Authors Note: Hello again my dear readers. I'm here to present the second instilment of 'Love Hina: A Waking Dream.' I hope that you enjoy this chapter because I put a lot of heart into it. I know that wait has been long, but I will have more as soon as I can. To everyone that has left a comment, thank you for your kind words. I really do appreciate them. Oh, before I forget, I'd like to take this time to clear a few things up that I've received e-mails about. When Shinobu cooked the bacon for everyone's breakfast, I know most people have theirs crispy. I only said it was tender because that's how I like my bacon cooked. Also, my dad has no teeth and it's easier for him to eat it like that. I know that I dropped the p-bomb early, but I'm going to build from that, just wait. Also, I'm going to start making the chapter titles the band as well as the song name I listened to while writing. The first one was Korn, 'Falling Away From Me.'
Disclaimer: I don't own Love Hina. If I did, Tsuruko, Mutsumi, Motoko, and Amalla would be real and they would be all mine!!!!!^^ *laughs evilly*
Mammas and Papas: California Dreaming
The soft, pale glow of the setting sun painted the Hinata house in its ethereal beauty. The birds chirped the last song of the day before the crickets came onto the stage to play their concerto. The drone of city life melded with the beautiful symphony created by nature.
The exquisiteness of the sounds outside, however, was lost on Keitaro. He sat with his back against the wall of his bedroom, his head resting in his hands. Even though he had just regained consciousness he already had a migraine. Sighing, he rubbed his index finger and thumb against his forehead, trying to alleviate the pressure that had built up behind it.
God, I would kill for some aspirin right about now, he thought.
He ran his other hand through his dark hair absentmindedly, his thoughts flitting back and forth from subject to subject, never leaving him with any peace. Kitsune's words rang in his head repeatedly, along with the image of her face when she said to him the words that would forever change his life and, by consequence, the lives of the rest of Hinata-sou's inhabitants.
So, I'm going to be a dad, huh? Never thought I'd be able to claim that, he thought. I wonder what Kitsune's thinking? He turned his gaze to the woman sitting across from him.
The woman stared back; her eyes fully open yet unreadable. It seemed as if she was staring right through Keitaro, lost in her own ruminations. The only thing she let slip past her impassive mask was a slight frown tugging at the corners of her mouth.
What's he thinking, Kitsune wondered. She may have been all smiles and giggles telling him, but now that he knew, it was different. She, for one of the few times in her life, didn't know what to do. One thing she was sure of though was that she needed to hear Keitaro's thoughts before she made any decision about this…development.
"Keitaro," she all but whispered. "What do you think we should do," she asked, her eyes focused on his, holding an almost pleading look.
Gulping, the man scratched the back of his neck and looked at Kitsune. "I'm not sure," said Keitaro. "I'd like to think I had an answer to something like this, but I've never had to deal with a situation like this one before," he told her. Keitaro's head slumped and he looked down at his feet. "What do you think we should do about…you know," he asked, mumbling.
Shrugging, Kitsune sighed. "I really wish I knew. I feel like kicking myself for not taking those damn pills like I was supposed too," she said bitterly. The brunette stretched her arms and cracked her knuckles, sighing some in the small amount of relief it brought. "Should we…not have it," she asked abruptly, startling Keitaro with the suddenness of her question.
Should've know this would come up, he thought. "That choice is yours Kitsune. I can't say that I particularly like that option, but if that's what you want to do, then I can't stop you," he told the brown haired woman.
"If I choose to have the baby, what'll you do," Kitsune asked, her face unreadable.
"I," Keitaro started, but couldn't finish. What would I do, he mused. He knew that he wouldn't leave Kitsune alone to raise the child on her own, but what did this do for his dreams of going to Todai-U and winning Naru's heart. I know exactly what'll happen in that department. Naru'll make me the first man to see the end of the universe and I'll have to drop out of college. Kenny, you hit the nail right on the head,he mused.
Taking a deep breath, Keitaro looked up at Kitsune and smiled softly. "I'll be there to help raise the kid. Even though I may love Naru and even though I want to go to school, I'd give it all up for my child."
Blinking back a sudden tear, the resident trickster leaped to her feet and threw her arms around the landlord's neck. "Thank you Kei," she whispered, her face pressed into his neck allowing her tears to run freely.
Unsure of what caused her sudden outburst, the bespectacled man hesitantly put his arms around her shoulders and rocked her back and forth making soothing sounds. After what felt like years, she finally calmed down but made no attempts to try and move away from his embrace.
"I do want to have this baby," Kitsune said, breaking the silence.
Sighing, Keitaro rubbed her back and looked down at her. "What should we tell the others," he asked.
Just then, Naur's head popped through the hole in Keitaro's ceiling. "Hey Keitaro! Do you have that….study book…I leant to you….," asked the young woman, her voice trailing off at the site below her.
What the hell's going on here, she thought.
In the next moments, her brain registered the site of an emotional Kitsune held by a flustered Keitaro. If anybody were paying close attention to the sounds going on in the room, they'd swear to have heard a switch being flipped on as Naru went into Terminator mode.
(Naru's POV)
Analyzing area:
Subject A: Urashima Keitaro A.K.A. Pervert Ronin
Subject B: Konno Mitsune A.K.A. Kitsune A.K.A. Best friend
Disturbances detected: Crying Kitsune in the arms of Pervert Ronin. Most likely said pervert attempted to force himself on her……………Executing Pervert Punishment: Iron Punch will launch in…5…4…3…2…1
(Normal POV)
Unleashing her usual battle cry, the Tokyo-U hopeful leaped through the hole that separated her quarters from the landlord's and charged at him, her eyes glowing malevolently in the dim room.
Realizing what was happening; Keitaro pushed Kitsune away just as Naru's punch connected with his chin, sending him flying through the roof. "WHAT DID I DO," he cried as he flew the air.
Breathing heavily, Naru looked at Kitsune. "You okay," the younger woman asked, but was silenced by the look on her friends face.
"Why'd ya do that? He won't doin' a single thing wrong," Kitsune spat. A sly grin appearing on her face, she leered at Naru. "Was the sight of another woman n his arms enough to send you over the edge," she asked, hoping that putting Naru's feeling for Keitaro in the spotlight would make her forget her previous vehemence.
