Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Haunted By An Unfulfilled Desire ❯ Chapter 2

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Title: Haunted By An Unfulfilled Desire Chapter Two

Author/Artist: Ryukotsusei and Takhisiss

Pairing: Hiei/Shizuru Kuwabara

Fandom: Yu Yu Hakusho

Theme: 26. When It's cold outside

Disclaimer: I do not own Yu Yu Hakusho

Warnings: Language, Minor OOC, strong citrus content.

Chapter Two

Shizuru wasn't apologetic about the way she'd manhandled the redhead following closely behind her, nor did she care about the eyebrows that were sure to have raised by the way she slammed the door behind them. This had been going on for far too long and it was time someone put a stop to it! Yet as Kurama stared at her curiously now that they were away from the others suddenly bringing him in here no longer seemed like a good idea. Sure, the avatar was great at keeping secrets but Hiei was closest to him. What was the likelihood that this would somehow get back to the apparition? "Maybe this isn't a good idea," she said softly as she turned to walk back out the door.

"Shizuru," Kurama's voice was soft and reassuring as he placed a hand on her arm preventing her from leaving. Throughout the years he'd never seen her quite so upset about something and he'd heard her muttered words as she'd dragged him into the room. For her to have even made such a bold move meant that the situation had to be testing the limits of her ability to cope. When she turned to face him he could see in her eyes that she wouldn't fight him and he lead her deeper into the room. Setting her on the bed was likely to upset her even further so he allowed her to take the chair while he sat on the edge of the mattress. A flicker of movement out of the corner of his eye revealed that Hiei had made an appearance as well though he was concealing himself so as to not interfere with the conversation. Since this too involved the apparition Kurama was hesitant to reveal that he was listening in. Even if he did and Hiei left, the Jagan could be used to spy on the conversation anyway so it would be rather pointless. "If something is bothering you I'm here to listen."

"I don't even know where to begin," Shizuru muttered as she stared at the wall wishing she was anywhere but in that room right at that moment. Despite the calming reassurance that Kurama had attempted to give her Shizuru couldn't help but feel extremely uncomfortable. Where would she even begin? Heaving a sigh she tilted her head to the side and looking at the kitsune out of the corner of her eye. Even though he was waiting patiently she could see what looked to be a gleam of anticipation in the man's eyes. "Can you inhibit dreams Kurama?" If she didn't have to go into direct detail then perhaps this wouldn't be so bad.

For several long moments Kurama didn't speak while he contemplated her question. After a short time he shook his head, somehow he didn't believe that was the right answer. "There are certain plants that can have that effect but they are not for casual usage.. Most are lethal when given in improper doses and I'd have to be there while you slept to constantly monitor your condition. I heard you mention they involved Hiei, would you care to elaborate?" The brief thought crossed his mind that influencing a person's dreams was well within the apparition's capabilities but somehow he doubted that the man would do such a thing in the first place. Against an enemy perhaps, but not with the woman sitting in front of him.

"Not particularly," she muttered while crossing her arms. What the hell was she supposed to do now? Kurama always had an answer in her experience and now he was sitting there telling her that there was nothing he could give her?'This night just keeps getting better and better!' Her irritation was starting to become more and more palatable yet the redhead continued to stare at her unphased. "What the hell are you good for then, Kurama?" Shizuru was outspoken by nature and the alcohol she'd consumed didn't help matters. "You're supposed to be the one who can fix any problem right? Well then help me fix this one!" So help her if she had to be tormented with the image of Hiei standing before her naked one more time she wasn't sure what she was going to do but it was guaranteed it wouldn't end prettily.

