Another day that may only be a dream, A KuramaXOC
By:~Pinkbun17~
Edited: 6/28/23
Disclaimer: I don't own YYH, ya think I'd write this then?
YusukexKeiko, KuwabaraxYukina pairings supported! ^^
Keep this in mind readers!
Story Format as always:
****READERS PLEASE READ MEH!****
Youko's Thoughts: ^Take every memory ingrained in me^
Kurama speaking to Youko in his head/his own thoughts: *Erase it from my thoughts so I can sleep *
Inner thoughts of other characters: 'I know I need to move on But it's the last thing that I'm ready to do...'
Hiei's Inner thoughts/speech when he is talking to someone in their head: ~These subtle signs cause angry tides that rip me right in two~
Anything said in Sinhalese: "I tell myself that this all will pass But it just won't stop, and it all adds up"
Song Lyrics Taken from "What I Wish I Could Forget" by Too Close to Touch
Rest in Peace /gallery/97413/o Keaton Pierce
* ∞:｡.｡ ｡.｡:∞ *
Chapter 38: Home Envy, Melon Memories, & Whisking It All
Day 5: 9:09 am
Aisha's POV:
Gentle sunlight streams through a crack between the blue curtains of the window, and the chirping of a bunch of birds fills my ears the moment I wake up. Foggy memories of my dreams swiftly slip away, but oddly I feel there's a strong importance behind them.
'Just what am I supposed to remember…?'
My head throbs slightly, and yesterday's events quickly surface instead as I glance around the unfamiliar neat bedroom.
'God, I really need water, I have to be hella dehydrated from all that crying.'
Just before I can begin to stir around in the bed, a mass of red hair catches my eye. Slumped forward lies the fox boy, fast asleep. I examine his peaceful expression, his angelic beauty and long lashes have me admiring his good looks. I spot a red tinge on one of his cheeks as well as shadows of bags under his closed eyes.
Guilt begins to rear its slimy head and I curse at myself mentally.
'Why is my first reaction always to be a violent brute? I know that damned red seed is supposed to make me irrational...But even if he did me wrong… this doesn't excuse my own actions…'
I attempt to lift my right hand up to touch Kurama's head, but instead, I realize I've been holding onto the fox boy's hand. My cheeks burn hotly but momentarily I forget my embarrassment.
The images of Kurama petting my head and holding my hand as I was bawling my eyes out throughout the night fill my heart with a warmth foreign to me. He still took the time to comfort a jerk like me.
"There, there, it will be alright Aisha. I'll be right here with you." The fox boy cooed, stroking my head. I had been unable to stay asleep and night terrors plagued my mind, jolting me awake.
A part of me wanted to reject his kindness since it was such an unfamiliar gesture, instead, my first reaction was to freeze up. I guess he continued through the night at the cost of his own rest.
Despite being with my parents my whole life, I don't have any recollection of them ever providing me any sort of comfort, even as a little kid. If they caught me crying, they would become angry and threaten to "give me something to cry about".
Well, who doesn't love being treated like a pest or a punching bag by their own parents? It's not like I was asking for much, just a little attention or maybe a hug, but no, that was too much to ask for. Better to be shooed away like an unwanted stray than to face their wrath. It's not like I have feelings or anything.
'As ruthless as he used to be, Kurama really is a kind soul.'
Reluctantly, I pry my hand from his and inch away from the sleeping redhead beauty. He stirs slightly and that's when I notice the poor guy's shivering!
'This man is too much, he literally piled all the blankets on me!'
I quietly hop off the bed and place a few blankets on his trembling frame. Kurama's sleeping expression melts into a tender smile and I feel my heartstrings being pulled at.
'Oh my god, he's just the cutest most precious boy…' I squeal mentally, I can't help myself from fangirling.
Another stab of guilt pangs in my chest as I remember how I used to long for such a tender moment with my own parents, but all I got was rejection and violence. And here I am, fussing over a complete stranger who has shown me nothing but kindness since we met.
As I watch my favorite redhead sleep, I can't help but think about how much he's been through. The battles he's fought, the enemies he's faced, the sacrifices he's made. It's a wonder he's still standing, let alone able to show kindness to someone like me.
