Fruits Basket Fan Fiction ❯ Everything ❯ Secret Heart's Desire ( Chapter 5 )
[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]
By: HeartlessChild 
Anime/Manga: Fruits Basket Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 02.28.2005 | Pages: 8 | Words: 5.7K | Visits: 781 | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: Fruits Basket Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 02.28.2005 | Pages: 8 | Words: 5.7K | Visits: 781 | Status: Completed
AN: "OMG!UPDATE ALREEADY! YOU ARE SO SLOW! YOU EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! 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EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! LITTLE BASTARD UPDATE! (START BANGIN HEAD ON DESK)EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! EVIL!EVIL!EVIL! X_X x_x EVIL! evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! 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DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!evil bastard! DIE! DIE!"
This was a review I received.
Now, I hate to do this, but I personally wish to address this reviewer called unknown chick. Who do you think you are? How dare you leave that vile 'review' in my review box. I'm not one to be rude, but what is your problem? I am not an evil bastard just because I can't update (I've recently had a baby, which I have commented about at least a dozen times). How dare you demand anything from me?! Your audacity leaves me stunned and frankly not impressed. What sort of person are you to leave such an abusive review? I received one like yours before but did not waste my time commenting on it but this has gone too far. I will not delete your review, because it only reminds me how childish ff.net has become! Next time leave your e-mail address. Or better yet, personally e-mail me and threaten me like that so I can say a few things to you on your behavior and conduct. I cannot believe how disgustingly immature some reviewers at ff.net have become. For the people that reviewed and asked nicely for me to update, here's the next instalment, I hope everyone is enjoying the ride so far.
Thanks goes out to ppiglette, Ariyana, PeaceSeeker, Saryuri, Night-Owl123, Sweet-girl8270, hannah5o, Moonmage and Liliath, who reviewed recently and have stuck with me so far, you guys are great!
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Shigure felt like a changed man... No more plots, no more schemes involving his little flower; he would do everything in his power to protect her from Akito's black touch. If he was honest, he would admit to himself that he was jealous and surprised that she already had a family to call her own--especially when he had nothing and no-one to call his. Perhaps it was nostalgia, but he wished that he could find the essence of Tohru's happiness for himself. He had tried that many years ago, unsuccessfully; but Shigure knew that every bit of joy his little flower received, she deserved.
And so, he vowed that he would disentangle her from the Sohma web once and for all. The only problem now was to get his cousins to agree to his emotionally disturbing plan.
"Toshi," her unimpressed voice was evident to anyone that happened to stumble onto the mother and son duo, "I will not repeat myself. You need to take a bath before dinner; look at you, you're filthy!"
Her son pouted and whined for another ten minutes before the battle began to wear thin on her strained nerves.
"Do you want dessert?" She asked, knowing that her last resort tactic would somehow work.
Toshi nodded with fearful eyes.
"Then," she continued resolutely, "I think you better go inside for your bath, don't you?"
Without much prompting, and a hearty laugh from her, he grabbed her outstretched hand grudgingly and began to pull her into the silent villa. She bit back an amused smile as her four-year old son continued to pout; it was a wonder how much little boys hated having baths! If it didn't cause such a struggle for her, she would have thoroughly enjoyed his daily protests against taking one.
A soft chuckle from behind caught her attention.
Tohru halted in her steps and slowly turned towards the unfamiliar voice; her hand slowly tightened around her son's without her awareness.
A man, dressed in a casual yukata, smiled at her openly.
His captivating dark eyes seemed to glitter against the rays of the setting sun, pulling her dangerously deeper into their shimmering depths. She blinked as Toshi stepped closer to her, tugging her hand as her grip tightened to an uncomfortable squeeze. She frowned before looking down at her son and murmuring her wishes. He bounded away into the villa without a second thought as she continued to gaze at the boyish man that swaggered up to her.
She smiled politely, "Can I help you?" Good, that wasn't too aloof but it wasn't warming either; he was making her feel slightly dizzy with his probing stare. This was the second, or perhaps third, time she felt uncomfortable at the Sohma estate... Unluckily for her, her husband was not present to greet this new guest with her.
"Yes, you can," he replied suavely, "I'm looking for Takagawa Hitoshi."
"Yes..." she watched his eyes sparkle with interest at her hesitancy, "What business do you have with him, Mr..?"
"Sohma Shigure and please I insist that you call me Shigure," he bowed with a charming smile, which she returned. "I heard that Hitoshi-san was staying here as a guest and since not many people are invited to stay behind the gates of the Honke, I thought that I would pay him a visit. You are his wife, Tohru-san, I presume?"
Tohru smiled and nodded softly. She felt slightly better for knowing the name of the mysterious man standing before her--but not that much, "I'll tell him you stopped by."
