Author's Notes: Hello! Hope you guys enjoy this one as I start weaving all the plot threads together to wrap this thing up. I can't believe I've been working on this for over a year. Thanks to everyone for their patience. It's a tough thing writing and putting this work out there, and I treasure all of you who continue to read, like, fav, comment and enjoy this story. Even though the RK fandom may be small, we are mighty, just like our beloved rurouni.

Beta: Sumiregusa (thanks for the love and support and push to finish this!) and Animanical-Laughter (she's the one helping me keep this on track, especially when an angry rant somehow gets written in to the chapter. Thanks!)
Rating: T
Warnings: Just fluff
Disclaimer: Rurouni Kenshin is owned by Nobuhiro Watsuki. Persuasion is in the public domain, but was written by Jane Austen.

Chapter 20

For the first time, since their renewed acquaintance,
she felt that she was betraying the least sensibility of the two.
She had the advantage of him in the preparation of the last few moments.
All the overpowering, blinding, bewildering, first effects
of strong surprise were over with her. Still, however,
she had enough to feel! It was agitation, pain, pleasure,
a something between delight and misery - Persuasion, Jane Austen

Kaoru tried not to glare at Gohei as she helped Mitsuo sit down and began to brace his arm. Gohei stood over them, still holding his bokken.

"You didn't need to strike so hard," said Kaoru while checking her student's arm. As her hand lightly brushed over his forearm, Mitsuo winced. She pulled up his sleeve to inspect the break. The bone wasn't poking through the skin but she could see where the bone had snapped after taking the full impact of Gohei's blow.

"I'm teaching them to react to real situations," Gohei said, disdainfully looking down at his student.

"Well, your 'real situation' broke his arm!" Kaoru stood and glared at Gohei. "How is he supposed to learn now?"

"Not my concern." Gohei stalked away. Sighing, Kaoru turned back to Mitsuo, who was clenching his teeth at the pain.

"We should get you to a doctor," said Kaoru. "Can you walk?" Mitsuo nodded and Kaoru helped him stand. She had noticed there was a clinic nearby a few days ago. She left the dojo and led him there, supporting him over her shoulder by his good arm. Gohei didn't even say goodbye; he just resumed teaching, blatantly ignoring the angry and betrayed looks on their students' faces. Even though the students were improving under Kaoru's instruction, and at a much faster pace than under his, he still felt they weren't strong enough and was pushing them past their limits.

Soon Kaoru and Mitsuo arrived at the clinic. They made their way inside and a tall woman with long black hair came out to meet them. She wore a purple medical smock over her light kimono.

"Can I help you?" the woman asked and recognition bloomed in her eyes when she saw Kaoru. "You! You were with Sano and Ken-san! I saw you in the carriage!"

Kaoru reeled back in shock. It took a few moments, but then Kaoru recognized the woman as the doctor Sano had picked up in Tokyo to treat Akiko. Before Kaoru could say anything, Mitsuo moaned in pain The other woman instantly snapped to attention and ushered them inside to a small room.

"What happened?" asked the woman, who was feeling Mitsuo's forehead with the back of her hand as Kaoru helped him down into a sitting position.

"Training accident," Kaoru admitted. "I think he broke his arm. Can you help him… uhm… Miss…"

"Takani Megumi," the other woman said as she pulled up Mitsuo's sleeve.

"Kamiya Kaoru."

"Nice to finally meet you," said Megumi. She turned back to Mitsuo and started examining him. She worked quickly, and Kaoru could tell that she was very well trained. It wasn't long before Mitsuo's arm was braced and he was resting, the medicine that Megumi gave him helping to dull the pain. She showed Kaoru into a side room where they could sit and have some tea.

"Thank you for taking care of Mitsuo. We're lucky you are here," said Kaoru, as she sipped her tea. "I thought your clinic was in Tokyo."

"Well my primary one is, but I do move around quite a bit," Megumi said. "So how do you know Ken-san?"

Kaoru almost spit out her tea as Megumi watched her with narrowed eyes. There was no getting anything past her.

"Well, I was teaching at the Maekawa dojo and he spent some time with the family there and" Kaoru began.

Megumi held up a hand silencing her. "No, not that. You knew him before this summer."

"Yes, I did," Kaoru said hesitantly, wary of what Megumi knew about her past relationship with Kenshin.

"Sano mentioned that the two of you had known each other," said Megumi nonchalantly, but with a fierce look in her eye. "And as Ken-san has never said anything about you to me, I was wondering how."

