Author's Note: Sorry for taking a bit longer then usual to update. Things have been going on, and as well I'm trying to get going with other projects as well. This however I assure you remains in top priority. I want to thank all who have taken the time to review my story; I never expected to have such reviews from you all.
name: Don't worry I don't write lemons, and I never plan to. Thxs for reviewing and as for Uo *cough* I can't give any spoilers away
Kenjo: You must be meaning the manga :) but yes I was equally shocked which is why I prferred personally the anime.
.furuba: Lol Actually I find it kind of easy to believe. The way he was always so demanding and protective of his zodiacs in the official story, it kind of makes sense for him to get jealous. Lol I'm glad you liked that funny bit, and to answer your question. It's Shigure of course. Akito hasn't even kissed her yet, how could he be the father ;) Are you having naughty thoughts lol
Leif the Lucky: *blushes* Oh my thank you so much for the review
smcandy: I'm doing fine I hope you're the same. I agree with you on the long Uo part, but the reason for that is because although it may not look it now, but that scene was essential for building up the plot in future chapters. In that case I kinda had to. Lol yes Akito definitely is getting more bold; not to worry they'll definitely be more time between them, especially after the *lovebite* lol Thxs for the encouragement, I'll continue to persevered.
DISCLAIMER: FRUITS BASKET DOESN'T BELONG TO ME, BUT RIGHTFULLY TO NATSUKI TAKAYA. I'M JUST A FAN.
CHAPTER 7
Hatori heard the loud thud inside the room, and quickly rushed into the room. "Tohru are you alright?" He caught sight of Tohru standing in the middle of the room dazed, with a book at her feet. "Tohru?"
Tohru broke out of her daze, and looked at the doctor. "H-Hatori-san." Her face was pale white with shock, losing all it's color. She suddenly felt twice as heavy as normal, and lightheaded. She started to sway and stagger a bit until Hatori held her in place; leading her towards his office.
After having drunk a cup of water offered to her by Hatori, she comfortably sat on the medical bed while Hatori sat in front of his desk.
"Thank you Hatori-san."
Hatori frowned a bit, but nodded regardless. "Not a problem, but you can do me a favor in return and tell me why you seemed so upset earlier." He said as he scratched his brow.
Tohru hesitated a bit, not knowing exactly how to explain the whole ordeal. From her intense encounter with Akito to the seemingly caring gesture that he gave her when he left the catalog in her room. She also didn't want to worry the poor doctor who probably had enough work on his shoulders.
"I-uh...well..." She stuttered, causing Hatori to bit the tip of his pen, in suspicion.
"Tohru may I have a look at your hands?" He said calmly hoping to have a closer look at her wrists, now that she wasn't saying anything.
Once looking at them they were exactly as he thought he saw. Bright red, with the marks of what seemed like hand marks. Seeing similar marks on Akito including Akito's mysterious behavior at his checkup rose his suspicions that both were involved.
"Tohru, did Akito do something to you today? Did you interact with him in any way?" Hatori said worried.
Was I...was I not supposed to interact with him?" Tohru spoke up in a quiet tone.
Hatori was left speechless, he didn't know how exactly to answer her. He really didn't wish for her to spend too much time alone with him, or hardly at all. However doing so would probably test Akito's patience. Hatori was saved from answering when a knock on the door interrupted them.
"Hatori, I didn't mean to interrupt you, but I needed a refill of those pain killers you-" Kureno stept into the room, but was halted from further speaking when Hatori knowingly handed him the medications.
Tohru quickly smiled beaming at the seemingly timid Sohma, who only smiled in response for a spilt second before returning to his silent state. He bowed quickly before leaving the room.
With Kureno's unintentional interruption, lead Tohru to ask more about him. "Hatori-san I saw Kureno used to have a neck brace a couple of months ago, did he recover?"
Hatori looked at the young girl's face knowing what she really meant was what had happened to Kureno. He sighed silently and leaned back in his chair. "Yes he only needs medication now for the pain. He caught Akito in a sour mood one day, and nearly broke his neck by accident."
Tohru widened her eyes. "Akito nearly broke his neck! Oh my gosh poor Kureno, I had no idea. I thought he was close to Akito, so I never would've thought he would hurt him so badly."
Hatori lifted his hand. "Tohru please calm down, don't worry. Akito no matter how moody he is, wouldn't intentionally kill Kureno; not with their childhood together." Once saying this he immediately regretted it. Tohru's face turned into that of question again, and before she would go off wondering he preferred to inform her.
"To make a long story short, Akito despite his role in the curse and Sohma name hardly had anyone close to him in his childhood. Before Yuki was born, and before his father's death the only other people he used to spend time with besides his father Akira; were Kureno and Shigure.
I spent most of my time back then studying, and Akito didn't care much for me or my special ability. He hated people associated with hospitals and doctors, and since I was planning on becoming one, he wanted to stay as far away from me as possible; he found me frightening at his young age." Shigure smiled at the memory, but quickly turned serious again as he continued.
"When Akira died, Akito leaned constantly against Shigure for console; until it was time for Shigure to graduate high school. By then Yuki was already born, and Shigure had stopped paying visits to Akito as often as he used to. The three of us had become the trio that you heard of, and Shigure got other plans with Ayame to leave the estate. Akito of course was enraged when it happened, despite having Yuki at his disposal. I think however he never really forgave Shigure for leaving.
After Shigure got his home, and became a writer, Ayame his store, and I went to the university. All that was left besides the younger zodiacs was Kureno; Ritsu was too sickly to live at the estate. Up to this day I can't really say if it was pity for Akito, or genuine concern that caused him to stay by his side all these years. I think Akito himself has doubts, which probably causes him to mistreat him occasionally by accident.
