Love Hina Fan Fiction ❯ A Fragile Love ❯ Episode 4: Sweet Kisses for the Day ( Chapter 4 )

A Fragile Love

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Episode 4: Sweet Kisses for the Day

Legend

Word denotes character thought

Word denotes setting, time

-Word- denotes sound effect

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Timeline: June 2, 2000 AD, 8:00 AM morning

Location: Hinata-Sou

-RING-

 

An alarm clock rang in schedule inside the fox lady's room.

 

"-Yawn- Ugh… looks like I had too much to drink again," Mitsune groggily spoke, turning it off. Her head throbbed like crazy. Scratching her body with her hand, she got up and headed straight to the bathroom.

 

-SLAM-

 

She emptied the effects of another hangover from her usual drinking.

 

-FLUSH-

 

"Ugh… I still don't feel good. Maybe I should grab a drink in the kitchen."

 

She preceded downstairs to the kitchen. As she stepped inside, a welcoming aroma of cooked food traveled inside her nose.

 

"-Sniff- -Sniff- It smells good… must be Shinobu's work."

 

She walked in to find her guess wrong.

 

Inside, Keitaro was busy cooking up breakfast. As he turned around to see who walked in, a funny, but cute sight stunned her --- over his clothes consisting of a white shirt and blue jeans, a pink cooking apron was tied around him.

 

Mitsune couldn't help but notice the dorm manager's built figure through his shirt and on his arms.

 

I must be seeing things, or the alcohol is still getting into me.

 

The fox lady shook off the thought and took a second look at him.

 

"Good morning, Mitsune. I take it you just suffered from another hangover?" Keitaro asked, cooking scrambled eggs and bacon on a frying pan.

 

"Ugh… well, yeah. Just came by to find a drink to remove this," Mitsune replied, walking to the refrigerator and opening it. She rummaged through the contents to find a drink.

 

"Wait a second, Mitsune. I think I know of a good drink to relieve you of that hangover," the dorm manager said. He finished cooking and transferred the food to a plate. He grabbed a rag attached to the refrigerator's handle and wiped his hands with it.

 

"Is that so? Hmm… well, I'll take any drink to rid of this headache," she looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

 

"Just sit down and wait. Let me make this, ok?" Keitaro motioned her to sit down on a seat in the dining room. After getting her to relax, he proceeded to take out a packet from the cabinets. He ripped it open and emptied its contents in a cup. He then heated drinking water in a water heater. After a few minutes, he poured the hot water into the cup and mixed the contents with a spoon, dissolving them within the liquid. With that done, he returned to the dining room where the fox lady waited.

 

"Here you go," Keitaro placed the hot drink on the table in front of her, "drink this. It'll help ease off the effects from your hangover."

 

Mitsune looked at the drink before taking a sip.

 

"-Sip- -Blech- What's this stuff you put in here, Keitaro!" she exclaimed.

 

"A friend of mine back in America gave me packets of these. He said that it eases hangovers. It's like an herbal remedy. I tried it myself; it really worked!" he controlled the urge to stifle a laugh at her.

 

As Mitsune was about to take another sip, she noticed how desiring his smile was. She looked at his face and realized the new look he sported.

 

I don't what's going on with me, but I'm beginning to get attracted to him.

 

Damn! He looks so… manly.

 

Her cheeks blushed at the thoughts, prompting her to cover them with her hands.

 

Keitaro was puzzled by her behavior. He waved his hand in front of her face, bringing her back to reality.

 

"Mitsune, are you ok?"

 

She snapped out of her trance state.

 

"Oh! Sorry about that. I just went weird for a second," she noticed the unfinished drink, "Whoops. Well, I'll give this a try then."

 

She drank it to the last drop and placed the cup back on the table. The drink's effects started kicking in her system.

 

"Ah… not bad, though, it could use some work in the taste."

 

She stood up from her seat and felt her legs wobbling. She took a step forward and suddenly fell down.

 

Keitaro managed to catch her in his arms in time.

 

"I forgot to tell you the side effects of the herbal remedy; that was one of them. You'll begin to feel your body shaky and tired. But don't worry, after a day, it should wear off."

 

He then realized the position they were in --- she being on top of him and their face inches apart from each other.

 

She has such a nice body curve… no, I shouldn't think of her like that.

 

Back then, he'd have an instant nosebleed and squirm with arms flailing. But that was before.