Stammering and turning beet red, the ronin backed away as fast as she could. "No! Why would you think that? I don't care if he's holding some other woman, it's not like we're an item or anything. I just thought he was up to his old tricks and he was trying to…uh…you know…seduce you," she finished lamely.
Chuckling, Kitsune patted her friend on the back. "You honestly think that I'd fall for any line he threw me," she asked.
Relaxing some, Naru smiled at Kitsune. "No, but why were you crying? You looked pretty upset," inquired the young brunette.
"I had something happen and since you were studying an' everyone else here is either to young or busy with work, I was left with Keitaro," she said, evading the truth slightly. She breathed an inaudible sigh of relief when it seemed Naru had accepted her story without question.
"It's almost time for dinner. You coming down now," asked the bespectacled woman.
"Nah, you go on. I'll be down after a while though," said Kitsune, making shooing motions.
Once she was alone she let out a breath hadn't known she'd been holding and walked over to the recently made hole in the wall. "What are we gonna do Kei," she mused aloud before turning and walking down to join the rest of the house for dinner.
The twinkling stars were the only thing that watched over Keitaro as he made his way back to the dorms. He sighed and looked up, almost hoping that those stars would hold the solution to this ordeal, they just winked at him.
So she's having the baby. Kitsune's having my baby, even if it is the truth it still doesn't seem real. I wonder what the future holds for us. At the word "us" he stopped. What does this make Kitsune to me? What does this make me to her? Come to think of it, I don't really know that much about her. She's so secretive about her past.
His thoughts ran over his experiences with the brown haired woman until he found himself at the bottom of the stairs leading up to his home. "Why'd our ancestors love putting things at the top of insanely tall staircases? It's like they want to make our lives hell from the grave," he groused. Sighing, he began climbing the steps.
Once he was at the top he saw Kitsune standing in the doorframe, a glass of water in her hand and a small smile adoring her face. She used her free hand to brush a stray lock of her light brown hair from her face as she started to walk towards the weary man.
"Here, I thought you might want this," she said once was in front of him, holding the water out to him. He smiled gratefully and took a gulp of the cold liquid. "You alright," Kitsune asked.
Nodding, Keitaro walked over to a nearby bench and patted the spot next to him. Wondering what was up; the mom-to-be walked over and sat beside him, watching him watch the stars. The two sat in silence, the sounds of the night filling the air around them.
"So," Keitaro said, breaking the stillness in the air between them. He looked at Kitsune and smiled softly. "I'm gonna be a dad, huh? Did you tell the others," he asked.
Kitsune shook her head and chuckled. "Nah. That's somethin' we should do together. 'Sides, if I told them the news, do you honestly think you'd still be alive? Naru was wonderin' what I was crying 'bout though."
Laughing, he shook his head. "You're right. Naru and Motoko would've hunted me down and killed me by now," he said.
Silence hung between them. "Kitsune, I've been thinking…a lot," started Keitaro. He ran his fingers through his hair and looked at his feet. "We're having a kid together and we've never really sat down and talked. We haven't ever really hung out or spent time alone together, well except for that night," he said, making them both laugh lightly.
He took hold of her hand and looked her in the eye, a light blush tinting his cheeks. "I want to get to know you, the part of you that you don't show. I may not be a perceptive person, but it just seems like you're hiding something," said Keitaro in a barely audible voice.
Kitsune's heart was racing. What was he saying? What did he mean she was hiding something? Did he know about it? Her thoughts were a jumbled mess as she looked at Keitaro.
She took a deep breath and sighed heavily. "I know we don't really spend too much quality time together Kei, I know. It's just; you're always with Naru or Mutsumi studying. I didn't want to get in the way of that. I get what you're sayin' though an' I'd like to spend some time with you too. I've got a request though," she said, smiling her usual smile that meant, 'I'm gonna get exactly what I want at the end of all this.'
Wondering what she wanted Keitaro nodded. "Alright, whatever you want, it's yours," he said.
Famous last words Kei. Wait, too morbid of an expression. I'll hold you to it, there that's better, thought Kitsune, grinning inwardly. She shot the manager a smile and winked at him. "You have to take me on some dates, an' not like the abysmal failures you had with Naru. I think it's a small favor to ask, considering I'm carrying your future kid," she said, grinning at him.
Laughing nervously, Keitaro scratched the back of his head and nodded. "Okay. I can do that," he said. I only hope Naru doesn't kill me, he thought. Standing up, he offered Kitsune a hand and helped her to her feet. "We should get inside and get some sleep, it's pretty late," he said.
The two walked up to their respective rooms and bid each other good night. Once he shut his door, Keitaro stripped out of his clothes and pulled a pair of black lounge pants on. He was just about to lie down when he heard a light knock on his door. Curious, he walked over and opened it to find Kitsune standing there in a long dark purple t-shirt.
"You need something," he asked, puzzled as to why she would be at his room. When she nodded he pulled his door open and ushered her inside. Once she was standing in his room he leaned against the wall and looked at the young woman.
"I know this is going to be asking a lot," she began. After taking a breath to steady her nerves she finished. "I know I may have been laughing and joking out there but really I'm scared and I don't want to be alone right now. Please don't freak out but, can I sleep next to you," she asked.
Stammering and blushing profusely, Keitaro stared at her. What the hell is she thinking? If Naru or Motoko sees us like that they'll kill me, he thought but his mental tirade was thrown out when he saw the pleading look on Kitsune's face. Sighing and scratching the back of his neck he acquiesced. I've always been a pushover, he thought as he lay down on his futon, holding the covers up for the pregnant woman.
Lying down, Kitsune snuggled close against his chest and sighed in content. Feeling him tense at her actions she turned over and smiled softly at him. "Don't worry I won't do anything. For right now, this is purely platonic," she teased.
The sands of time seemed to flow different for the brunette than it did for the rest of the house. The sounds of sleep came from Naur's room and the digital numbers on Keitaro's clock appeared to change once every five hours. Behind her she could feel the slow breathing of the Tokyo-U hopeful tickling her neck. She knew that he was dozing off.
"Kei," Kitsune whispered.
"Hm," his hummed response.
"Can…can you hold me," she requested.
