Wow… Chapter seventeen. Wow. It seems like only yesterday I was posting chapter one. ::Gets teary eyed with nostalgia:: Well. It's been a long time in coming. Enjoy it folks!
Oh, and thank you, Cheap Libertad, for assuring me that this chapter didn't suck, and was safe to post. I love you.
~*~
Kurama smiled down at Botan as she walked through the market at his side – while busily munching on fish and chips. Kurama was not one normally given to sentiments, but he had to admit…
She looked adorable.
And truthfully, he could think of nothing that he'd rather be doing at this instant than just… being with her. And he didn't even feel guilty admitting it to himself. He, who had always been chased by girls and who had always been too disdainful to even give (besides Maya) them a second glance… Here he was spending time with a girl, of his own free will, and enjoying it. The funny thing of course, was how when he had first met her, he'd been so sure she was going to be just like the rest. But she hadn't. She hadn't even noticed him until he'd intentionally planned to 'run into' her. And even then, she hadn't looked upon him in love struck adoration as so many others girls had done before – instead, she had treated him (and continued to treat him) as a normal person. Despite himself, he had developed an almost instant attraction to her. So now, having her by his side and the prospect of spending an afternoon with her seemed perfect.
And it was – would be… except for one thing.
They were being followed. By Hikari and her band of teenyboppers. Kurama – who desperately wanted to spend time with Botan without any interference – was extremely annoyed. Botan caught the slight frown on his face as he glanced over his shoulder.
"What's wrong?"
Kurama turned his gaze back to her. Grease from the fries covered her lips – making them glint enticingly in the afternoon sunlight. He smiled once more even as impure thoughts began to fill his head.
"Nothing, nothing! I just… Thought I saw someone from school, that's all."
Botan glanced over her shoulder as well.
"Oh, hey! Isn't that…? What's her name… Hikari?"
Kurama groaned. Botan looked questioningly at him. He nodded his head ruefully.
"Yes, it is. Don't let her catch you looking, though." Botan giggled.
"Why not?"
"Because she might come over here."
Botan looked at Hikari from the corner of her eyes.
"She's looking at me like she wants to kill me. What'd I do?"
Kurama chuckled. He stepped closer to Botan and whispered conspiringly into her ear.
"She's jealous."
Botan's brow furrowed.
"Of what?"
Kurama shrugged, but grinned at her.
"Of you. Because you're with me. Remember, I'm the schools Casanova. And as conceited as it sounds, all the girls want me and they're jealous because I'm walking with you."
Botan stopped walking and stared at him incredulously.
"Are you serious? They're jealous of a little thing like that?"
Kurama smiled grimly.
"Sad isn't it? Hikari and her group have been 'in love' with me since kindergarten. They've always chased after me for longer than I care to remember. I assure you, I've done nothing to encourage it."
Botan grinned at him.
"Wow… I'm sorry, Shuichi. Not that I can relate or anything, but I imagine that it's no fun being the object of admiration at school."
Kurama laughed.
"Can't relate? You're the topic of choice for every boy at school right now, and don't think I didn't notice those notes that came flying out of your locker. Love letters, I assume?"
Botan blushed deeply and looked at the ground.
"I thought it was a joke… And at least I don't have people stalking me through a crowd on a Saturday afternoon."
Kurama smiled painfully.
"Actually, being stalked is an every day occurrence for me. Hikari and her group always follow me home."
Botan's jaw dropped in shock.
"What?! That's… insane… Don't you ever tell them to go away?"
Kurama delicately shrugged one shoulder – a gesture to indicate that it unimportant.
"They wouldn't listen to me even if I did. Besides, they're harmless enough. However," Kurama glanced over his shoulder once more, "I'm beginning to get annoyed. What do you say we give them the slip?" He winked at her and was delighted to see her giggle at him.
"I think that's a great idea."
Kurama grinned, and reached out to take her hand when she suddenly disappeared. Kurama's eyes widened in disbelief as he watched her effortlessly dart through the crowd until she came to the end of the market, where she turned and watched him expectantly.
