Summary: For Mika, life is a constant struggle for survival. After some very unfortunate situations, she has isolated herself and is dangerously close to losing her sanity. That is, until she meets Kurama who turns her life upside down. But things begin to get out of control when it is discovered that she could have a strange connection to a mysterious legendary force that could be plotting a major takeover of all three worlds! Could her misery be nothing more that a cruel twist of fate or is this all connected to something even bigger?
Disclaimer: Must I put this in every chapter? I don't own Yu Yu Hakusho! I do own all the original characters, though!
MEMO: I've gotten a couple questions about why there are numbers such as '15' in front of big chunks of italicized (slanted) text in the previous chapters. I'm sorry about that, and I will clarify things for you now.
Big chunks of slanted text are memories/dreams. The numbers in bold before the vitalized chunk starts is the age of the character when that particular memory occurred. As always, ratings and constructive criticism is very much appreciated!
NOTE: I'm so sorry that it took so long to get this one chapter out. I have been very sick and on top of that I was in a school play. We were having practice 3 days a week from 4-8 and it was very hard for me to find time to work on the story while trying to work on other things such as projects and homework. I apologize for the long wait. The play is now finished, so I have more time to fit this into my schedule. Thank goodness, eh? :) Another chapter WILL be out soon. ENJOY! :)
Angel's Cry
Chapter 7
"I've Never"
"Hey, Mika?"
Mika turned to face Yusuke as the portal behind them disappeared, and Kuwabara took off running along the picket fence towards the house.
"Yes?"
Yusuke grinned at her, and he grabbed her elbow to keep her from tripping as they exited the mouth of the forest. "Just wanted to let you know beforehand... we can get a bit... rowdy at parties. This'll be like something you've never experienced before. So be prepared."
Not knowing how to respond to this information, she simply nodded and followed him in complete silence. They walked along the side of the picket fence until they crossed onto the pavement.
"Mika!"
Mika whipped her head in the direction of her name, and she saw Botan and Keiko standing in the open door of the house. They were bouncing up and down in excitement as they waved to her. She smiled back, and the two girls jumped off the porch and came running at her full speed.
"C'mon, c'mon!" Botan yelled as both girls latched onto either of her arms and began to drag her towards the house.
"O-Okay?"
Behind her she could hear Yusuke laughing loudly as he followed them at a much more leisurely pace.
"We want you to meet some people, Mika!" Keiko squealed excitedly as they climbed the stairs to the porch and entered the house.
The living room had been completely transformed. The couch had been moved and sat against the far wall beside the wooden bookshelf to make room for the dance floor. The low table that was usually in front of the couch sat against the wall nearest the front door; it was already piled with food, plates, and several liters of soda. The few beautiful mats that decorated the floor were no where to be found, completely exposing the wood paneling. Messily in one corner of the room, several duffle bags and sleeping bags were strewn about.
"Hurry, hurry!" Botan said as she pulled Mika in the direction of the couch where a pair of young women sat watching with curiosity.
The smaller woman immediately caught Mika's immediate attention. She was beautiful, but, in a strange way. Her hair was a shocking turquoise blue that was tied back with red ribbons which matched her eyes. She was very lean and petite in size. Her features were small which only made her seem even more breakable. A gentle smile stretched across her face which was as pale as porcelain as she took Mika in with kind eyes.
A larger woman who looked much older sat beside her. She was pretty as well, however, in a much simpler way. Her bright brown hair reached to the middle of her back in pin-straight style. Her eyes were a deep brown. Even though she was sitting down, it was obvious that she was very tall. Her facial features were very sharp, and her lips were pressed together tightly. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she watched the three girls approach.
"Mika," Botan chirped as she pushed the red-faced woman in front of her, "These are our good friends Yukina and Shizuru Kuwabara."
"Hello," the smaller woman stood and pulled her into a tight hug, "I'm Yukina! On the way here the only thing Botan could talk about was you! I'm so glad to finally meet you!"
Mika took a step back and smiled when the small maiden released her, "Thank you. It's nice to meet you too."
She stared at the cheerful woman in curiosity. She looked so familiar with her slightly rounded baby-face, small nose, and high cheekbones. Before Mika could observe her any further, someone interrupted her.
"I'm Shizuru Kuwabara," the older woman announced as she held her hand out for Mika to shake, "Kazuma's older sister."
"Kazuma?" Mika tilted her head to the side in confusion as she pulled her hand away from Shizuru's iron grip.
"That idiot," she let out a bark of a laugh and shook her head. "Kuwabara. I'm Kuwabara's sister."
"Kuwabara's real name is Kazuma," Keiko explained, "but he prefers that everyone calls him by his last name."
"Oh, I see."
"Well now that we've finished introductions," Botan clapped excitedly as she bounced up and down, "Let the party begin!"
"YUKINA!"
The only thing seen was a blur of blue and orange before Yukina was swept off her feet and being twirled around in the arms of Kuwabara.
"Oh my! Kazuma!" She cried out, her voice ringing like bells as she laughed. "You're so silly! Put me down!"
Mika could feel a frown pulling at the corner of her lips as she turned away from the laughing couple.
"Alright now, Kuwabara," a smooth voice interrupted the horseplay, "I think you've terrorized Yukina enough for one night. Besides, that's Mother's favorite vase on top of the bookshelf beside you. It would be a shame if you were to fall. It's rather expensive."