When Akito sometimes doesn't fully comprehend something, he lashes out at them. Similar to what he did...well the incident that happened that caused problems with my eye. So Tohru what happened to Kureno was purely a accident, the severity of it got the way it was because Kureno was in his zodiac form when it happened. I assure you all is well now, you shouldn't go off worrying about these things in your situation."
Hearing the words zodiac form, quickly brought stars to her eyes. She still hadn't exactly known what animal of the Chinese Zodiac was Kureno. "Hatori-san, what animal is Kureno? All there's left is the horse and the rooster."
Hatori smiled at the young girl's zest. "I don't think Kureno would like me to tell you myself, I'm afraid you'll just have to wait and see."
"Ok I think that's all I need." Away from the Honke grounds a teenager taped a small box sealed, as he pushed it towards the front door entrance. A foot suddenly placed itself in his path, preventing him to push any further.
"Yuki, I don't suppose you really need that much, I already supplied our place with furniture." A tall white haired teen said as he sipped his favorite beverage.
Yuki looked up annoyed. "Haru, would you mind moving your foot."
"Sure." Hatsuharu said as he suddenly removed it, causing Yuki to crash forwards.
"As I told you plenty enough times already, we both agreed on not asking any help from our parents when I decided to move in with you in that new luxury apartment of yours. I'm taking whatever I need from my things here With her gone, I can't bear to stay here alone another minute." Yuki said as he heaved the box outside Shigure's home.
"So by her I know you mean Tohru, well can't blame you. Kyo's off in the mountains again, and from what it looks like, he's not coming back either. So it'll be just you and Shigure again alone. That is, after Shigure heals up enough to come back. Pretty lonely." Haru said as he helped place Yuki's last box in the moving truck they rented.
"Talked to Rin lately?" Yuki asked hoping to get of the subject. The little he knew was that Haru and Rin had somehow a relationship together a couple of years ago, but always a flimsy one he hardly understood himself. He was hoping he wasn't going to sucked into any lover's quarrel now that he and Haru were becoming roommates; although Haru was indeed one to keep his love life a mystery to all.
Haru shrugged his shoulders and kicked the dirt slightly. "Nah, Rin's always been Rin; off doing her own thing until she suddenly feels romantic and calls me. Last I heard she was doing another one of her big endless photo shoots."
Yuki stared at the teen besides him, he didn't know wither to admire or fear the way Haru was with his relationships. Right now Yuki hardly knew how to deal with his first day at the university he applied to, there was no way he could deal with a romance similar to Haru and Rin's. He shook his head, as he got into the truck. "I think I'll stick to getting my psychology degree."
"Stick to making Dean's List better, I have to have the person bunking with me up to my level you know. By the way, my new showcase is next week, and as my manager you can't be late." Haru said pointing a finger at him.
Yuki frowned and smacked it away. "I can't believe you convinced me into helping manage your new fashion design line. The last thing I want is a university Yuki fan club."
"Hey, it'll help pivot my motocross goal. I need all the exposure I can get." Haru said as he leaned back in his driver's seat. "We'll see who the stupid cow is now."
Yuki sighed, as he stared out the passenger window, and stared at Shigure's house becoming smaller and smaller as they drove away. So much had happened ever since Tohru's disappearance nearly seven months. Everyone immersed themselves into living their lives fully, in her memory. He had finally gotten the nerve to place his application at the top university he dreamed of going to get his psychology degree; he had decided partially due to Tohru's constant motivation.
Kyo had moved back with Kazuma to pursue similar route as Kagura until his time finished up, and that Uotani girl joined him. Momiji had moved into his own penthouse apartment, and was currently starting to attend a music academy while also helping out more in his father's company. Haru had started to get serious with his jewelry and fashion making; already starting a career with it at the tender age of seventeen, mostly of course due to the high status of the Sohma name. As for Tohru's friend Hana she had seemed to mature more then she was before, rumor had it she was in love but with who?
"Can you believe it, this coming winter will be our last in high school together; after that it's basically graduation and prom." Haru spoke up, breaking the silence. "Got any invites so far?"
Yuki shook his head no. This will be their last chance, and the biggest year for them in high school. The last mention of it was when Tohru was with them. Back then it was planned they'd all go, but no specific say of who with who. 'If she were still here, it'd be different. If she were still here possibly I'd maybe ask her myself.' He thought. With Tohru out of the picture however, it destroyed every last motivation of him bothering to attend.
"Until then, we still got New Year's to attend. Are you prepared to see Akito's face again?" Haru said as he himself groaned at the thought of it.
"I see it has no point, Akito's basically become silent ever since that day Tohru visited him. There's nothing special at the Honke anymore, just go in and go out." Yuki said as it was exactly what he was planning on doing.
A heavy sigh was let out, as a Calculus book was closed. "That's it; I'm definitely going to fail. I have no clue how to do this." Tohru said as she placed both palms of her hands on her forehead in total give-up stance. Without Yuki, or any other of her friends with her; she had no one to ask. There was no possible way she could ask Hatori for help, he had enough duties of his own. She hardly knew Kureno well enough yet, and as for Reina; was probably head over heels doing her work as well. Her instructor taught her well in other areas, but Tohru always needed extra tutoring when it came to the more complicated subjects as Calculus and formulas.
As she sat in her desk at her room, her eyes glanced over to her mother's picture which stood in front of the flowers Akito had given her; that she had found out two days ago meant jealousy.
Her mind went into that of confusion. If Akito had given her these flowers, why jealousy. What reason was there for Akito to be jealous at her? He had a whole estate doing his bidding, meanwhile she had nothing. He had practically the talents and wisdom of a sophisticated emperor while she just had the mannerisms of her parents. She was in Akito's debt, and owed him too much to even mention. Her safety, her unborn's life. She just couldn't comprehend why Akito was jealous at her?