In that daze between lucidness and slumber, the manager wrapped his arms around Kitsune's waist, gently pulling her towards him. The woman breathed out a content breath and soon fell victim to the soothing song of the sandman.
The feeling of breath on his cheek roused Keitaro. He blearily opened his eyes and fumbled for his glasses. Once he found them he put them on and stifled a yawn and stared at Kitsune. Wait…what the hell is she doing here, he asked himself, freezing up. The previous night started to filter into his mind as he recalled the conversation he had with the woman sleeping beside him and he relaxed slightly.
I do have to admit that she's beautiful asleep, he thought. Timidly, he reached and brushed aside a lock of hair that had fallen across her face. His gentle touch was enough to pull Kitsune into the realm of consciousness.
She smiled at the prone man. "Mornin'," she mumbled. Stretching, she put her arms around his neck. "We should probably," she began but stopped when she stood up sharply and made a beeline for the restroom. Once she had emptied her stomach of its contents she returned to Keitaro's room and flopped onto the futon beside him and curled up into his chest. "Let's go back to sleep," she mumbled.
Not wanting to argue, Keitaro consented. And, even though he wouldn't really admit it, he enjoyed having Kitsune sleep beside him. Something about her presence made him feel......he wasn't sure what emotion it was yet, only that it was extremely pleasant.
Down below in the dinning room Motoko sat with Haruka at the table, the older woman drinking a mug of black coffee and the young swordswoman a glass of tea. At the sounds of Kitsune running down the hall above them the raven haired woman looked up and frowned.
"That's the second time in row she's done this. Do you think she may be ill, Haruka-san," she asked, taking a drink from her glass.
The elder Urashima laughed softly and shrugged. She lit a cigarette and took a long pull before looking at Motoko. "I can't really speak for her. If it was something serious, she would talk to the rest of you girls about it, I would think," she said before taking a long draught from her glass.
Nodding her agreement, Motoko took a sip of her tea, savoring the flavor. She cleared her throat and looked at Haruka. "By the way, I happened to notice that her room was vacant this morning. I'm not normally one to pry into the lives of others, but she seemed to be under a great deal of stress these past few days and she spiked my curiosity so I peeked into her room on my way to the roof," she said.
Anything the house mother was going to say was lost in Shinobu's call that breakfast was ready. The other residents made their way down the stairs, grumbling about loosing precious sleep. Everyone, that is, except for the infamous ronin and the resident 'fox.'
"Where's Keitaro and the fox lady," asked Su in her usual upbeat voice before shoveling food in her mouth. Everyone shrugged and turned their attention to their respective plates, enjoying the food. All throughout breakfast there was no sign of the manager or Kitsune.
Once all of the food was cleared away and the dishes were in the dishwasher, the residents went about their usual activities for a lazy Saturday morning. Naru went to her room to sit under the kotatsu and study. Motoko traversed to the roof to train. Su and Sarah ran through the house, looking for hidden passages and anything interesting. Shinobu was the sole inhabitant of the Hinata-sou that went looking for the two missing people.
Where could they be, she pondered as she walked quietly down the halls of the expansive house. When she reached Kitsune's room she knocked lightly on the door. After hearing no reply she knocked again, more forcefully and she even called out to the older woman. "Kitsune, are you there," she asked. Still only silence answered her call.
Taking a breath, she opened the door a crack and called out again. "Pardon me for barging in, but it's past time for breakfast. I saved...you...a...plate," she told the empty room. That's funny; I thought she stayed home last night. Did she sneak out without telling anybody?
Slightly confused, the young chef made her way down the hall to Keitaro's room. Blushing lightly, she knocked on his door. "S-Sempai...are you there," she whispered timidly. Again she received no reply. Just as she was about to turn away she was hit with a thought.
Since he's not here, I can look at his room, she said to herself, turning red at the rumination. It's not like anyone's going to see me and even if someone did, I could tell them I was just checking to see if he was okay, she thought, pleased with being able to come up with a cover story.
She looked at the door and took a deep breath to steel herself. With trembling hands she slowly slid the door to Keitaro's room open, only enough for the bright morning sunlight to peek inside and giver her a good look at what lay in the chambers of her Sempai. A strangled gasp escaped her mouth at what she did see.
She saw Keitaro's arms, but they were wrapped around the slim waist of a woman. Not just any woman, she realized. So this is where they were, she thought. How...how could you do this to me Sempai, she moaned, blinking back a hot wave of tears. The young girl watched as the man she so desperately wanted to call hers pulled Kitsune closer against his chest while he mumbled something in his sleep.
Shinobu chocked back a sob, shut the door and as quickly and quietly as she could, the bluenette ran to her room. Her petit shoulders shaking with unheard cries and her pillows soaked with bitter tears.
Hearing something outside, Kitsune cracked open her eyes open enough to see Shinobu stand up, brush aside a tear and shut the door to Keitaro's room. Damn, she thought. I wasn't expecting anyone to see us like this. I'm glad that it was only Shinobu that found us. Knowing her, she's probably in her room crying right now. As much as I hate the thought of leaving Kei's bed, I really should go and talk to her.
Her mind made up, Kitsune discreetly maneuvered her way out of Keitaro's arms and quietly padded her way to the blue haired girl's room. Once she was standing outside the door she listened intently. Soft sobs could be heard coming from within making the older woman wince. Sighing, the brunette knocked on Shinobu's door. "Hey Shinobu, can I come in," she asked. She heard no reply, but the sobbing had ceased noticed Kitsune. She stepped back abruptly when the door opened slightly.
"Wh-what do you need K-Kitsune," stammered the chef, her eyes puffy and red.
Cringing somewhat at the sight, Kitsune pulled the door open wider and stepped inside. "You alright kiddo," she asked, already knowing the answer but wanting to her it come out the girls own mouth.
A pregnant silence hung in the air for a moment before Shinobu broke into a fresh wave of tears. She stumbled over to Kitsune and fell into the older woman's arms, hitting her chest, the blows not doing any real damage.
"Why...why Kitsune," she asked, her voice broken by the sobs.
Wincing at the question, Kitsune looked down at the young woman. She rubbed her back and made soothing noises. "I can't tell you everything right now Shinobu. There are something's that led up to what you saw, and I'll explain those later, but I'd like to hear what you saw," she requested.
