E.H.

So, this chapter was one that needed care. Before going on, keep in mind that this chapter is from multiple points of view. It's going to start normal and end normal but in between it will be individual takes. I hope I really kept to their characters! I tried really hard! Can I just say…writing from Botan's perspective was HARD. I would type a sentence and then delete it because it just…wasn't her. Too long winded or…philosophical sounding. However, the easiest to write were ironically Kurama's and Yusuke's.

Anywho! Hope you enjoy!

Thanks to all my lovelies for the reviews! List of lovelies: SakiHanajima1, Hakudoushi9, Mizz Ri, and NoWarningSignsNoAlibi

The Beautiful Start

Shizuru stood behind Keiko as she curled locks of brunette hair into perfectly proportionate spirals. The soft curls bounced and draped elegantly over the younger woman's head. Shizuru pulled several of them up meticulously positioning them and pinning them carefully into a regal looking crown of swirling spirals. The curls twirled into a bun while the ends draped down from the unique style. A few long tendrils kissed Keiko's nape as they hung low over her shoulder. A quick glance around the room told Shizuru that the girls' were all busy fixing their hair and doing makeup. Botan had Nabi's wound up high and cascading a simple twist back down around her neck. Yukina's hair was held in a traditional Japanese style with her usual red bow being replaced by a deep blue one that matched the bridesmaid dresses perfectly. Shizuru had already fixed her hair hours before. She finished and tucked Keiko's veil intricately into the bun while placing small sparkling bits of shine here and there around the bun to catch the light. Keiko's mother's face was a streaming mess.

"Oh, Keiko…you're so beautiful." Her mother gushed. Shizuru smiled proudly and stepped back to admire her work. As she did so, she felt a swell of emotion rise quickly.

Keiko was blushing and stood to go look in the mirror. Keiko reached the mirror and stopped, wide-eyed. She blinked several times and turned from side to side. "I…don't recognize myself."

Yukina stepped up to her. "Keiko, you are a stunning beauty. Yusuke will not be able to breathe."

Botan burst into tears. "Oh, poo on Yusuke! I can't breathe now!" She fanned her face. Nabi laughed lightly and grabbed a box from the table nearby. She handed it to Keiko's mother.

Keiko's mother took it and opened it. She pulled the matching necklace and earring set out and began to drape them over Keiko. Shizuru turned and slipped from the room. She couldn't stand in there for much longer as her own eyes began to leak.

"Damn, sweetheart…now you've got me leaking." She muttered to herself, not wanting anyone to see her cry.

…..

(Keiko's P.O.V.)

I didn't recognize her. This woman that stared back at me with curls flowing down around her shoulders and face. The bride gazing back at me was some other woman, one whom I didn't know. I met mom's eyes in the mirror and felt my own misting over at the sight of the teardrops rolling from her eyes. She patted them dry and hugged me with one arm. I wasn't sure where Shizuru stepped off to, but I knew I'd have to thank her repeatedly for my hair. I don't think anyone would have been able to pull off what she did today. I felt my fingers rise and idly toy with the sparkling jewels at my throat.

"Is this really happening?" I asked to no one in particular. A few soft laughs greeted my question.

"No, baby. This is real. You're finally getting married. And to that goofy little boy you used to play with all those years ago." Mom gushed and chuckled.

"I still can't believe this is happening."

"I can!" Botan beamed, moving over. "You two were destined from the moment I saw you kiss Yusuke's soul ba—" I cut her a quick look as Shiyu dove to the rescue and covered Botan's mouth quickly. Botan realized her blunder; her bright eyes widening.

Mom tossed a confused look over her shoulder to which Shiyu shrugged simply. "Come on, Botan…no more crazy talk from you."

"Right!" Botan giggled nervously and moved away. I breathed a soft sigh of relief. Crisis averted. Thanks to Shiyu.

I turned back to the mirror and took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "How much longer until the ceremony?"

"Twenty minutes." Yukina approached quietly. "The guests are mostly here. Keiko-san, can I get you something to drink? You look rather pale."

"Oh, yes. Thank you, Yukina."