Lingering only a moment more to wonder at Botan's swift maneuvers, Kurama himself began to gracefully weave through the crowd until he reached her side.
He stared speechlessly at her for a moment. She shuffled her feet under his scrutiny.
"I thought you said something about showing me where to buy the good fruit?"
Kurama shook his head dazedly to clear it. He glanced behind him, Hikari and her friends where searching the crowd for them, but they were facing the wrong direction. Kurama smiled. He turned back to Botan and gently took her arm.
"I did, didn't I? Well then. Allow me to lead you there."
~*~
Karasu stood on his balcony, watching the traffic below him. Heat danced along the pavement, and massive crowds of people moved along the sidewalk. He curled his lip in disgust.
Karasu hated the city.
Or, more accurately, he hated the humans all their filthy, reeking inventions. And the way they massed together, overcrowding their cities with their bodies and their cars.
Karasu didn't necessarily care if they wanted to poison themselves with exhaust and pollution, but he did care that he had to be exposed to it.
If Ningenkai were not such a good place to conduct his business he would gladly be in Maikai. Hopefully, he would return to his home for good soon enough. After he had amassed a bit more wealth. And, of course, after he had Botan as his mate.
Karasu turned and went back inside his dark apartment, closing the French doors - sealing the sounds and stench of the city from his private rooms. He settled himself into the overstuffed chair in the corner of his bedchamber.
He couldn't understand why demons were constantly fighting for control of the earth. He could see no benefit to be had from possessing such a ugly ball of mud. Besides, whoever had Ningenkai would have to deal, inevitably, with the ningens. And who in their right minds would want that?
Karasu detested humans… All but one. Botan.
She was exceptional, he had conceded to that a long time ago. Exceptional enough that he had begun to have a dark desire for her. And he would be satisfied. After all, he had always got what he wanted before, so why should he deny himself now? He would have her. Soon.
Soon she'd be with him. Soon she'd be in his arms… in his bed… soon. Karasu's eyes darkened. She'd told him not to call not to call on her for the next few days. Who was she to give him orders? Wasn't he the one who paid her? He gnashed his teeth in irritation.
Yet… He'd let her have a break. After all, she'd seemed somewhat distressed after her last trip into Maikai. Honestly, she'd thought she'd seen Youko Kurama.
So, fine. Let her have some time off. Let her get herself back together. She would come back to him. Soon.
Karasu closed his burning blue eyes.
~*~
Botan walked happily down the path, one hand upon Kurama's arm, the other clutching a bag full of oranges.
The place Kurama had taken her too was a small stand outside the city park, run by an old man with a large smile but very few teeth. But Kurama had been right, they were the best oranges that Botan had seen in a long time.
After making the purchases, Botan recommended that they take a walk through the park, since it was so close.
Kurama, of course, had been more than happy to agree.
So there they were, walking companionably down the path together, speaking on various and unimportant subjects.
But with the hot sun beating down upon him, and possessing only a few hours of sleep, Kurama began to feel extremely tired. He glanced up, spotting a tree that cast a generous shadow over very soft looking grass, and he could no longer resist.
"Botan, I'm sorry, do you mind if we sit down for a while?" He pointed to the tree. Botan grinned at him.
"Of course not!"
So, together, they collapsed under the cool branches.
Botan, apparently feeling as sleepy as himself, stifled a yawn. Something flashed.
Kurama caught her hand and studied it closely. Botan, startled, jumped. He smiled apologetically at her.
"Sorry."
Botan smiled sheepishly.
"It's okay, you just… surprised me."
Kurama's eyes studied the golden ring closely. It was beautiful, with a deep, blood red stone and intricate flowers and leaves carved around it. It was a good thing that it wasn't the old days – he didn't doubt that he'd have boosted it. He released her hand and looked into her eyes.
"That's lovely. Family heirloom?"
He caught the amused look on her face, and wondered what it was for.
"Yes…"
Botan grinned to herself. Well, it was a family heirloom. Not her family, but… Her thoughts were interrupted as she felt Kurama's hand on hers once more. She looked curiously at him. His eyes had suddenly closed, his features going slack, as if in sleep.
