Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Forever Mine ❯ The Calm Before the Storm ( Chapter 15 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Disclaimer - I don't own RK

Note - Hi everyone, I just wanted to let you all know that the bathroom described in this chapter is modeled after a traditional Japanese one. The style I chose has the toilet and sink in one room and the bathtub and shower in another room that is closed off by a door. Basically the bathing room is made entirely of plastic which allows the bather to rinse and shower outside of the tub before entering to enjoy a relaxing soak. I would love to have a set-up like this!

Also before I go I just want to say that this is the first time I've ever tried to write anything remotely close to a lime so please forgive me if it isn't very good.


Chapter 15 - The Calm Before the Storm

Kaoru woke slowly, the steady thumping in her ear making it hard for her to succumb to the call of nature dragging her up from oblivion. Willing away the ache in her belly she shifted slightly and nestled her cheek into the hard surface it rested on. Settling more into the warmth beneath her it slowly started to penetrate her sleep fogged mind that she wasn't on the sofa. If she wasn't mistaken, she wasn't sleeping on something she was sleeping on someone. Startled by the thought she snapped her head up and just stared at the grinning violet eyed man acting as her body pillow.

Shocked she immediately tried to jump up but was stopped by two very strong arms. Quirking an eyebrow at him she tried again to move, but found herself held quite firmly against his body. "Kenshin? What are you doing?"

Glancing out the window at the barely lit sky Kenshin smiled, "It's not time to get up yet."

Kaoru just stared at him as if he was insane and then her eyes narrowed at the smirking gaze he fixed her with. "Kenshin, I have to use the bathroom." When all he did was continue to smile she glared at him and tried to wiggle herself loose. Instantly she found herself pulled against him, her lips only a breath away from his. "Will you come back if I let you up?"

Kaoru couldn't suppress the shiver that ran the length of her spine as his voice tickled something deep inside of her. Swallowing she just nodded, not trusting her voice. When he loosened his arms she immediately bolted up, completely forgetting about the wound in her leg. She groaned as a shot of fire burst through her leg and fell back with a hiss, landing right back in his lap.

"Need some help?"

Flushing a deep red Kaoru swung her head around ready to tell him to just what she thought of his offer but stopped dead when she saw the slight glint sparkling in his violet eyes. Suddenly tongue-tied all she could do was glare at him, God why did he have to look at her like that! Growling, she turned her back on the small smirk tickling his lips and levered herself up slowly. Hobbling off to the bathroom she was so intent on keeping herself upright that she didn't see Kenshin come up behind her. All of a sudden she found herself whisked off her feet and tucked securely against a warm, firm chest.

Startled, Kaoru pinned him with a death glare and immediately tried to squirm out of his hands, "Kenshin, what are you doing! Put. Me. Down! I can walk just fine!"

Kenshin smiled and leaned in to brush his lips ever so lightly against hers, "I know you can but I like you right here." Smiling into her stunned gaze he continued on to the bathroom and set her back on her feet in the doorway. "Besides your leg won't heal if you keep opening the wound."

"But - "

Kenshin shook his head, "Just let me do this ok?"

Kaoru could only stare at him, his tone touching her soul, "O...ok." A small smile slowly lit up his handsome face as she closed the door and she had to fight the desire to throw it back open and kiss him. Leaning her head against it she sighed, it still felt so strange to have him look at her like that. Even though she could remember everything now there was nothing in her memories that could have prepared her for this. And yet she wouldn't trade this for anything, she had never felt this loved before. Not even with Enishi.

Frowning at the direction her thoughts were wandering in she hobbled her way into the bathroom and set about doing her business. Glancing down at herself for the first time since she'd awakened she was horrified to see just what a wreck she was. Her jeans were cut off at the knee to allow access to the wound and her black t-shirt looked much worse for the wear. Lifting her hair up she eyed the filthy strands and scowled, she so needed a shower. Her scowl deepened as she glanced at her leg. That was going to be impossible unless she could somehow miraculously heal her leg so she could put all of her weight on it. Glaring at the obvious obstruction to her cleanliness she contemplated the possibility of finding the jerk who'd done this and shoot him in the leg. Now that was tempting, very tempting. Stifling a growl she wrinkled her nose at herself. Even if she could it wouldn't be worth the trouble, he was nothing but a two bit loser anyway.

And then suddenly it dawned on her, she could get clean if she really wanted to, she could always call Megumi or Misao and ask for their help. But then again, who was to say Enishi wasn't watching both of them in hopes of her doing just that. She wouldn't put it past him to shadow them in hopes of catching her. No, she couldn't take the risk.