 

Now, it was different. He had learned to change himself and grow a backbone. He felt his hormones trying to take over, telling him to enjoy the feeling of a beautiful woman pressed against him. He shook the thought off his head and gazed at her eyes.

 

"You have an amazing figure, Mitsune. No wonder you've got guys hitting on you,” he winked at her with a smile.

 

The fox lady was surprised and stunned by his action. She felt her heart quicken a beat.

 

This is the first time I've seen him like this. Should I?

 

She leaned her face close, sealing her lips with his. Her tongue prodding inside, craving for his to entangle with, which he hesitantly obliged.

 

Keitaro widened his eyes at the realization of his action. He broke the kiss in seconds and stood up. Mitsune touched her lips with her hand. A mischievous grin crossed her face.

 

"Oh, I didn't know you're a good kisser, Keitaro. Shall we go for another round?" she playfully teased him. He felt a slight blush on his face.

 

"Mitsune, I don't think it's needed. Plus, I think you need some rest. I also suggest that you shower up and change into some fresh clothes."

 

He smiled and patted her on the shoulder. He then went to the kitchen to fix up breakfast. Mitsune watched his retreating form.

 

"Keitaro… what have I done wrong?" she asked sadly. She headed upstairs to her room, dejected.

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An Hour Later

After waking themselves up, the rest of the girls showered and changed into a fresh set of clothes. They went downstairs to the dining room.

 

"I'll get breakfast started," Shinobu said. Her nose sniffed a whiff of deliciously cooked breakfast. She yelped in surprise at the sight of breakfast served ready in the dining room.

 

"What is it, Shinobu? Why did you--- huh?" Naru asked. Her eyes widen slightly like Shinobu's while the rest joined in.

 

"Shinobu, I praise your talent in cooking," Motoko complimented.

 

"Eh? T-Thank you, Motoko-sempai," Shinobu looked around the kitchen, "But I don't remember doing this quickly!"

 

-SLAM-

 

Keitaro entered the dining room in a moment.

 

"Good morning! I checked the roof for damages; moreover, I also fixed the antenna, so the TV in the living room will be clear and easy to watch now."

 

He wore a workman's belt carrying repair tools over his regular clothes and a workman's yellow helmet. In one hand, he carried the daily newspaper.

 

"Whew! Why are you girls still standing there? Breakfast's served!"

 

They were transfixed at the stunning sight standing in front of them.

 

They nodded in reply, their eyes glued to him. They took their seats and helped each other to portions of the meal.

 

"-Munch- -Munch- Wow, Keitaro! This breakfast's great! What do you call these?" Suu excitedly asked, eating at a remarkable speed. The others had anime-style sweatdrops on their heads as they watched her uncertain.

 

"Although I don't prefer western style cooking, I have to admit this tastes satisfactory, Urashima," Motoko added, taking light bites of her food, tasting it carefully. After swallowing it, a satisfied look etched on her face.

 

Keitaro smiled and waved off their compliments.

 

"During my stay in America, I learned to adapt to some of my American friends' cooking. Those are scrambled eggs with fried rice, bacon strips, and sausages. I find them to be delicious; however, I still have a yearning for some Japanese cuisine."

 

He sipped slowly a cup of coffee he made. He placed it back on the table and took out the morning newspaper, reading it.

 

The girls felt awkward as they ate. It was the first time they saw him that way.

 

Silence rang throughout the room, with the exception of Suu's noisy bites. They eyed him cautiously and had their thoughts about him.

 

Shinobu: Urashima-sempai looks and sounds different. But still, he looks so handsome!

 

Her eyes shone with earnest and wonder at her crush.

 

Mitsune: He tastes delicious; I never thought he was such a great kisser… jeez, why am I thinking that now! I'm starting to think nuts!

 

She forced herself to drink some orange juice provided.

 

Suu: I should be able to try out my latest invention on Keitaro --- the Mecha Tama version 3! I'm happy that he's back.

 

She happily continued her eating frenzy.

 

Motoko: This feeling… I sense Urashima's ki to be emanating a peaceful, stable aura. Has his trip to America changed him completely from the awkward, lecherous, and weak side of him I've come to remember? I feel calm when he's around.

 

Her arms were crossed and eyes closed, as she maintained a meditative stance in feeling the manager's aura.

 

Mutsumi: Kei-kun. Oh my… you've certainly changed yourself entirely. I hope you can hear my heart's feelings to you. I miss you so much.