Kurama was in turmoil. In his tired state, Shuichi's personality was beginning to become weary and weaken, while Youko was beginning become stronger. In Botans presence, the thief only wanted one thing, and Kurama was beginning to be unable to keep the urges in check.
Botan frowned, and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Shuichi? Are you okay?"
His eyes opened, and for the briefest moment, she thought she saw a flash a gold. Then, he suddenly slipped an arm around her waist while sliding his other hand through her hair. Botan's eyes widened in shock and she began to say something when, with a groan, Kurama pressed his lips urgently against her own.
Botan froze in shock, one hand still on his shoulder, the other resting uselessly in her lap.
His lips were moist and warm, and Botan, despite her surprise, felt her eyes close as she began to melt into the kiss. As soon as Kurama felt her start to submit he wrapped his arm more firmly around her waist, and gently began to cradle her head while he crushed his lips ever harder to hers.
They held the kiss for about thirty more seconds, then broke away, panting for breath.
Warm emerald eyes searched out shocked amethyst ones. Kurama slowly ran his hand through her hair again, smiling minutely.
"I'm sorry."
Botan stared at him, her eyes wide and her lips bruised and swollen. He wanted desperately to kiss her again. So he did. Gently this time.
He pulled away guiltily after a moment, when she didn't respond. He watched her face worriedly, searching for signs of distress.
Botan put her fingertips to her lips, still staring at him in amazement.
"…Why…?"
Kurama frowned.
"Because I wanted too. I'm sorry."
Botan broke away from his embrace and stumbled to her feet, looking dazed.
"I think… I need to go home."
Kurama bit his lip and stood up after her.
"Do you want me to walk you -?" He handed her the bag of fruit. Botan waved her hand dismissively.
"No… no… I can…"
Kurama stopped her, putting his hands on her shoulders he looked down at her, worried.
"Are you… Are you mad at me, Botan?" He asked hesitantly. He watched as her brow furrowed, and prepared for the worst. There was a long moment of silence.
"No." She gently shook her head. Then blushed and smiled at him. Kurama felt relief wash over him, he almost asked, 'Then can I do it again?' But she spoke up before he could.
"No, but I have… I have to go. Ummm, I'll see you at school on Monday, okay?" Then she ducked out of his arms and dashed off.
Kurama watched her longingly, until she disappeared from sight. Then, with a heavy sigh, he turned away – walking off in the direction of his own home.
~*~
AN: Whew! I bet you guys have been waiting for that, eh? Yeah. Me too. And hopefully, all the people who have been begging for more mush and waff will be satiated for a while.
You know… I thought I'd have more to say about this chapter… But I don't. Oh well.
As per usual, thanks to these people:
miyako14: Thank you!
Frith: You know, I just read your review for Captive, and I was thinking to myself: "If she thought that was cute, wait until she reads this chapter! Hey, I'm sorry about all the reviewing in school, that stinks. I had to go through it a few weeks ago, and I'm still pooped out. Anyway, update your fic when you can please!
Dark Chobit: Awww, thanks! You flatter me. I really need to read your fics. I'll try to soon, when I actually have time! Ah! Life is so hectic.
allin656: Ah, I am a sneaky little vixen, that I am! Don't worry, I'm always one step ahead, and I'll still be updating the fics! And mostly on schedule too. It's amazing.
Fallen Peony: Yeesh! You're changing your pen name as often as Frith used too! And, I loved your last chapter! No lack of creativity! Although, admittedly, I was a little confused. But I'm sure you'll explain everything in your next chapter. Which I am greatly looking forward too. And thank you for the compliments. It's for people like you that I created Thief! and Captive. Well, that, and as for an outlet for myself! Oh, and as for interaction… I think Kurama and Botan did quiet a bit of interacting in this chapter, ne? ::giggles::
Lady Nightshade: Yes you do! So don't spoil the surprise!! :) And I'm still waiting for an update darn it.