So that only left... Kenshin.

Shaking her head she immediately threw that idea out the window, she was not going to let him see her in the buff, no way in hell... and yet... she really needed that shower. Hobbling over to the door that split the room she pushed back the door and gazed longingly at the deep tub nestled against the far wall... it would be so nice to take a long soak in the tub too. Scowling she weighed the pros and cons of the situation and then it slowly began to dawn on her that she was probably worrying for nothing. Sano hadn't moved in yet so likely there wasn't anything here to bathe with anyway. Slightly relieved, she closed the door again and nodded to herself finally accepting the fact that she wasn't going to get clean.

With that settled she set about finishing up her reason for being there in the first place. Washing her hands she finger combed her hair in an attempt to look human, too bad she didn't have a hair tie. At least she'd be able to pull it back until she could get it clean, the black one had disappeared somewhere and she had no idea where her bag had gone. Inwardly shrugging she headed for the door, nothing she could do about it now anyway, she'd just have to see if she could get to her apartment or at least have Sano pack her some clothes. Yeah, that's what she would do, have Sano pack her a bag. Smiling she pushed back the door and started to step out. She came to an abrupt halt when she nearly collided with Kenshin who stood in the doorway holding out a couple of towels with all her bathing items nestled on top.

Stunned, she shifted her eyes up to meet the smiling violet gaze fixed on her. "I thought you might like to take a bath."

Instantly blushing she just stared at him. "Um... I...I can't do that by myself," she admitted as the blush spread and deepened. Kami, if she kept this up she was going to pass out from the heat radiating out from her face. And then it dawned on her, how did he get her things. And they were her things, from her own apartment. All embarrassment forgotten she pinned him with a hard glare, "Where did you get those?"

Kenshin smiled sheepishly and offered them to her. "I packed you a bag yesterday."

Narrowing her eyes even more Kaoru ignored the items hovering in the space between them, "And why did you pack me a bag yesterday? And how the hell did you get into my apartment!" As soon as the second question spilled from her lips she knew the answer, "Sano."

When he nodded she balled her fists in an effort not to slap the man in front of her. It wasn't his fault the idiot had let him into her apartment, the roosterhead was in for it when she saw him again. But that still didn't answer the first question. "So Sano let you in. But why did he let you in?"

Kenshin sighed, "I'll answer that once you've decided whether or not you're going to bathe. It's not good to remaining standing on that leg."

Kaoru scowled, "I can't take a bath yet, I already told you that. I need help."

Smiling, Kenshin took a step towards her forcing her to take a step back into the bathroom to avoid colliding with the items still hovering between them. "I can help you if you'd like," he whispered, his tone hitting a chord deep in her soul.

Suddenly nervous, Kaoru flushed and tried to swallow around the lump in her throat, "Are you trying to get me naked, Himura?"

"Well, there is that..." Kenshin chuckled, pushing past her to open the door separating the rooms. Wandering into the bathing room he set the towels and bathing supplies on the counter "... but really I just want you to be happy. So if you'd like a bath I will help you. Ok?"

Eyeing him suspiciously she couldn't deny the sincerity in his voice or her need to get clean. Glancing down at herself she scowled at the ruined mess of her black escape clothes. "Do I have any other clothes?

Kenshin nodded, "You do but all I could find for pants were jeans. You're not going to be able to put them on without aggravating your wound." Making his way past her he headed out of the bathroom. "Don't worry about it, I'll find you something. Just draw your bath water and undress, I'll be back in a minute."

Kaoru just watched the door close behind him, a small knot of anxiety forming deep in her belly. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea. In just a few minutes she was going to be naked in front of a man she'd known for less than a day. Ok maybe she knew him a little better than that, but still she'd never been naked in front of Enishi or any man for that matter. Ever.

Scowling at her childish worry she hobbled into the bathing room and started the water flowing into the tub. Setting the water temperature to what she wanted she leaned back against the wall and started to undress. She could trust him, she knew she could. It was just a feeling but she knew deep down she could trust him not to touch her if she didn't want him to. Now all she had to do was keep her hands to herself and everything would be ok.

Blushing at the thought she stripped out of her ruined jeans, t-shirt and undergarments and wrapped one of the towels around her nudity. Reaching down she shut the water off and added a couple of drops of her favorite jasmine bath oil then sat down on the edge of the tub to wait for Kenshin to return. She was almost tempted to try this herself so she wouldn't have to have his help. This really was rather embarrassing, she'd never needed help like this before. It rankled just a little bit not to be able to do this simple task herself.