I make a mental note to be more like Kurama, to show kindness and compassion even in the face of life's bullshit, though it's probably going to take a lonnggg time to get to his level.
Quietly exiting, I head to the other room to grab a change of clothes. Fishing through my stiff pink duffle bag, I settle on a comfy outfit. I pull out a hot pink cotton shirt and a pair of deep blue skinny jeans. The shirt is adorned with a delightful graphic of white stars and has built-in long white sleeves. I also pull out a pair of yellow undergarments and Goodbye Kitty socks.
*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧
After a soothing shower, and throwing my clothes on, I stare at my messy wavy hair deciding to slowly braid them into pigtails. I leave a few wisps of hair to frame my face, hoping this makes me look a bit girly.
Hunger gnaws at my stomach, and I wander into Kurama's neat kitchen. Compared to my one at home, his exuded an inviting atmosphere.
Every surface gleams with a polished shine, reflecting the warm glow of the overhead lights. The countertops, made of sleek granite, provide ample space for meal preparation. Utensils and cooking tools hang neatly from a stainless steel rack, easily accessible and organized. The cabinets, with their smooth wooden finish, are neatly arranged with glassware, plates, and bowls. The appliances include a stainless steel refrigerator, a state-of-the-art oven, and a sleek stovetop.
A tinge of envy flares in my chest, comparing this to my disgusting, outdated, and crowded kitchen. The countertops in my house are so gross, covered in stubborn stains, and are all chipped and worn out. And don't even get me started on the cabinets! They're so cramped and overflowing with random pots, pans, and expired stuff. It's a constant struggle to find what I need in that jumbled bs. Plus, my appliances are like ancient relics, always acting up and needing repairs.
Anytime I want to cook, I always have to fight not only the area itself (since my mother is a hoarder), but I also have to battle it out with her for every little thing I use. She has this possessive attitude towards the kitchen as if it was her sole sacred domain. Every time I reach for a utensil or a pot, it turns into full-blown kitchen warfare, leaving me exhausted and frustrated.
As my eyes wander about the area, a mouthwatering aroma fills the air, enticing my taste buds. To my surprise, there's a spread of coconut roti, coconut sambol, sunny-side-up eggs, and messy rice balls on the wooden table. The redhead left a note out and it reads 'Help yourself! I hope it suits your tastes.'
The sight alone is enough to make my mouth water uncontrollably, and I can't resist the urge to dig in and savor every delicious bite.
'When did he have time to make all this? I don't think I've ever seen such an interesting Sri Lankan-Japanese fusion.'
Although the coconut roti was a bit dry and the coconut sambol a tad sour, I happily gobble the feast down.
(Coconut sambol is typically served as a side dish. It's made from grated coconut, spices, chili peppers, red onions, lime juice, and salt. Sometimes, it can also include dried fish or Maldive fish flakes for extra flavor.)
'I wonder if these Sri Lankan foods go back to ancient times or something…" I ponder, wondering how Kurama knows about it.
Feeling a strong sense of gratitude, I want to reciprocate his kindness somehow. With careful consideration, I quietly rummage through his pantry and fridge, taking note of the ingredients available. The thought of using his supplies makes me feel guilty, but I really do wanna do something for my favorite redhead.
Remembering a nearby SorthGate supermarket, I check my pink worn-out wallet and spot a 10-dollar bill. Daddy had given it to me some time ago for helping him around the apartment and it completely slipped my mind.
"It's the least I could do for him," I murmur to myself.
ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ
Throwing on a pair of high-top hot pinkKonverses, I speedwalk to the local market and it only takes me 10 minutes! A lot of the locals were friendly and a few people greeted me, but I mostly keep to myself.
'Well, at least a lot of people are out and about. Maaybe I should have told Kurama something…'
"Oh well, I'm already here…" I figure I can just focus on getting what I need and rush back.
≿—- ❈ —-≾
I manage to snag some cucumbers, Mexican wheat bread, avocados (which were on sale, score!), a dozen eggs, and a perfectly ripe pineapple. As I'm strolling towards the checkout counter, the intoxicating aroma of fruits wafts through the air, capturing my attention once again. And there it is, a stack of plump cantaloupes, instantly triggering a rush of memories with my siblings.