It wasn't hard to feel the nearly malicious amusement coming from the apparition but for the moment Kurama ignored it in favor of exercising his immeasurable patience with the woman. How she hadn't felt Hiei's presence he would never know, unless of course she did but in her inebriated state was passing it off as yet another way the apparition was tormenting her."I'm trying to aid you Shizuru but truly I must know what exactly is troubling you before I can help. You've said Hiei is in your dreams, in what way?" He was almost certain that he knew but he had to hear it from her first. The possibility that he was completely off base wasn't that far fetched, for all he knew the hybrid could be pursuing her in those dreams with the intent to kill instead of seducing her. Either one was likely to have her off balance.

"Do you need me to break it down for you?" Shizuru stared at him incredulously, she never took him for a pervert but apparently she was mistaken if he wanted all the details. "Fine, your partner has this irritating tendency of prancing around in my head naked every time I close my eyes. You want more?" Her tone was challenging, as if daring him to demand more details. So help her if he did she was going to let him have it. "I haven't had a good nights sleep in weeks! Weeks Kurama. If I didn't know better I'd say he's doing this on purpose but I know humans aren't his thing."

Hearing this nearly had Hiei snorting in derision. He didn't 'prance' anywhere and if he went venturing into someones dreams they should damned well know this. It was surprising that Shizuru was even having this problem in the first place though and it explained a lot of her unusual behavior as of late. What he'd been passing off as a natural dislike for his kind considering how sensitive she was to demonic energy now took a turn in a brand new direction. Hiei couldn't help but wonder if she was so upset because she disliked him or because the dreams her subconscious conjured of him were a mirror of the innermost desires he had yet to hear her acknowledge. He wasn't about to lie to himself either, he'd considered bedding her on more than one occasion despite the fact that she was the fool's sister. She was attractive for a human though it was more of her personality that drew him.

Kurama felt the distinct change in Hiei's energy upon hearing Shizuru's words and he couldn't help but wonder at it. Had the woman just opened herself up for receiving the apparition's attention? He hadn't been blind to the faint attraction that Hiei had shown the brunette but had passed it off as a fleeting thing since the man had never acted upon it. It hadn't helped matters that Shizuru had never given Hiei the time of day much less anything else though that was probably in reaction to how he treated her brother. He coughed politely to cover his amusement at the situation causing Shizuru's eyes to narrow in suspicion. "I won't speculate as to what Hiei's tastes do run towards but I can assure you I don't believe he would do this on purpose." Personally he thought her humanity had nothing to do with it, in fact had Yusuke been female the apparition would have had him on his back before he could blink despite the fact that none of them knew about the Toushin's heritage. No, if Hiei found Shizuru desirable then something was going to end up happening between them soon now that the apparition knew of her interest.

Having known Kurama for years she wasn't fooled by his attempt to cover up his amusement. She could find absolutely nothing at all funny about the situation and she was rapidly getting pissed off at the kitsune. Was he hiding something from her? She couldn't be certain but his eyes took on an intense look as she pushed away from the chair. "What the hell do you think is so funny Kurama?" Her agitation spiked even higher as he watched her grow more upset by the moment and did nothing but keep that polite yet aloof expression on his face. Could the man have already known about this before she'd dragged him in here? "Has that partner of yours told you something that I should know about? Don't even think about lying to me Kurama!" She came nearer to him but clearly he wasn't intimidated by her antics. If it had been her brother in the redhead's place he would have been looking for the nearest window to jump out of which happened to be exceedingly close by. "If you know something Kurama I suggest you tell me now!"

"I assure you I knew nothing about your dreams Shizuru. This is the first I've heard about them, I would have no way of knowing anyway. I'm not a mind reader." Nothing in his eyes gave away the fact of how much he was omitting in the manner that he had chosen to answer. While he hadn't known of her interest in the apparition he had been well aware of Hiei's attraction towards her. His eyes glanced over towards the window for the briefest of moments while wondering just how long it would take for the hybrid to make a move on her. Before Shizuru could notice however he trained his attention on her once again. Clearly she was having a hard time believing him if the look of doubt on her face was anything to go by. It was no matter though, what he had said wasn't lying even if it did come very close to crossing that line. Slowly he rested his weight back on his hands as he continued to observe the woman while considering the implications that were only now coming to light.