A light knock came at the outer door knocking her out of her thoughts. Turning her attention to the other room she watched as a now shirtless Kenshin filled the small doorway, his jeans rolled up to the knees; a small bundle of clothes folded over his arm.

"Are you ready?"

Blushing to the roots of her hair she ducked her head but not before she had taken in every scar cut into his smooth skin. So many scars, and how many of them had he gotten just for protecting her. She remembered all the times he'd come to her rescue, taking the cuts meant for her. And she was doing it again, she was here hiding behind him when she should be facing off with Enishi. It was because of her Enishi was after him. She needed to get away from him before Enishi found them. It didn't matter that he was the Hitokiri Battousai, she wasn't going to let him fight Enishi again. Not if she could help it.

"Are you alright Kaoru?"

Startled out of her thoughts she slid her eyes up to meet his concerned gaze. "Y...yes, I'm fine."

Kenshin gave her a sideways glance, she was lying, he could tell. Laying her clean clothes on the shelf outside of the bathing room he entered and slid the door closed. "Are you sure?" he asked in an effort to get her to tell him. When all she did was nod he let it drop. He would find out later, right now was not the time to pester her, he could see the deer in the headlights look she was trying to hide. She was already a wreck, he didn't need to add to it.

Giving her the most benign smile he could dig up he asked, "So are you ready?"

Kaoru blushed to the roots of her hair again. Scowling she took a deep breath to get herself together, if he kept looking at her like that she was never going to make it through this. Closing her eyes she rubbed her forehead, come on Kaoru you can do this. Just picture him naked. She nearly choked as her mind supplied the image she'd called for, oh hell no, that was definitely not a good idea.

Shoving the image into the deepest recesses of her mind she jumped when she all of a sudden felt a warm hand settle on her calf, slowly pulling the bandages away. Popping her eyes back open she had to stop herself from falling backwards into the tub, "What are you doing!"

Kenshin smirked, "The wound needs to be cleaned so I can rewrap it when you're done."

"Oh..." Kaoru managed doing her level best to get her mind off the heat building in her as his fingers delicately removed the soiled wrappings. Unable to take it any more she reached down and took the bandages from his hand, continuing to unwrap the wound herself. She couldn't take this much longer. The quicker she was done showering the quicker she could get into the tub and he could leave the room. "I think I can do everything except for my back."

Kenshin tried to hide the smile tickling the corner's of his lips. He could see her distress... and her desire. Smirking slightly he nodded, "Alright, I'll wait out in the other room until you're done, then I'll come in and wash you're back then help you into the tub ok?"

He almost laughed at the overly enthusiastic nod of agreement she gave him. "Ok, just call when you're ready." Handing her her body wash and cloth he quietly left the room and closed the door behind him. Sighing he settled against the wall and crossed his arms waiting for her call. It probably wasn't a very good time to pursue the desire pulsing through his veins anyway. She wasn't ready, he could tell she wanted him but he also knew it was too soon. Even though she had her memories back he knew there was nothing in them to explain his sudden interest. And that was his own fault, he'd never shown her how much he loved her. Not until after her death. But from here on out he would prove his love, even it took him the rest of his life to do it.

oooooooooooooooooo

Kaoru nearly sighed as she watched the door slide closed behind him. If he'd stayed in here much longer she didn't know if she would have been able to stop herself from attacking him. It almost hurt to have him this close. She could still see their time in the past in her mind's eye and yet she couldn't fully believe, he'd never shown any interest in her back then. Why the change all of a sudden? Not to mention the fact that he was here and yet he'd said he wasn't reincarnated. That still confused the hell out of her. No one could live that long.

Sighing, she shook her head and set to work. Now was not the time to be worrying about that, she'd figure all that out later. Now was the time to get clean. Setting the towel aside she turned on the showerhead and held it over her head, the feel of the warm water flowing over her tired bones almost to good to be true. Lathering up the washcloth, she washed all the areas she could reach being extra careful not to lather the wound. Rinsing off, she reached for her shampoo and scowled when she found it still on the counter. Figures.

Slowly rising to her feet her heart jumped into her throat as her foot slid out from underneath her, falling back down hard she grimaced as a fresh shot of pain exploded in her wounded leg. Fighting back the tears stinging her eyes she growled. Kami, could this get any worse?!

With a sigh she finally accepted the fact that there was nothing else she could do, she needed his help anyway. Reaching for the towel she held it tight against her front, "Kenshin?"