Gaining control of her emotions some the younger woman sniffed. "I saw you in Sempai's bed. You were curled up against his chest and he was h-holding you very close. I could tell he didn't have his shirt on," she said blushing. "I just couldn't tell if you were the same. W-were you," she asked, fearing the answer.
Chuckling slightly, Kitsune shook her head. "Nah. I was dressed. We didn't do anything but sleep Shinobu. Now, why did it upset you so much to see me with Keitaro?"
Turning beet red, Shinobu pushed herself away from the older woman and quickly looked at her feet. She mumbled something inaudible and twiddled her thumbs. She peeked at Kitsune and blushed even more under the woman's stare.
"I couldn't hear you," she said.
Taking a shuddering breath, the timid young woman looked at Kitsune. "I-it bothered me....b-b-because I d-don't really want to see anybody there...........except for...me," she finished meekly. Immediately after saying this she looked down and turned a darker shade of red, amazing Kitsune at the different shades of the color.
Smiling, the brown haired woman looked at Shinobu, memories of her younger years flashing through her mind. "You do know that he'll probably never see you like that," she told the girl. "I do know how you feel though," she informed the young chef. "It's true," she said when the bluenette looked up at her with a doubting expression.
Sighing, Kitsune walked over to the girl's bed and sat down, patting the spot next to her. Shinobu hesitated a moment before sitting next to her. "So, how can you relate to my situation," asked the young woman softly.
"You know Seta," asked Kitsune. Nodding, Shinobu gestured for her to go on. "Well, how you are around Keitaro, it was worse when I was around Seta. Me an' Naru were both like that. So I can empathize with you. One thing I learned was that it never would have worked between us," said the woman.
Her shoulders slumping, Shinobu sighed. Deep down, I guess I know it'd never work between Keitaro and me either. I should be happy for him if he's happy, and he did look happy when I saw him. Still, I can't help but feel jealous. She looked up at Kitsune and smiled sadly at her. "Thank you for talking to me. I don't want to sound rude, but could you please leave me alone for a little while," she asked.
Nodding, Kitsune rose to her feet, brining the girl, No, young lady, she thought, up with her. The older woman pulled her into a hug and walked out. She walked slowly to Keitaro's room, contemplating what her and the ronin should say to the rest of the house. Silently slipping back inside, she was slightly taken aback when she saw that the raven-haired man was sitting up and waiting for her. He was already dressed, from what she could see.
"Morning...again," he said sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head.
Smiling at him, Kitsune nodded. "Right back at ya Kei."
"So...what now," he asked, not really sure as to what the generously endowed woman wanted to do next. Does she expect me to take her out today? I was kind of hoping we could talk about what we're gonna tell the others, he thought.
Shrugging, Kitsune looked at the ceiling. "Don't really know off the top of my head. Why don't we go and grab a bite to eat in town, seein' as how we already missed breakfast. Then we can go over what how we're gonna break the news to everybody else," she suggested.
Grinning, Keitaro stood up. "I was actually thinking something along those same lines," he said, stretching.
"Great minds think alike," chuckled Kitsune. "Lemme go get changed and then we'll head out, 'kay," she said.
Humming his agreement, the karinin walked over to the door and slid it open. "After you," he said, bowing low and laughing lightly.
Walking past him with a feigned regal gate, she giggled. "Ever the gentleman Urashima," she said, playing along. At least he's in a good mood. I expected him to freak out and bolt as soon as he woke up. You just earned yourself a few more points Keitaro, she thought amusedly as she walked to her room.
Down in the foyer, Keitaro was greeted by the dynamic duo, a.k.a. Su and Sarah, in the usual fashion. The young Indian girl kicked him in the face while the American girl slammed a priceless artifact into his shins.
After he got back up Sarah ran around his legs. "What are you all dressed up for dork," she asked, punctuating each word with a punch or kick.
Groaning somewhat, the girl was quite strong for a nine year old; Keitaro walked a little closer to the door. "I'm going to town with Kitsune today. We've got some things we need to talk about," he said. The poor man, trying to get away from the young foreigners assault, took no notice of the raven-haired swordswoman making her way down the stairs.
So, Kitsune is going to town with Urashima. Maybe I should follow them, to make sure the pervert doesn't try anything, she thought.
Is that really the reason you want to go, cut in another voice. It was one that she made a habit of ignoring.
Yes that's the only reason, she snapped back, her anger growing at the laughter coming from the other voice.
If you say so Motoko. If you say so, it said before receding back into the chasms of the young woman's mind.
Great, now I'm going crazy, she thought darkly before making her way down the stairs and to the front door. "Urashima, stop pestering the children. How do ever hope to achieve your dreams if all you ever do is play," she asked, before pushing past him and walking out the front door. I won't follow them. There, say something about that you stupid voice, she thought triumphantly.
Now you're just being a stubborn child, it replied before going back to sleep making the young swordswoman scream in frustration.
"Keitaro, you ready," called Kitsune from the top of the stairs. She walked down and saw him standing by the door. He was dressed in a pair tattered of black pants with what looked like two chains hanging from the legs. A white 'Dir en Grey' t-shirt hugged his chest while a long black duster was put on over that. A pair of biker boots and gloves completed his ensemble. Damn.........................Keitaro you are racking up some serious points.
She was dressed in a tight black tee with dark purple bats dusting it. A black and purple plaid skirt hung just above her knees and skin tight black leggings were on under that. Her boots made a loud 'thunking' noise as she walked down the stairs to stand beside the young manager. She smiled at him before pulling him out the door. "So what's with the punked out get-up?"
Nervously looking at his clothes, he stopped walking. "Does it look bad," he asked.
Waving her hands in front of her face, she laughed. "No. Hell no, in fact it makes you look a lot better," Kitsune smiled.
Her answering lessening some of his worry he gently grabbed her hand and led her to a small building beside Haruka's shop. "I know it's not the safest way to travel, but this is something I've wanted to share with you girls for a while now," he said, opening the doors. Inside stood a gleaming, crimson, 1968 Chevy Corvette Sting Ray.
Pack it up Naru, you ain't gettin' this guy, thought Kitsune as she stared open mouthed at the work of art before her. She walked over to it and ran a finger over the hood. "Why haven't you ever showed this to us before," she asked once she got her breath back.