Snowfall: Thank you! And no, I can't tell you. Because I have no idea how to get italics to upload. However, if you find out, maybe you could email me and let me know?
inuyashafan98: Hey! He did! You must be psychic for predicting that Kurama would notice the ring… I now cower in fear before you!
Kawai Lara Chan: Ah! NO! Spare Miroku-kun, please! ::Hugs Miroku:: I love him… Okay, since you were hungry for more waff, munch on this chapter!
fluffyluver4eva: I can't tell you if you are right or wrong yet, but thanks for guessing!
Shiroi Hikari: Thanks Chichiri! :)
foxfiregurl1002: Thank you! And yeah, Botan seems unable to interpret people's feelings through their actions in this fic. Oh well, it makes her adorable!
Angelic_Faluna: Thank you! And I'll try to keep updating on schedule.
Junyortrakr: ::Blushes:: Er… Yeah… It was convenient wasn't it? Well… I suppose I'm allowed to use a little plot convenience every now and again, as long as I don't abuse the privilege.
SweetKaori: Hey! There was romance in this chapter! I bet you're happy now, eh? WOOT!
JD Fielding: Thanks for being patient with me, JD. And I've finally delved into a bit of romance with this chapter. Dang. I never thought it would a difficult and somewhat delicate thing to write! And as for your guess, I can't tell you if you are wrong or right yet. But Thanks!
Liz Inc: Thank you! I think it's funny how you set out to read all my chapters in one afternoon. It makes me think of it as a marathon. Did you have a bottle of water and someone standing next to you, cheering you on? ::giggles:: Well, I always love it when more K/B fics come out! I'll keep an eye out for yours!
Kari no Miko: Wah! But I update as often as I can! :( Anyway, I know. Botan is so lucky!
Corckycomp: Hah! I know, I thought the 'happy day' part was funny too! And I agree, Karasu is not really patient. But, in his own mind… ::shrugs:: And yeah… Youko a womanizer? Well, it's more like he's just greedy. Really greedy. Everyone spells it either 'Shuichi' or Shuuichi'. I'm not sure of the actual spelling myself. I've even seen 'Suuichi'. Just go with the flow, dude. Anyway, thanks for the long review! I love getting those!
Kawaii Thief Kitsune: Thanks!
Amber Myst: Thanks for guessing!
suuichi808: Thank you! Don't worry, I'll keep the fic going.
Sarah: Hee-hee. Everyone liked seeing Kurama grouchy! I agree, it was adorable. And I've finally kicked the romance up a notch. Woo-hoo! It could get hot from here on out baby!
Passionateangel: I don't hate you! Sorry about your punishment though. Thanks for reviewing!
Me: (Or should I say… APRYL??!!) Yeah. Trig. Blah. How did your dad's retirement go? Drop me an email, I can still sneak online and read it! Anyway. It's funny isn't it? As soon as your grounding is lifted, I get grounded. Oh, I found the earring you lost, it's at my house. And one of the cool dangly earrings I bought broke today. Damn Claire's. You think Oliver is going to tell Botan that he's gay? ¬.¬ Apryl, Apryl… ::pats you on the head::
Kore Yan: Thank you! Your enthusiasm inspires me!
Tiineiji Rin: Thanks for the review, lazy! (just kidding!) Glad you liked the last chapter!
nijiko chan: Thanks! Oh, yeah. Hikari and her peeps. They need to be put in their place. And you did make Youko mean! But yes, I still loved him. I can't wait to see how you get them together. That's got to be difficult, because he killed her brother! I mean… I don't think I'd ever be able to fall in love with my brother's killer. Anyway, I'm dying for her and Youko to meet, so hurry up! ::whines:: Oh, and I love how you used Kuronue in your last chapter. I love him. Anyway, update soon, or I'll hunt you down!
KitsuneGirl: Thank you! And if I told you, then it wouldn't be a surprise!!
Thanks you guys! And now… It's time to review again! Yay!!!!
Oh… And you guys can still guess what it is Oliver will tell Botan! For the prize, I'll write a fic to the winner's specifications. Because that's my only talent. I hope that's enough incentive.