Yukina bowed with a gentle smile. I knew I'd picked the best girls in the world as my bridesmaids. I didn't pick a maid of honor; they were all my maids of honor. I couldn't have picked one over the other's to save my life. Instead, I chose order based on Yusuke's. Yukina, Nabi, Shiyu, Shizuru and Botan. The latter two would walk in with Koenma. I felt my nerves begin to fray. What if I tripped? What if I fell on my face? Oh, I would be so mortified! I took another deep breath and paced a small path to help calm myself down.

…..

(Yukina's P.O.V.)

She's so lovely. I always knew Keiko was lovely, but as a bride, she simply radiates. I fetched her a glass of water along with a small sandwich. She was too pale for my taste. It would not do for her to faint on such an auspicious day. Human weddings were truly spectacular. I was able to see so much beauty in such a small amount of time. As I walked back to the room, I could not help but to wonder if I would ever have such an event here in human world. I should like that very much. I shook my head to clear my thoughts. No, such thoughts will not do. This is Keiko's day. I will think only of her.

I entered the room and walked directly to Keiko. "Keiko-san, here is some water and a small sandwich. Please, sit and enjoy. There is some time."

"I know." Keiko smiled at me. I smiled back. I had learned this was the proper etiquette with humans. I also found it easy to do so. I helped her sit and handed her the food items. I moved to the side so that I would not be a hindrance. I turned as Shizuru re-entered the room. I felt her presence before the door opened. She looked at me with an odd expression. I simply smiled at her. I was still learning simple human emotions, after all.

"Hey, sweetheart." She spoke to me and touched my shoulder lightly. I closed my eyes and tilted my head. I liked Shizuru. She was a good soul. I could feel the compassion within her that I felt from her brother, Kazuma. Speaking of which…

"How is Kazuma-san doing?"

"He's being a total idiot, like usual." Shizuru chuckled and shrugged. "Had to help the dork with his tie."

"I see." I giggled at the mental image. "I hope all is going well now."

"Besides the nervous wreck that is Yusuke, yeah. It's pretty good over there."

"Oh my. Is Yusuke all right?" I felt worry rise and I glanced at Keiko.

"Yeah. He'll be fine. Once he sees Keiko, he'll melt."

I frowned at the term. I knew what she meant, however it was still an odd image for me. I let it go. I nodded and smiled again. Smiles were easy to understand.

…..

(Shiyu's P.O.V.)

I was kind of jealous. I'll admit it. Keiko looked drop-dead awesome in her dress. I looked fat in mine. Guess that's the difference when you're a pregnant bridesmaid. Oh well. She still looked killer. I couldn't help but grin at my sister-in-law to be. I couldn't wait to see the ceremony. It was going to be amazing. Everything would fall in place because Yusuke and Keiko were meant to be. Hell, their entire romance was based on all the pieces falling into place. I may not have known them as long, but I could tell they'd been in love for their whole life. What guy does things the way Yusuke has and stayed with one girl for so long? Only a man truly in love. Speaking of which, I wondered about Hiei. He'd been rather cross about the entire affair. Not that he'd been against Keiko and Yusuke's marriage; no. He'd been dragged into it.

'How's it going?'

"Why ask?"

I stifled a giggle at his haughty tone. 'Because, I'm curious. I'm allowed to ask you questions.'

"Hn. Am I allowed not to answer?"

'I won't stop you…'

"But?"

I smirked. Oh yeah, he knew me well. 'But I might nag you to death later.'

"I'd rather lend you my sword."

'Ooh! Can I finally use—'

"No."

'Party pooper.'

"I refuse to dignify that."

'You just did.'

"Hn."

'Aw, come on. If you're a good boy, maybe I'll play with you later.'

"I don't play."

'You do with me.' I could see past his words. He was intrigued and willing to put up with quite a bit. I smirked to myself, and leaned on the wall. I sighed and grimaced as I felt a kick. A particularly hard kick, I might add, to my rib cage. 'Damn kid…can we kick a little harder?'

"What?"