Chuckling at her reaction, he walked over to the drivers side and hopped in. "Because I didn't know if y'all would like it or not. I may not be a very good example of masculinity, but I do love cars. Especially this one. Granny Hina got it for me two years ago from a friend of hers that lives in America. It was in pretty bad shape and it took some time to fix 'er up, but it was worth it," he said, cranking up his baby, taking pride in her roar. Seeing Kitsune frozen in place, he grinned and revved the engine.
Blinking, she opened her door and sat down. Looking over at him, she shot him a smile. "So where to," she asked.
"Well since it's almost noon, I say grab a bite at that new steak-house in Tokyo," he said before speeding off. Once the got to the restaurant and had ordered their food the two began discussing how they would tell the rest of the house their news.
"Why don't we take them all out to an amusement park, let them all have fun and then tell them," suggested Keitaro. I really want to have a relaxed Naru and Motoko hear this, he thought. Taking a bite of his food he smiled at the flavor, while not up to par with Shinobu's cooking it was still enjoyable nonetheless.
Shaking her head, Kitsune took a bite of the salad she'd ordered. "That wouldn't work. They would know that something's up and grill us until we spill," she stated matter-of-factly. Taking a sip of green tea, she studied Keitaro. I wonder when he got those clothes. I mean, it's not what he usually wears.
"Keitaro," she asked, breaking the silence that had settled upon them. He looked up at her, his bangs shielding his eyes somewhat. A slight blush tinted her cheeks. "How come you're dressed like that? Don't get me wrong, it suits you, but I never pictured you to be one of the guy's to dress all…punk-ish," she said.
Chuckling after he swallowed his steak, he smirked at Kitsune. "I used to dress like this in high school. I went to small school in the country and we could choose to wear uniforms or not. I didn't really like them so I wore stuff like this. When I graduated I stopped really caring about how I looked so I could focus more on studying. I guess I haven't really felt the need to get all 'made up' for awhile. Also, I didn't want my nice clothes to get messed up because of the 'pervert patrol'," he said, laughing.
"You were pretty damn lucky you got that choice. Me an' Naru were stuck in uniforms until we graduated," she said. She smiled and took a bite of her salad. So he's into the rocker look, what about music, she mused. "What's some of the stuff you listen too, like music wise? I noticed at parties that you usually sit as far away from the stereo as possible."
"Take a look at the shirt," he said pointing at his chest. "I like Diru a lot but I'm really into anything rock, metal, and electronic stuff," he said. He absentmindedly brushed his bangs aside. "What do you like to listen too," he asked. Please, God, Satan, Buddha, Allah, Shiva, and any other deity out their, don't let her say bubblegum pop, he prayed.
"I like just about anything, well except for that happy, bubbly pop crap," she said, raising an eyebrow when Keitaro looked up and mouthed 'Thank you' to the heavens. Shrugging, she took a sip of her tea. The two sat and talked for a while about various subjects like, Kitsune's fear of frogs, the things the girls did that really annoyed Keitaro, and their hopes and dreams for the future. After a while, silence fell between them.
"Kitsune," Keitaro said quietly, making the woman look up at him.
"Yes," she asked. What's up with that look, she wondered.
Taking a deep breath, Keitaro forced himself to look Kitsune in the eyes, a dark crimson blush painted on his features. "I remember that, yesterday, you said that you hadn't been taking your pills. Does that mean that…you were…uh…," he stammered, trying to find the right words to say.
Kitsune waited patiently for him to continue, knowing what question was going to be asked. "Dose that mean I was…what," she asked, gently prodding him to finish his question.
Taking a shuddering breath, Keitaro looked back at the beautiful woman before him. "Were you…having sex before you slept with me," he asked quietly, looking down quickly and tensing up.
Sighing, Kitsune looked at the dark haired man in front of her. She gently took his hand in hers, making him look up into her eyes once more. "Yes, I was," she said. "I've been around a few times Keitaro, but please don't think I'm easy, because I'm not."
"I know that," he blurted out. "Oh, sorry for interrupting," said shyly. He made a gesture for her to continue.
"I'd had a dry spell for quite a while and I wasn't taking my birth control pills like I was supposed to. When we went out that night, I never thought we'd sleep together," said, rubbing her thumb against the back of his hand.
The two stayed like for a while, letting life pass around them. Coughing to clear his throat, Keitaro looked at Kitsune. "If my memory's right, you said I was," he paused as a bright blush made his face glow. "You said I was good at 'it'. I know I don't have much experience in that department but I'm pretty sure virgins aren't that good at sex," he said.
Chuckling, the brunette brought her hand up to caress Keitaro's face. "You were, in your own way. Sure I've been with some that've had more…how should I say this…style," and endurance she silently added, "but you were the first man to ever try and please me. That's why I said that." Not to mention that it was the first time I had sex with a guy that I actually loved, she thought.
Grinning slightly, Keitaro grabbed her hands. "I think that we go ahead and leave," he said, not noticing the frown on Kitsune's face. "We should just get everyone together and tell them straight out," he said, standing up and grabbing his coat from the back of his chair. After he threw a tip on the table he helped his friend to her feet.
The drive back to the Hinata-sou was silent. When they pulled back into the small garage, Keitaro and Kitsune looked at one another and gulped. Together they walked up the steps to the dorm, each one seeming to grow taller than the last and each one harder to climb.
Once they were inside, Keitaro put his arm around Kitsune's shoulder. "You go wait in the living room," he said before releasing her and walking up the stairs that led to the girls' rooms. As he neared Naru's room, a funeral dirge began to play in his mind. Keep it together, he told himself.
He knocked softly on her door. Not surprised she didn't answer, he knocked a bit harder.
"Who is it," she called out.
"It's me, Keitaro."
"Oh, what do you need? And why weren't you at breakfast by the way," she asked.
"Could you come down to the living room? I've got something to say and everyone needs to hear it," he said, walking away, ignoring her second question.
He repeated the same lines to the rest of the house before walking down to the family room. "Aunt Haruka what're you," he started but was cut off when she hit him with her fan. Ow, he thought, rubbing the sore spot. "Sorry. Haruka-san, why are you here?"
The older Urashima pointed at Kitsune, her other hand putting the harisan back into the pocket of her apron. "She called and asked if I could come over, said it was important and that I would be needed," she answered.