Whenever our family would take a day trip (about an hour away) to the mountains in Bsusa, I'd tie down a few melons and sodas in the cool river water. Those times were always so relaxed and carefree, even my parents seemed to be at ease, which was a rare sight to see.
My siblings always marveled at how the river water could cool our melons and drinks perfectly. They were always thrilled to munch on the magically chilled fruit, and I loved watching their happy faces.
Sometimes, just for fun, I'd weave an outlandish story about how the river fish used their magical powers to chill our snacks, all just for them and they'd believe every word! I would then make fun of them for being so gullible. Grinning to myself, I quickly pay for my grocery haul and speedwalk back to Kurama's place.
Clutching my bag of goods and pressing the crosswalk button aggressively, worry begins to gnaw at my insides. Thoughts of my siblings having to deal with my "mom"-ster's rage and neglect alone flood my head.
My heart aches for them, knowing that half the time she doesn't bother to feed them either. I can't help but feel guilty thinking about how hungry and scared they all must be.
The mental image of my brother's tiny form cowering in fear as our mother looms over him fills me with overwhelming anguish that makes me wanna rush back home and make sure they're all safe. But going back is a big risk. Those demons could still be lurking around, just waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
Kurama's words from last night echo in my mind, ringing with truth.
"If I do bring you back, what guarantees that those demons won't attack you again? Are you willing to put your family and your pets in danger? It might be safer for you to stay here. I did leave one of my Detection Plants at your home, just in case your family becomes a target."
I pause for a moment, contemplating Kurama's words. The conflict within me intensifies as I weigh the desire to protect my loved ones against the potential dangers that await us if I return.
"What the hell am I supposed to do?"
I mutter, my words are barely audible, as another wave of worry consumes me. My voice trembles with anxiety, betraying the weight of my thoughts.
Taking a deep gulp of air, I step back into Kurama's condo. I quickly yank off my vibrant hot pink shoes and neatly tuck them away in the corner of the entryway. The familiar surroundings bring a slight sense of comfort and ease, allowing me to momentarily push aside my swirling concerns.
With a renewed sense of purpose (or rather, a desperate need for a distraction from my scattered worries), I roll up my sleeves and dive into the task of organizing and preparing everything I've purchased.
As I work, the rhythmic sounds of slicing, chopping, and whisking fill the air, accompanied by the occasional hum of a familiar tune escaping my lips. Whenever I sing, the heaviness that sinks in my chest seems to ease up a bit.
(Grey Daze- "Sometimes')
" Sometimes, things just seem to fall apart
When you least expect them to
Sometimes you want to pack up and leave behind
All of them and all their smiles
I don't know what to think anymore
Maybe things will get better
Maybe things will look brighter
Maybe, maybe, maybe "
Glancing at the clock in the living room, it reads 10:05 am. Time seems to slip away as I immerse myself in cooking. It's been a while since I've enjoyed preparing food for someone without the looming pressure of being screamed at.
The clatter of pans and the sizzle of ingredients on the stove bring a sense of satisfaction, knowing that soon I can finally give the redhead something to thank him for all his hard work.
⊱ ────── {⋅. .⋅} ────── ⊰
As I put the final touches on my culinary masterpiece and let the aroma of the black lavender tea fill the air, I find solace in the familiar melody that escapes my lips. The soothing notes resonate within me, like a balm for the anxiety that threatens to bubble out of my chest. Lost in my own world, I repeat the lyrics, letting the soothing melody wrap around me like a protective embrace.
I don't know what to think anymore
Maybe things will get better
Maybe things will look brighter
Maybe, maybe, maybe
I don't know what to think anymore
Maybe things will get better- "
Suddenly, a fragrant aroma of roses and cologne wafts into the kitchen, and a familiar voice breaks through the melodies that escape my lips.
"What are you making?"
Startled, I swivel my head behind me quickly and end up smacking the gorgeous redhead in the face with one of my braided pigtails.