'Could it be that Akito is jealous of me being an outsider?' She thought remembering how Akito stated how he hated how the rest of the zodiac always were complaining for more freedom, when he in fact was more like the prisoner.
"But wouldn't that be considered envy, not jealousy?" Tohru said aloud, as she thought the difference between the words. Surely Akito would be one to know the difference between the two, and would place a jealousy flower when he knew exactly that was the feeling he felt.
Then the thought of Yuki came to her mind. Remembering what Hatori had told her two days ago about Akito not having much friends asides from that. 'Could it be that Akito thinks that I was taking all his friends away; the little he had left?' She thought as she saddened quickly.
That was when she remembered the catalog. If Akito was jealous of she taking his friends away, why go through all the trouble in helping her since she moved in? True he had said it was because the baby would be a Sohma, but Tohru couldn't take that as an answer.
"I have to show Akito that I still would like to get to know him; that I haven't changed my mind about him since that day I first came to visit him here." Tohru said as she immediately brightened up, and got up from the desk fetching the catalog of nursery items. Normally she wouldn't buy such high quality expensive things on her budget, but it was the only catalog she had found so far; plus if Akito went through the trouble of sending for it, she would definitely comply.
Her eyes feasted on the breathtaking nursery items that filled each page. Immediately she got overwhelmed at the huge selection, there was no way she could make up her mind and choose between such beautiful things. She couldn't even go for the least expensive one; all were high amounts of money she had never spent even on herself in more then years.
She then saw an ad in the catalog that read. Reminder to all soon to be mommies in their next Lamaze class-
"Lamaze Class, I wonder what that is. Strange Hatori hasn't mentioned it...I know I'll check it out at the library!" She said as she took her catalog with her, heading towards the library.
The library was in fact a large room in the Honke, which was filled with tons of books. Tohru had gone there often previously to search for certain books regarding her studies that she was taking. They were always very informative, and it seemed the library at the Honke carried only the most exclusive of books in store. Some were very old first editions, and others as thicker then three dictionaries placed together. It was yet another room Tohru spent some of her time at mostly.
Meanwhile Kureno placed the phone back on the receiver. Having finished yet another business call for the Honke, it was time to inform Akito of the daily report. Walking outside on the Honke grounds, he observed the Japanese maple trees and Cherry blossom trees shedding their leaves foliage in preparation for the upcoming winter, as the autumn breeze was getting chillier. Pretty soon he'd have to being wearing his coat, and as for Akito switch to his more warmer clothing instead of the breezy yukatas.
Kureno sighed as the upcoming winter was coming close. Normally Akito would get more reclusive at this time of year, and until the New Year's Sohma get-together came about he wouldn't change his aloofness. However he immediately stopped in place once seeing Akito's bedroom back shoji door open, and Akito lying outside on the veranda. He walked quickly up to him, but maintained his distance avoiding another slap to worsen his recent neck problem.
"Akito, it's getting colder outdoors; won't it be best if you stay indoors nowadays?" He asked noticing Akito didn't move the slightest bit at his presence. Instead he stayed lying down on his side fiddling with something he couldn't quite make out. The look on Akito's eyes seemed far off in thought.
Kureno knelt down beside him. He made up his mind Akito wasn't going to budge so he decided to go through with saying what he planned. "From what I've been informed, Yuki has moved in with Hatsuharu in a new apartment in Tokyo City. Yuki applied to a university, majoring in psychology; minoring in politics. Hatsurharu has gone through with some deals, and is actually selling some of the things in his line. Not much of a change has occurred in the others since my last report. As for Shigure-"
"I'm keeping track of him, he's not going anywhere." Akito spoke up with a bit of rage in his tone.
"Very well, rumor has it there's another outsider getting close another one of the zodiac." Kureno said quickly, trying for Akito not to hear. No good
Akito rose up immediately in a sitting position. "What, who informed you of this, which member is it!" Akito gritted his teeth at the thought of another outsider.
Kureno regretted mentioning it, but he knew if he wasn't the one who told him; surely someone else would and more havoc would come from it. "Rin called earlier, said she was up in the mountains with Kazuma for a bit. From what she told me apparently Kyo seems to be closer to another outsider girl up there. They continually speak of Tohru together, even Shigure mentions Tohru often."
Akito calmed down from his fury, and chuckled. "Not to worry then if it's only the worthless cat. No matter what he does, he only has a limited time before he gets back in his cage again. As for Shigure, he can speak all he wishes; dare he defy me again and he'll rot up in the mountains with a broken leg next tim-" Akito suddenly stopped of his threat when he heard a nearby door open and close inside the Honke, seeing a familiar silhouette walk down the hallway.
"Now where's she going?" Akito said aloud despite it being more of a question to himself then to Kureno. He looked down to what he held in his hand, as thoughts began to come to his mind.
Kureno looked as the girl he came to know as Tohru exited her room, and walked down the hall. She seemed to be carrying some sort of magazine with her; he assumed she must be off to reading in the library as he usually saw doing. Turning his gaze back to Akito he watched at the young god stared at what seemed to be now two long yellow ribbons. 'Was that what he has been holding all this time? Why ribbons?' He thought when a question from Akito brought him out of his thoughts.
"Has she sent for anything? Any mail or phone calls she's received or made?" Akito asked, while staring still at the yellow ribbons.
Kureno raised an eyebrow in question. "Well...no nothing."
A short silence broke out, when then Akito spoke as he stood up. "Where's Hatori?"
