you if you pursue her."

"Sano, thank you. I need to think about this."

Sano shifted uncomfortably. "You want to ask Aoshi to look into her a bit deeper?"

Kenshin glared at Sano and made his friend shift backwards. "Why would I do something like that?"

Confused, Sano scratched his head. "Well, he is a better spy..."

"Why would I ask him when he could probably fall for her?"

Sano laughed when he heard that. "Fall for her? What in the world are you thinking? No way, Kenshin. Aoshi would not fall for her. That's impossible!"

This time, it was Kenshin's turn to be confused. "Why is it so impossible?"

"Because he is in love with someone else. There's a woman who works in the Yukishiro household. I saw them hugging outside in secret. Timid little thing, that's what I thought but she had some spine too. I really liked her. Anyways, he is totally into her. You could see it from his face. He really likes this woman."

Whatever pressure Kenshin felt inside of him eased when he heard that. "Really? What's her name?"

Sano shrugged. "No idea. I call her Jou-chan and she almost bit my head off but she is really nice. He has some pretty good taste."

"Make sure he does not hear that, Sano."

"Yeah. Yeah. I will. Anyways, catch you later. Bye."

"Bye, Sano and thanks for the info."

"You're welcome."

When Sano disappeared, Kenshin grinned as he lay back on his bed. So Aoshi was not related to Kaoru. That was great news. Now he had to find out why Kaoru's mother killed Lord Yukishiro. Whatever the reason, Kenshin hoped he will not regret finding out about her.

Even as he fell asleep, he did not bother to ponder why Tomoe was the least important person in his head.

XXX

"You better not be avoiding me, young man," a warning voice called out as Kenshin made his way down.

He sighed and smiled as he turned to face his mother, who was sitting serenely by the window, stitching as she watched her flowers in full bloom. He walked over to her and kissed her head affectionately.

"I'm not avoiding you, mother. Why would I do that?"

Aya merely raised a knowing eyebrow and looked pointedly at him. "Do I need to spell it out for you?"

"Must you rush me?"

She shrugged and placed her material down. "Yes. The girl's not getting any younger and neither are you. In fact, after your visit to her last night, no man will daringly approach her for she is considered to be spoken for. I want to know what you think about her."

Kenshin sat opposite his mother and smiled thinly. "You do know you are rushing me. I barely know her. What I do know of her is pleasing enough but the woman herself, she's a mystery to me."

Aya placed a hand on her son's. "If a woman is not a mystery, men will never hunt for her. A little mystery will spice up your marriage life, Kenshin. Your father and I never knew each other before we got married. We were married because our parents wanted us to. We are giving you a chance to see her first. I like her. You are not getting any younger. Would you not consider her?"

Kaoru's image came unbidden in his mind and he forced back the curse that nearly slipped through his lips. His mother would never approve of her. He knew that just as he knew it was time to give her up.

"When do you want me to announce our engagement?"

Aya screamed and hugged Kenshin tightly, dropping her sewing materials to the ground. The maids rushed in when they heard her scream and then discreetly left with smiles on their faces. Megumi, who was getting ready to meet Sano, ran into the room.

"What? What happened? Why did mother scream?"

Kenshin and Aya turned to look at Megumi and then at themselves and both dissolved into laughter. Megumi frowned and shook her head. She wondered if she should just leave them alone when Aya turned to her.

"Kenshin has agreed to marry Tomoe!"

"What!" Megumi yelled her eyes wide and worried. She met Kenshin's eyes and whatever she saw there silenced her. He simply shook his head and she nodded. "Congratulations," she whispered uncertainly. Something was wrong. Why couldn't her mother sense it?

"Well, I'm going to share this news with your father. We have to rush things along. I checked with the temple priest. Apparently, the best date for your official engagement is at the end of this week! I can't believe it! Finally, Saya's and my wish for the two of you to marry will come true!" Aya cried out as she left to search for her husband.

Megumi watched Kenshin and approached her brother as he leaned his head down.