"Actually," he grinned sheepishly, "I was hoping to invite the two of you out to a welcome dinner with myself and my cousins. I believe you met them yesterday; Ayame and Hatori? They too told me you were staying here and that you were an old friend of my dear cousin, Yuki."
She began to relax slightly more as he spoke the names of his three cousins; even though she was slightly suspicious of their intent, they seemed to be lovely gentlemen in retrospect. Particularly Yuki, who was the perfect prince in her early years of highschool at Kaibara High. "Ah, yes. I believe I did meet Ayame-san and Hatori-san yesterday. They seem very... Nice." Tohru almost winced at her choice of words. Nice? How could she use such a bland and unintelligent word? The thought to smack herself crossed her mind, which she decided against lest she came across as a deranged mother.
She was brought to attention by her son's wailing voice from inside the villa.
The man, Shigure-san, chuckled deeply. The sound was certainly not unpleasant to her ears and soon she found herself laughing with him.
"I take it that's your son?" He asked curiously.
Tohru nodded eagerly, "In all his wailing glory."
Shigure-san smiled lightly, "He seems to be a handful," Tohru didn't miss the wistful tone of his voice.
"At times," she replied honestly, "But I wouldn't change one hair on his head for the world! I'm blessed to have him."
"You love him very much, I gather," the mysterious man seemed to change from a grinning child to a sobered man in an instant; she was loathe to say that she had been caught off guard by the drastic shift in character. Perhaps... Perhaps his family life had been difficult? She strangely felt bad for the man, even though she had no clue as to what his background entailed.
"W-well," she stuttered, trying to grasp at words that she couldn't reach, "I lost my mother and father at a young age, so I know how it feels to be without a family and--I don't ever want him to feel the way I did. So, yes, I love him very much," she halted her rambling before she embarrassed herself further.
Shigure-san blinked heavily before reverting back to his smiling stance, "Then he is an extremely lucky little boy!" He exclaimed with an exuberance that bordered on psychotic. It was beginning to make her feel flustered; how many character traits did the man possess??
Tohru frowned as she felt a gentle tug in the strings of her heart, "Have we met?" She asked suddenly.
"No--no," he answered brusquely, as if waving the question away, "But perhaps you saw me many years ago with Yuki at his old highschool?"
She nodded slowly as though she were being enlightened, "That could be why I feel like I've known you from... Long ago." The feeling in the pit of her stomach was like that of a heavy serrated rock, embedded in the folds of her gut. She couldn't shake the uncanny emotion that was rising within her due to the bold, vivacious man in front of her.
He laughed awkwardly to fill the silence as she continued to think to herself.
"And who is this?"
Tohru looked away from the grassy earth beneath her feet and pulled herself from the troublesome thoughts that had captured her mind as her husband's voice reached out to her and rescued her from the never-ending possibilities that resided in her mind.
"Sohma Shigure," the man bowed his head to her husband eagerly which was returned with equal interest, "Let me guess, you must be Takagawa Hitoshi?"
Her husband smiled, "Indeed I am, how may I help you?"
"I wanted to welcome you to the Honke. It's unusual for a guest to be invited, and when they are... They are treated with reverence," Shigure replied smoothly, "That and I also wished to invite you and your lovely family out to a welcome dinner tonight; if you would be so kind as to accept the invitation."
Tohru opened her mouth to speak but froze as her husband and Shigure turned to look at her, "I--Well, I've already cooked dinner..." She trailed off and sent a pleading glance to her husband. It would be such a shame to waste the food she had prepared, especially after the lengths she had to go to in order to find the ingredients!
Unfortunately, Hitoshi had other plans in mind, "I'm sure we could go out this once Tohru? After all, it would be shame that Shigure-san has come all this way to invite us, only to have his offer declined. What do you think?"
"I absolutely agree," Shigure chimed in, "And please, call me Shigure."
Tohru sighed as her husband and Shigure continued to engage in their light banter. She almost smiled as she noticed their interaction with one another became jovial and friendly. Perhaps it wouldn't be so bad to go out... "Ok," she interrupted, "I'll pack the food away... Will you please come inside, Shigure-san?"
The man smiled and shook his head, "Oh no, I have to meet with another cousin. Shall we meet at the gates in an hour?"
"We will be there," Hitoshi said gently.
"Good, good. I look forward to our evening," Shigure focused his eyes upon Tohru and bowed slowly before turning to leave the front pathway of their guest villa.
Tohru shook her head silently at her husband before heeding the urgent calls of their excited son. Knowing him, he'd probably soaked the entire bathroom with soapy suds. It was at moments like these she wondered how her life had become so complicated.
She started and began to laugh as Hitoshi's lips grazed the upper tip of her ear; he seemed to have followed her into the villa without her knowledge.
"I promise we'll have tomorrow night all to ourselves," he whispered, before disappearing into their bedroom as she continued on towards the bathroom.