The door immediately slid open at her call. "Are you ready?"

All she could do was nod as she watched him walk into the room, the catlike grace with which he moved gaining her full attention. The jeans riding low on his hips caused all kinds of dirty thoughts to emerge. Blushing she pulled her eyes from his hips and let them wander up his well muscled chest, the sight of his skin molding smoothly over his toned facade making her mouth water just a little. Damn, why did he have to look that good? Letting her eyes wander even further up his lithe frame they finally came to rest on his face, his eyes capturing hers. Continuing to watch him advance she frowned. And yet, when she tried to reconcile this man with the one she remembered from so long ago she couldn't, he just didn't fit. This was the Kenshin she knew and yet, he wasn't.

Confused, she rubbed her forehead and finally answered his expectant gaze. "Yes. I need you to help me stand please."

Kenshin just smiled and reached out taking ahold of her arm to help guide her to her feet. When she finally found purchase he released her, "Now what?"

Handing him the body wash and cloth Kaoru kept a tight hold on the towel covering her front and slowly turned around. Moving her hair over her shoulder she mumbled, "I need you to wash my back ... and ... backside ... please." She could feel the heat creeping up her neck as the last words left her mouth. God this was too much. If she ever had the chance to hunt down the bastard who'd done this to her she was going to kill him very, very slowly.

And then all thoughts of revenge flew out of her head as Kenshin started to slowly rub her back, his fingers brushing her skin ever so slightly. The sensation lit a white hot fire deep in her belly, the inferno threatening to devour her from the inside out. Stifling a groan she did her best to remain stock still to keep him from knowing what kind of effect he was having on her, but kami, she'd never felt anything like this before, this was... heaven. Swallowing around the lump suddenly lodged in her throat she did her best to remain standing as he slowly made small swirls on her back, leaving no part untouched. The soap heavy cloth slowly making it's way down her back until it reached her bottom where he made slow even passes along her entire backside. Starting to shake from the effort it took to remain standing she nearly sagged when he finally finished and set the water cascading over her heated flesh. And then before she had a chance to recover she felt his breath whisper across her sensitized skin, "Is that all you need?"

Blushing profusely she finally found her voice and whispered, "Um.. w..would y..you please wash my hair? I couldn't reach the shampoo earlier." Dammit, if this kept up she wouldn't be able to stop herself. She could feel him along every nerve in her body.

Kenshin just grinned; he could see the blush suffusing her entire body. He shouldn't be doing this to her, but it was so hard to be this close to her and not want to touch the creamy skin bared to his hungry fingers, to taste the salty sweetness of her blush kissed flesh. He was a strong man but this was torture. Taking a deep breath to get a hold of himself, he shoved the thoughts from his mind and reached for the shampoo. He needed to get out of here before this went too far. He would never forgive himself if he coerced her into doing something she might regret later.

With that last thought he poured out a small amount of shampoo and set to work lathering up her hair being careful not to get any into her eyes. Going about the task with almost clinical efficiency his blood slowly cooled and he smiled. He could wait. He'd waited this long, a little while longer wouldn't kill him. Finishing up the task he rinsed her thick raven hair and wrapped it up in the remaining towel. "There. Is there anything else before you get into the bathtub?"

Kaoru just shook her head not trusting her voice. All she wanted was to get into the tub so he could leave. "Um, would you please turn around?"

Kenshin quirked an eyebrow. "Why"

Kaoru gave him a long suffering look, "Because I have to remove the towel to get into the tub. I should be ok if you let me hold onto your shoulder to get in."

"Oh..." Kenshin whispered turning around. No, she wasn't ready yet. But what did he expect, he was still a stranger to her, she'd only known him for a short time in this life.

Kaoru smiled and dropped the towel, getting a firm grip on his shoulder she almost let go of him when a sudden wave of heat flooded through her body. Kami, she'd forgotten about that. Keeping a firm grip she cautiously made her way into the tub where it finally dawned on her, yes she could get into the tub but she couldn't sit down without his help. Sighing, she shook her head, maybe she should just give up now. Scowling at herself she shook her head again, no she wasn't going to do that, she was already feeling the relaxing effects of the jasmine bath oil, she wasn't going to let it go to waste.

Steeling herself she let go of him, "Kenshin?"

"Hai..."

"I..I need your help to sit down," Scowling at her shaky voice she waited for his reaction. She almost sighed when all he did was turn around and stare her straight in the eye.

"How can I help?"

"I need you to hold me here..., " she said pointing to her sides just under her arms, "...to steady me."