Shizuru stopped pacing to sink back down onto the chair as she dropped her head into her hands and muttered to herself, "Who am I kidding anyway? If these stupid dreams were going to go away by themselves they would have by now. I'm sure everyone would get a laugh out of this, especially if they ever found out the part about the ice cream." Her eyes unfocused for a minute as she thought about it replaying the scenes in her mind before shaking her head to clear it. Indulging in these thoughts during the day crossed the line and the last thing she wanted to do was fantasize about that now. "Maybe I've been wrong all along and I'm only now admitting it. It's a fetish, there's no other possible explanation. It isn't Hiei, it's the ice cream."

Now Kurama's eyes did widen slightly in surprise although he gave no other outward appearance that he had even noticed the muttering that Shizuru was doing. 'There's only so many ways I could think of a dream incorporating the use of ice cream and while I'm sure they're all very interesting I doubt that Hiei has even considered those ideas.' In fact he was sure of it, the apparition had little use for most things that could be found in the human world and ice cream was of no exception. Even asking Hiei to accompany them to the local ice cream parlor had been an exercise in futility despite their assurances that he would love the stuff. "Shizuru?" He called, waiting until her eyes snapped to his face before proceeding, "Have you considered approaching him? These dreams are likely a subconscious desire and if they've lasted this long the chances that they are going to go away on their own are next to nothing. My advice to you would be find out whether or not Hiei would consider the possibility of something more than friendship with you."

To this Shizuru rolled her eyes before scoffing, "Do you think I have a death wish? In case you've forgotten I'm not like you or Yusuke. I don't have any special powers aside from feeling when something really fucking creepy is about to happen." Shizuru was about to continue on her tirade but there was suddenly a commotion outside the room that had caught both of their attention. It sounded like Yusuke was yelling at someone and from the sounds of it he wasn't amused about something. From his hiding spot Hiei arched an eyebrow as the words became more distinct through the walls. "What the hell do you mean I don't have any pay coming??" At hearing this Shizuru nearly laughed, it would seem the detective had finally heard from Koenma and found out about his apparent generosity.

"I was wondering when he was going to find out just where we got the money to go out. It was so much fun, maybe I should suggest that we do it again real soon." At the raised eyebrow and the curious look she received from Kurama she couldn't resist the dig. "Maybe next time Koenma will be so generous to volunteer you Kurama." It raised the interesting question as to whether or not the man even got paid for the work that he did. She'd heard all about how both him and Hiei had been roped into working for Koenma but that had been a long time ago and their debts had been paid. Even if they didn't get compensated for the work they did somehow Shizuru knew that any restraunt the kitsune had chosen was likely to be just as classy as the place they went tonight.

Perhaps later he would have to ask her just what had happened for that comment to have been made. Surely there was an interesting story behind it that he would garner great amusement from but now was not the time. The woman still had a problem to contend with and sooner or later her distraction would disappear and she'd be back to asking for answers he didn't exactly have. "We need to come back to the issue at hand Shizuru." Quietly Kurama regained the girls attention. "Whatever predicament that Yusuke has found out about is not going to change the fact that you need to deal with these dreams. If you aren't willing to find out how Hiei would feel about trying out a relationship then what about the possibility of finding someone else? There's plenty of men here to choose from if you should decide to pursue that route." In his mind there was a good chance it was pent up sexual tension causing the dreams to begin with and she was utilizing the person she saw most frequently that she'd been drawn to. Expending it on someone else might take care of the problem all together.

For several long moments Shizuru stared at him as if he'd lost his mind. Was Kurama actually suggesting she go for a one night stand with a complete stranger? The idea wasn't appealing, not by a long shot. It'd be one thing if she found someone she got along with first and then moved forward but to just shack up with someone was completely different. "I can't believe you of all people would have said that Kurama. Unless you're looking for a quick trip through the nearest window I suggest you rethink that idea. Or was that your way of trying to see if I'm interested in you by any chance." Her eyes narrowed speculatively as she scrutinized the red head. She'd never imagined the possibility that Kurama was interested in her and while she liked the guy she wasn't going to spread her legs for him either.