He could see it in they way the man completely dismissed Tohru's plea; he could ascertain that she was less than pleased at having to waste all of her deliciously cooked food. If there was anything Shigure was good at, it was discerning people and their true hidden emotions. He prided himself on the fact that he had the ability to read other people so intimately. But at that moment, when he saw her eyes plead with her husband, he cursed his ability. He wished he could have protected her from Akito's bidding--from Hatori.
But all he was good at was scheming and planning.
Only this time, he wouldn't benefit from it. He would save her and her family... Because he could see how much love she had for them and how much they adored her; even though at times her husband was quite dense towards her feelings, Shigure had to admit that the love in Hitoshi's heart was there.
And he vowed to protect that, by any means necessary.
He couldn't even bring himself to look at her.
What sort of a man did that make him? A cowardly one, he thought to himself miserably. The dinner had gone well, as far as he could discern, but Yuki would never have gone if he'd known that she and his annoying brother would be at the restaurant
And now, they were all seated around the low table in Shigure's house, drinking green tea as they conversed lightly.
He should have known that Shigure was up to something. In the past few years, the dog had not readily communicated with the other members of the Jyuunishi and Yuki had a suspecting feeling it was something to do with Tohru and her absence. Perhaps the dog felt somewhat responsible for Akito's decision? In any case, it would never be clear as to how Shigure felt.
But even at this very moment, Yuki felt apprehensive towards the dog's motives.
"So," Shigure spoke up, "How did you and Tohru-kun meet, Hitoshi-san?"
Yuki frowned at the dog's endearment of Tohru's name.
Shigure, without a shadow of doubt, was planning something, something that Yuki could not pin-point.
He glanced across the lowered table and caught the delightful crimson blush that stained Tohru's cheeks. He shook his head imperceptibly; even without her memory, she still seemed to be embarrassed by Shigure's comments and questions. Not that Yuki was complaining... She looked incredibly beautiful when she blushed in that way and he had always been enamoured by her subtle yet captivating blushes, especially at that very moment.
His thoughts were cut short by the gentle, yet grating laughter of Tohru's husband. Yuki grimaced as he looked away from the party seated at the table; he didn't want to be caught staring at the man's wife.
"I was lucky enough to have Tohru apply for a job in my company. I hired her and the rest is ancient, but wonderful, history," Hitoshi smiled down to the left at his wife whilst watching her continue to blush.
At that moment, Yuki saw an unexpected flash in the crafty dog's eyes. He wondered what it could mean.
"Oh how wonderful!" Ayame's irritating voice screamed from his right. Yuki winced, almost dropping the delicate cup filled with his refreshing green tea. He glared openly at his brother, which was ignored by the snake as he continued to speak loudly, "But I'm so disappointed that young Toshi isn't here with us, such a charming little boy!"
"I'm sorry you couldn't spend more time with him Ayame-san," Tohru remarked softly, "It's passed Toshi's bed-time but perhaps you could visit him tomorrow? I know that he certainly enjoyed your company at the restaurant this evening."
"Really?" The snake leaned forward with his chin in his palm, "I feel bad though," Ayame pouted, "For letting you put him to bed so soon."
"Yes," Hitoshi interjected, "But if Toshi doesn't get enough rest, we will have to bear the full brunt of his disgruntled attack in the morning."
Yuki watched in fascination as the couple laughed together. He had to admit, he was glad they had put the little boy to bed in Shigure's spare room. He only reminded Yuki, constantly, of what he had missed out on. The man sitting next to Tohru could have been him, not Hitoshi. Or... It could have been Kyo. There was never any real way know for sure which person she would pick...
"I'll be stopping by tomorrow to see him then!" Ayame cried deliriously as he stood dramatically from the low table, "But for now, I bid thee farewell and good-night!" He bowed dramatically, causing Tohru giggle quietly into her hand. "Come 'Tori-san," he motioned to his cousin and dear friend, "We had better be off!"
For nearly the entire night, Hatori had been quiet. Yuki wasn't sure what was going through the dragon's mind but he was certain he did not wish to know. He was beyond caring for the older man. After all, it was his fault that Tohru... Was with another man. And for that, Yuki could never forgive him. He supposed he openly showed his disliking for the dragon and snake in that fact that he had barely spoken three words to them all evening, but it was lucky for him the guests had not picked up on the discomfort he felt.
"Shall I drive?" Ayame quipped.
"No," Hatori replied flatly. The doctor bowed his head at the couple, "It's been a pleasure Hitoshi-san, Tohru-san."
They smiled at him before he turned to address Shigure, "Shigure," Yuki thought his voice sounded quite threatening, "Have a good evening."
A moment of unearthly tension passed between them and yet, the rest of the group except Yuki seemed oblivious to it. From the corner of his eye, he could see the gentle nudge Tohru gave her husband and soon they too declared it was time to leave. The remaining seated quartet stood and slowly the group made their way towards the entrance as Tohru left to collect her slumbering son from the nearby room.