 

She felt an urge to wrap her arms around him and cry out the tears that she had been holding back since his departure a year ago.

 

"Ara, Ara," she remarked, smiling gently at him.

 

Naru: I've never seen him to be like this. And did he have any other reason for his departure before?

 

She gazed intently at him.

 

You idiot, did you know how much I wanted to let you know that I loved you?

 

I'm so sorry that I pushed you back so many times in the past. I hope you can forgive me.

 

It's only now that I'm happy and relieved to see you again.

 

She placed aside her silverware on her plate, and wiped her lips with a napkin.

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The rest of the girls soon finished their breakfast.

 

"Ah, I'm stuffed!" Suu exclaimed, patting her stomach.

 

"Sempai, your cooking is good!" Shinobu complimented the manager, who blushed slightly in reaction.

 

"Ha, ha… thanks Shinobu. Don't worry about the dishes; I'll clean them up, ok? I want you to have more time on your studies, so don't concern yourself with the cooking," Keitaro said.

 

"But sempai…" she protested.

 

"I won't take no for an answer, Shinobu. Go get your things ready for class today ok?" he cut her off. He smiled at her and laid his hand on her shoulder in assurance.

 

"I will. Ok then."

 

Shinobu's cheeks flushed and she quickly sprang off from him like a deer, getting her school stuff. Suu slung her backpack around her shoulder and followed her.

 

"Catch you later, Keitaro!" she greeted.

 

"Keitaro, are you sure you can handle all of these dishes? You could use a little help with that," Naru said.

 

"I agree with Naru, Urashima. You might overwork yourself," Motoko added.

 

"Don't worry about that. I'm just trying to catch up on the duties of this job. Besides, it's nothing for you all to worry about."

 

Keitaro looked at the wall clock posted on the kitchen wall --- it read 8:45 AM.

 

"Isn't time for your classes, Naru?"

 

"WHAT! Oh no, I'm going to be late!" Naru exclaimed. She grabbed her small attaché case containing her school stuff and checked herself on a mirror posted on the living room. She then left.

 

Why didn't I notice the time! Oh no! I forgot to thank him for breakfast.

 

She rushed back to the kitchen.

 

"Thanks for breakfast, Keitaro. Bye!" she waved her hand and smiled at him, leaving in a hurry once more.

 

Motoko stood up from her seat and grabbed her gear. Her sword was strapped on her side.

 

"Thank you for breakfast, Urashima. I'll be leaving as well."

 

Keitaro took a glance at her sword and asked her.

 

"You know, I've seen many different styles of swords. I happen to know of a place that has them. If you're interested, would you like to see them with me?"

 

The female swordsman was slightly surprised by his remark.

 

"Sure. I accept your invitation.”

 

Maybe this could help me make up with him for my past mistakes.

 

"Great! Just tell me when you're free and I'll happen to take you there, ok?"

 

Keitaro knew that Motoko had a taste for swords, since she was naturally serious into martial arts and kendo.

 

I could use the exercise to keep me back in shape. It's been a year since I temporarily "retired" from my job back there in San Francisco.

 

He furrowed his eyebrows and asked, "I was wondering… could I train with you?"

 

He flexed his arms and stretched himself. Motoko watched him unsure of his fighting potential.

 

He wants to train with me? Come to think of it, I never see him fight. Hmm… it might not be bad to train with him.

 

"Hmm… very well, I'll consider it. Is tonight ok with you?"

 

"Are you sure? What about your Kendo class?"

 

"Well, my instructor saw few students joining and decided to change the time slot for the lessons. It's from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. I have plenty of time once done."

 

"I see. So I'll see you tonight then? How does 9:00 PM sound to you?"

 

Motoko noticed an anticipating gleam shining within his eyes.

 

Is he eager to train with me? Something doesn't feel right though.

 

"Yes, I'll see you then. Farewell," she then left. Mutsumi and Mitsune remained.

 

"Ara, Ara… Keitaro, I'll do the other chores while you're washing the dishes," Mutsumi offered. She stood up from her seat and went to the closet, opening it to get a cleaning rag and mop.

 

"Wait a sec, don't you have classes to attend?" Keitaro asked.

 

"Ara, Ara… I've decided to take the entrance exam for Toudai next year. But, I've got some night classes to make up for lost time."