'Not you. The kid. Kick. Rib cage. Ouch. Pregnancy stuff.'

"Are you hurt?"

I smiled at the concern. To anyone else, he would have sounded sarcastic, but I knew him. I rubbed my stomach lightly. 'I'm fine. But I blame you.'

"I don't recall being the one to ask for more and saying don't stop."

My cheeks flamed. Oh dear god. He just went there; and telepathically no less. I rolled my eyes and realized I was getting an odd look from Yukina. She looked concerned. I shook my head and pointed to it, mouthing 'Hiei' at the same time. She looked understanding and nodded.

'You should really censor yourself. What if you projected loud enough for Yukina to hear?'

"That will never happen at my faulting."

'Oh. So you're saying if she did overheard, it'd be my fault?'

"Hn. Think what you will."

'Bastard.'

"Annoyance."

'That's mate to you.'

"Agreed."

I shook my head and moved away from the wall. I crossed over to where Yukina stood. "Shouldn't be too much longer."

"No. I do not believe it will be." She glanced at me. "Was he being rude?"

"Nope, just himself."

Yukina's smile turned a bit slyer. To anyone else, they'd miss the subtle change. I didn't. "In other words, yes."

I chuckled. "Yeah. In other words, yes."

…..

(Botan's P.O.V.)

"Hey, Botan, can you run and check if they're ready yet?" Shizuru asked me. I nodded.

"Sure thing!" After all, a girl loves a good peek at the party! I dashed off toward the exit. I took a quick peek-a-boo at things. Bingo! Almost ready! I could see a whole bunch of guests that I hadn't seen for a while. Chu, Jin, and the monks from Yusuke's demon-lineage land were just a few in a rather large crowd. I grinned. This was perfect! Of course these two would have quite the guest list! Too many people who'd either helped Yusuke with a mission or had become friends through fists. I giggled at that. Friends through fists. That's good, I had to remember that. Oh! Right! I had gone there for a reason! I darted back to the room.

"They're just about to start!" I sang as I entered the room. Keiko looked up with wide eyes. I smiled. "You'll be fine, dear! After all, this is your day!" We rushed about helping her get ready. When the usher came for us, we each took turns hugging Keiko. I squeezed her hand lightly. "Ready for the best day of your life?"

Keiko turned to me and smiled a dazzling smile. That's my girl! "Definitely."

…..

(Yusuke's P.O.V.)

What was I doing? Who was I kidding? How could I be good enough for Keiko? Ever since I died at fourteen, all I'd ever done was bring problem after problem into her life. I can't believe she said yes. I can't believe I'm standin' here. I can't believe Keiko's 'bout to walk down that aisle and marry me. Aw, shit. What the hell! I'd already come this far! I wasn't 'bout to stick her with a baby and no proper name to carry it! Screw that shit! That ain't me. Where was my sense of adventure? Yeah! That's right, Yusuke! This is an adventure! This time, I got Keiko with me every step of the way! No more lyin', no more hidin'. This is it.

The music started and I looked up. I moved from foot to foot. Damn was this tux ever itchy. I kept my hands tightly clasped in front of my…crotch? Seriously? Was that there I was supposed to have 'em? Fuck, I look like an idiot. Here they come. First off is Kuwabara and Yukina. Well shit; I didn't think they looked so good together. I mean, yeah, Kuwabara's head over for her; not to mention practically twice her height… But, in a tux like that…they look good. Maybe someday we'll be here and he'll be sweatin' his balls off. Heh. That's funny. Oh, yeah. Right. Wedding. I focused back in and smiled as Kurama and Nabi walked in together. Now there's a couple that looks really good. I bet their babies'll be gorgeous. After them come…heh…Hiei and Shiyu. Hiei looked annoyed but not too pissed. That was good. At least people wouldn't look back at this day and say…who the fuck was that pissed off son of a bitch? I then watched as Koenma led in both Shizuru and Botan. I had to stifle the chuckle at that. At least he'd ditched the binky for this.