Once outside in the crisp evening, Ayame and Hatori retreated before Shigure spoke again, "Well now, Hitoshi-san, having the pleasure of getting to know you and your family this evening, I must insist that you come and stay at my house when you have a moment to spare. Your company would mean everything to me."
Yuki blinked at the imposing invitation made by the calculating dog.
The dark-haired man smiled in answer to Shigure's comment, "We will, Shigure-san. Thank you again for a wonderful evening."
"You're welcome."
"Ready?" Tohru's voice called from the open entrance before she walked towards the group with her sleeping son in her arms. The four exchanged brief farewells before Yuki and Shigure watched the young family depart.
Yuki was left suddenly feeling bereft as the private car drove away into the night. It was a good thing he didn't stay at the Honke; his penthouse in the inner-city was the one place he could escape from the Sohma family, but if it meant he had to give it up just to see her then... He wasn't sure what he would have been willing to do.
"There she goes."
His deep purple eyes flickered at Shigure's weary remark. The dog never seemed to lack energy... He wondered what could be on his mind.
"What are you up to, Shigure?" Yuki asked simply as they stood side by side on the quiet porch of the house where he had spent his teenage years.
"Nothing," he sighed, "Nothing at all."
"Bull-shit."
"I never knew that Yuki-kun could swear," the dog muttered cynically to himself.
Yuki frowned, "Don't think you can lie to me Shigure," he accused, "I know you're up to something and if this has anything to do with Honda-san-"
"Yuki," Shigure interrupted softly, "Go home. Tomorrow's going to be a long day."
He scowled and looked sharply at the older man standing silently beside him, "Don't hurt her again, Shigure," and with that final warning, the rat of the Jyuunishi stepped away from the lighted house and disappeared into the dark shadow of the night.
He was doing this to save her and family. He couldn't let Akito hurt them, if that was his plan. And so he opted to do the honorable thing and help the Takagawa family. Which in itself should be a miracle as anybody who knew the dog of the Jyuunishi, knows full well he only ever helps himself first.
There was something bothering him though... Jealousy. Yes, he was incredibly jealous of Tohru's relationship with the seemingly perfect man. She could hug him, love him and there would be no interference of family politics in their life. He found it so amazingly wrong that others could have such freedom and love, when he was bound for all of his life to a certain head of the family he despised with no remorse.
The loneliness was suffocating.
It was killing him.
His train of tough lead him to stop in front of his office door. Should he..? It's been so long, he though to himself reasonably. Surely he could...
Bracing himself, he entered the dark room and swiftly sat down behind the computer at his low desk. Without second thought to his actions, he picked up the phone and dialled the memorized number with renewed vigor.
The phone rang on the other end for a few moments before he heard someone pick up.
"Moshi-moshi?" The smooth, silky, recognizable voice was soothing to his ears.
Shigure found himself relaxing slightly, "It's me," he said softly, clearing his throat.
"Shigure? It's late, is everything ok?" the concerned timbre of the voice warmed the dog somewhat and slowly, he felt a small part of his loneliness ebb away from his aura.
"Yes, Mii-chan... Everything is fine."
"Oh, ok..." A small pause followed, "How's the manuscript coming along? You know it has to be done in two days."
Shigure grinned, "I still have a few hundred pages to write."
There was another pause, this time a lengthy one.
Three. Two. One
"What do you mean?! Are you out of your mind?"
Shigure grimaced lightly at his editor's shrill voice, "But Mii-chan," he whined playfully, "I've been so busy!"
"Doing what exactly?" She screamed, unimpressed.
"Well I--"
"Look Shigure, I don't have time for your games! I'm having a lovely romantic evening, so stop getting me unnecessarily worked up about it. You'll have it done in time, and if you don't, I will personally castrate you."
The gentle click of the receiver indicated that their conversation was over.
Shigure stared at the phone. A romantic evening? He had a right mind to call her again and demand that she pay him some attention; demand that she love him.
He sighed dejectedly.
So much for feeling better. The woman he had secretly fallen in love with, wanted nothing to do with him and she was having a 'romantic evening' with some poor unsuspecting fool. Why couldn't she see that she was his reason for being, his reason for everything. But it wasn't like he could do anything about this new-found love. Hatori was an excellent example of that. His separation from Kana had devastated the dragon; even Yuki and Kyo were heart-broken when Tohru was sent away... So it was true, there was nothing he could do. And it wasn't as if he deserved love, regardless of the fact that he had fallen for his charmingly shrill editor.
He knew what his top priority was, and that was to help Tohru and her family disappear from Akito's radar. The clock wheels were turning; it would only be a matter of time before he could rest somewhat easily, having returned the Takagawa family safely back to Tokyo.