"Oh my god, I'm soo sorry! I didn't hear you at all!" I exclaim, my voice filled with genuine worry. "Are you okay?"
Without thinking, I gently cup his face, my fingertips tracing over his cheekbone to inspect any signs of damage.
Kurama blinks, his cheeks slightly flush with a hint of embarrassment. It's unusual for him to show such vulnerability, but I suppose my unexpected hair-induced accident caught him off guard.
"I'm fine, Aisha, just a small mishap. No harm done," he reassures me with a gentle smile. "I should have announced myself, so as not to startle you."
A moment of silence settles between us, the air imbued with a sense of peace. His gaze lingers on mine, a glimmer of something unspoken passing between us. And in that fleeting instant, I catch a glimpse of the depth within his eyes, a world of emotions waiting to be explored.
My heart skips a beat as my gaze remains fixated on him, unable to tear my eyes away. His lustrous, crimson locks cascade down his shoulders, glistening with droplets of water that hint at a recent shower. The damp strands frame his face, accentuating his striking features and the subtle curve of his lips that holds a hint of a smile.
Realizing my hand is still gently cupping his gorgeous face, I quickly retract it, my movements filled with a mix of surprise and embarrassment. I take a small step back, creating a comfortable distance between us. My cheeks flush slightly and I avert my gaze, hoping to conceal my reaction, but the warmth lingers on my skin, making it impossible to ignore.
Faintly, that strange sensation flutters within me once more, causing a fleeting moment of confusion and curiosity. It's a sensation I can't quite put into words, as if a heartbeat has brushed against my entire being, leaving a tingling trail behind. But just as quickly as it arrives, it dissipates, leaving me with a lingering sense of wonder.
Kurama notices my momentary pause and the subtle change in my demeanor. His voice breaks the silence, filled with curiosity and a hint of amusement.
"Is something the matter, Aisha? You seem to have caught me off guard with that look in your eyes."
Startled, I meet his gaze again, my cheeks flushing deeper as I realize I had been caught staring. I clear my throat, attempting to regain my composure.
"Oh, it's nothing, Kurama. I just... I noticed your hair was wet, that's all. It's a... um, unique look on you."
A playful smirk tugs at the corners of his lips, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
"Ah, the wonders of gravity and a well-placed showerhead. I must apologize for my untimely appearance, but I assure you, it was necessary. You know how important personal hygiene is."
A giggle escapes my lips, the tension from earlier dissipating as his light-heartedness washes over me.
"Of course, Kurama. Personal hygiene is crucial, even for supernatural beings such as yourself. I can't argue with that."
He chuckles softly, his laughter a delightful melody that brings a smile to my lips. His mesmerizing green eyes meet mine again, their gaze lingering on my face for a moment.
A playful spark dances within his eyes as he leans in closer, pointing to the left side of my prominent nose.
"I didn't notice it before," Kurama comments, his voice brimming with gentle intrigue. "But you have a charming little beauty mark right here."
His fingertip hovers over the delicate spot as if tracing the outline of the mark. "It's a lovely detail on your face."
I couldn't help but feel a flutter of self-consciousness under Kurama's gaze. A blush creeps up my cheeks as a mix of surprise and flattery washes over me.
I never thought much of that tiny mark, considering it insignificant among my features. Yet, Kurama's observant nature and kind words make me see it in a new light.
"T-thank you," I respond, stammering slightly but I'm brimming with genuine appreciation. "It's a small thing, but your words make it feel special."
Kurama's smile deepens, his gaze warm and earnest. "Sometimes, it's the smallest details that hold the greatest beauty," he says, his voice carrying a hint of wisdom. "They add character and uniqueness to one's face, making it all the more captivating."
His words resonate within me, and I can't help but feel a sense of newfound confidence. With Kurama's presence, even the tiniest aspects of myself are noticed, and it's not something I'm used to.
Being praised feels conceited-and frankly it both frightens and exhilarates me. Once again I find my fondness towards the fox-boy bloom. His kindness is too much for someone like me.
"So…lunch is pretty much ready," I state with a smile, hoping to be praised further. "I wanted to make something special as a way to express my gratitude for the delicious breakfast you made and for always coming to my rescue…I hope you can enjoy it."