The music changed and I sucked in a deep breath. This was it. She was coming. Nothing prepared me for it. Nothin' ever would. When she walked in, I lost the ability to think. She was dressed like a gorgeous queen. Her dress was swoopy around the hips and trailed behind her like a river. I never saw anythin' so perfect before. Her arms had lace straps that hung off her shoulders and sparkling shit all over the edging. Her veil also looked like it was sparkling. Wow. That was my wife? I had to catch my breath. She was amazing. Her dad led her toward me. I could just see the bump of our kid leading between the folds of white fabric. I couldn't believe this was happening. I managed to breathe. As I breathed, my lungs decided to deflate suddenly as a thought hit me like a goddamned punch to the face. I blinked. Aw, shit. How could I forget? I forgot my friggin' vows!

I leaned a little toward Kuwabara to whisper. He looked at me, still smilin' at everybody else. His eyes betrayed his confusion though. Kurama, Hiei, and Koenma cast me curious glances too. "Kuwabara, I forgot the vows!" I hissed between my teeth.

Damn, I had to give Kuwabara credit. He stayed smilin' and ignorant lookin' while he looked at me in shock. He whispered back. "Whatcha gonna do, Urameshi?"

I thought about it. Well, what else could I do? "Guess I'm just gonna wing it."

The four groomsmen and friends of mine all collectively groaned and rolled their eyes. I puffed up my chest to defend myself but caught Keiko's worried gaze. I couldn't go off on 'em here. I plastered on a smile that wasn't all that fake, since I was lookin' at Keiko. She reached me and I took her from her dad. We exchanged our small pleasantries like all weddings do. I led her back up to the stage. With our backs to the audience, she leaned over to me.

"Everything okay, Yusuke?"

"Yeah. S'all good. Don't worry 'bout it." I replied and for once really wondered if I'd not just sealed my doom with such stupid words.

…..

(Kuwabara's P.O.V.)

'Course Urameshi'd forget his vows! I wanted to throttle the dummy! What's with that anyhow? I wouldn't forget my vows if it was my wedding! I grinned goofily at the thought. Yukina. Wedding. Honeymoon- Whoa! Slow down, Kuwabara! Keep it cool! Deep breath in, deep breath out. Repeat. That's right, I'm cool.

I chanced a glance at Yukina to find her staring at me. She smiled. Yukina smiled at me! I found myself grinnin' again. I knew I looked better when I puffed up my chest. There. Just like that. All puffed up and manly-like. That's right, Yukina. I'm a man. She giggled behind her hand. Awwww…she's so cute. I can't help but to stare at her all the time. She's got this way with words and small blushing smiles that make me melt. I felt my cheeks heat up. I wanted to walk right up to her and tell her how beautiful she was. But, since Urameshi and Keiko're gettin' married, couldn't do that. That'd be rude. I ain't rude! Never let it be said that Kuwabara, Kazuma is rude! I'm the bestest gentleman anybody'd ever meet!

I looked around briefly and found Hiei glarin' at me. I ignored him. Let him be a jerk if he wants to be. Not my prob. I turned back to the ceremony. Whoops. They'd already finished halfway into the first part of the vows. I needed to pay closer attention. I had the ring. I couldn't screw this up. First off, Keiko deserved this. She'd waited long enough for that jerk to get his act together. I wasn't 'bout to mess it up. Gee, they're really in love, aren't they? I could see it in the way they looked at each other up there. Never seen Urameshi look at nobody but Keiko like that. Not even some real hotties that we came across at the Dark Tournament. He didn't even fall for Botan's charms. He was a real gentleman. Sure had to give him credit there. Well…okay…maybe not a gentleman. I mean, he groped that one chick…dude…thing…on his first mission. But he'd stuck by Keiko all this time! That counted for somethin'!

Keiko looked up at Urameshi then. I could see her eyes shining with all the love she had for him. He was her world. I'd give anythin' to see Yukina look up at me like that. I sighed. Maybe someday. I'd never give up 'til I was dead. I grinned again. Yup. I'd see that look someday on Yukina and I'll make sure to live up to that for her. She'll never want for anything.

…..

(Kurama's P.O.V.)