May the Gods forgive him for what he planned.
This was a review I received.
Now, I hate to do this, but I personally wish to address this reviewer called unknown chick. Who do you think you are? How dare you leave that vile 'review' in my review box. I'm not one to be rude, but what is your problem? I am not an evil bastard just because I can't update (I've recently had a baby, which I have commented about at least a dozen times). How dare you demand anything from me?! Your audacity leaves me stunned and frankly not impressed. What sort of person are you to leave such an abusive review? I received one like yours before but did not waste my time commenting on it but this has gone too far. I will not delete your review, because it only reminds me how childish ff.net has become! Next time leave your e-mail address. Or better yet, personally e-mail me and threaten me like that so I can say a few things to you on your behavior and conduct. I cannot believe how disgustingly immature some reviewers at ff.net have become. For the people that reviewed and asked nicely for me to update, here's the next instalment, I hope everyone is enjoying the ride so far.
Thanks goes out to ppiglette, Ariyana, PeaceSeeker, Saryuri, Night-Owl123, Sweet-girl8270, hannah5o, Moonmage and Liliath, who reviewed recently and have stuck with me so far, you guys are great!
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Cha pter Five
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Previously...-
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Cha pter Five
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< br>
Shigure felt like a changed man... No more plots, no more schemes involving his little flower; he would do everything in his power to protect her from Akito's black touch. If he was honest, he would admit to himself that he was jealous and surprised that she already had a family to call her own--especially when he had nothing and no-one to call his. Perhaps it was nostalgia, but he wished that he could find the essence of Tohru's happiness for himself. He had tried that many years ago, unsuccessfully; but Shigure knew that every bit of joy his little flower received, she deserved.
And so, he vowed that he would disentangle her from the Sohma web once and for all. The only problem now was to get his cousins to agree to his emotionally disturbing plan.
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"But I want to play, Kasaan!"-
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"Toshi," her unimpressed voice was evident to anyone that happened to stumble onto the mother and son duo, "I will not repeat myself. You need to take a bath before dinner; look at you, you're filthy!"
Her son pouted and whined for another ten minutes before the battle began to wear thin on her strained nerves.
"Do you want dessert?" She asked, knowing that her last resort tactic would somehow work.
Toshi nodded with fearful eyes.
"Then," she continued resolutely, "I think you better go inside for your bath, don't you?"
Without much prompting, and a hearty laugh from her, he grabbed her outstretched hand grudgingly and began to pull her into the silent villa. She bit back an amused smile as her four-year old son continued to pout; it was a wonder how much little boys hated having baths! If it didn't cause such a struggle for her, she would have thoroughly enjoyed his daily protests against taking one.
A soft chuckle from behind caught her attention.
Tohru halted in her steps and slowly turned towards the unfamiliar voice; her hand slowly tightened around her son's without her awareness.
A man, dressed in a casual yukata, smiled at her openly.
His captivating dark eyes seemed to glitter against the rays of the setting sun, pulling her dangerously deeper into their shimmering depths. She blinked as Toshi stepped closer to her, tugging her hand as her grip tightened to an uncomfortable squeeze. She frowned before looking down at her son and murmuring her wishes. He bounded away into the villa without a second thought as she continued to gaze at the boyish man that swaggered up to her.
She smiled politely, "Can I help you?" Good, that wasn't too aloof but it wasn't warming either; he was making her feel slightly dizzy with his probing stare. This was the second, or perhaps third, time she felt uncomfortable at the Sohma estate... Unluckily for her, her husband was not present to greet this new guest with her.
"Yes, you can," he replied suavely, "I'm looking for Takagawa Hitoshi."
"Yes..." she watched his eyes sparkle with interest at her hesitancy, "What business do you have with him, Mr..?"
"Sohma Shigure and please I insist that you call me Shigure," he bowed with a charming smile, which she returned. "I heard that Hitoshi-san was staying here as a guest and since not many people are invited to stay behind the gates of the Honke, I thought that I would pay him a visit. You are his wife, Tohru-san, I presume?"
Tohru smiled and nodded softly. She felt slightly better for knowing the name of the mysterious man standing before her--but not that much, "I'll tell him you stopped by."
"Actually," he grinned sheepishly, "I was hoping to invite the two of you out to a welcome dinner with myself and my cousins. I believe you met them yesterday; Ayame and Hatori? They too told me you were staying here and that you were an old friend of my dear cousin, Yuki."
She began to relax slightly more as he spoke the names of his three cousins; even though she was slightly suspicious of their intent, they seemed to be lovely gentlemen in retrospect. Particularly Yuki, who was the perfect prince in her early years of highschool at Kaibara High. "Ah, yes. I believe I did meet Ayame-san and Hatori-san yesterday. They seem very... Nice." Tohru almost winced at her choice of words. Nice? How could she use such a bland and unintelligent word? The thought to smack herself crossed her mind, which she decided against lest she came across as a deranged mother.