"What are you doing? You do not know Lady Tomoe? You do not love her. How could you agree to marry her so soon? Can't you ask mother to give you more time?"

Kenshin shook his head. "Our mother is a smart woman. She planned it so well that besides me, no one can marry Tomoe. When that is the case, I might as well humour her and marry Tomoe. Besides, she seemed like a nice woman. I am sure you will like her."

"Is it as important as you liking her?"

"Megumi..."

Megumi held Kenshin's face between her hands and looked deep into his eyes. "I love you, my brother, but if you are marrying due to obligations, will you be happy? What about love?"

"What about it? If I fall in love, mother will never approve of the woman. She has set her sights on Tomoe and there is nothing I can do about it. I led my whole life outside this house and as much as mother would like to act as though nothing has changed, I am not the same man that left this home. I am different. I do not want us to be mad at each other. She is my mother. I will do as she asks."

"She will not be leading the life with Tomoe. You will be the one!"

"It does not really matter. The woman I am interested in is not interested in marrying me. She is too unsuitable. It is best of I marry the woman mother chooses."

"Kenshin!"

"Please, Megumi," Kenshin begged as he kissed Megumi's hands. "Please leave it alone."

Unhappy, Megumi nodded and fled. She could not stand being in the same room as her brother.

She wished that the woman who rejected her brother will weep and die for hurting him.

XXX

He did not know what he was doing. He had never done this before.

He looked around the morning market until he found the stall he wanted. Beautiful materials hung about, displaying each of their special qualities.

Aoshi looked around, wondering if the old man who worked there was around.

"May I help you?"

He turned and his eyes met green orbs of a woman who was half his height. She had long braided hair and twinkling eyes. Instantly, an image came to mind, of a young girl with twinkling blue eyes. Aoshi frowned mentally. He was getting distracted and that was very unusual of him.

"I'm looking for Okina."

"He's not in right now. He went out for awhile. Probably to hit on a few girls. You need something, handsome?"

He almost chocked. Almost.

He stared at the woman and she stared right back, a cheeky grin on her lips.

"I'm Misao."

He nodded.

"And you are...?"

"A customer."

She raised an eyebrow to his curt reply. "Cute."

"So...cutie pie, something I can help you with?"

This time Aoshi glared at her. He did not appreciate being called cutie pie. He frowned but the woman took no heed, babbling about the types of materials they had.

"Aoshi."

"Huh?" Misao said as she turned to meet his eyes once more.

"It's Aoshi."

"Sweet. Now that we have a name, our transaction will go smoother. What are you looking for?"

"Two gowns of the simplest material. Green and Yellow. Those two will do. I need you sew them and send them to the Yukishiro household."

That perked Misao up. She turned and studied the man. "Who to?"

"A woman named Kaoru."

Her smile widened at that. "You know her?"

"Somewhat."

"Enough to buy her gowns?"

"She needs them."

"Very well. I'll make them personally."

"Her size..."

"I know them by heart," Misao said with a huge smile. "I'm just glad someone is giving them to her. I can't, you see. If they know about us, they will forbid me to go there again."

Aoshi looked at the woman before him curiously. "You're her friend."

Misao nodded and smiled.

"Yup!"

"Take care of her," he said and he left after leaving a cloth full of money inside.

Misao watched him leave and sighed. He was such a handsome looking young man. She really needed to ask Okina about him. Too bad he's already taken. She would have loved to get to know him closely. Man like that don't stay single for long.

XXX

It was her very first time in such a large house. She had never seen a house so big and beautiful before. She had two new siblings too. There was a pretty doll like girl. She was Tomoe. There was pretty boy too. Her new daddy called him Enishi. She could not pronounce his name yet so she called him Eni-chan.

There were so many people in the house but they were really really quite. She could see them moving about but no one else said anything. Mummy said that was usually like that in big house. Her new daddy was rich so he could afford to pay the men to work for him.

She wanted to be like him too. She wanted to have a big house, lots of servants and lots of money. She liked it here.