Kureno sighed as the tense moment went back to normal. "He went to check up on Yuki. Since he's moving, Hatori thought it'd be best to check up on his health."
"Fine then, I have to make some important calls; leave me be." Akito told him as she stood up, and reentered his room.
Kureno bowed and left to pursue other matters. He never tried questioning Akito, or tried getting in his way; it wasn't worth it, he'd learned that the hard way. He slightly winced as he stroked his neck.
Akito still holding on to the two yellow ribbons, paced a bit in his room. His mind flying into different directions, unsure of what to do next. As he glanced at the open battered blue suitcase that contained certain feminine items, he felt his heart rate soar; the heat in the room seemed to rise as he leaned against the wall out of breath.
He wasn't sure what caused these episodes, but it made him feel desperate and terrible; weak yet at the same time he felt overwhelmed by this other feeling he couldn't explain. It felt similar to the powerful feeling he would get when he would dominate and command his pets; however it was stronger, pumping through his body's nerves. Whatever it was, it made him restless, and irritated. Usually when he felt the need to assert himself when he felt the urge to keep his Sohmas in line, he'd find his release on one of his pets.
It used to be mainly with Yuki when he previously lived at the Honke, then it moved on to whichever one he got the chance to when Yuki moved out. This completely different feeling however he lacked in finding his way of releasing onto anything. Clueless to where this new feeling came from, his prime objective was to not to understand it, or overcome it, but control it.
Walking slowly over to the suitcase, and looking closely at the contents inside. Asides from the ribbons, he hadn't bother looking again at that apparel since the first time he laid eyes on them seven months ago. This time however he noticed something different. Ignoring his now throbbing headache, he eyed the multiple brassieres. Either his mind was playing tricks on him, or they appeared to be alot smaller in size then he last remembered.
As he went to pick one up, a small box dropped to the floor. It was pink in color, Akito slightly remembering it was one of the things he saw the first time he found the suitcase. Picking it up and reading the box's description; he immediately dropped the box, his face turning a faint green and pink shade.
"Akito" Suddenly Kureno's voice returned, from the other side of the shoji door. Pushing the suitcase closed and giving it a swift kick under his futon he answered bitterly.
"I thought I told you to leave me be!" He shouted annoyed that he was interrupted in his doing.
"It's something from outside." This is all it took to make Akito quickly open the shoji door. Obviously the term referring to something asides from the Honke.
What Akito saw enraged him; it was a flyer with the headline stating the word "Missing" below it was a picture of Tohru in her high school uniform. The smaller text below the picture stated the date of her disappearance, the school she went to, where she was last seen followed by the word "Reward and contact number"
He didn't recognize the number, but knew this was his precious pets doing. He simply snickered and began tearing the flyer up. "I wonder who's the money bearer; my rabbit, or the idiotic snake?"
"The flyer is posted in plenty of places Akito, what shall we do?" Kureno said with a hint of worry in his tone.
Akito winced his eyes, as the last torn piece of the flyer hit the floor. "We do nothing, as long as she stays here; no one shall know of her very existence; just as hardly any outsider knows of mine. If any dare defy me, they'll suffer the consequence they know they will. Asides from that, it wasn't as if I was the one who violated her; am I right?" Akito said as he stepped on the torn pieces, as mere dirt.
"Yes of course Akito." Kureno nodded as he bowed slightly.
Akito smirked as he passed his hand through Kureno's hair and grabbed hold of a lock. "The Sohma name can not be tainted; no one knows of this, understood?" Akito asserted as he tightened his grip on Kureno's burgundy hair.
"Without a doubt as always Akito. I'll be certain to make sure of it." Kureno said without changing the slightest bit of his tone; having grown used to Akito's ways.
"That's my good little rooster, now leave!" Akito said as he pushed him away and shut his shoiji door.
The thought of the situation getting more complicated drove Akito to an edge. Not being able to contain it any further he stepped out of his room, and stomped down the Honke's halls, heading towards the library.
Tohru flipped the page of the book she found. Seated on a comfortable rocking chair, with an assorment of books around her; she enjoyed the silence of the room. The warmth of the room style made her feel as if she were inside a secret room, complete with the rotating door, and stone walls
"Ah here we go Lamaze classes." Tohru told herself aloud as with excitement and curiosity she read more about the subject. A sudden voice brought her out of her reading.
"What are you doing?" Akito shouted, as he came into the room. His voice coming of as a shout and practically out of nowhere startled Tohru to the point that the book fell out of her hands.
"Akito-san...sama I'm sorry was I doing something wrong?" Tohru said as she immediately bowed.
Akito walked towards her and grabbed the book she was reading; causing Tohru to blush furiously. "I...umm..." Recalling that he was the one who sent her the catalog in the first place, she quickly bowed again. "Thank you so much for the catalog, but I don't have that much to spend on those kind of items. I'll do fine with any regular-"
"Did you get this idea from the catalog?" He asked interrupting her, as he turned the book over and pointed to the page regarding Lamaze.
Tohru swallowed slowly, and nodded. "Yes...I was finding out what exactly it was, since Hatori hadn't mentioned anything of it."
Akito frowned, and looked at the book again. "Well these classes you need to go out to go to them; where people can see you." He paused looking at Tohru's anxious expression, apparently not liking the idea. He smirked as he had her exactly where he wanted her. "I suppose however a Lamaze instructor could visit for private one-on-one-"
"Oh no you don't have to go though all that trouble, I really was just finding out about it; really there's no need to...oh I'm sorry." Tohru realized she interrupted him again and apologized.
Akito closed the book, and placed it on the table. "The least thing I want is having your screams wake up everyone in the Honke; not to mention the town. Prepare yourself if best. I'll arrange it tomorrow."