She was brought to attention by her son's wailing voice from inside the villa.
The man, Shigure-san, chuckled deeply. The sound was certainly not unpleasant to her ears and soon she found herself laughing with him.
"I take it that's your son?" He asked curiously.
Tohru nodded eagerly, "In all his wailing glory."
Shigure-san smiled lightly, "He seems to be a handful," Tohru didn't miss the wistful tone of his voice.
"At times," she replied honestly, "But I wouldn't change one hair on his head for the world! I'm blessed to have him."
"You love him very much, I gather," the mysterious man seemed to change from a grinning child to a sobered man in an instant; she was loathe to say that she had been caught off guard by the drastic shift in character. Perhaps... Perhaps his family life had been difficult? She strangely felt bad for the man, even though she had no clue as to what his background entailed.
"W-well," she stuttered, trying to grasp at words that she couldn't reach, "I lost my mother and father at a young age, so I know how it feels to be without a family and--I don't ever want him to feel the way I did. So, yes, I love him very much," she halted her rambling before she embarrassed herself further.
Shigure-san blinked heavily before reverting back to his smiling stance, "Then he is an extremely lucky little boy!" He exclaimed with an exuberance that bordered on psychotic. It was beginning to make her feel flustered; how many character traits did the man possess??
Tohru frowned as she felt a gentle tug in the strings of her heart, "Have we met?" She asked suddenly.
"No--no," he answered brusquely, as if waving the question away, "But perhaps you saw me many years ago with Yuki at his old highschool?"
She nodded slowly as though she were being enlightened, "That could be why I feel like I've known you from... Long ago." The feeling in the pit of her stomach was like that of a heavy serrated rock, embedded in the folds of her gut. She couldn't shake the uncanny emotion that was rising within her due to the bold, vivacious man in front of her.
He laughed awkwardly to fill the silence as she continued to think to herself.
"And who is this?"
Tohru looked away from the grassy earth beneath her feet and pulled herself from the troublesome thoughts that had captured her mind as her husband's voice reached out to her and rescued her from the never-ending possibilities that resided in her mind.
"Sohma Shigure," the man bowed his head to her husband eagerly which was returned with equal interest, "Let me guess, you must be Takagawa Hitoshi?"
Her husband smiled, "Indeed I am, how may I help you?"
"I wanted to welcome you to the Honke. It's unusual for a guest to be invited, and when they are... They are treated with reverence," Shigure replied smoothly, "That and I also wished to invite you and your lovely family out to a welcome dinner tonight; if you would be so kind as to accept the invitation."
Tohru opened her mouth to speak but froze as her husband and Shigure turned to look at her, "I--Well, I've already cooked dinner..." She trailed off and sent a pleading glance to her husband. It would be such a shame to waste the food she had prepared, especially after the lengths she had to go to in order to find the ingredients!
Unfortunately, Hitoshi had other plans in mind, "I'm sure we could go out this once Tohru? After all, it would be shame that Shigure-san has come all this way to invite us, only to have his offer declined. What do you think?"
"I absolutely agree," Shigure chimed in, "And please, call me Shigure."
Tohru sighed as her husband and Shigure continued to engage in their light banter. She almost smiled as she noticed their interaction with one another became jovial and friendly. Perhaps it wouldn't be so bad to go out... "Ok," she interrupted, "I'll pack the food away... Will you please come inside, Shigure-san?"
The man smiled and shook his head, "Oh no, I have to meet with another cousin. Shall we meet at the gates in an hour?"
"We will be there," Hitoshi said gently.
"Good, good. I look forward to our evening," Shigure focused his eyes upon Tohru and bowed slowly before turning to leave the front pathway of their guest villa.
Tohru shook her head silently at her husband before heeding the urgent calls of their excited son. Knowing him, he'd probably soaked the entire bathroom with soapy suds. It was at moments like these she wondered how her life had become so complicated.
She started and began to laugh as Hitoshi's lips grazed the upper tip of her ear; he seemed to have followed her into the villa without her knowledge.
"I promise we'll have tomorrow night all to ourselves," he whispered, before disappearing into their bedroom as she continued on towards the bathroom.
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Shigure breathed a sigh of relief as he walked away from the unbearably happy couple. He would be lying if he thought he wasn't jealous. He would be lying if he thought he didn't want to be in Hitoshi's shoes. The truth of the matter was, he was one incredibly lucky man and he had no idea as to how special his wife really was.-
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He could see it in they way the man completely dismissed Tohru's plea; he could ascertain that she was less than pleased at having to waste all of her deliciously cooked food. If there was anything Shigure was good at, it was discerning people and their true hidden emotions. He prided himself on the fact that he had the ability to read other people so intimately. But at that moment, when he saw her eyes plead with her husband, he cursed his ability. He wished he could have protected her from Akito's bidding--from Hatori.