Keeping his eyes fixed on her face Kenshin reached out and gripped her gently where she had pointed, slowly guiding her into the tub. He almost sighed when she was completely submerged up to her shoulders. He had to get out of here and he had to do it now. Reaching down he retrieved the fallen towel and folded it to tuck it under her wounded leg. A slight hiss came as he lifted the leg. "Is that all you need for now?"

Kaoru nodded and slid just a little bit further down into the tub. She still felt extremely exposed even though she was fully covered by the warm water and he wasn't even looking at her. He really needed to leave... right now.

Kenshin rose and flicked his eyes quickly over her submerged form. He had to get out of here... right now. "Ok. Call me when you're ready to get out and I'll bring in fresh towels and help you out."

When she nodded he spun around and headed out of the room. Sliding the door closed he let out a sigh and rubbed his forehead. If that had lasted any longer he would have been in that tub with her. She had no idea what she did to him. Thanks to the link he could feel her arousal just as much as his own and that definitely did not help the situation. If he thought it was more than just carnal lust he would pursue the desire running rampant through his veins, but he knew that's all it was and she deserved to have more than just sex. She deserved to be made love to... and she would be once she fully knew and accepted him. Of that there was no question.

Smirking he wandered out into the livingroom, besides with a wound like that she wouldn't be able to fully enjoy all he wanted to do to her and he wanted her to enjoy every kiss and caress he lavished on her soft skin. Every... last... one.

oooooooooooooooooo

Kaoru nearly sighed as she watched the door slide close behind him. Damn, she couldn't take much more, and she still needed his help to get out of the damn tub. Settling further into the soothing warmth she smiled, but then again she could probably manage that herself. It was worth a try anyway. If he touched her naked skin one more time she would likely throw all caution to the wind and jump him right then and there. She had never in her life felt like she did when he looked at her... or touched her.

She felt as if she'd finally found where she belonged, that she'd found... home.

oooooooooooooooooo

Kaoru yawned and stretched, frowning at the steadily cooling water. It hadn't been long enough... not nearly long enough. Eyeing her pruned fingers she smiled, ok maybe it had been, but now she had to get out... without Kenshin's help if possible. Steeling herself she scooted forward far enough that her injured leg was able to reach over the side of the tub. Gripping the side of the tub she laid her hand flat on the wall and pulled herself up slowly. Ever so slowly her foot made it's way towards the floor, her butt slowly coming up to rest on the edge of the tub. With a sigh she scooted herself onto the edge and brought her other leg over. Taking a minute to catch her breath she smiled at her accomplishment. She wasn't completely worthless after all. Now if only she could make her way into the other room she wouldn't need his help at all.

Grabbing the towel she tucked it snuggly around herself and eyed the wet floor. She shook her head at the sight of the slick tile, to do that would be playing with fire. Well at least she'd managed to get out of the tub on her own, the rest wouldn't be so bad now.

Grinning to herself she called out, "Kenshin?"

Kenshin's head snapped up as his name sounded into the quiet apartment. It couldn't be that time all ready could it? Snorting he shook his head, of course it was, he wasn't going to get out of this that easily. The gods loved to mess with him. Steeling himself he pushed off the floor and grabbed the clean towels, heading towards the bathroom he was only two steps away from the outer door when he was all of a sudden assaulted by an image of Kaoru naked in the bathtub, the sight reminding him of what lay just beyond the doors. Coming to an abrupt halt he immediately tamped down the desire suddenly flooding through his veins. Come on Himura, you can do this. She needs your help, not your attention. Besides she's all yours now, you have all the time in the world.

He couldn't help the smile that slowly grew on his lips... Yes, she was all his now.

With that last thought he managed to get himself back together and headed into the bathroom. Opening the door that separated the two rooms he stopped and just stared in shock at Kaoru who stood outside of the tub with a towel wrapped around her. "You got out by yourself?"

Kaoru chuckled at the open surprise on Kenshin's face, "I'm not completely worthless. If I remember correctly I was quite agile in my last life, being a kendo instructor and all."

Kenshin's face broke into a wide grin, "That you were, Kaoru, that you were. So what did you need?"

"I need you to help me across the wet floor."

"Ah..."Kenshin whispered seeing her dilemma. Making his way to her he offered her his arm and slowly guided her across the slick floor into the outer room. Dropping his arm he waved his hand at the clothes waiting for her. "The only thing I could find that wouldn't aggravate your wound was a pair of my hakama. There's also one of your sleeping yukatas and some undergarments."