Mika smiled as her favorite redhead came over to stand beside her. His forest gaze was narrowed slightly, and his lips twisted into a ghost of a smirk.
"Alright, alright," Kuwabara sighed as he set the small woman down. "We were just having a little bit of fun, Kurama."
"I see."
"Awww, alright," He frowned at Kurama, "Later, Yukina!" He turned to smile at Yukina before he walked off towards the food table where Yusuke stood trying to discreetly smoke a cigarette.
"Yusuke Urameshi! You juvenile delinquent!" Keiko screeched as ran towards the sneaky brunette at top speed. "You stop that right now!"
Shizuru sighed and shook her head. "I'm sorry about my brother, Kurama."
"It's alright, Shizuru." Kurama smiled at her, "I was just coming over here to put it up anyway. I learned my lesson the last time Yusuke decided to throw a wild party in my house."
Mika scratched the back of her neck feeling very awkward as everyone laughed at the memory.
"The stereo is over there, Botan. It has an iPod dock if you'd like to play some of your music," he said as he retrieved the beautiful crystal vase from its perch on the top of the bookshelf, "I'm going to go put this away and I will be right back."
"Alright," Botan chirped. "C'mon, you guys. Let's go plug my iPod in."
Mika and Kurama watched as the three girls walked across the room past a fighting Yusuke and Keiko towards the stereo.
"KEIKO, GIVE IT BACK! THAT'S MY LAST ONE!" Yusuke's yells echoed through the house.
"LET GO OF ME, YUSUKE! YOU NEED TO STOP SMOKING! IT'S BAD FOR YOU!"
CRASH!
Kuwabara's loud laughter echoed throughout the room as he watched the scene before him as he stuffed another handful of chips in his mouth.
"LOOK WHAT YOU'VE DONE NOW, YUSUKE!"
"WHAT I'VE DONE? YOU'RE THE ONE RUNNIN' AROUND STEALIN' PEOPLE'S SMOKES!'
Kurama let out a sigh as he shook his head, "This is exactly why I put everything away."
Mika giggled as she watched Yusuke and Keiko clean up the bowl of chips that they had spilled. "I can see why. They're very..."
"Enthusiastic? Rowdy? Childish?" Kurama finished for her with a small roll of his eyes and a sigh, "Yes, I know."
Mika let out another laugh.
"Would you like to come with me? It will only take a moment to put this away and I'm sure that you would like to freshen up before the party really starts."
She nodded as she followed Kurama across the room past a silently brooding Hiei and up the stairs.
"Did you have fun with Yusuke and Kuwabara?" Kurama inquired as they ventured further down the hall.
Mika followed Kurama into his room and watched as he moved gracefully across the space to set the glittering glass vase beside several others that were already sitting on his desk. They turned from the room and took the few strides to stop in front of Mika's room.
"Yes," she smiled, "We played video games at the arcade and went to the pet store."
"That's good," he smiled at her, "Well, I'll leave you to freshen up. I'll be downstairs if you need me."
It only took Mika five minutes to freshen up and put away her belongings before she returned downstairs. She scanned the scene before her---Kurama was no where to be found--- and crossed the room to sit on the sofa beside Yusuke who was currently muttering a string of indecencies underneath his breath.
"Hey," he mumbled, "what's up?"
Mika shook her head before she leaned it against the back of the couch. "Nothing."
"What's wrong?"
"I'm tired," she answered as she closed her eyes.
"Tired?" Yusuke perked an eyebrow and stared at her incredulously. "We're at a party! You'd better wake up!"
Mika frowned and opened one eye, "It's your fault."
"My fault?"
"You had us running all around town for hours. You're almost as bad as Keiko and Botan."
"Hey!"
Mika let out a laugh as Yusuke frowned at her.
"I LOVE THIS SONG!!!"
Both Mika and Yusuke turned in time to see Botan crank the volume of the stereo sending the loud beats of a hip-hop song throughout the room.
"Go, Botan! Go, Botan!" Keiko yelled as Botan began to dance around the room in a whirlwind of dance moves.
"C'mon, Mika! Dance with me!" Botan screeched over the music as she span across the room. She stopped before Mika, grabbed her arms, and pulled her to her feet.
Laughter filled the room as the bubbly deity began to spin Mika around the room with her.
"Go, Mika! Go, Mika!" Keiko and Yusuke began chanting together.
Mika caught glimpses of everyone's faces as she spun about the room with Botan. They were all watching, their faces bright with laughter. She could feel the rush of heat to her face and she felt like she was going to be sick.
"Ummm," she pulled herself away from the laughing bluenette and shook her head frantically. "I-I don't want to dance..."
"Awww!" Botan pouted as she watched Mika's retreating figure, "C'mon, Mika!"
Mika shook her head once more as she bit her lip. "N-No."
"Awww, okay."
"Sorry..." she muttered quietly as she hurried across the room and back to her seat. Her face was as red as a tomato as she sat beside Yusuke who was laughing loudly.
"Oh, shut up, Yusuke..." she mumbled under her breath.
Yusuke stopped his laughing and smiled at her. "What's wrong? Why wouldn't you dance?"
"I don't dance..."
"Heh, neither do I."
"YUSUKE, COME DANCE WITH ME!"
"Oh shit..." Yusuke jumped up as his eyes scanned the room for an escape, "Later, Mika. I've got to bolt."
"YUSUKE!" Keiko screamed as she chased after the boy who was making a mad dash for the front door.