 

"Well, if it's fine with you, I understand. Hmm? Where are you going, Mitsune?" he spotted the fox lady about to sneak away.

 

"Eh… I'm going back to my room, Keitaro," she replied sheepishly. The dorm manager sighed.

 

She's probably trying to avoid doing chores here. She should do something active, aside from that drinking and being cooped up in her room.

 

"Ok. But next time, try to make yourself useful around here, please?" he wagged his finger at her.

 

"Yeah, I got it. Sorry," Mitsune apologized, retreating to her room upstairs. Keitaro turned his attention at Mutsumi. As he watched her face, he couldn't help appreciate her beauty.

 

She looks so cute when up close.

 

And to realize that she was my female counterpart back then.

 

I guess she's still the same when I first met her.

 

He smiled as he recalled moments in his life when she fell on her periodic bouts of clumsiness, mostly putting him into delicate situations. Add her fainting bouts due to anemia, and he got a recipe for disaster.

 

"Kei-kun… there's been something I wanted to talk to you about. Do you have time to spare?" she asked out of the blue.

 

"Sure."

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The two took their seats. Keitaro noticed her eyes setting downward, and her lips curving slightly downward.

 

"Mutsumi, what is it?" he started.

 

"Kei-kun… have you ever thought about us while you stayed in America?"

 

"Of course I've had my mind about you girls during that time. I never stopped thinking about my managerial life here in the dorm. You know, it was you all who made me feel thankful to have you as part of my life."

 

"I see," Mutsumi smiled and placed her hand on her heart.

 

-DOKI- -DOKI- -DOKI-

 

She noticed a pendant worn around his neck. Pointing at it, she asked, "What's that pendant you're wearing?"

 

Keitaro looked at it.

 

"This? It's a pendant I bought during my stay,” he took it out for her to see. Mutsumi was interested in its shape.

 

"Kei-kun, why is it shaped like a heart?"

 

The dorm manager took a deep breath before continuing.

 

I guess it wouldn't hurt to show her.

 

He opened his pendant to reveal the two pictures of his promised girls.

 

"That's why, Mutsumi."

 

"Kei-kun… what do you mean?" Mutsumi looked at them, stunned.

 

"This is a memento of the promise I made. I know deep from my heart that it was you both who helped me become what I am now."

 

He reached for her hand and gently held it with his own. He gazed deeply at her eyes.

 

"I love you… Mu-chan."

 

Mutsumi let out a whimper of shock. She felt her heart stop beating for a moment, as she realized at the name he addressed her.

 

"Oh, Kei-kun!"

 

She jumped up and wrapped her arms around him, knocking him to the floor.

 

-THUD-

 

"Oof!" Keitaro yelped in surprise. He opened his eyes to see her face inches from his.

 

"Kei-kun… -Sob- do you know… -Sob- how much I wanted to hear that… -Sob- from you? -Sob- -Sob- I waited so long for those words from you!” Mutsumi couldn't stop the tears suddenly flooding from her eyes as cried onto his shoulder.

 

He embraced her tight as she cried.

 

"Mu-chan…”

 

"-Sob- -Sob- Kei-kun… now that you're here, -Sniff- I don't need to worry anymore."

 

She faced him.

 

"Mu-chan… I'm sorry for leaving you like that. Well, you already know why; I don't blame you listening in on my conversation with Aunt Haruka last night."

 

"You knew it all along?"

 

Keitaro stifled a small laugh.

 

"Yes I did, after sensing all you girls eager to listen in. I'm not angry. You know, you look cute when you cry; but, you look beautiful when you smile."

 

A small blush flushed on Mutsumi's cheeks.

 

"It's just that… you were the one person who could make me feel what I am to everyone," she closed her eyes and leaned her face slowly towards his, while he did the same.

 

"Kei-kun…"

 

"Mu-chan…"

 

They shared a meaningful kiss. After a minute, they broke off, catching their breaths.

 

"I wish I can tell you more, Mu-chan, but… some other time will do. I have business to take care of here in Japan.”

 

"I understand, Kei-kun."

 

The two stood up and regained their composure. Mutsumi reached for his hand and held it. She gave a small peck on his lips before doing the household cleaning.

 

"Welcome home, Kei-kun."

 

Keitaro touched his lips with his fingers. He smiled and looked at the two pictures of his promised girls in his pendant.

 

"But then again, is it right to love more than one?" he asked himself. He closed and returned it back in place.