"Himura-san stayed at my dojo, before he travelled to Kyoto for the revolution," admitted Kaoru. She quickly decided that honesty would likely be better with Megumi, at least to some extent.

"That was a long time ago. You must have been very young."

"I was. And yourself? How do you know Himura-san?" Turnabout was fair play.

"He helped me out of a tough situation. Ken-san and Sano. Since then, I'd do anything for him." Megumi gave Kaoru a smug look.

"Oh are you and him…" The hope Kaoru held close to her heart started to fade.

"Ken-san and me?" Megumi laughed musically. "As much as I would like to think that all men are at my whim, unfortunately I'm not Ken-san's type. And honestly, he's a good man, but we wouldn't work for each other."

"Ah," said Kaoru. She took a sip of tea and hoped that she did not blush. Megumi continued.

"On the way to Hakone, Sano filled me in about Akiko and her injury. Ken-san didn't say anything at all about her. Almost as soon as I arrived in Hakone, Sayuri told me that I had to cure Akiko as she was to be Ken-san's bride. When I asked him about his bride-to-be, he seemed shocked."

"Shocked, how?" asked Kaoru.

"Ken-san said he didn't have any intention of making her his wife. He was shocked that everyone assumed that they were going to get married. I mean, from what Sayuri said, it seemed that Akiko was in love from Kenshin. But I don't think he was much in love with her. Yes, he was attentive, but he is like that to everyone. He's far too nice to everyone, women and children especially. I've known him for a while, but when I saw Ken-san with her, I didn't see any true affection there, at least not on his part. And after I told him about his supposed engagement, he left! For Osaka! With Sano! I was ready to give him a piece of my mind for leaving his intended for that long, even if it was only rumours at that point. But then it became obvious that Akiko only had eyes for Tadashi."

"Tokio told me that Akiko and Tadashi were engaged," Kaoru commented. "She said that they fell in love over books?"

"Can you believe it?" laughed Megumi. "I'd come in to check on her, and there he would be, reading nonsense tales to her. All fantastical stories about magicians and princesses and evil villians. But it seemed to be the only thing that made her feel better, and it did help with her recovery. As her doctor, I let it continue. I guess you could say I played the matchmaker…" A small smile came to Megumi's lips, which Kaoru couldn't help but noticing. "It wasn't much long after, that he proposed and she accepted."

"And when Himura-san found out that they were engaged, he wasn't upset?" asked Kaoru.

"No, if anything he seemed relieved," Megumi stated. "In fact, he was one of the first to congratulate them on their engagement."

"He is one of the best of men," said Kaoru softly. She tried to ignore the piercing stare Megumi gave her, as if she was trying to size her up. Kaoru coughed slightly and tried to change the subject.

"So, where are Himura-san and Sano off to now?" she asked.

"Well I'm sure you'll be able to ask him yourself," Megumi smiled almost wickedly.

"What?"

"He'll be here in a few days."

oooooo

Kaoru slid the door to the shop shut quickly, shaking her head to get some of the water droplets off. The day had started out sunny and bright, and when she left Tae's house that morning she didn't think anything about the possibility of rain. But the clouds had moved in quickly and it wasn't long before the rainstorm began. The rainy season was starting and Kaoru realized that she needed to start carrying an umbrella with her just in case she got caught out in the rain again.

Kaoru turned and moved into the shop, which was full of people browsing the various cups and lacquer items, trying to stay out of the rain. Kaoru moved towards the side where it was less crowded. She went to move past one couple but backed into a man else as she tried to make room. Kaoru turned to apologize and as she faced him her eyes widened in shock.

"Oro?"

Standing in front of her, dressed in his blue hakama, was Kenshin. He looked equally shocked to see her.

"Ken…I mean…Himura-san," Kaoru tried recover, feeling her face turning red. "What are you doing here?"

"Hiding from the rain," Kenshin quipped and Kaoru couldn't help but smile.

"I meant in Yokohama." Kaoru replied, and Kenshin blushed from embarrassment.

"I can't really say," Kenshin said as he glanced around. Kaoru nodded, knowing that his work for the government was sensitive in nature and he couldn't discuss it openly.

"I hope your travels were well," Kaoru said, raising her face to meet his eyes. She met his dark blue eyes, eyes so dark they were almost purple, and joy leapt in her heart as his face broke out into a smile.

"They were," Kenshin said, returning the smile. "I arrived yesterday."