But she missed home. She missed her own daddy. Eni-chan and Tomoe's daddy was a nice man but she missed her own daddy.

She whimpered as she rocked herself to stop crying. Mummy would be sad if she saw her crying. But she missed her daddy and she missed Ao-niisama.

A tall figure loomed over her and she looked up, teas drying on her cheeks.

"Why are you crying?"

"I miss daddy."

The smirk was something an innocent child would not know. "But I'm right here."

She frowned and shook her head, tears falling once more. "Not you. I miss daddy."

He reached forward to grab hold of her small head and pull her up. His voice was cold as he whispered into her ear.

"I told you. I'm right here."

She woke with a start and took deep breaths to calm her trembling body. Her face was as pale as a ghost and she was sweating profusely.

Kaoru continued to lay on the bed, her arching body finding no rest as the nightmare had taken her over. She did not want to think about it but he haunted her, day and night, he haunted her. Even now when he is dead, he kept haunting her. Would it never end?

She dressed once she was convinced her feet could hold her up and she set about to doing her chores. There were more to do today but Kaoru was glad that neither Yukishiros had deemed her suitable for their entertainment of the day. Kaoru was glad as she did not want to be in the same position she was with Enishi a few days back.

He was his father's son.

That disgusting thought made her stomach queasy and she fought the need to throw up.

The women were already up and about, dusting, cleaning and washing. Tae summoned Kaoru into the kitchen where she washed the dishes and scrubbed the floor. The rest of the staff left her to it so that she would not need to do any other heavy duties.

It was midday, the same time she usually goes to take water. This time, she had some clothes to carry. She needed to wash them at the river and as usual, her delightful caretakers had taken the opportunity to slide some food in the basket. She was glad she had them although most of the time they had to act as though they did not care about her.

Kaoru scrubbed the clothes and washed them by the river, humming as she did her task. She forced her mind away from the redhead that appeared at the manor the night before. She did not want to think about him. She did not want to acknowledge that he will not be coming around to see her anymore. It usually happened anyway. She just did not understand why it bothered her so much when he was concerned. Men always left. She knew that.

The weather was kind that afternoon. There was a gentle breeze blowing her way and the sun seemed to be a little shy as it hid behind the clouds. Kaoru felt utterly reluctant to leave her spot and she delayed her task as long as she dared to.

He watched her silently from the shadows. He watched her washing the clothes, humming as though nothing was wrong.

Last night, he could not concentrate on Tomoe much as his mind kept on circling back to Kaoru. He knew she was stationed to be around in case he or Tomoe needed something and somehow that thought made him angry. He had assumed she was the maid. He did not know she was the daughter of the murderess, the daughter of a woman who was willing to steal another woman's man. Is that why he was attracted to her? Was this her tactic of getting him interested?

She did not seem aware of him. In fact, if anything, she avoided him. She kept telling him to avoid her. Was it all her plan to seduce him?

His eyes roamed her shabbily dressed body. Did she plan on seducing him dressed like that? Could she not afford any better gowns? Why was she dressed even worse than the other women folk at the manor?

He approached her silently once she finished with the clothes. She wrung the dry and then flapped them so that there will not be many creases. Kaoru folded them lightly and placed them in the basket. She splashed some water on her hands and face to cool her body down before she rose and stretched. Smiling, she turned and almost screamed.

Kenshin stood behind her, his eyes dark and dangerous. Kaoru's heart raced as she took an involuntary step back and then she bowed. She could feel her heart galloping like a wild horse and she hoped he would not hear it.

"My Lord."

He hated it. He hated the sound of his title coming from her lips. He knew she would not call him Kenshin anymore and he hated it. What was he doing here? He thought as he studied her bowed body. What was he doing here with her even though he knew about her? What did he want?

"You are here alone again."

She did not know what he wanted and she knew she had to get away. If Tomoe ever found out about what was going on, she could and would devise a plan to mentally torture Kaoru. With her mother's release so close, Kaoru wanted no trouble with the Yukishiro siblings.