Tohru at the moment couldn't believe it. It was like in a snap of two fingers, and tomorrow she'd be attending her first Lamaze class. She couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement but decided not to show it much. She quickly bowed again. "Oh thank you so much Akito-san, you're too thoughtful."
Akito brushed his thumb across his lips and tilted his head sideways slightly; in a pondering stance as his eyes stared at her. Tohru quickly looked down, and blushed nervously. Always when Akito would flat out stare at her, it made her nervous and unable to even glance at him. Had she done something wrong again? The silence between them was killing her, and she was feeling uneasy; not to mention awkward once again.
As she was about to say something, he beat her to it. "So are you always this affectionate with males that quickly, or am I an exception?"
Tohru widened her eyes at his odd question. "I'm sorry what?" Despite hearing his question perfectly, she couldn't quite believe he was asking it. Akito however, didn't buy her act.
"You heard me, you're a horrible liar you know that." Akito said flatly.
"I...uh...I don't know understand why you would ask that question Akito-san...oh that I'm so sorry Akito-sama I didn't realize." Tohru realized what he meant had to be that he realized she wasn't referring to him as sama. She couldn't remember when exactly she had started calling him san, but since she hadn't exactly seen him for seven months; it must have slipped her mind.
Akito frowned. "I don't need any apologizes for that, I was only asking you a simple question!" He snapped, obviously getting into a sour mood. "Do you always treat men this way, or am I an exception?" He said in a louder tenser tone.
Tohru flinched noticing his mood changing, saying the first thing that came to her mind. "I-I only call those who are my close friends that." She blurted out too fast before she realized what she had said.
Akito's eyes widened as he stood back. "Friends?"
Tohru bit her lower lip, and closed her eyes. "I'm so sorry I was out of line, I should have continued calling you sama like you told me too; I owe you more then that."
Akito fell silent as he just stood there, lost in thought.
Father, can I go with Shi-kun to play with his friends?
I'm sorry, you're too sickly to go out and play. Stay inside with Kureno; I have business to do.
Akito turned around and headed for the door. "When is your mother's death anniversary again?"
Tohru opened her eyes surprised at his question. "Actually it was supposed to be tomorrow." She said with a hint of sadness in her tone.
"Put a black yukata on then, we're going today." Akito said as he opened the door.
Tohru gasped. "You mean to her grave, Akito you don't need to-"
"Do you want to not go at all then?" He asked as more as a statement then an actual question.
"Well...no..but."
"Then get going before we get caught." Akito spat out as he went out the door.
'Caught?' Tohru caught on the last word he said, before she had time to wonder about it she heard Akito add. "Make me wait too long and you can forget it."
Tohru entered her room, and found a black long yukata folded on her bed; she was normally given bright or soft colors on yukatas to wear; however this was the first time she saw a black one in her size. That was when she wondered where exactly did these yukatas come from. Were they new or owned previously by someone on the Honke; if so by whom?
As she slipped into the black attire, she glanced at her reflection in the mirror. She couldn't tell if it was due to the pregnancy or the simple fact that she was older, whatever it was her appearance had changed dramatically since she had lived at Shigure's home. Her facial features different, her teal eyes instead of being the shining bright ones filled with optimism and purity; now seemed darker, deeper, still and filled instead of self-tolerance and tact. Looking at the way her long flowing tresses dangled over her dark yukata, she felt it was the only thing that remained the same as before. Long, soft and youthful; the complete opposite to what she currently felt.
Touching the peach blossom that was in her hair, she noticed it was starting to wilt. Removing it from her hair and placing it on her vanity, she gazed back at her mother's picture; her short hairstyle. Remembering back at her junior high school photos, her mother used to have long hair as well; until.
Akito folded his black shirt sleeve for it to be a snug fit. Despite his outside attire being specially made to fit his thin frame, it still needed to be folded in some ends lately due to his decreasing weight. As he finished folding, his eye caught sight of a light cast off the silver platter of food brought to him earlier. He usually most of the time ignored the food brought to him; caring less about it. This time however he noticed something else reflecting off the platter besides the morning sun. Walking closer, he realized it was his own reflection, the platter being similar to a mirror.
Akito couldn't even remember the last time he had bother looking at his own reflection, in fact he hated the very thought of mirrors. He had no idea why he was being drawn then, to a puny reflection set of a platter. His eyes turned into slits as he looked at himself. His ebony black hair against his pale face, his dark silver eyes; Akira's eyes. He smacked the platter away.
"What am I doing? This is useless!" Akito yelled to himself aloud as he stood up, and exited his room. With a scowl on his face, he headed down the hall, hoping that the clumsy girl was waiting for him where he told her to.
He stopped in his tracks, as he saw that very girl holding a scissor to her throat. 'What does that idiot think she's doing?' He thought as he went over to her and slapped the scissor out of her hands, resulting her jumping back in shock.
"Have you lost your mind, if there's anyone around here that deserves to kill himself it's me; don't be so air headed!" He shouted at her. "I thought I told you to hurry up."
"I-I was..just going to cut my hair Akito-sama." Tohru said still a bit taken aback by Akito's slap.
Akito pressed his lips together in anger. "I won't allow it!" He said in a assertive tone, as he pulled on her arm.
After taking her out into the Honke grounds, and started leading her to a separate building. There was an unknown man polishing something in his hands with a rag in front of the building's door. Once catching sight of Akito, the man quickly stuttered and bowed.
"S-So-Sohma-sama ar..are you in need of my-"
"Enough, open the door and give me the key." Akito said as he let go of Tohru's arm.
"T-The key si-sir, but the doctor or Kureno-sama isn't here si-sir."