Kaoru blushed and nodded, so he'd gone through all of her drawers? Sano was going to die, a very slow and painful death. "Ok. Thanks."

Kenshin smiled at her blush. "I'll leave you to get dressed then and go fix something to eat."

Kaoru nodded again. Watching the door close behind him she dropped the towel and set to work. Donning her underwear and bra she slipped on her deep blue sleeping yukata, wrapping it snuggly around herself, shaking out the pair of white hakama she couldn't stop the smile blossoming on her lips. They smelled like him. Lifting them she took a deep breath inhaling his unique scent, a scent she recognized in the deepest parts of her soul.

Blushing at her childishness she leaned against the wall and pulled them on. He was right, the slight contact with her wound she had with these was enough to bring tears to her eyes, she couldn't imagine what jeans would have felt like. Tucking in her yukata she tied them up and let down her hair. Rubbing out the dampness she finger combed it in an effort to keep it from knotting completely.

All of a sudden a great grumbling noise rumbled into the room and she realized that it had been almost two days since she'd eaten anything. Her belly grumbled again in protest to make sure she fully understood its emptiness. Feeling slightly sick from the lack of food she ran her fingers through her hair one last time and headed out into the apartment, the smell of rice suddenly hitting her full in the nose as she opened the door.

Taking a deep breath she wandered out into the kitchen to find Kenshin removing one of the bento boxes from the microwave. "Mmm, that smells good. Is it ready?"

Kenshin smiled and eyed the woman before him, he had to admit she made those hakama look a lot better than he ever had. Shaking his head at himself he met her expectant gaze and nodded, "Yours is." Offering it to her he handed her a set of chopsticks, "Go eat, I'll be out in a minute."

Kaoru nodded and headed out into the livingroom, settling down on the sofa she smiled and dug in. It had been a long time since she'd had one of Tae's bento lunches. Savoring the beef and rice she wondered if Sano had had to pay his debt in order to get the food. It would serve him right if he did. Bum.

So intent on her meal Kaoru didn't notice when Kenshin came in to settle down beside her, snapping her head up she watched as he made himself comfortable and dug in. Eyeing his still bare chest out of the corner of her eye she frowned as a wave of guilt flooded through her body. So many scars. And many of them she knew he'd gotten protecting her. Swallowing, she whispered "I'm sorry Kenshin."

Surprised, Kenshin looked up from his meal, "For what?" Following her line of sight he saw what she was looking at. Shaking his head he smiled, "They're not your fault."

"But - "

"They're not your fault. If I could have, I would have taken many more if it would have kept you by my side." Kenshin whispered, the old ache of loss coming up to stab him in the chest. But it didn't matter any more, she was here now and he wasn't going to let her go again.

Touched, Kaoru fought back the tears threatening to spill from her eyes. Rubbing them away with the back of her hand she fixed her attention back on her meal not trusting herself to speak. Kami, he really knew how to hit her right in the heart. Giving herself fully to the delicious meal in her lap she let her mind wander over the last few days. If anyone had told her that she would be sitting here with a man she'd loved over a hundred years ago she would have thought them insane. Things had really changed in the last few days. But there was one thing she still didn't understand, one thing Kenshin still had to explain.

Giving him a sideways glance she asked, "Kenshin, how is that you're here but not reincarnated?"

Kenshin nearly choked on his mouthful of rice; damn, he'd hoped she'd have forgotten about that. He should have known better though, this was Kaoru after all. "That's a long story." he answered distantly. He really wasn't ready to explain that, he couldn't really until she was ready to make that life changing choice.

Kaoru eyed him from beneath her bangs, "I don't think we have anything pressing to do right now do we?"

Kenshin scowled, she'd gotten sneaky in this lifetime. Fixing his attention on his food he stirred the contents in the box absently, "That's something I can't tell you right now, but trust me, when I think you're ready I'll tell you, ok?" There hopefully that would appease her.

Kaoru eyed him suspiciously, "You're not a vampire are you?"

Kenshin smirked. Setting down his food he pinned her with a feral stare and slowly slid towards her; driving her into the corner of the sofa. Leaning in, to within inches of her neck, he whispered, "If I tell you yes, will you let me suck on your neck?"

Kenshin chuckled as her breath hitched and she stopped breathing. Leaning in just enough to brush his lips against her smooth skin he whispered, "Breathe Kaoru."

Letting out the breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding Kaoru did her best to calm her now racing heart. God, why did he have to say things like that! Shoving against him in an effort to at least put a small space between them she scowled, "Stop making fun of me!" Glaring into his burning violet eyes she growled, "You're not going to tell me are you?"