Mika lifted her eyes from the floor to watch Keiko grab the back of his leather jacket and drag him across the room towards the makeshift dance floor. Across the room and near the foot of the stairs, a bright vibrant color of red caught her eye and before she knew it she was staring straight into Kurama's emerald eyes. Hiei stood beside him, his blood red eyes watching her intently.
Mika's face turned even redder as her brain registered the sympathetic expression upon the fox's face. Somehow she knew that he didn't pity Yusuke---who was currently being forced to move to the beat---but her. She couldn't help it. She returned her gaze to the floor as she wondered if she could really die from embarrassment.
"Hey."
Mika looked up to see the two girls she had been introduced to earlier.
"Mika, right? I'm not good with names." Shizuru said as she plopped down on the couch while the smaller woman gracefully moved to sit on her other side.
"Yes," she responded.
"That's a nice name. So," the woman paused as she took a long drag from her cigarette, "what's your story?"
"Excuse me?" She tilted her head to the side in confusion.
"Shizuru, you shouldn't be so rude." Yukina scolded lightly as she gave Mika a sheepish smile.
"Awww, I'm not being rude. I'm just curious," Shizuru snuffed out the end of the cigarette on the hardwood floor---which did not go unnoticed by Yukina who frowned disapprovingly at her---and leaned closer to the silver haired girl. "So you're a friend of Shuichi's?"
"Shuichi? Oh, you mean Kurama."
"Yeah," Shizuru nodded, "Since you know his real name, I'm assuming you already know the whole story. Anyway, why are you living here? I mean, it's kind of weird, y'know.
"Shizuru," Yukina frowned.
"What? She's living in a house filled with nothin' but boys. You can't blame me for being curious."
"I-I guess not," Mika said, "W-Well, I'm in a bit of a... situation right now and Kurama's helping me out. He's letting me stay here."
"Is he making you pay rent?" Shizuru pressed.
"No."
"Damn, I wish I had had a friend like that back in high school."
"That's so sweet of Kurama," Yukina smiled brightly. "He's always been very kind."
Shizuru snorted, "But when he gets mad you better watch yourself because he'll eat you alive. But that's really nice of him."
"Yes," she smiled, "I don't know how I could possibly repay him. He's done a lot for me and I barely know him."
"Really? I guess I sort of assumed that you met him in school or something."
"No," Mika shook her head, "I met him a few days ago."
"Wow. Now that's someone who has a heart of gold." Shizuru commented as she sneaked a glance at the redhead---who was making his way around the room, with Hiei following at his side---and smiled. "You don't find people like that often."
"Mika," Yukina frowned, her face twisted into a guilty expression when she saw the woman shiver. "You're wearing such a thick sweater. I hope I'm not making you cold."
Mika tilted her head in confusion at Yukina as she rubbed her arms trying to warm up. "How would you make me cold?"
"I'm an ice apparition," she smiled, "My body temperature is naturally cooler than yours. And since I'm sitting right beside you..."
Mika shook her head, "Oh no. I don't think you're making me cold. I've always been like this. I get cold at random times."
Shizuru frowned as she observed the silver haired woman, "My brother is like that. He gets really cold whenever he senses a spirit. But, it's weird. I don't sense any Spirit Energy from you."
"Spirit Energy?"
Shizuru nodded, as if it were obvious what it meant.
"Hello."
Mika looked up to see Kurama. He was smiling down at them and Hiei stood at his side with his ever-present frown. Mika's face turned bright red as she looked down at her feet.
"Hello, Kurama!" Yukina smiled up at the redhead. "How are you?"
"I'm good and you?"
"I'm great! Genkai's is well too. I tried to convince her to come to the party, but she said that she would rather fight an entire army of demons blindfolded with her arms tied behind her back than hang out with a bunch of rowdy teenagers."
Shizuru, Kurama, and Yukina laughed in unison.
"Same old Genkai." Kurama smiled.
"How are you, Hiei?" Yukina smiled kindly. "Have you found my brother?"
"I'm fine." Hiei said in a soft barely audible voice as he averted his eyes from her. "I have gotten some leads, but I haven't found him."
"Oh," Yukina's bright eyes darkened a bit, and her smile twisted into a slight frown.
"Sorry."
"Its okay, Hiei." Yukina forced a smile. "I know you're trying as hard as you can. And for that, I thank you."
The short man nodded before he spun on his heel and flitted out of sight. Kurama watched him go with a frown.
"Don't worry, Yukina. I'm pretty sure your brother will turn up soon." He comforted her with a gentle voice and sympathetic smile.
"Thank you, Kurama."
"You're welcome."
"Hey, you guys!" Botan's bubbly voice called out. "We're getting ready to play some games! C'mon!"
"Oh, that sounds like fun!" Yukina chirped as she jumped from her seat. She grabbed onto Mika's hand to pull her towards the circle that Botan, Keiko, Yusuke, and Kuwabara just formed. "Come on, Mika dear!"
Mika let the petite woman lead her away, with Shizuru and Kurama following behind them making friendly small talk. She took a seat next to Yusuke who grinned at her and Kurama sat on her other side.
"Hey, wait a minute..." Kuwabara said as he scanned all the faces around the circle, "Where's Shorty?"
"What do you want, Oaf?" Hiei hissed from across the room. He was sitting on the window sill, his ruby gems staring outside the window into the night.