Nabi stood like a beautiful statue among the other girls. I couldn't help but to smile at her. She flashed one back at me before returning her attention to the ceremony. I did as well. No need to be entirely rude to the couple joining in matrimony. However, I did picture our own wedding there. What would it be like to stand beside Nabi at an altar, giving our promises to one another to stay together until 'death do us part'? I knew, as she did, that death would be a long time coming. However, none the less, the prospect of having such a wonderful celebration of our union would be a joyous occasion. I could not help the excited feeling that pittered in my chest. Nabi met my gaze. From the look on her face, I could tell that she was thinking the same. Her eyes held an excited gleam that made me flush with warmth.

"You're drooling, fox."

'Hardly.'

"Hn. Say what you will."

'What about you, Hiei? Don't you imagine this with Shiyu?'

"Hardly. Unlike you, I hold no desire to experience human ideals."

'Naturally. Yet, how does Shiyu feel of this?'

"Don't talk of useless things."

I chuckled softly. In other words, he'd not spoken to her about it. By the quick flash of an irritated glance, I knew I'd hit the nail upon the head. I turned back to listen to the remaining parts to the ceremony. Yusuke turned to Kuwabara for the ring as Keiko turned to Yukina for Yusuke's. Their vows were simple and sweet. The rings slid on quickly. We all waiting as the priest Keiko's parents had hired announced them as husband and wife along with giving Yusuke permission to kiss Keiko. Yusuke bent Keiko as he kissed her. I nearly winced as Chu and Jin leaped up with a whooping cheer that was picked up and passed among the audience. I applauded them with a large smile. I glanced into the crowd to where Mother sat. She was smiling at me from alongside her husband. She nodded as she wiped a tear from her eye. I smiled back. I couldn't believe what a generous gift she'd planned for Nabi and I. They'd announced that they would pay for our wedding seeing as how Nabi's parents wouldn't be able to be present. Mother's husband, Hatanaka-san, had even graciously offered to walk her down the aisle. I was grateful for his offer and also Mother's offers. It was unbelievable what all they'd do for us. Of course, Mother had been ecstatic about our wedding.

Yusuke and Keiko walked down the aisle smiling broadly. Kuwabara took Yukina's arm and led her out next. It was my turn. I eagerly stepped forward and took Nabi's arm. I smiled and winked at her as we headed down the aisle.

"In a year's time, this will be us."

"I am eager." She replied, smiling back at me.

…..

(Hiei's P.O.V.)

Nonsense. Utter, complete nonsense. I took Shiyu's arm and led her from this ridiculous event to the louder portion of it. I noted that there was alcohol. No doubt Chu would make a rather large spectacle this evening. I almost smiled at that. Just to see the looks upon all these small, puny humans' faces, I'd nearly accept staying around. Well, besides Shiyu. I glanced at her. She looked back and smirked. I rolled my eyes. I felt her chuckle as I looked away. I fought the smirk. Damn her.

'What now?'

"Does there have to be something?"

'You're smiling and laughing.'

"I'm happy."

'Why?'

She sighed and rolled her eyes this time. "Does there have to a reason for me to smile and be happy?"

I cursed Kurama. His words were still churning in my head. Did Shiyu want this idiotic display? Could I say no to her if she did? Should I ask? I didn't want to. Hell, I wanted to be in my tree with her in my lap. Far from here. Far from this boisterous, noisy annoyance. Growling under my breath, I met her gaze as I led her into what I'd been told was called the 'reception area'.

'Do you want this…ridiculous banter?'

She looked at me shocked. "What?"

'Don't make me repeat it. Do you want this stupid event?'

"Do you?"

'No. I don't.'

Her smile made me feel. It was something that I both liked and hated all at once. She leaned over and kissed my cheek, making me feel awkward. I loathed feeling awkward. I was the Hiei Jaganshi. A powerful warrior and feared demon across Demon World. Yet here I stood, feeling strange and hating it.

"Hiei, I love you. You are my mate. I don't need a big display to show the world. I couldn't give a rat's ass what the world thinks of us. We are married in our own rights. Let the rest be. I'm content because I have you and you have me until the day we both expire."