But all he was good at was scheming and planning.
Only this time, he wouldn't benefit from it. He would save her and her family... Because he could see how much love she had for them and how much they adored her; even though at times her husband was quite dense towards her feelings, Shigure had to admit that the love in Hitoshi's heart was there.
And he vowed to protect that, by any means necessary.
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This was a disaster.-
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He couldn't even bring himself to look at her.
What sort of a man did that make him? A cowardly one, he thought to himself miserably. The dinner had gone well, as far as he could discern, but Yuki would never have gone if he'd known that she and his annoying brother would be at the restaurant
And now, they were all seated around the low table in Shigure's house, drinking green tea as they conversed lightly.
He should have known that Shigure was up to something. In the past few years, the dog had not readily communicated with the other members of the Jyuunishi and Yuki had a suspecting feeling it was something to do with Tohru and her absence. Perhaps the dog felt somewhat responsible for Akito's decision? In any case, it would never be clear as to how Shigure felt.
But even at this very moment, Yuki felt apprehensive towards the dog's motives.
"So," Shigure spoke up, "How did you and Tohru-kun meet, Hitoshi-san?"
Yuki frowned at the dog's endearment of Tohru's name.
Shigure, without a shadow of doubt, was planning something, something that Yuki could not pin-point.
He glanced across the lowered table and caught the delightful crimson blush that stained Tohru's cheeks. He shook his head imperceptibly; even without her memory, she still seemed to be embarrassed by Shigure's comments and questions. Not that Yuki was complaining... She looked incredibly beautiful when she blushed in that way and he had always been enamoured by her subtle yet captivating blushes, especially at that very moment.
His thoughts were cut short by the gentle, yet grating laughter of Tohru's husband. Yuki grimaced as he looked away from the party seated at the table; he didn't want to be caught staring at the man's wife.
"I was lucky enough to have Tohru apply for a job in my company. I hired her and the rest is ancient, but wonderful, history," Hitoshi smiled down to the left at his wife whilst watching her continue to blush.
At that moment, Yuki saw an unexpected flash in the crafty dog's eyes. He wondered what it could mean.
"Oh how wonderful!" Ayame's irritating voice screamed from his right. Yuki winced, almost dropping the delicate cup filled with his refreshing green tea. He glared openly at his brother, which was ignored by the snake as he continued to speak loudly, "But I'm so disappointed that young Toshi isn't here with us, such a charming little boy!"
"I'm sorry you couldn't spend more time with him Ayame-san," Tohru remarked softly, "It's passed Toshi's bed-time but perhaps you could visit him tomorrow? I know that he certainly enjoyed your company at the restaurant this evening."
"Really?" The snake leaned forward with his chin in his palm, "I feel bad though," Ayame pouted, "For letting you put him to bed so soon."
"Yes," Hitoshi interjected, "But if Toshi doesn't get enough rest, we will have to bear the full brunt of his disgruntled attack in the morning."
Yuki watched in fascination as the couple laughed together. He had to admit, he was glad they had put the little boy to bed in Shigure's spare room. He only reminded Yuki, constantly, of what he had missed out on. The man sitting next to Tohru could have been him, not Hitoshi. Or... It could have been Kyo. There was never any real way know for sure which person she would pick...
"I'll be stopping by tomorrow to see him then!" Ayame cried deliriously as he stood dramatically from the low table, "But for now, I bid thee farewell and good-night!" He bowed dramatically, causing Tohru giggle quietly into her hand. "Come 'Tori-san," he motioned to his cousin and dear friend, "We had better be off!"
For nearly the entire night, Hatori had been quiet. Yuki wasn't sure what was going through the dragon's mind but he was certain he did not wish to know. He was beyond caring for the older man. After all, it was his fault that Tohru... Was with another man. And for that, Yuki could never forgive him. He supposed he openly showed his disliking for the dragon and snake in that fact that he had barely spoken three words to them all evening, but it was lucky for him the guests had not picked up on the discomfort he felt.
"Shall I drive?" Ayame quipped.
"No," Hatori replied flatly. The doctor bowed his head at the couple, "It's been a pleasure Hitoshi-san, Tohru-san."
They smiled at him before he turned to address Shigure, "Shigure," Yuki thought his voice sounded quite threatening, "Have a good evening."
A moment of unearthly tension passed between them and yet, the rest of the group except Yuki seemed oblivious to it. From the corner of his eye, he could see the gentle nudge Tohru gave her husband and soon they too declared it was time to leave. The remaining seated quartet stood and slowly the group made their way towards the entrance as Tohru left to collect her slumbering son from the nearby room.