"Get over here!" Yusuke called out. "We're getting ready to play a game."
"I don't play games."
"It's really fun," Kurama added with a small smirk on his face.
Hiei averted his gaze to the fox and glared. "No."
"Please, Hiei?" Keiko pleaded.
"I said no."
"Please, Hiei?" Yukina's gentle voice rang out as she stared at the boy. "I would really like it if you came and played with us."
Kurama and Yusuke exchanged knowing grins, as if they knew a secret no one else knew.
"Please, Hiei?" Yukina questioned again, her ruby eyes pleading.
A soft sigh sounded and in a quick flash, Hiei was suddenly sitting in between Kuwabara and Yukina.
"Hey!" Kuwabara yelled angrily. "I was sitting next to Yukina!"
Hiei closed his eyes in irritation as he tuned the angry redhead out.
"What should we play first, you guys?" Botan questioned as she gestured to the pile of games in the middle of the circle. "Twister? Monopoly?"
"Boring!" Yusuke said. "I've got a game we can play, hold on."
Everyone watched as Yusuke disappeared into the kitchen and returned moments later with two ten-packs of what looked like beer.
"YUSUKE!"
Yusuke rolled his eyes when Keiko began to yell at him. "Awww, chill out. It's just beer. And you say I'm childish."
"I will not play any game that involves drinking!" Keiko said as she folded her arms across her chest tightly.
"Alright, well, then I guess you're not playing." He smirked as he began to open a pack and pass the beer around. "Mika, catch."
"Ummm..." Mika caught the can of beer in her hands and stared at it hesitantly. She knew what it was like when someone got drunk. Her parents used to do it all the time. It wasn't pretty.
Yusuke sat down; popped open his can, and took a small sip. He looked around the circle. The only people that were drinking were Shizuru and Hiei.
"Awww, c'mon! Don't tell me you guys too!"
"Sorry, Yusuke." Botan frowned, her can sat unopened before her. "But I don't think it's such a good idea."
"Don't be such pansies!" Yusuke pouted. "We can't play the game unless everyone has a drink."
"Exactly what is this game, Yusuke?" Kurama questioned, "Maybe there's an alternative."
"Well, I guess you can do it without the beer, but it not as fun! It's called 'I've Never'. What you do is every person takes turns saying "I've Never..." and then you say something you've never done before. If anyone has done that, you have to take a drink. And then you've got to explain yourself."
"That sounds like so much fun!" Botan was rocking back and forth. "I want to play, but, I don't want to drink."
"We can substitute the beer with soda. C'mon, Botan! Who all wants sodas?" Keiko counted the hands in the air before she turned to retrieve the right amount of drinks.
"Sorry, Yusuke." Mika handed her can of beer to Yusuke.
Shizuru rolled her eyes as she took another sip, "You guys suck!"
"Shut up, Shizuru." Kuwabara frowned at his older sister.
When Keiko and Botan returned, distributed the sodas, and returned to their spots, the game began.
"Since I suggested the game, I'll go first." Yusuke offered. "Hmmm... this is a tough one. What have I never done before? Oh, got it! I've never gotten a perfect score on a test."
Only Kurama and Keiko were the ones to take a drink.
"Dorks," Yusuke snickered.
"Yusuke, you'll never even get a high F!" Keiko snapped. "I don't see why you don't just drop out of school!"
"Because you'd beat me over the head with a freakin' frying pan like last time!"
"Well, it serves you right! How do you expect to get into college and get a good job if you drop out?"
"See, that's what I'm talking about! You tell me to drop out and then not to! God dammit, woman! Make up your freakin' mind!"
"OK!" Shizuru yelled loudly, which got the bickering couple to quiet down but it didn't stop the heated glares that they send each other's way.
"I'll go next," Keiko hissed as she glared at Yusuke. "Let's see... Oh! I've never thrown a wild party while my parents were out of town."
"Hell yeah!" Yusuke called out as he took a sip of his beer, "It was pretty cool. I got to beat up a bunch of people."
"YUSUKE!"
Kuwabara took a drink of his soda and let out a loud belch; a collective chorus of complaints followed. "Yeah, and when my parents got back they kicked my ass."
"Unlike my little bro here," Shizuru said as she set her can of beer down, "I never got caught."
"What about you, Kurama? You took a drink." Keiko questioned as he watched the redhead set his glass of soda down.
"Actually, I didn't throw the party. A certain someone," he eyed Yusuke, "decided to throw the party at my house without my permission while my parents were out of town.
"Hey," Yusuke grinned, "it's what I do."
"Yes, I can see that." Kurama shook his head, "I'll go next. I've never done drugs..."
Hiei snorted, "That's a damn lie, Kurama---"
"You didn't let me finish, Hiei," Kurama smirked, "I've never done drugs in this lifetime."
"Well, damn..." Yusuke commented before he took a sip. "I only tried it... a few times."
"YUSUKE!"
"I only tried once," Kuwabara admitted, "I didn't like it."
"I'll admit it; I was a total druggie in school." Shizuru laughed. "I'm clean now, though."
"Botan!?!" Keiko's eyes were wide as she watched the deity set her glass of soda down, "You've done drugs?!?"
"It was only cough syrup!" When she realized that everyone was giving her a strange look, she defended herself, "What? Medicine is technically a drug..."
"Mika, don't tell me you too!" The brunette frowned disapprovingly, the crease on her forehead deepening.