"We won't." I argued in vain. I would not allow her to speak of such notions. There would never be a day when I didn't have her. Never. Our child would never want. I would make damn certain of that. Even if I had to steal, kill, and cheat to make sure; I'd do it for her…for us. I glanced around the banquet hall and made sure all eyes were focused elsewhere. I couldn't wait. I plucked her from the ground and into my arms, rushing out of sight and into the dark nightfall. The forest rushed past us as I found the way to my cave. I reached it in no time and carried her within. She looked at me with heated eyes that made my stomach constrict.

"You know…we're supposed to be at the reception."

"Hn. You promised me, I want to collect."

She smiled and kissed me. I nearly dropped her as I groaned. I knelt softly on the furs and pressed her to them. Her swollen belly was nearly in the way. As I brushed my hand over her breast, I jumped. Her stomach moved. I pulled back and stared.

"It's normal. Babies move."

"Will I hurt it?" I felt a rise of concern and worry. Shiyu stared at me before smiling and reaching for me.

"No, Hiei. You won't. As long as you're careful."

"Hn." I leaned back over her. I looked into her amber-gold eyes. Our child would be more demon than human. Its growth was faster than a usual human baby. I smirked, looking down at her.

"What?" She smirked back.

"Nothing." I kissed her soundlessly. I was going to savor her.

…..

(Nabi's P.O.V.)

I walked with Kurama. Our hands were knit as one. He introduced me to some people I did not remember meeting. However, I had apparently met them when I was dying. They had aided in my rescue. For that, I thanked them. One in particular I liked more so then the others. His name, he said, was Touya. He was soft-spoken and eloquent. Like my mate. I conversed with him for a while. I did take notice that Shiyu and Hiei were not present. However, I did not pay much heed. I knew that they were probably off elsewhere. From what I had gathered being with this group, Hiei hated crowds. Especially humans. I was upon cloud nine as I mingled with humans. I had a few comments from Keiko's mother over my hair. She was highly impressed with it as well as curious. I used the same story that Kurama had helped me to concoct when speaking with his mother. I preferred my hair 'dyed' this color, and yes I did feel comfortable with it. I smiled pleasantly while speaking with Kurama's younger sibling, Kokoda. Kokoda told me that I looked lovely. I thanked him and also Shiori as she poured over the details of the wedding. She asked me many questions about what I liked, what I would prefer differently. Now that I had seen this wedding event, I had a better understanding of what to ask for. I was pleased with the flowers that Kurama had grown from the N'aria blossoms we had procured. I smiled as I thought of the challenges we had to face in order to reach where they grew. They had been unpleasant at the time, but now…I had come to understand the reasoning to them. We had to push past ourselves and rely upon the purity of love to come through. Perhaps it was a bit cliché, but I did not find that I cared.

I found him speaking with a few of the demons that had been invited. I sidled up beside him and laced my fingers through his again. He looked at me warmly. I returned it. He excused himself from his friends to come with me. We walked to my parents' memorials. We stood beside the plum blossoms. They were preparing to move along for the season of summer. Their edges were browning as the head of summer washed over us. Kurama pulled me to his side closely. I pressed my body snugly with his.

"I wish to always feel this content." I sighed, resting my head upon his shoulder.

"Indeed." He brushed my stray curl from my face. "You are awe striking this evening. I must admit, it is very hard to keep my hands to myself."

I smiled and felt my cheeks heat. "Then do not."

He turned and looked at me shocked but pleased. "Are you suggesting that I whisk you away and do with you what I please?"

"I am simply stating that I would not protest."

"I see. My lady, you certainly strike a hard bargain."

"Perhaps you should steal this chance, my bandit."

He smiled as his eyes sparkled. "I don't suppose Yusuke and Keiko will mind much seeing as how Hiei abandoned the reception with Shiyu…"

"I do not suppose it will cause much trouble."

…..

(Normal P.O.V.)