With a sigh Kenshin settled back and smiled, "Trust me, I will tell you when the time is right."

Continuing to glare at him Kaoru gave him a small nod, "Fine. I'm going to hold you to that Himura. You will tell me someday, got it?"

Smiling, Kenshin pushed off the sofa and collected the remains of his meal. "Yes, I will. Sooner than you think," he said more to himself than her as he made his way out into the kitchen. Setting down the bento box he collected the small box of medical supplies and grabbed a water from the fridge. Heading back into the livingroom he was happy to see Kaoru had finished her meal.

Settling down in front of her, he looked up into her curious gaze, "I have to finish cleaning the wound and rewrap it ok?" When she nodded he dug out the small bottle of painkillers and shook out one.

"Before I start though take this," he said handing her the pill and water bottle. When she eyed him suspiciously he added, "It's the pain medicine Megumi left for you."

"Oh..." Kaoru muttered. Taking the medicine she sat back and braced herself. This was going to hurt.

Kenshin rolled up the wide leg of the hakama and inspected the wound, "Looks like it hasn't gotten infected. That's good." Wetting a piece of soft cloth with antiseptic he gently dabbed at the wound, a pain filled hiss sounded into the quiet of the apartment. Glancing up he asked, "Do you want me to wait until the pain medicine kicks in?"

Kaoru wiped away the one tear that had managed to escape her eye and shook her head, "Just get it done."

Kenshin nodded and without any further talk he set to work, cleaning and wrapping the wound as fast as he could. An occasional hiss of pain would sound breaking the quiet, letting him know when he was being a bit too rough. Finally finishing up the job he glanced back up and was shocked to see Kaoru's white face. Jumping to his feet, he immediately sat down next to her, "Are you ok?"

"Damn, that hurt." Kaoru whispered trying to fight off the waves of nausea still surging ruthlessly though her body. Taking a deep breath she let it out slowly, the pain slowly starting to fade away. Leaning back she flung an arm over her eyes, "What do you think the chances are that I'll be able to shoot the person who put this hole in my leg?"

Kenshin smirked, "I don-"

"Not very good, Enishi already killed him."

Startled, Kenshin and Kaoru both swung their heads around at the unexpected voice coming from the doorway.

"It seems they were the two Triad men Enishi missed." Sano continued as he came into the livingroom and settled down indian style on the floor. "I'm sorry Kaoru, it's my fault you got caught by them."

Kaoru quirked an eyebrow confused, "What do you mean. How were you supposed to know about them?"

Sano smiled sheepishly and shrugged, "Actually I did know. Misao and Aoshi came and told me about them three nights ago. The first night Enishi made you stay at his apartment."

Kaoru mouthed a silent 'oh'. "Wh -"

"Why wasn't I told about them?" Kenshin asked, cutting her off, his tone deadly quiet.

Shifting his attention to Kenshin, Sano started to fidget slightly under the gold tinged violet gaze fixed on him, his old friend's tone making his skin crawl. He'd forgotten just how scary Kenshin could be, "Because they weren't in Tokyo. According to Aoshi they hadn't left Beijing at the time."

Kenshin just continued to stare at him. After what felt like an eternity he finally spoke, "Is that why they came to the apartment that night?" When he nodded Kenshin added, "Next time I expect you to tell me if it concerns Kaoru."

Sano just nodded, stifling the sigh of relief that tried to escape. Taking a second to get himself back together he finally noticed Kaoru's wet hair, and the hakama that were quite obviously not hers. Glancing at Kenshin he took in his friend's bare chest and smiled.

"So you took my advice, eh Kenshin?" he asked, trying to lighten the mood.

Kaoru eyed him confused until it dawned on her what he was implying, "He did n -"

"I can do what I wish with her. She's mine after all." Kenshin drawled with a smile.

Kaoru's eyes grew wide at what he implied. Smacking him upside the head she growled "I'm no one's, got it!"

Startled, Kenshin rubbed his abused head and moved out of her reach. "Kami, I forgot how hard you can hit. Keep that up woman and I'll tie you up."

Kaoru sputtered as her mind immediately supplied an image of his threat. Flushing a deep red she reached over and whacked him again, "Try it Himura and you will find yourself castrated."

That was all Sano could take. Busting out laughing, he shook his head. "You two really are made for each other." He laughed even hard as they both swung angry looks at him, their faces a matching red.

"Think anyone would notice if we killed him?" Kaoru asked suddenly calm, her face a picture of innocence.