Once outside in the crisp evening, Ayame and Hatori retreated before Shigure spoke again, "Well now, Hitoshi-san, having the pleasure of getting to know you and your family this evening, I must insist that you come and stay at my house when you have a moment to spare. Your company would mean everything to me."
Yuki blinked at the imposing invitation made by the calculating dog.
The dark-haired man smiled in answer to Shigure's comment, "We will, Shigure-san. Thank you again for a wonderful evening."
"You're welcome."
"Ready?" Tohru's voice called from the open entrance before she walked towards the group with her sleeping son in her arms. The four exchanged brief farewells before Yuki and Shigure watched the young family depart.
Yuki was left suddenly feeling bereft as the private car drove away into the night. It was a good thing he didn't stay at the Honke; his penthouse in the inner-city was the one place he could escape from the Sohma family, but if it meant he had to give it up just to see her then... He wasn't sure what he would have been willing to do.
"There she goes."
His deep purple eyes flickered at Shigure's weary remark. The dog never seemed to lack energy... He wondered what could be on his mind.
"What are you up to, Shigure?" Yuki asked simply as they stood side by side on the quiet porch of the house where he had spent his teenage years.
"Nothing," he sighed, "Nothing at all."
"Bull-shit."
"I never knew that Yuki-kun could swear," the dog muttered cynically to himself.
Yuki frowned, "Don't think you can lie to me Shigure," he accused, "I know you're up to something and if this has anything to do with Honda-san-"
"Yuki," Shigure interrupted softly, "Go home. Tomorrow's going to be a long day."
He scowled and looked sharply at the older man standing silently beside him, "Don't hurt her again, Shigure," and with that final warning, the rat of the Jyuunishi stepped away from the lighted house and disappeared into the dark shadow of the night.
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Shigure breathed a sigh of relief as the final guest left. Deep down, he knew that Yuki meant business with his warning, but he also knew it was something he would not heed.-
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He was doing this to save her and family. He couldn't let Akito hurt them, if that was his plan. And so he opted to do the honorable thing and help the Takagawa family. Which in itself should be a miracle as anybody who knew the dog of the Jyuunishi, knows full well he only ever helps himself first.
There was something bothering him though... Jealousy. Yes, he was incredibly jealous of Tohru's relationship with the seemingly perfect man. She could hug him, love him and there would be no interference of family politics in their life. He found it so amazingly wrong that others could have such freedom and love, when he was bound for all of his life to a certain head of the family he despised with no remorse.
The loneliness was suffocating.
It was killing him.
His train of tough lead him to stop in front of his office door. Should he..? It's been so long, he though to himself reasonably. Surely he could...
Bracing himself, he entered the dark room and swiftly sat down behind the computer at his low desk. Without second thought to his actions, he picked up the phone and dialled the memorized number with renewed vigor.
The phone rang on the other end for a few moments before he heard someone pick up.
"Moshi-moshi?" The smooth, silky, recognizable voice was soothing to his ears.
Shigure found himself relaxing slightly, "It's me," he said softly, clearing his throat.
"Shigure? It's late, is everything ok?" the concerned timbre of the voice warmed the dog somewhat and slowly, he felt a small part of his loneliness ebb away from his aura.
"Yes, Mii-chan... Everything is fine."
"Oh, ok..." A small pause followed, "How's the manuscript coming along? You know it has to be done in two days."
Shigure grinned, "I still have a few hundred pages to write."
There was another pause, this time a lengthy one.
Three. Two. One
"What do you mean?! Are you out of your mind?"
Shigure grimaced lightly at his editor's shrill voice, "But Mii-chan," he whined playfully, "I've been so busy!"
"Doing what exactly?" She screamed, unimpressed.
"Well I--"
"Look Shigure, I don't have time for your games! I'm having a lovely romantic evening, so stop getting me unnecessarily worked up about it. You'll have it done in time, and if you don't, I will personally castrate you."
The gentle click of the receiver indicated that their conversation was over.
Shigure stared at the phone. A romantic evening? He had a right mind to call her again and demand that she pay him some attention; demand that she love him.
He sighed dejectedly.
So much for feeling better. The woman he had secretly fallen in love with, wanted nothing to do with him and she was having a 'romantic evening' with some poor unsuspecting fool. Why couldn't she see that she was his reason for being, his reason for everything. But it wasn't like he could do anything about this new-found love. Hatori was an excellent example of that. His separation from Kana had devastated the dragon; even Yuki and Kyo were heart-broken when Tohru was sent away... So it was true, there was nothing he could do. And it wasn't as if he deserved love, regardless of the fact that he had fallen for his charmingly shrill editor.
He knew what his top priority was, and that was to help Tohru and her family disappear from Akito's radar. The clock wheels were turning; it would only be a matter of time before he could rest somewhat easily, having returned the Takagawa family safely back to Tokyo.
May the Gods forgive him for what he planned.
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