"I didn't ask if they were here or not. Just open the door, or else." Akito spat out as he pushed the man against the wall.
"Y-Yes sir...right away sir." He said with a bow, and quickly opened the door which lead into a garage. At least it appeared to be a garage, it was bigger then regular garage she had ever seen. Inside were classy styled black limos followed unknown items covered with tarp.
Tohru's eyes widened, sure she had seen limos being driven in the city before, not to mention the one she'd seen Hatori drive Akito in. Never however had she seen so many in one place before. She was brought back to her reverie when she heard Akito's voice.
"You drive us." Akito said flatly.
"B-but Sohma-sama, I'm no chauffeur." The man started to say, but one glare from Akito had him in the driver's seat without a doubt.
Akito turned to Tohru, hands in his pockets as he walked to the limo's back passenger door. "What are you just going stand there? Do you want to see your mother or no-" Akito was cut off by Tohru's expression. It read of fear, and reluctance. She was definitely holding back.
Akito scowled at her behavior, did she always take so long to go to places. He couldn't imagine how this girl got invited anywhere; if she even did. The way she was always annoyingly mentioning her mother, he expected her to quickly get in the car, even more so when the said car was a limo; a car he knew an insolent girl like she was hadn't even peered inside of.
Akito inwardly growled as he walked over to her, only to have her back further away from him in response. Raising an eyebrow in confusion, he continued walking closer which lead her further.
"I-I'm sorry Akito-sama I can't." She managed to spill out as she quickly turned and headed for the door.
Tohru's heart started beating heavy against her chest, as the situation she was in, caused a recent memory to trigger. Turning back and heading for the door, she didn't get too far until she felt a sudden pull of her arm; and last thing she knew she was against the garage wall, and Akito glaring at her with his penetrating eyes she could bare to look at.
"Just who do you think you're playing with? I didn't plan on this for you to make a fool out of me. No one makes a fool out of me!" He yelled as he tightened his grip on her arm.
"I-I know I shouldn't have, you were being so thoughtful, I just can't get in that car with you Akito-sama I'm sorry." She said with a crack in her tone, as she started to quiver. "Please understand I am grateful."
Akito blinked twice at her response. 'Can't get in the car? What is she thinking being frightened now, if I wanted to kill her I could have done ages ago in her own room.' He thought when suddenly he came into realization. 'The car, alone, the mutt.' He thought to himself as he balked at the idea of being compared to the filthy hound.
He then felt something wet fall on his sleeve. She was facing the floor crying. He hadn't seen her cry in seven months since she arrived at the Honke, now to have her crying basically in his arms; wither she viewed it as that way or not struck an uncomfortable feeling in his stomach.
"Are you afraid of the car, or comparing me to the mutt?" He popped out asking.
Tohru wiped her tears, as she shook her head. "I-I don't know."
Akito let her go in disgust and aggravation. "You idiot, you really think I'll be that much of a fool and rape you in a car now, when I could have easily done it seven months ago if I felt like it." Akito shut his mouth closed automatically once he finished his claim. He wasn't even actually planning to say such terms, but he did. Now that he did he couldn't help but picture the scenario he just proclaimed. It wasn't long before he felt lightheaded, and as if he were on fire.
Tohru had stopped crying, and was now looking straight at him, her cheeks turning a rosy tint. She didn't know exactly how long did the silence last, but it seemed like an eternity until she had the courage to speak up. "Y-you're right, when I first came here I slept in your room...and well I did agree to be your personal servant, before I knew I had a baby. So it doesn't seem right for me to be frightened now...right."
Akito turned away from her and stepped inside the limo. "Hurry up."
Throughout half the drive, Tohru came back to her usual self and apologized more then ten times for the inconvenience she made Akito pass. The rest of the way, Tohru was like a child, eagering gazing out the car window; enjoying the scenery.
When they arrived at the cemetery, Tohru quickly was in an energetic state. "Oh no, we usually have a picnic at mom's grave. I didn't pack anything."
Akito uncrossed his legs, grateful the drive had come to an end. Despite the fact Tohru seemed to enjoy every minute of it, his mind couldn't stop replaying a certain scenario that made the close enclosed space all the more uncomfortable. "We can't stay long, someone may recognize you. Here." Akito took out from one of the compartments a beautiful sparkling hair clip that had a bright red, orange and yellow leaf design on the end. "Tie your hair up."
Tohru began tying her long hair up geisha style "Where did you get this from, it's so-"
"Never mind where I got it; the point is to cover your face." Akito remarked coldly as he tossed her a black veil, and stepped outside the limo.
Tohru inhaled deeply as she walked around the cemetery. It had seemed so long since she been anywhere besides the Honke that she immediately felt uplifted.
Once arriving at a familiar tombstone that read Kyoko Honda, she let out breath of relief. "Hi mom, it's me Tohru. I came a bit early too celebrate your anniversary." She said as she sat down besides the tomb.
Akito walked up besides her; hands still in his pockets. 'So this is it, her mother's grave.' He thought as he leaned against another stone. 'What's the big deal?' Akito thought to himself, as he saw Tohru basically fawn over it. He couldn't understand what was so exciting about visiting a corpse's deathbed. Her mother was dead, why even bother?
"I'm going to keep trying my best mom, to be as good as a mom you were; oh and you don't have to worry I've been very fortunate to have some new friends to help me out. Hatori-san is the doctor, who's been checking up on me, and Akito-sama has provided me more then I can ask for." Tohru said as she smiled softly.
Akito's ear perked up, as he heard the finishing sentence; again she had called him a friend. He chided her silently as she was infact too trusting of other people. Didn't she realize that she belonged to him, and that he had complete power over her due to her carrying a Sohma? Why call it friendship?