Shuddering, Keitaro looked at Kitsune, his face screaming 'thank you.' He walked over to the woman and sat beside her on the couch. He tensed up when he felt Kitsune grab his hand but relaxed some after a moment and intertwined their fingers, drawing a little strength from the contact.
About five minutes later the rest of the house walked into the den together, talking about random things, but all conversation died as soon as they saw Keitaro and Kitsune.
"Why the hell are you holding her hand, pervert," screamed Naru, making Keitaro cringe.
Gently squeezing his hand once, Kitsune let go and the landlord rose slowly to his feet. "Would…would you all please take a seat," he asked, gesturing to the various chairs and sofas. Once everyone was seated, Keitaro cleared his throat.
"I…I've got some pretty big news," he said.
"You finally passed the entrance exams," asked Sarah, never one to miss a chance to mock the Todai-U hopeful.
Grimacing, he shook his head. "No, that's not it," he said before taking a deep, shaky breath. "Do you all remember about a month ago? I did really well on a practice exam so me and Kitsune went out to celebrate," he asked. Everyone nodded, a curious look plastered on each face, save for Haruka.
Keitaro sighed and started pacing. "Well you all might remember that we didn't come home that night and to make a long story short, KitsuneandIsplettogetherandnowshe'spregnantandI'mgonnabeadadinabouteightmonths," he said as fast as he could before throwing his arms in front of his face to shield any attacks that might be thrown at him.
A collective silence held the group for a few moments as the tenets brains processed what Keitaro had just told them. The words, Kitsune, pregnant, and I'm gonna be a dad, were clearly heard.
Naru was he first to react. She stood to her feet, slowly, like a lion rising from the grasses ready to lunge at its prey. A tear ran down her cheek as she raised her fist and ran at Keitaro. "YOU FUCKING DUMBASS! HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO ME? YOU SAY YOU LOVE ME AND THEN YOU GO AND FUCK MY BEST FRIEND? GO TO HELL YOU BASTARD," she screamed, her fist flying at the prone man with all of her strength behind it.
Keitaro cringed and tried to make himself as small a target as he could. Suddenly he heard the tell tale sound of flesh hitting flesh and winced. When he noticed he hadn't felt a thing he hesitantly looked up. The site before him made his jaw drop. Haruka was holding Naru's fist, but that wasn't the shocking thing.
Haruka's pissed, thought Keitaro. His cousin's usually unreadable face was contorted in rage veins popping up on her forehead. "Sit down Naru. Now," she ordered her tone frigid. Too shocked to do otherwise, the brown haired woman obeyed.
"I know what Keitaro means to you, but you had better sit down, shut up, and let him say what he needs to say before I do to you what you were about to do to him," said Haruka. She nodded at Keitaro.
Gulping, the man stood up straight and studied the room's occupants. Su and Sarah were sporting identical looks of shock. Motoko was absentmindedly gripping the handle of her sword, her knuckles chalk white against the black material. Naru still looked dazed but she was gazing coldly at Keitaro. Shinobu was crying.
Well this is going better than I thought. I'm not dead yet, he mused, patting himself on the back for surviving thus far. He cleared his throat and went to sit back down beside Kitsune. "We've decided to have the baby. I'm going to help raise it. I won't leave her to deal with this on her own," he said, looking over at Kitsune and grabbing her hand.
"I know this may come as a shock to y'all," said the brunette started. "But just try to go easy on us for right now. Oh, and don't blame Keitaro for this either. He tried to stop it but I pushed him to it," she said.
Silence hung in the room. Shinobu sobbed, Su and Sarah whispered to each other, and Naru and Motoko ground their teeth. Finally, Shinobu looked up.
"I-Is that why you were in bed together this morning," she asked quietly.
The rest of the house froze at this. That's where she was, Motoko realized.
Why didn't I think to check his room? I could have found out about all this hours ago and killed him then, Naru thought.
Nodding, Kitsune sighed. "Yeah, kind of. We both just found out and I didn't wanna be alone. We didn't do anything last night though," she added when Naru shot her a questioning glare.
"And just why are we supposed to believe you," she asked Kitsune. "You've always been plotting something. Maybe this is all another plan of yours. Is it Kitsune, is it," Naru asked fiercely.
Glaring, Kitsune stood to her feet and stomped over to the younger woman and slapped her hard across the face. "I don't know what makes you think you have the right to say that to me, but I would suggest you stop listening to that voice now. This isn't something I'd joke about Naru, you know that," she spat.
Rising to her feet, Naru glared at her friend, nose to nose before her eyes filled with tears and she ran out of the room. Damn it Kitsune. You know I love him. Why'd you have to do it, she thought, running to her room and throwing herself onto her bed. The young woman buried her face in her pillows and cried. She cried over the death of a friendship almost as old as she was and for a love unrecognized until now.
Down in the living room, the rest of the house sat in silence. The clock's ticking and the gentle sound of breathing were the only noises heard.
Growling, Motoko rose. "Urashima, be happy that Haruka is here to prevent me from harming you. The only reason I will not kill you is because of the child Kitsune now carries. I won't be the one to force an innocent baby to live in a world not knowing its father, even it is a pathetic worm like you," she said before walking to the roof.
The rest of the house sat in quiet contemplation. Seeing that everyone else was thinking, Keitaro walked to his room. Once he was inside he pulled out an old dusty guitar. Been awhile since I played you, he thought, tuning it up. He closed his eyes and started to pick random strings, not really paying attention to what he was doing, just trying to alleviate some of the stress. He didn't notice that Kitsune stood at his door watching him that Naru had removed the plank of wood that covered the hole in her floor and was looking at him as well.
A soft melody rang out, chaotic but beautiful. So depressing but still able to lift the sprits and bring hope to the hopeless. It was the most enchanting thing they had ever heard. That night, as the residents of the Hinata-sou fell prey to the sirens song of sleep, Naru and Kitsune both heard nothing but the sounds of Keitaro's guitar and the song of his emotions ringing in their ears as the moon and stars kept a silent vigil over the house.
The sun crept up from behind the trees as the birds sang their ovations to the morning. The grumbled curses of those waking from their slumber drifted from the walls of the Hinata dorms. A soft smile splayed across his face, Keitaro watched the sunrise from the zenith of the house.