"Did you travel alone?" Kaoru asked. She was finally reunited with him, and they were speaking like close acquaintances. He actually looked pleased to see her.

"Yes, but Sano is meeting me here. He will be very excited to see you."

"And I him," said Kaoru and she meant it. "We had the best conversations."

"Yes, I am aware of that," chuckled Kenshin. "He is quite the talker. And he's particularly good at at talking about things one would rather avoid talking about."

Kaoru paused, unsure what to say. Grasping for topics that were safer, she pointed outside.

"It seems the rains came early this year," Kaoru remarked. Kenshin nodded and held out a red paper umbrella.

"Yes, but I came prepared," Kenshin said, and for some reason, his face flushed harder. Kaoru laughed slightly at his silly expression again at a loss for words. To her surprise Kenshin started to talk.

"I guess by now you have probably heard about Akiko," Kenshin said, his tone hesitant, though the words came out in a rush. Kaoru looked at him in shock. Did he really want to discus this topic here with her now, in a shop full of strangers? She knew that they needed to talk about what happened this summer. Could they say what they wanted? Even though people were milling about, a few were watching her and Kenshin, eavesdropping on their conversation.

"I have." Kaoru looked away, unsure as what to say. "I was quite shocked to find out that she was engaged to Tadashi."

"She's very happy," said Kenshin. "Tadashi dotes on her every movement, and I met with both of them shortly after the engagement was announced. As hard as it can be to imagine, they complement each other perfectly. I wished them both all the happiness in the world."

"I'm glad to hear that," said Kaoru. "She deserves to be happy." Kaoru looked directly at Kenshin, hoping that he would get the meaning behind her words. His eyes widened slightly, and Kaoru was relieved to see him relax slightly.

"Do you intend to be here long?" asked Kaoru, hopeful that they would have some time together. Ever since Megumi had told her that Kenshin would be in Yokohama, she had hoped that they would meet. Finding him in this shop was beyond all her expectations. If she could only get some time alone with him, she could find out where he stood. His manners and the way he was speaking with her seemed to indicate that he was happy to see her. Could she hope that finally they might have a chance together?

"It depends," said Kenshin, and he took a step towards her. Kaoru felt her heartbeat speed up as he drew closer, and Kaoru couldn't stop the smile that seemed to overwhelm her face. She knew it wasn't proper, especially in a shop full of strangers, but she couldn't help herself.

"Depends on what?" asked Kaoru softly. She looked down as Kenshin reached for her hand. Just as he was about to grab it, Kaoru heard a shout as the shop door opened sharply.

"Kaoru?" Kanryu yelled in the shop. The crowd of people seemed to part instantly, as he spotted her at the side and moved towards her.

"Ah there you are," said Kanryu, coming up to stand beside her. "I finally found you. When Tae said you had left the dojo and the rain started, I couldn't rest until I found you. Come, come. I have the carriage outside. This storm isn't going to let up for hours."

Kanryu paused and took in the smaller red-headed man standing beside her. Kenshin had dropped his hand and slipped both of them inside his sleeves. Kaoru's manners kicked in and she quickly introduced Himura Kenshin to Takeda Kanryu.

"The famous Battousai!" exclaimed Kanryu after Kaoru had finished. "Kaoru my dear, you should have told me that you knew him!" Kanryu turned towards Kenshin and bowed deeply. "It is an honour to meet such an illustrious hero as yourself. Please, what brings you to Yokohama?"

Kenshin returned the bow and replied politely. "Just business. A patriot's work is never done."

"Isn't it!" exclaimed Kanryu. "And yes, now I remember. You were in Hakone, as well. We passed each other on the street."

Kenshin's eyes narrowed slightly. "Yes, we did."

"How interesting fate is?" Kanryu continued. "Who would have guessed so many weeks ago that we would all be standing here together, after meeting by chance?"

"Yes, who would have?" Kenshin said softly.

Kaoru eyed Kenshin carefully. He seemed slightly on edge and Kaoru could tell that he had shifted his weight, as if preparing to move suddenly. Kanryu did not seem to notice and continued on.

"Did Kaoru tell you that is she is teaching at my dojo?" Kanryu said. "The enrollment at the dojo is actually up since she started teaching."

"I've seen her teach," said Kenshin. "She does have a way with students."

"Oh yes, of course, but I think it is because she is so lovely," Kanryu gazed fondly at Kaoru, and she blushed. "Oh, I've just had the most marvelous idea!" Kanryu turned back to Kenshin.