"It looks like you're going to be a grandma soon, but knowing you you'd probably prefer him to call you by your name or G-mom." Tohru laughed as she said this. "Oh yes, Hatori-san said it most likely will be a boy; but you never know I was supposed to be a boy too right?" She then quieted down, and the look on her face saddened. "I just wish you would have been here to see him born."
"You shouldn't ask for too much, she's dead and your lucky enough that she even let you live, compared to other wretched mothers I've seen." Akito spoke up, as he stood as gazed at the surrounding trees blowing in the wind. "It was a miracle my good-for-nothing mother let me live."
Tohru quickly turned her gaze towards him at this new information. The way Akito spoke about his mother, so uncaring. It made her think just how awful Akito's mother must have been. "What was her name, your mother?" She managed to ask.
"Ren...I think...hardly anyone called her by her first name, not even Hatori. Only my father did...once." He said with any sense of feeling in his tone. His eyes then turned into slits. "She didn't deserve to carry the Sohma name, no matter how powerful or manipulative she was."
Tohru frowned, she usually would disagree with any foul talk regarding mothers, but remembering how she was told that Akito's mother abandoned him when he was so young. She couldn't say anything to counteract the statement, after all she didn't even get her memories suppressed; meaning she was probably out there somewhere, with the memory of her abandoned child in mind, and she continued to let it pass. The very thought in fact, angered Tohru a bit.
"I can't really say I knew your mother, but if she was as careless as I heard then you're right; she doesn't deserve to be called your mother." Tohru said in a lifeless tone, as she stood up. "No in fact, she shouldn't be given the right to; the head of the Sohma name deserves better then someone so cruel. Akito-sama she had no right to treat you that way she did. A true mother is caring, nurturing and dote; to be there when their son needs discipline, encouragement and most importantly love. Everyone deserves those feelings, no matter how sick they are."
As she stood there watching Akito's surprised expression, she suddenly turned shy; thinking she spoke too much her mind, and went too far. She quickly bowed, but once lifting herself from her bow to apologize Akito was inches away in front of her; causing her to gasp in surprise. "Aki-"
Akito lifted her black veil from her face, very much in bridal-like style; his face nearing hers.
"Akito-sama what are you-"
"Oh I'm sorry am I interrupting you?" A female voice called out to them causing Akito to replace Tohru's black veil over her already pink face.
"Say goodbye, then get to the limo." He said as he left her alone in front of her mother's grave.
The other bystander spoke again."Oh wait, you don't have to leave I'll...hey excuse you?" She said in an annoyed tone as Akito pushed his way past her on his way to the limo. The girl simply gave him the cold shoulder, and quickly trotted over to Tohru.
"I'm sorry I didn't mean to impose." She said as she bowed quickly.
Tohru quickly waved her arms. "No..no I was leaving anyways." Tohru said as she also somewhat felt relieved that this stranger interrupted the moment.
The stranger was a young woman, who appeared not too much older then Kagura. She had caramel colored hair styled in a low side ponytail; making her hazel eyes sparkle in unison. "My name is Motoko Minagawa, you look familiar somehow have we met before?" She asked as she smiled.
Tohru knew she recalled that name from somewhere, but she only drew up blanks. "Umm...no I don't suppose so. I do recognize you from somewhere though."
"Did you used to go to Kaibara High School?" She asked.
The name struck a chord in Tohru. Her old high school, now that she recalled could this be the same Motoko Minagawa she used to know; the Prince Yuki fan club president. She had indeed graduated high school a whole year before Tohru entered her senior year; thus making her twenty now; something about her though made her look more mature then she was.
"Mommy, I found it, I found it." Out of nowhere a little girl appeared, running up the stone steps of the cemetery; her snow white pigtails bouncing up and down as they were held in two big silver bows. She immediately reminded Tohru of Momo; Momiji's baby sister. Once the girl noticed Tohru's presence, she quickly waved; blushing as she hid behind Motoko. Tohru immediately smiled at the girl's cuteness.
"Hi there, you looking for your mommy." Tohru asked as she bent down slightly.
"Umm...actually I'm her mother." Motoko spoke up with a laugh. "I know, I know she doesn't look nothing like me asides from her face a bit, but that comes in handy sometimes. People usually don't expect me to have a two year old already." She said with a laugh. "Can you tell her your name?" She nudged the little tyke forward.
"Hatsuna."
"Aww she's so cute, I'm. To...Toya." Tohru stuttered on her name. She couldn't possibly tell Motoko her real name, what if she remembered.
Motoko raised an eyebrow. "Toya, that's very boyish. Certainly doesn't look like a name that belongs to you with you being dressed up sooo...formal." She smiled however, and shrugged it off. "How far are you in?" She asked pointing to Tohru's stomach.
"Around my seventh month." Tohru said, as she somehow felt surprisingly comfortable talking to Motoko. The only other girl she had talked to in seven months was Reina, and she hadn't had any kids of her own. Having another young mother like herself, made her feel somewhat happy to talk about the matter. If she would think two years ago, she would be talking happily to Motoko the straight A student; fan club president; Arisa would have personally slapped her out of the very thought.
"A boy obviously it seems." Motoko answered knowingly. "Was the guy with you the father?"
Tohru simply nodded yes in response, thinking it was too difficult to explain otherwise.
Motoko smiled in and nodded in response. "Well it looks like someone got lucky. He has a limo and most importantly; he's hot!"
Tohru felt like she was about to faint as she sweatdropped in exhaustion. Yes definitely this was the same Motoko she knew. Tohru laughed uneasy, as she was driven wordless.
"He reminds me somehow of a guy I used to have a crush on in high school. All the girls called him prince even some of the guys. I was even his fan club's president. Motoko exclaimed as stars formed in her eyes.