It's a little funny that I slept so great last night when I know that half the house wants to kill, maim, and/or neuter me, he thought, stretching his arms over his head. I'd better go down and see if I can help Shinobu with breakfast, try and rebuild some of the bridges I'm sure I've damaged if not burned.
With that thought, Keitaro walked down the steps, passing Motoko along the way, who was doing her best to avoid the man. Once he was in the kitchen the bespectacled man made his way over to the teen standing in front of the counter cutting up some peppers.
"Morning Shinobu," he said, startling the girl.
Turning to face him, she blushed slightly. "G-Good morning Sempai," she mumbled shyly. Looking at her feet, Shinobu twiddled her thumbs. "D-Do you need anything," she asked quietly.
Smiling, Keitaro shook his head. "No, I just came down to see if you'd like some help. You're always cooking everything so I thought you'd like a hand," he told her, his smile still plastered to his face. Nodding, she pointed to a cutting board with a small pile of onions beside it.
"I'm making an American dish this morning, omelets, and you can chop the onions," she said before she went back to slicing red bell peppers. Soon the smell of eggs, cheese, ham, onions, and peppers being cooked together filled the kitchen. "Keitaro-sempai, would please start brewing the coffee, asked the young chef.
Smiling and nodding, the man walked over and prepared the coffee maker. I guess now's as good a time as any to ask her about last night, he ruminated. Looking over at the young girl he called to her. "Hey, Shinobu, what are your thoughts on what me and Kitsune told you guys?"
Stopping what she was doing, the blue-haired teen looked at Keitaro. "I-It really doesn't matter what I think," she said.
Frowning, the karinin shook his head. "Yes it does. I care about what all of you think. I know that Kitsune being pregnant affects mainly me and her, but it's going to affect the whole house as well," he told the girl.
Sighing, Shinobu looked down. "If you really want to know, then alright," she acquiesced. "I'm upset that you hid what the two of you did. I'm disappointed in you Sempai. I always thought you were this great man. You never did anything to hurt us, no matter what Naru or Motoko said you did. And now I find out that you've got Kitsune pregnant. I really thought better of you, but now, I'm not so sure. Mostly though, I'm jea...," she started but cut herself off when she realized that she almost let something out.
Silently praying that Keitaro didn't catch her slip of tongue. Whatever she prayed to must have been on vacation at the time for her prayer went unheard. "Mostly you're...what Shinobu-chan," asked the befuddled man.
Blushing a deep crimson, the bluenette looked away. "I said I'm mostly...jealous it's not me," she said quietly.
"Gah," was the raven-haired mans only response. He stood in the kitchen, his mouth agape and his eyes as wide as saucers. Holyhellwhatthefuck, he said to himself. She's jealous of Kitsune? She wants to be pregnant? What's with this girl? She wanted me to..., he abruptly ended his ruminations, refusing to let his mind stray down that path.
Sighing, he walked over to the young girl and gently put his hands on her shoulders. "Shinobu," he began but was cut off with a teary glare from the chef.
"I know what you're going to say. 'You're too young to know what you want. You can't possibly be sure of something like that'," she said, wiping the tears from her eyes. "But I do know Sempai, I do. I've loved you for a long time now, longer than anybody else here, and it hurts to see that you're going to spend you're life with someone else," she said before breaking into another fresh wave of tears.
She fell against his chest and sobbed into his shirt. Keitaro tensed up again, still not used to physical contact with women, but wrapped his arms around the shoulders of the young girl. He rubbed her back and made soothing noises. Kitsune wasn't kidding when she said that they all liked me. I just never thought Shinobu was one of them. And what did she mean, spend the rest of my life with someone else? Wait a minute, that brings up a good question. Since I promised to help raise the baby and be there in the future, dose that mean I have to marry Kitsune?
"S-Sempai," said Shinobu, looking up at Keitaro.
"Hmm?"
"You can let go now. I think I'll be okay. Could you go let the others know that breakfast is ready," asked the girl. Once he ad left the room she dried her eyes on her apron and lifted a platter of food. "Careful everybody, it's hot," she said, forcing a smile to her face.
Breakfast was an unusually subdued affair. Naru and Motoko kept trying to murder Keitaro with their eyes. Su was the only acting like her usual self, eating anything and everything left unattended to on the table. Shinobu was quieter than usual, a thoughtful look glazing her eyes over. The only talking came from Keitaro and Kitsune as they whispered to one another.
"Kitsune," the bespectacled manager said quietly. "Do you feel up to a walk after we finish eating?"
Nodding, she placing a forkful of egg in her mouth and frowned. "Bleh. Sorry Shinobu, but did you do anything different this morning," she asked.
Snapping out of her revier, the young woman looked at the older woman. "No. I cooked them like I usually do," she said, shaking her head. "Is anything wrong?"
"Just not agreeing with me I guess," she said before smiling down at her stomach. "Or it could be you don't like omelets," she said, resting a hand on her belly.
This action seemed to send Naru and Motoko over the edge, so to speak. Both woman stood and walked out the room, glaring daggers at both Keitaro and Kitsune on their way out.
Who does she think she is, rubbing it in our faces like that, fumed the brunette as she walked to her room. Slamming the door, she walked over to her desk and pulled out her notebooks. That's it, I'll just study, calm down, and then once I see Kitsune again I'll talk to her about this, she told herself. Of course, being angry doesn't help ones studying skills. All Naru could do was think about the news she had received the night before.
Motoko walked to the roof. Once she was on the top of the house, she sat down and tried to meditate. It would seem that Urashima plans to take Kitsune out again today. I hope, for his sake, that he doesn't do or say anything to hurt her, she thought before clearing her mind and focusing on things to put herself in a better mood.
Below, in the foyer, Keitaro and Kitsune were standing at the front door talking to Su, Sarah, and Shinobu. "We'll only be gone for about an hour two. Don't let anyone inside that you don't know, okay," said Keitaro. The girls nodded and the two adults walked out the door.
Outside a chilly wind blew making Kitsune shiver slightly. Shoulda grabbed my coat, she groused. Suddenly, she felt a heavy weight on her shoulders. Looking down, she realized that it was Keitaro's duster and the brunette shot him a smile. "Thanks," she said, grabbing onto his arm and giggling when she felt him stiffen.