"I didn't mean to! I was only five and my parents had drugs everywhere. I thought it was candy," she frowned when everyone laughed at her.
"You all are horrible!" Keiko shook her head as she watched Hiei set down his can of beer. "You guys are going to corrupt poor innocent Yukina. You all are bad influences."
Yukina's cheeks turned a rosy pink as she giggled in embarrassment. She turned her attention to Hiei who had his fingers pressed to his temples in irritation. "What about you, Hiei? Why don't you go next?"
Hiei frowned, his ruby eyes narrowed into thin slits.
"Please?"
He let out a sigh of exasperation which caused everyone to laugh. His scowl deepened as his eyes wandered around the room as he thought.
"I've never killed a child."
A pregnant silence filled the room as Hiei crushed his empty can of beer between his fists. He looked up and perked an eyebrow when he saw all the strange looks everyone was giving him.
"Well... we would hope that you haven't, Hiei," Yusuke said quietly.
"Alright," Botan coughed, "I'll go next. I've never---"
"Please tell me it's not something stupid!" Yusuke suddenly sighed, "See this is why everyone's supposed to drink! It loosens you up and it makes the game funny! This isn't funny; this is BORING and STUPID! Thanks a lot Keiko. You always gotta ruin the fun."
Botan frowned at Yusuke while Keiko took a good swing at him, "You want funny? Alright you asked for it. And remember, you have to be honest, Yusuke."
"Well," Yusuke paused as he watched Botan's face twist into an evil grin, "Oh god... Now I wished I never opened my mouth..."
"I've never crossed dressed before."
Everyone watched in shock as Yusuke lifted his can and took a long sip.
"Are you serious, Urameshi?" Kuwabara questioned with a roar of laughter as everyone chuckled.
"Yes, he sure is," Botan smirked as she stuck her tongue out at the brunette.
"It was only for a mission!" Yusuke frowned.
"And some guys hit on him," Botan sniggered, "It was pretty funny. I made him wear heels and this tiny red dress. I have pictures actually if you guys want to see---"
"DAMN IT, BOTAN! SHUT THE---"
"Moving right along," Botan sang, cutting off Yusuke's string of profanities, "Why don't you go next Kuwabara?"
"Alright," he shrugged, "I've never pissed in a public pool."
Everyone cracked up when Yusuke, Shizuru, and KEIKO took a drink.
"Keiko, eh?" Yusuke smirked as he watched her face turn tomato red. "Who would've thought it? You dirty girl."
"Shut up!" She hissed as she smacked his arm, "I-I really had to go, and my friend was making me laugh a-and the bathroom was so far away and..."
"Yeah, yeah, yeah. You're nasty." Yusuke snickered.
"YOU DID IT TOO, YOU JERK!" Keiko hissed.
"Yeah, but you expect that from me. I'm badass, man. I've done everything. But you? Keiko Yukimura? Naaaaah."
"Shut up!"
"Why don't you go next, Mika?" Kurama smiled at the silver-haired woman who was now cradling her face in her palm as she watched the couple argue.
"Ummm..." she bit her lip, "But I don't know what to do..."
"Think of something you've never done before."
"Ummm, okay..." she paused as she thought of something, "I've never been drunk before."
The whole circle took a drink except for Yukina.
"Keiko? Botan?" Mika asked with wide eyes.
"Hey! It wasn't intentional!" Keiko defended herself with pout, "I was seven, and I went to a party with my parents. I didn't know those pretty drinks---you know the ones with all the colors? --- had alcohol in it. I picked one up from the table and drank it..."
"Well," Botan's face flushed a bright red, "I guess you can say that at Koenma's parties we all tend to be... a bit too happy not to be working?"
"Koenma throws wild parties? And we were never invited?" Yusuke questioned in drunken outrage.
"Shut up, Yusuke. You're already drunk." Keiko frowned.
"'M not," he muttered as he swayed from side to side. "'M just a bit tipsy."
"Yeah," Keiko snorted, "Right."
"Kurama, you took a drink too! What about you?" Botan said. "I mean, I expect this from Shizuru and Yusuke. Maybe Kuwabara. And I've never been quite so sure about Hiei. But you and Keiko?"
"It was last summer. Yusuke, Hiei, Kuwabara, and I were hanging out around the house."
"You drank then so why won't you drink now?" Yusuke questioned as he shook his can which was empty.
"There are ladies present," he answered, "It would be inappropriate. Besides, I can't afford to have a hangover tomorrow."
"Meh, whatever..." The brunette slurred as he reached for another can.
"You've had about as many drinks as Yusuke, Shizuru," Botan noted as she looked at the dark-haired girl, "And you're not drunk. You don't even look tipsy."
Shizuru smiled a crooked smile, "I hold my alcohol well. Pass me another can Urameshi, I'm out."
"Who hasn't gone?" Keiko said as her eyes scanned the room. "Oh, Yukina! Why don't you go?"
Yukina's thin lips curved into a sweet smile, "Okay!" She paused as she began to think, "Ummm... I can't think of anything..."
"What's something that you've never done before? It's okay; just say the first thing that comes to your mind." Keiko suggested with an encouraging smile.
"Oh... ummm.... this is embarrassing..." Yukina flushed as she lowered her eyes. She bit her bottom lip nervously.
"It's okay, Yukina. Just say it!" Botan smiled, "Don't be embarrassed."