Shizuru wandered the reception, ignoring the fact that two particular couplings had disappeared. She had not doubt what for. She almost gagged at the sappy, doe-eyed looks that Red and Nabi had thrown at each other. The only way they could have been more disgustingly obvious was if they'd been flagrante delicto on the ground of the reception area. She snorted at the thought. Wouldn't they be mortified if they knew that's what they'd looked about ready to do and that it'd been noticed? She ignored the crowd and made her way to the empty area at the back of the courtyard. She stood at the edge of the forest and breathed deeply. Too many people, too many emotions, too much energy. It was giving her a splitting headache. She could kill for a cigarette about now. The ground shifted next to her as someone came to stand beside her.

"You look ill." Kou commented. She flashed him an irritated glance.

"Headache."

"I see." She let her eyes roam over him. Damn did he look good in slacks and button up shirts. His cuffs were rolled back exposing some very interesting ink. She leaned over and looked closely.

"What is it?" She motioned. He held his wrists up.

"Each of us has…unique tattoos per say. It's where our dragons' drew up their contracts. My dragons chose my wrists."

"Dragons choose you?" She straightened, looking at him.

"Yes. Nabi was chosen by six. That's why her marking is on her back. She carries the most power than any of us have ever known. I only have two."

"Dare I ask which?"

"Lightning and Metal." He flashed her a devastating grin that was slightly lopsided. Shizuru looked away before it could affect her too much.

"Sounds dangerous."

"If not handled correctly, they're deadly."

"Gee, don't we sound proud." She snorted and smirked while looking over the crowd.

"Do you always watch over everyone?"

Shizuru shot him a surprised look that she quickly covered over with neutral boredom. "Maybe."

"You miss nothing, Shizuru. That's a talent few people have."

"Wouldn't call it a talent."

"I would."

"That's because you're trying to flirt with me."

He nonchalantly placed his hands in his pockets while grinning. "Can't deny that."

"Good. I'd hate to punch your face at a wedding."

He laughed. Shizuru liked the sound. It was open and husky. He was hard to stand next to. She wanted to touch him.

"Then do it." He flashed her a look that dared her to actually try. She froze.

"I said get out of my head."

"I didn't have to get in your head, Shizuru. Your mind projects all over the place."

"What?"

"You project like a movie reel."

She thought of all the times she'd been around Hiei and thought either hurtful or awkward things. Swallowing the lump in her throat, she shifted uncomfortably.

"I'm sure he blocks it. He's an expert with his Jagan eye. I don't block it. I pick it up and let it be."

"Who else can hear me?"

"That, I can't tell. Nabi's talents lie in the elemental uses only. She doesn't have telepathy like I do. Yukina, I feel a little bit of psychic energy like mine. But that's it. I can't tell if anyone else can read minds. Besides Hiei."

"You're fast with names."

"Have to be." He sighed and pulled something out of his pocket and handed it to her. "I can tell you're withdrawing."

She stared at the pack of cigarettes and lighter. She tossed him a relieved look before plucking them from his hand. She lit one and took a long, appreciative drag. As she blew out the lung full of cancerous smoke, she pushed some hair back from her face. "You're a savior."

"No. I'm not. I'm a ruthless killer that just wants to live a normal life for once." She couldn't see his face as he turned it away.

"Guess we all have demons to face."

His shoulders moved with his snort. "No shit."

She nodded and turned away to look back at the crowd, echoing his words. "No shit…"

So…I had a really extensive detailed description of Keiko's dress originally. But, since it's in Yusuke's P.O.V. to describe her dress…I couldn't picture him describing her gown as diamond white with beading and using words like bodice, scallops, train, etc. Besides, I wanted to leave enough for you to imagine on your own. I can't describe a dress to perfection when…in all honesty…it should be what the reader imagines it to be. Each person will have a different concept of what Keiko's "perfect dress" will look like. I just had my own small take on it. Feel free to imagine it HOWEVER you believe it fits. :D

Anywho! Hope you enjoyed! I know there wasn't much…yum yums from the other two couples, but that's coming later. This was more for Yusuke and Keiko and the wedding.

Let me know what you think!

Erika Hearken