Kurama's eyes light up, a mixture of surprise and appreciation on his face. "You didn't have to do that, Aisha. It's my pleasure to help you. I'm grateful for your kind gesture and can't wait to savor the culinary masterpiece you've created."
"Haha, I wouldn't say I'm that great a cook, but I did try my best." I laugh and notice how well-dressed the fox boy is.
He's dressed in a light lavender sweater with a white t-shirt underneath. The sweater has a mock-neck collar and appears to be a soft cashmere material.
The t-shirt is a simple cotton fabric and adds a casual touch to the outfit. He's also rocking slim-fit, black jeans that hug his legs in all the right places.
He completes the look with a long, dark grey wool coat that falls to his knees. The coat has a slim silhouette and is tailored to fit his body perfectly. The wool material provides warmth, making it awesome for the cooler temperatures in So-Cali January.
'Thank goodness he's not dressed as a banana today.'
I think back to one of his funny bright yellow dark tournament outfits and how some of the YYH fandom pokes fun at some of his clothing choices.
'I guess some '90s fashion can be a bit questionable.'
I eye the clock again and it reads 12:17 pm. As we both begin setting up the table for lunch, Kurama's eyes land on the Sorthgate-branded bags and a slight grimace flickers across his face. He steps closer to me, his voice filled with gentle concern as he asks,
"Did you go to the supermarket by yourself? You know it can be dangerous venturing out alone." His tone carries a hint of worry, his eyes scanning my face for any signs of trouble.
I begin to fidget slightly under his intense gaze, feeling a mix of guilt and defiance. I muster up a weak smile and respond,
"Yeah, I know it can be sketchy, but I needed to grab a few things. Don't worry, Kurama, I was quick and careful. There were a lot of friendly people out and about too!"
I pause, studying his worrisome look, and a sense of unease washes over me. With a slightly anxious tone, I muster up the courage to speak.
"Kurama, I... I hope you're not mad at me, are you?" This is my sad attempt to plead with the redhead.
'All I wanted to do was make it up to him…since I've been such a jerkface…'
I search his face again for any sign of disappointment or frustration, hoping to find reassurance in his response. I bite my lip, nervous anticipation filling the silence between us.
Kurama's conflicted expression softens and he decides not to push the issue any further. Instead, he reaches out to gently hold my hand, offering reassurance. Once more that strange heartbeat feeling creeps up all over my body and vanishes in a flash.
"No, Aisha, I'm not upset with you. I can't be over something like this…I just worry about your safety. I want you to be more cautious next time, okay? And I can always accompany you anywhere you wish to go."
I nod, thankful for his concern and for the fact he didn't chew me out (I totally deserve it if he chose to).
"I will, Kurama. Thank you for looking out for me," I say, reluctantly withdrawing my hand from his. I can't help but notice a lingering sensation from his touch, causing a mix of conflicting emotions within me.
'Thanks for the reminder that I can't do shit on my own and I'm a helpless target in need of constant supervision.' I sigh mentally.
Although this entire-demons-wanting-to- murder-me situation sucks ass, a sense of fulfillment washes over me as Kurama's face lights up with delight after taking a sip of my homemade black lavender tea.
As I plop myself beside him at the table, I help myself to my cooking. Witnessing Kurama's genuine appreciation becomes the icing on the cake of my semi-reckless escapade. Savoring each bite, I can't help but think,
'Not gonna lie, food has a way of making even the shittiest of situations a bit more bearable.'
To be continued...
My notes:
Seems like Aisha is finally holding back her mean streak with her favorite redhead! Yayy! This chapter is 15 pages in 13-inch font. Took me 3 days to write this and I hope to keep cranking out my plot bunnies! To those of you still reading, thank you for showing your love! This weekend was wild for me since I visited Rene Faire for the first time and stupidly did an 8-mile hike that left me sore af! The good news is I can walk better! Anywho, tune in next time!
Rock Out & Peace On!
~PiNkBuN17
Once again, Rest in Peace to Keaton Pierce (Lead singer to the band "Too Close To Touch")