"Ok... I-I've never..." she closed her eyes in shame, "I've never mated before."
"Mated?" Keiko tilted her head to the side in confusion before recognition shone in her eyes. "Oh! Oh..."
Yukina nodded as her face turned as red as a tomato.
"Mated?" Mika questioned to Kurama, "I don't understand."
Kurama leaned over to whisper into Mika's ear, "She means that she's never... y'know, had sex before."
"Oh," Mika's face turned bright red. She bit her lip in embarrassment as Kurama nodded and leaned away from her.
She couldn't believe how stupid she must've sounded!
Taro... she thought as she watched Shizuru and Hiei [1] take a drink, I don't want to think about this... Please don't let them ask any questions... she pleaded as she reached for her soda and took a drink as well. She saw the shocked look that flickered across Kurama's face from the corner of her eye, but she ignored him as her face turned bright red.
"Well, I actually expected Urameshi and Keiko to take a drink!" Kuwabara said, "A few days ago you said that you and Keiko got together!"
"WHAT!?!" Keiko screeched in outrage as she whirled on Yusuke. "WHAT THE HELL, YUSUKE!"
"Damn it, Kuwabara! Can't you ever keep your goddamn mouth shut?" Yusuke slurred as Keiko began to screech a stream of profanities at him.
"Shizuru?" Kuwabara questioned in shock. "What the hell? Do mom and dad know?"
"No, so if you know what's best for you, baby bro, you'll keep your mouth shut." Shizuru threatened. "I was a junior in high school and he was a senior. He was getting ready to leave for college... He promised he'd wait for me."
"Awww," Botan cooed, "Do you still love him? Have you heard from him?"
"No, I don't love him like that anymore. Long distance relationships are hard. But I still talk to him every now and then. We're still friends." Shizuru's lips curved into a ghost of a smile.
"How sweet!" Keiko gushed as she sat back down from beating the crap out of Yusuke. She turned her attention to Mika.
Oh god... please don't...
"What about you Mika?" Keiko questioned with a smile, "Who's the lucky guy?"
"Yeah, tell us!" Botan said as she leaned forward in interest. "I love romantic stories!"
Mika watched as everyone in the room turned to her to listen to her story. She bit her lip as her heart began to slam itself against her ribcage. Her mouth was suddenly dry and it felt like a giant lump was in her throat. Her stomach twisted into a knot as the memories flooded her mind.
"Taro," she choked out, "Please stop it! Please!"
"Stop it?" He chuckled as he trailed kisses down her neck.
Her eyes fluttered close as he reached her sensitive spot. Her lungs were working overtime and the room echoed with her disturbed breathing. She twisted her fingers in the back of Taro's oily hair as she resisted the pleasure she was feeling.
"Please..."
She felt him stop and shift so that he wasn't completely on top of her. When she opened her teary eyes, his hungry eyes were scanning her face. His chapped lips were stretched into a grin.
"You don't want me to stop."
"I do," she insisted weakly. She could feel his hands as they moved up and down the sides of her body. She bit her bottom lip as she forced herself to keep her composure.
He leaned to whisper huskily into her ear, "You know you don't. You know you love what I do to you."
"No!"
She was so confused. Her body was screaming for them to continue. She wanted him to hold her close. She wanted to feel his weight against hers. She wanted to feel the warmth of their bodies pressing together. She wanted to fill the burning desire that he had dragged out of her.
But her mind was telling her otherwise. She knew it was wrong. She knew he'd keep coming back for more. He only wanted her for pleasure. He didn't give a damn about her. She was nothing more than a little toy that he could play with or toss. She didn't matter. She was his little puppet and he was the puppet master.
"I don't want this," she began but he cut her off.
"You slut," his lips twitched with irritation before he hissed, "You say you don't want it but you're body says otherwise. Look at yourself! Why don't you stop lying to yourself and give in? You know it feels good. You know you love it!"
"Stop!"
"Stop being a tease and let's go!"
"Mika?" Keiko questioned. "Tell us!"
"I... I..." Mika lowered her gaze to the floor as she took a deep breath and forced the words out, "I was raped. It was about two years ago. H-He was a co-worker of mine... I was fifteen at the time and he was... much older that I was."
She didn't look up to see the reactions of the people around her. She could feel the sharp sting and throbbing in her chest. Her eyes were watering and she tried to blink back the tears.
"I... I'm so sorry, Mika..." Keiko whispered as she and Botan stood up to comfort her.
Mika knew that if they tried to comfort her it would only make it even worse. She was positive that if they tried to make her feel better---if they showed her sympathy and kindness---it would only make her break down even more. She forced herself to look up and shake her head. She forced a smile---which felt more like a grimace--- and waved her hand through the air.
"It's not a big deal. It happened a long time ago. I'm over it."
Keiko and Botan wore identical expressions. Their eyes were filled with worry and uncertainty.
"Are you sure?" Botan whispered.
"Yeah," Mika smiled. "I'm fine. Alright, so who's next?" She forced her voice to sound chipper, but she could hear how fake it seemed, and she was pretty sure that everyone else could.
"I'm next," Shizuru said as she forced herself to look away from the silver haired woman, "Alright. Let's see... I've done about every bad thing in the book. Besides, I'm getting bored so let's end this."
A quiet chorus of agreement came from around the circle.
"Alright, let me think of something that no one has done before. Because, frankly, I don't think Yusuke would be able to take another shot."