"I am throwing a party at the dojo tomorrow evening," Kanryu stated. "There will be numerous officials from Yokohama, and my business associates. Kaoru has been gracious enough to put on a demonstration of kenjutsu during the party. It would be a great honour to have you there!"

"I wouldn't want to impose," said Kenshin.

"Kaoru, surely you can convince Himura-san here to join us! I assure you, it is going to be an excellent show."

Kaoru turned to Kenshin. If he did come, maybe they could get a chance to come to some sort of understanding.

"Please, Himura-san," asked Kaoru. "It would mean a great deal to my students if you would join us in the dojo tomorrow night." And it would mean a great deal to me, Kaoru thought in her head.

Kenshin considered it for a second and nodded. "I would be happy to attend."

Kaoru brightened at that. Kanryu clapped his hands.

"Splendid!" Kanryu exclaimed. "Now come my dear, let's get you back to the restaurant. My carriage is waiting outside. If you would excuse us."

Kanryu placed a hand on Kaoru's shoulder and tried to guide her out of the shop. Kenshin's expression quickly turned grim, as Kaoru looked a bit frantic.

"Kanryu, I'm fine. It's too much trouble, and I am sure you are busy. I can just stay until the rain lets up," said Kaoru.

"I have an umbrella," Kenshin indicated the red paper umbrella he had at his side. "I can walk you back," he offered. Kaoru's face brightened at the idea. A chance to talk to him alone! What would that bring…

"Don't be silly," said Kanryu. "Good day, Himura-san." Slightly more forceful than before he pressed on her back and pushed her towards the door. Kaoru didn't protest as Kanryu guided her out of the shop, too shocked for words. She spared one glance back at Kenshin as he watched them leave. He met her eye and Kaoru knew she would see him again, and soon.

oooooo

"You look lovely tonight," said Tae, as she poked her head inside the room. Kaoru was finishing pulling her hair up into a high ponytail. At Kanryu's assistance, she had agreed to wear the kimono he had sent her. It was truly the loveliest thing she owned; even her mother's kimono hadn't come close to it in quality.

"Thank you," said Kaoru. "I think it's going to be a good night."

Tae came in to the room and shut the door. She sat down beside Kaoru and took the comb, offering to finish her hair. Kaoru watched as Tae brushed the long strands.

"Kanryu was very generous having the restaurant provide all the food for tonight," said Tae.

"It seems like you have been busy for days," said Kaoru.

"I was talking to Kanryu this afternoon, and he mentioned that he met one of your friends," said Tae.

Kaoru sat up, alarmed. Kanryu had told Tae about Kenshin?

"Tae, we need to…" Kaoru began.

"Kaoru, please." Tae was almost in tears. "I know Kenshin and Akiko aren't engaged. I know you well enough to know that you are considering the possibility that he is here for you. But please, remember what you promised. I know Kenshin was once important to you but Kanryu can give you stability and a home. He isn't a soldier. He will always return to you! And he won't break your heart!"

"Kenshin won't break my heart," Kaoru said. She turned on Tae and despite the other woman's tears continued on. "If you remember, it was I who broke his heart."

"Kaoru, I…"

"No!," Kaoru stood and almost shouted. "I can't be with Kanryu. I've considered it like you asked, and I've decided. If he asks me, I will not answer yes. I will never marry him. I don't think I could ever love him. And I don't know if Kenshin is here for me or not, but I am going to find out. I've waited this long and now, happiness might be right in front of me. But I won't know if you keep interfering. All my life, you've said you want nothing but my happiness… but every decision you've persuaded me to make has denied me that. So this time, I'm making my own decision. I'm sorry Tae, but I've made up my mind."

Kaoru steeled herself as the tears flowed down Tae's face. She hadn't meant to shout, but it was her life, and Kaoru was going to make her own decisions on how she led it.

"I never knew you felt this way," Tae said, trying to hold herself together. The older woman stood, trying to regain her dignity.

"I do," Kaoru said with determination. The two women were silent for a few moments, the tension thick between them.

"Well, I…I guess, I will see you at the party, then. If you excuse me," Tae said, emotion thick in her voice. She moved to the door, and then paused. "You know, I do only wish for you to be happy."

As Tae left, Kaoru sat down, feeling her heart hammering in her chest. She put her head in hands, knowing that she hadn't meant to hurt one of her closest friend's feelings. But Tae had interfered too much and now Kaoru knew she could not let it continue. Not when it seemed happiness with Kenshin was so close.

No, tonight was the night that Kaoru took her future in to her own hands.