"Um, what are you doing," he asked her nervously. Not that I mind, he silently interjected.
Chuckling, she pressed her self against his arm a bit more. "Well since you gave me your coat, I thought I could at least do this to keep you warm," she said innocently.
The two walked in silence, waving to people that passed them on the sidewalk. At some point during the walk their hands found each other and their fingers intertwined. "So," said Kitsune, breaking the comfortable silence. "Where are ya takin' 'lil ol' me?"
Smiling, Keitaro pointed to a small park about ten feet away. "I thought it'd be a nice change. Besides, I want to talk to you about something I just thought of and I don't want any of the girls to hear me," he said.
Shooting him a quizzical look, Kitsune shrugged and walked with him to the plaza. They sat on a bench in front of a fountain, feeling a light mist touch them occasionally. "So," prompted the brown haired woman.
Taking a deep breath, Keitaro looked at Kitsune. "I talked to Shinobu this morning," he said seriously.
Sitting up straighter, she looked at him with her eyes fully open. "Well," demanded Kitsune.
"She's pretty upset but I think that she'll be okay. Something she said though struck me. She said, 'it would hurt her if she saw me spend my life with someone else," he said. Sighing, he leaned his head back and closed his eyes. "Normally when something like this happens, they guy and girl get married."
Kitsune's heart raced. Is this what you wanted to say that couldn't be said in front of the others? Are you gonna ask me to marry you? Kei, as much as I love you, I'm not ready for that, even if I am pregnant. "Keitaro," she whispered.
He held up his hand. "Please, Kitsune, let me finish. I know that you're probably thinking I brought you out here to propose," he said, unusually accurate with his assumption, "but I'm just not ready to take that step...er...kneel yet. I do care about you and I want to be their for the kid, but I'm not ready to rush into a marriage," he said.
Breathing a sigh of relief, Kitsune smiled. So like you Keitaro. Ya say the right things without even realizing it. "Well, I can't say that I wouldn't be happy as your wife, but I have to agree with you. Maybe in the future...who knows," she said. "What are we gonna tell your folks?"
Keitaro shrugged and tried to play it cool but the way his hands kept shaking betrayed his fear. I. Am. So. Dead, he thought, clearly enunciating each word. In all of the excitement he had forgotten about his parents. His mom would be the one to kill him while his dad handed her the weapons. "I-I-I don't really know," he stammered.
Feeling sorry for him, Kitsune squeezed his hand. Good thing I don't have to deal with this kind of stress though, she thought, allowing her selfish side to come out to play for a few seconds. "We'll figure something out Kei," she murmured.
"What about your parents," he asked. Judging how she tensed up, he had hit a sensitive spot. Is she scared to tell them or is it something else, he pondered.
Sighing sadly, Kitsune shook her head. "We don't have to worry about that. My mom's dead, died when I was three. My pop's...let's just say we ain't on speakin' terms right now," she said darkly, but with a hint of fear.
"D-Do you want to talk about it," asked Keitaro. I did say I wanted to know more about her and this is the perfect chance.
Shaking her head, Kitsune looked at Keitaro and smiled. "You really are a great guy, you know that," she asked. Sighing, she looked at the clouds rolling overhead. "I don't want to reopen any old wounds right now. I'll tell about it later though, I promise."
After that, the two sat in silence, taking comfort in the others prescreens. Later, when the sun was high in the sky and their stomachs rumbling, the two walked back to the dorms. "I wonder what's for lunch. M' starved," groused Kitsune.
"I don't know. I think Shinobu said something about sashimi and tempura," replied Keitaro absentmindedly, his mind on the conversation that had played out between him and the brunette. He frowned though as the smell of cigarette smoke wafted under his nose. Looking over, he saw Kitsune taking a pull on the smoke. "Stop that," he said, snatching the cancer stick from her mouth and stomping on it. "It's not good for the baby."
"Guess that means no more sake either," she grumbled walking through the front door. Once they were at the table Keitaro and Kitsune were greeted once again with silence and glares from Naru and Motoko.
I really do wish that those two would grow up, Kitsune groaned before filling her plate with generous helpings of the spread before her. Her gaze shifted to Keitaro who was concentrating on getting as much food as he possibly could before the bottomless pit, a.k.a. Su, devoured everything. You may be able to fool everyone else Kei, but I can see right through it, she mused, noting the pensive look in his eye he was trying his hardest to conceal.
The setting sun cast shadows over the Hinata-sou. The crickets chirped and the street lights flickered on, one by one. A sharp knock on his door roused Keitaro from the brief nap he was able to catch. Grumbling and yawning, he walked over to the door ad slid it open. He stifled a yawn and saw Kitsune standing outside. "What do you need," he asked blearily.
Shuffling her feet slightly, she looked down. "I'm not tryin' to make this a habit, but it felt really good sleepin' in here last night," she started but was cut off when Keitaro pulled her into the room.
"You can stay, just don't be up much longer. I'm pretty tired. My brain just feels exhausted so I'm going back to bed," he said before letting out a huge yawn. Crawling between the covers he promptly fell asleep.
Long day I guess, Kitsune thought, wondering at Keitaro's short temperedness. Fifteen minutes later she crawled under the covers and curled up against his chest."G'night Kei, love you," she whispered.
"Love you too," he mumbled in his sleep. Even though he wasn't coherent when he said it, Keitaro's words sent a pleasant rush through her heart. She grazed her lips against his jaw line before wrapping her arms against his waist and falling victim to the call of sleep.
Authors Note: That's it for chapter two. I hope that you liked it. Please leave me a comment. They really do help me when I write. Now, I plan to have chapter three up here in…about three weeks. I really do look forward to reading your reviews and writing the next chappie!!!!!!!!^^ By the way, I'm holding a fan art contest. I would like all entries to be based off scenes from this story or pictures of Keitaro and Kitsune in general. The contest will run up until the end story. The winner will have this story dedicated to them and an honorable mention in the final chapter. Entries can be submitted to me via e-mail. I will post all entries on my MySpace page under a special photo album. To go and see the pictures and vote for your favorite one, there is a link on my profile that will take you directly to my MySpace page. Hoping to see some entries and hoping that you enjoy the next chapter, this is Chaos Poet signing off.