Yusuke was swaying from side to side, his hand clenched tightly around the can. His eyes were wide and bloodshot and a cheesy grin stretched across his face.
"Mika, are you sure you're okay?"
The silver haired woman turned to see Kurama staring at her. His emerald eyes were filled with worry.
She smiled, "I'm fine, Kurama. Don't worry about me."
He nodded slowly and frowned.
"Alright, I've got it. I've never been pregnant." Shizuru said smugly as she crossed her arms across her chest, "I'm pretty sure you boys haven't been pregnant. If you were... well then... that's nasty."
What are the odds? Why? Mika questioned in her mind, why does this happen to me?
"See, no one's taken a---" Shizuru started but snapped her mouth shut as she watched in shock as Mika brought her glass to her lips.
"Well..." Shizuru paused to think of something to say as Mika set her glass down, "Damn..."
Mika kept her eyes on the floor as the floor began to swim in front of her. She closed her eyes as she proceeded to explain.
"It... it happened so often... so it's not surprising that I... got pregnant," she was struggling to keep her voice even, and she choked back the sobs that were threatening to escape her throat. "I didn't know I was pregnant until I went into labor... I was in bad condition and my baby... she died and hour later after I gave birth..."
The room was completely silent. No one said a word as Mika picked up her soda and swirled it around, causing the ice to clink against the glass. She took a long drink to distract herself but, much too soon for her liking, there was no more; she sighed and put it down.
"What's wrong with you guys?" She questioned, in an attempt to break the silence.
"Mika, are you sure you're okay?" Botan questioned again. "Do you want to talk about it?"
Mika faked another smile, "Thanks for worrying, Botan. But that happened a long time ago. I'm fine."
"Are you---" Keiko began in a small voice.
"I'm fine." She pressed as she stood up and stretched. "So... what are we gonna do now?"
"I think maybe it's time for you guys to leave. Besides," Shizuru chuckled, "Yusuke looks like he's gonna pass out soon."
"Noooo, I'm not," the brunette slurred. "Hey, Botan..."
"What, Yusuke?" The deity questioned as she watched with curious and confused eyes as Yusuke inched closer and closer to her. His eyes were wide and bloodshot.
"You're hair is sooo..." Yusuke said poked her ponytail, "It's sooo blue."
"Okay... Shizuru has a point," Botan said as she smacked his hand away. He leaned back and let out a roar of laughter. "Get him out of here!"
"Awww, I'm just kidding around..." He slurred again before he lay on his back, "I'm perfectly... fineee..."
Light, yet slightly lifeless, laughter echoed throughout the room.
~.~.~.~.~
"Bye, you guys!"
The girls all gathered around the boys were standing near the portal that was waiting to transport them to Spirit World.
"Bye, Yukina!" Kuwabara, who had an unconscious Yusuke slung over his shoulder, smiled at the ice maiden. "I'll see you tomorrow!"
"Goodbye, Kazuma." Yukina waved back. "Please don't drop Yusuke!"
"Ahhh, don't worry. I won't drop him."
"Goodbye, Hiei!" Yukina turned her attention to the frowning fire demon. She smiled at him, "I'll see you tomorrow."
Hiei pressed his lips together into a thin line. He didn't return her kind words but instead, he nodded at her before he turned to step through the portal. Kuwabara followed with Yusuke, right behind him.
"Bye, Kurama!" All the girls chorused before they drifted across the room to gather around the television.
"Goodbye, everyone," he waved at them before he turned his attention the silver haired woman who was leaning against the doorframe that led to the kitchen.
Her eyes were downcast and she seemed to be in deep thought. He shook his head, and he began to approach her. Mika looked up when she heard the light footsteps nearing her. She saw the familiar gleam of worry in Kurama's bright emerald orbs, and she gave him a halfhearted smile.
"Mika..."
"I'm fine, Kurama," she insisted, "Please don't worry about me."
She could feel his hand slid beneath her chin, his fingers lifting her chin and forcing her to look at him. She averted her gaze so that she was staring at a spot on the ceiling just over his shoulder.
"Mika, look at me."
She reluctantly shifted her gaze and stared into his hypnotizing eyes. She could feel the heat rush to her face.
"Something is wrong," he said, "Please, tell me."
"Kurama," Mika could hear the giggles coming from behind him, and she could see over his shoulder the looks that the girls were giving them, "Everyone is staring..."
He ignored this as he tilted his head closer, so that he could whisper to her. "I know something is wrong. It's written all over your face; I can even see it in your eyes. I only want to help. I want you to feel better. Please, tell me what's wrong. Tell me what you're thinking."
"I-I can't..." she responded, "I just... I don't want to think about it... Not now... I just... please, Kurama..."
Kurama frowned at her answer, and he pulled away from her. His eyes softened as his eyes scanned her face.
"Alright," he sighed, "But you know, I'm here for you."
"I know."
"Really?" He muttered under his breath, "It seems that you don't."
"I'm sorry, Kurama... I just..."
"I understand," he said as he stepped away from her, "I'll be here to listen when you're ready to talk. I'll always be here."
She nodded silently and followed him across the room towards the portal. He turned and gave her one last smile before he disappeared into its swirling depths.
"Should we do the makeovers first or watch the movie?" Botan question loudly as she shifted through the pile of DVDs that were arranged in a messy pile on the floor.