Kenshin smiled and shook his head, "No. If we cut him up into small pieces and feed him to the animals at the zoo no one would know."

Sano sputtered and tried to get a hold of himself, "Now wait, guys. You can't kill me, I'm keeping you safe."

At his words the room fell quiet, all their thoughts now focused on one thing.

Settling back into the sofa Kaoru sighed, "Enishi's back isn't he?" She really didn't need to ask, she already knew the answer.

Sano sighed, "Yeah, he came back yesterday. He has his men combing every inch of Tokyo looking for you. He also managed to find out that you're with Kenshin, I assume from the Triad men before he killed them."

Kaoru closed her eyes and sighed again. So it had begun. There was no way for them to leave now; Enishi would find them for sure. Maybe she should just go deal with him herself.

"You are not going there by yourself." Kenshin stated in a voice that made her blood run cold. Surprised, Kaoru snapped her eyes open. "Did I say that out loud?"

When Sano nodded she groaned and stole a glance at Kenshin. "But I can at least try to make him understand that it's over," she mumbled. When all he did was continue to stare at her she sighed. She could tell by the fiery glint in his eye that he wasn't going to let he go no matter what she said. Narrowing her eyes she stared right back at him. He wasn't her boss any more than Enishi was, she would do what she wanted whether he liked it or not.

Kenshin watched the spark of defiance light in Kaoru's eyes. Oh no, this fight he would win, "What if Enishi's memories have returned. Do you want him to kill you again?!"

He closed his eyes when she cringed and pinned him with a death glare. He knew it was a low blow, but he wasn't going to risk losing her again. She was away from Enishi now and there was no way in hell he was going to let her go back.

"Jou-chan, Kenshin is right. We can't let you go back to Enishi. Who knows what he would do to you."

Kaoru shook her head and yawned. Suddenly feeling very tired she sagged against the sofa and mumbled, "He wouldn't hurt me."

"But you don't know that for sure. And even if he didn't physically hurt you he would still probably lock you up again. Look what happened to you the last time he did."

Kaoru threw up her hands to stop him, "Fine I won't go. But then what are we going to do?" Yawning again, Kaoru all of a sudden found it very hard to keep her eyes open. Letting them drop closed she relaxed even more.

Sano watched Kaoru's eyes droop closed as she settled even further into the sofa, suddenly concerned by her exhaustion he asked, "Are you ok jou-chan?"

When all she did was nod he quirked an eyebrow and glanced at Kenshin.

"She's alright. It's the pain medicine kicking in. Megumi said it would make her very tired."

"Oh..." Sano said glancing back to Kaoru. He chuckled at finding her out cold, "Must be good stuff."

Kenshin shrugged.

Leaning back on his arms Sano asked, "So what are you going to do now? You've missed the plane. Have any other ideas?"

Kenshin sighed and glanced at Kaoru, shifting his attention back to Sano he nodded, "Yes. I need you to go down and rent me a car. Kaoru and I are going to drive to Nagoya and catch a plane from there."

"Ok, so when do you need me to do this?"

"Today. We're leaving Tokyo tonight before Enishi can find us." Kenshin smiled at the surprised 'oh' Sano mouthed. "But first I need you to stay here with Kaoru. I have to go get the money for you?"

Sano gave him a sideways glance, "Are you sure it's a good idea if you go out into public. They know about you too."

Kenshin smirked, "Trust me. I have ways of blending into a crowd." Pushing off the sofa he gently laid Kaoru down being careful not to jostle her leg too much. "I'll be back in a little while ok?"

Sano nodded, "I guess but be careful. Enishi's dogs are all over the place."

Kenshin smiled at his worry and headed out of the apartment, "I will. I'll be back soon."

oooooooooooooooooo

"Are you telling me that she's in her apartment building?"

Shishio grinned at the slight tinge of surprise in Enishi's eyes, "Hai. On the eighth floor. I think it's Sagara's apartment."

Enishi just shook his head in disbelief. Of all the places in Tokyo to disappear they go to the one place his attention would be most focused on. It didn't make sense, unless they thought themselves safe because it was the one place people who were trying to hide out would normally avoid. Smirking he shrugged, it really didn't matter, this just made his job easier.

Shoving out of the chair, he smiled. "It's time to collect my wayward princess and kill her knight in shining armor. Would you like to come?"

Shishio nodded as an evil grin slid across his lips. "Wouldn't miss it for the world." Now this was going to be interesting, no one had ever managed to live when Enishi had that glint in his eye.

No one.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

*paces nervously* So what did you think?