Tohru sighed as she knew who exactly was she speaking of. "Oh really, I could only imagine."
"Mmhmm and I just found out he's enrolling in Tokyo University. I could just imagine him being on Dean's List he was so talented and smart."
Tohru widened her eyes at the news. Yuki in the university, it was what he always wanted but never dared to pursue. He was following his dream. Tohru didn't know if it was joy or sadness that made her feel the way she did, all she knew was that tears were coming up, and she had to find a way to hold them back.
"W-well I wouldn't know of either of that, I'm taking my senior year by getting tutored." Tohru managed to say while holding back the crack in her voice.
Motoko waved her hand. "I feel you; I gave up my chance at heading for college for my mistake. I guess that's what you get for having a one-night-stand." Motoko said carelessly as Tohru coughed a bit by the last word.
"A what?"
Motoko looked at her with a weird expression. "Listen I know we just met and all, but here's my number. If you need any help with the pregnancy or any other questions, ring me up, I could really use another girl in my same agenda to chat with. We could maybe have a playdate later on when your little guy is out and running. Hatsuna here may not be shy, but doesn't have that many friends due to the lame excuse regarding her hair color. She has to stay home, due to having problems at day-care." Motoko gave her the slip, as she picked Hatsuna up.
Tohru immediately felt the familiar situation. "She gets picked on?" Recalling Kisa's situation, as well as Haru's.
"Well if only it was that, but the way it ends up isn't well. She's the fighting type." Motoko replied rolling her eyes. "Well have to get going, call me anytime Toya."
Tohru stared at Motoko's number in her hand. The least she expected was to have close contact with Motoko of all people. There was something different about her then when she was in high school. She changed somewhat; most likely becoming a mother had most to do with it. Despite the chance encounter being a bit exhausting, she did infact enjoy it, and couldn't help but smile as she headed towards the limo.
"Toya?" Akito asked as soon as Tohru got in the car.
"It was the first name that came to my mind." Tohru said quickly, as she rubbed the back of her neck in tension.
As the limo started to pull away from the driveway, Tohru took away the veil from her face. She had no idea how Hana could wear such elaborate attire; recalling Hana's wardrobe. As she breathed deeply, and fanned herself from the dark's clothes seemingly thermal heat; it wasn't no mystery why Akito wore always black out. At least the few times he went out. Tohru's geisha hair had fallen halfway from the clip's hold, and some of her hair was damp from her sweat. As she tried fixing her hair she noticed Akito's silence. He didn't even ask why she took soo long in returning to the limo. Did he in fact trust her?
Glancing at Akito, his expression was unreadable. He was staring out the window aside him, legs crossed, one arm on the limo's doorway, the other on the seat next to him; awfully close to her. She suddenly felt nervous, as she stared at his hand, his skin tone as white as snow; despite clearly being a masculine hand it resembled to those of a pianist. Long and delicate; free from any manual labor. This was the hand that had yanked and pulled on her hair two years ago, yet also the same one that saved her that night, carried her, and pulled her black concealing veil away from her face.
Tohru's gaze turned again towards the silent one's face. Despite being unreadable, it somehow appeared calm, instead of haunting or bitter. She couldn't say it was due to her losing her fear, but...
You're lucky- he's hot
Tohru held her breath as she remembered Motoko's words in regards to Akito. She barely got a glimpse of Akito, and yet said that he reminded her of Yuki. However she couldn't doubt the crazy young mother, Akito and Yuki did indeed look alike in a way.
She noticed Akito turning his gaze from the window to facing her. His expression still unreadable, but slightly looking taken aback; causing her to wonder why so. It was when she noticed that her hand subconsciously had fallen over his. Tohru pulled her hand away as if was on fire, wrapping it around her torso. "Sorry"
"You're hot." Akito said flatly causing Tohru to panic slightly at his words.
"I-I..uh..what." Tohru stuttered, not believing what he was saying.
"It looks like you're suffocating." Akito continued clarifying himself as he reach into one of the limo's side pockets for a fan. "We can't turn on the air conditioning, unless you wish to hear it from Hatori." He added as he tossed her the bamboo fan.
"T-Thank you Akito-sama...for today." Tohru said as she knew Akito's gracious nature didn't come by often.
"You won't be thanking me in a few minutes." He simply stated as the limo reached to a halt.
Tohru realized they had arrived, and out waiting for them was Kureno.
"Akito, what if Hatori finds out about your outing? What should I do?" Kureno said desperately as soon as Akito and Tohru exited the limo.
"Hatori doesn't need to know unless you open your mouth; and you're not going to are you?" Akito told him in response as his calm look turned once again into a threatening one.
"No I won't, but Akito do you need anything? Feel sick in anyway?" Kureno continued to ask as Akito walked to the veranda of his room.
"Kureno, you're not my father so stop acting like one." He shouted as he slammed the door.
Tohru stood there frozen in place. Sure she had seen Akito in his moods, in his scary moments. This however was different, Tohru felt like she was seeing a whole new side of things. Did Akito really get hounded so much just because he decided to go out once?
Meanwhile somewhere on another side of town a phone rang, until it got picked up by the home's owner.
"Hello Sohma Residen-"
"I just saw Akito with someone in front of Kyoko Honda's grave!"
Author's Note: Thus the plot thickens, some of you may be thinking why did I waste time including Motoko in this chapter. For one thing she's going to become a much more important character later on so her first appearance here was vital. As well hehe the romance is starting to brew; little by little but believable the more-so. I hope you all won't get too let down with me in this chapter, since it had more dialogue then anything. Consider however this chapter a filler, until I get the real stuff coming along.
Anyways as always
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