"Yes, my lord. I am. If there is nothing, may I take my leave?"

He leaned against the tree trunk and watched her.

"No," he answered simply.

Kaoru looked up, gaping at his answer. What did he want? What did he want with her?

"I'm sorry but my master will be waiting for me back at the Yukishiro manor. I need to leave. If you would excuse me..."

"You never told me you were Lady Tomoe and Lord Enishi's stepsister," Kenshin said as he tilted his head and watched her. He knew he should let her go. He knew he needed to let her go but he could not do so. As he watched her, he knew why. His attraction to this woman had gone beyond the limit. He liked her. He did not know if it was love but he liked her. He liked her very much and the news of her mother's deed did not waver his feelings.

"I do not see how that is relevant, my lord. However I did mention you would start inquiring about me. I was right. Unfortunately, I do not understand how my relationship with Lady Tomoe and Lord Enishi would mean anything to you," Kaoru replied, her back straight as she looked deep into his eyes.

He was mesmerized by those sapphire orbs. They could hold a man captive, he thought as he kept his eyes steadily on hers. "It doesn't really matter what they mean. I was surprised to see you there yesterday. The fates brought us together."

Her eyes widen and fear seeped into them. If he went on sprouting this type of nonsense, people would misunderstand.

"My lord, you are bound by fate and honour to Lady Tomoe. Please stop uttering things that would make people misunderstand out situation!"

"Really," Kenshin drawled lazily as he stepped towards her. Kaoru felt her heart racing once more and only duty kept her feet where they were instead of fleeing far away as he approached. Even then, when he did not stop, she started taking a few steps back. Kenshin growled and pulled her towards him, his strength making her fall against his body, her head resting just nicely on his shoulder. Stunned, she tried to pull back but he refused to allow her. "Really now...what is there to misunderstand? I told you before I was interested in knowing you. You denied me."

She struggled against his hold. "My lord, please, please, let go before someone sees us. Please, let go!"

Her scent was intoxicating and beneath the flimsy faded robes, he could feel the body he rescued only days ago. Desire surged through him, hot and potent, a feeling he could not feel with Tomoe. He wanted this woman. He wanted her. He always got what he wanted.

"Be mine. I will protect you," he whispered into her ear, his voice low and husky. Kaoru's body stilled against him and he wondered what she would say to his offer.

"I am not a whore."

This time, it was Kenshin who stilled. He slowly drew back only to see her eyes staring at him furiously, blue eyes so mad they had turned almost black and her hands were curled into fists.

"Just because my mother was a mistress, I am not going to subject myself to the humiliation of being one as well."

Her tone was cold and detached. Kenshin did not like hearing it. But he was about to let her go. There was something in him that fought for the need to have her close.

"Will you not give us a chance?"

"What you are asking for is a whore. I will not be your whore. You might be the future ruler. If I have to leave, I will."

He merely raised his eyebrow over that statement. "Without your mother? As the future ruler, I can forestall her release. I did some research. She is going to be released soon, am I right?"

Her face paled and she pushed away from him, arms hugging her body tightly. "You will not do that! You can't! She earned her release!"

He would not. Kenshin knew that but a part of him wanted to torture her with that thought. A part of him wanted her to always remember he had that power. Anything, he will do anything to keep her here. If she left, he could not seek her out. He knew it was unfair and childish of him but he did not know what was wrong with him. He simply could not understand his desire for the woman before him.

"I will do whatever I want to do. It is within my right."

"I told you, justice is just another word to be laughed at," she replied weakly, refusing to back down against his obvious threat.

Kenshin shrugged. He watched her closely, the desire to claim her increasing with each passing moment.

"Why do you wear that shabby old dress? Don't you have proper clothes?"

Kaoru wondered about the change in his question but she kept her distance and watched him warily. "I do not believe my choice of wardrobe is any of your business, ruler or not."

"You are a stubborn woman."

"I've heard that quite often. I need to leave. I'm expected back."