"Makeovers, we'll fall asleep during the movie," Shizuru said as she dug through her duffle bag. "Besides, I've got this awesome new flat-iron that I want to use on someone."
"What do you think, Mika dear?" Yukina questioned, in an attempt to include Mika.
"I'd probably fall asleep during the movie." Mika admitted with a sheepish grin.
"So would I," Keiko said, "So I guess makeovers are first."
"Alright," Shizuru said, "I'll do hair."
"I'll do makeup!" Botan offered.
"And, I'll do eyebrows," Keiko volunteered.
"Eyebrows?" Mika questioned as she tilted her head to the side. "What do you mean?"
Keiko giggled as she held up a pair of tweezers, "I'll pluck and shape your eyebrows!"
Mika put her hands over her eyebrows, and she stared at Keiko as if she were insane. "Pluck your eyebrows? Won't that hurt?"
"It hurts the first couple of times," she smiled, "But after you keep doing it, it gets better."
"Ummm..." Mika chewed her bottom lip, "No thank you, Keiko."
"Awww!"
~.~.~.~.~
A loud thump sounded.
"Be careful with him, Kuwabara!" Kurama sighed as he watched Kuwabara pick up an unconscious Yusuke from the ground.
"Idiot... you said you weren't going to drop him," Hiei shook his head as he threw open the large wooden doors before him, without even bothering to knock.
"Awww, he's out cold," Kuwabara muttered, "He won't feel a thing."
"Because you dropped him on his head..." Kurama added lowly and one after the other, they filed into Koenma's office.
Kuwabara dumped Yusuke onto the floor, rather unceremoniously, and plopped down on the couch beside Kurama. Hiei moved to his usual spot on the windowsill.
"Must you be so loud?" A voice questioned.
"Sorry," Kuwabara apologized as Koenma swiveled around in his giant chair to face the teenage boys.
"Why are you in that form?" Kuwabara questioned. Koenma was in his teenage form, although he preferred his toddler form.
Koenma didn't respond as sighed. When he opened his eyes moments later, he smiled slightly.
"Well, you seem to be in a good mood."
"How could I not be?" Koenma smiled as he stood up, "I'm finally getting out of this office!"
"Really?"
"Yes," Koenma gestured to the tuxedo he was wearing, "I'm going to a party!"
"You are going to a party? Really?"
"Yes."
"But...what about all your work?"
Koenma frowned, "Dammit. Wait, what are you guys doing here?"
"Well, the girls kicked us out 'cuz they're having a sleepover so we're spending the night here, remember?" Kuwabara said with one eyebrow perked as he watched a thoughtful look spread across the prince's face.
"Right," Koenma said slowly, "So you're not doing anything later tonight..."
"Nope," Kuwabara grinned.
"Problem solved!" Koenma's grin stretched from ear to ear as he stood up and made his way around the room, looking for his coat.
"Whatever you say..."
"Thank you so much for volunteering to help with my work," the prince chirped as he pulled on a coat over his suit, "Now I can finally go out and relax!"
"What!?!" Kuwabara complained as he jumped up angrily. "We never volunteered to do anything!"
Koenma turned to frown at the redhead, "But you're not doing anything later tonight..."
"No---"
"Well, then, you can make yourselves useful," Koenma grinned evilly as he walked to his desk. He began to distribute stacks of paperwork to the boys. "Thank you so much! Oh, and, I expect all this to be done by the time I get back!"
"HEY! THIS ISN'T FAIR, KOENMA!"
But Koenma had already slipped out the office and was running down the hall. Kurama let out a sigh as he frowned at Kuwabara. Hiei glared at the humongous pile of paper at his feet angrily. Kuwabara sat in his seat, his face twisted in anger and confusion.
"Well... damn."
~.~.~.~.~
"C'mon, Mikaaahhh!" Botan whined as she latched onto the nervous woman's arm. She dragged her across the room, everyone else giggling, as she pushed her down into the chair. "I'm gonna do your makeup, Shizuru's going to do your hair, and Yukina's gonna do your nails!"
"Botan," Mika grimaced, "I don't---"
"You know what?" Botan frowned as she loomed dangerous over the woman, "I really don't care what you want and don't want to do. You're going to sit here and smile while I do your makeup, Shizuru does your hair, and Yukina does your nails! DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?!?" Her eyes were wide and burning in rage; her lips were pulled back over her teeth, making her look as scary as the Grim Reaper should be.
"Eeep," Mika squeaked in fear.
Everyone burst out laughing at the expression on the frightened woman's face. Mika joined in the laughter when she thought of how silly she must've looked.
"I'm just kidding with you, Mika," Botan giggled as she slapped the woman's arm playfully. "I do that all the time. But, will you please let us do it?"
Mika let out a sigh when she was done laughing. There really was no use in trying to refuse the bubbly bluenette. She was persistent---painfully persistent.
"Okay," she gave in with a frown. "But no eyebrows!" She yelled when she saw the hope bloom across Keiko's face.
"Awww!"
"LET THE FUN BEGIN!" Botan sang out she cranked up the radio.
Fun... Mika sighed as she watched the bluenette dump the bag of makeup on the floor and began to rummage through the products, here we go...
Author's Notes
[1] - A lot of people assume that Hiei is very innocent and in a lot of ways childlike. I think that he would have mated before (or done something like that). I mean, he is a demon and he did live in the Makai. So don't you think he would have experienced or at least seen something like that? But, again, this is just my own opinion. :)