He nodded but did not move, his eyes on her as she kept hers on him while retrieved the laundry. Kaoru was about to bow and leave when he grabbed her arm once more and turned her to meet him. Before she could protest, before she could do anything, his lips were on hers.

Kaoru was stunned and she stilled against Kenshin's kiss. Once her brain processed what was happening, her hands automatically reached up to push him away. Kenshin frowned and grabbed her hands, effectively restraining their movements with one hand. His other hand grabbed her head, not roughly but not too gently either, and pressed his lips insistently over hers. He tasted her lips over and over again, his tongue reaching out to trace and taste her.

Kenshin's mind raced over what he was doing. It was wrong. He should not be doing this but he had been thinking about it since he met her and now that he finally had her in his arms, he was not about to leave her. He could not just leave her.

He wanted her to open up. He needed her to open up. When he felt her legs trying to get a leverage to maim him, he simply diffused her moves and tugged on her hair as retaliation. Kaoru gasped and he took the opportunity to slid his lips and taste her. Then, his mind went blank. He had tasted women before but none had that combination that made Kaoru up. He could taste her, feel her body and scent her as he dived into her mouth to claim more. His body burned instantly with need as she filled each of his senses.

Kaoru did not know what was wrong with her. She remembered fighting him one moment. She remembered protesting against the kiss. She remembered thinking his lips was so soft and warm and comforting even when his hold on her head was not. Yet when his lips slipped into her mouth, all coherent thoughts flew out of her mind and she could only feel. It was different, different from Heishin, different from Enishi. She did not want this kiss to end. She wanted it to go on. She wanted Kenshin to let go of her hands so that she could touch him as he was touching her. She wanted to run her fingers through his hair and get a better grip on the kiss.

Then, it hit her. He was taking. Taking without her permission. Taking without her consent. How was he different from Heishin or Enishi? He was already restraining her movements. Would he stop or would he go further with her? Fear pounded inside of her and she struggled to escape once more. She pushed her face to the side, breaking the kiss.

For awhile, they said nothing. For a while, only their heavy breathing could be heard.

"Please, let go," she whispered, her voice soft and frightened.

Kenshin felt his heart break when he heard her voice and he nodded. He pulled back and let go of her hands.

"Kaoru, I'm...I'm sorry. I did not know.."

She looked at him, her eyes shining with betrayal. "No, you knew. Please, my lord. Leave."

He did not say a word. He turned and left.

Kaoru sank on the ground and buried her face in her hands but she did not cry.

She did not cry.

XXX

"Did you hear?"

"I really can't believe it?"

"He's choosing her?"

"But it's so soon! They barely know each other!"

"You know how men fawn over her."

"She is pretty."

"Not inside."

"SHUSH!!!!!!!!!"

"It's the truth! Look at Kaoru!"

"Don't simply say her name!"

"You'll get us all into trouble!"

"I just can't believe he would choose her!???"

Kaoru entered the room and heard the ruckus, her eyes curiously watching the women.

"I'm done with the laundry," she said quietly, smiling slightly to them. They nodded and looked uneasily at each other, wondering if they should tell Kaoru the news but at the same time, they were afraid to. They were after all not allowed to talk to her.

"Is something wrong?"

Tae approached her and shook her head. She placed a comforting hand on Kaoru's shoulder.

"Nothing, my dear. It's just we heard quite an announcement this morning after you left."

"What is it?" Kaoru asked as she looked into Tae's eyes.

"I think it is the best news so far. You are finally going to be free of at least one of the Yukishiros!"

"What do you mean? I don't understand," kaoru asked, too afraid to accept such a wonderful possibility.

"Lord Himura has decided to marry Lady Tomoe and the announcement ceremony is set to be at the end of this week!"

XXX

Author's Note:

Another chapter done and a lot more to go! Thank you all so much for your reviews. It really gets me going to write this story down. I am truly enjoying myself and I hope you are enjoying yourselves too when you read this. Thank you once more for all your reviews. You guys really make me happy.

I hope you have a fantastic day ahead! Happy reading.