Hiei shifted from his uncomfortable position while he listened intently for Kurama's answer, more than annoyed with the man's suggestion. Did the kitsune really think he was going to stand by and watch the woman go searching for a bed partner after what he'd just learned? It was a relief though that Shizuru hadn't disappointed him with her reaction to the idea, she wouldn't be one that he'd have to worry about sleeping around if someone happened to catch her eye. Just the fact that she hadn't thrown herself at him despite the turn her dreams had taken had earned even more of his respect.

"I didn't exactly mean that Shizuru. While I appreciate the thought I was more suggesting that you find someone that you desire to spend some time with. I am of the opinion that your current problem with your dreams is a direct result of repressed unfulfilled desires and as such I was merely suggesting a solution since you don't seem interested in the most practical answer," Kurama's tone was a bit reproachful since he wasn't exactly amused by the accusation. More than likely Hiei wasn't thrilled with it either and the last thing he wanted was to have the apparition pissed off at some imagined pass that had been made at her. Slowly he stood and moved towards the door, inclining his head towards the brunette as a way of signaling the conversation was over. It was up to her to take or leave his advice, there was nothing more that he could do for her just now.

Kurama opened the door and walked into the hallway followed by Shizuru. He stopped to stare with interest for a moment at Yusuke. The Toushin was staring at his communicator as if it held the soul of every adversary he had ever wanted to destroy and he was just waiting for the opportunity to take his irritation on the first person who made themselves a target. Before Shizuru could get too far away he stopped her with a light hand on her arm, "Think about what I said while I go and see if I can get Yusuke calmed down before someone gets hurt. You don't have to make a decision right away but the sooner you deal with this the better your chances will be of resolving it."

"Chances of resolving what?" Yusuke spun around, hearing the tail end of what Kurama was saying and certain that the remark had something to do with the disappearance of his wages. His look darkened even further as he caught the look of defiance in Shizuru's eyes. "I want paid back. Every red cent that all of you spent, I want it returned to me." Somehow he just knew that she'd been behind all of this, no doubt revenge for what he'd said to her earlier that day. Well if that was the case then she was going to find out just how wrong she was for accepting what Koenma had no right to give her.

"Want in one hand, shit in the other Yusuke and let's see which one fills up faster. I don't owe you a penny, take it up with Koenma if you have a problem with it," Shizuru removed Kurama's hand from her arm before nodding curtly at him. She'd take his words into consideration but that was it. She had no intentions of picking someone up but that didn't mean she couldn't socialize if someone caught her interest. Casually she walked up to the counter and took an empty seat, content to watch people intermingle for a while. Getting something to drink was out of the question, she'd already hit her limit for the night and wasn't going to push it any further. "Why did I agree to come to this thing anyway?" she muttered under her breath, more than fed up with being at the party in the first place.

"Because if your friends are like mine they insisted," he answered for her while looking her over carefully. She wasn't the prettiest girl there but she was more than passable in his opinion. Someone like her would most likely have arrived with a date but her words had pretty much disproved that. "The names Fudo," he smiled charmingly at her which she seemed to return with some hesitation.

"Shizuru," she stated before turning back to watch the crowd. While the man seemed nice enough she wasn't one to be taken in by a pretty face. It looked as if Kurama had his hands full with Yusuke but she wasn't exactly worried. The man might be pissed off but he wouldn't do anything to her of that she was certain. Somehow she wasn't surprised to see that Hiei was nowhere in sight, she'd almost think that the apparition had taken off if it wasn't for the fact that Yukina was asleep in one of the rooms. It was sorely tempting to say the hell with it all and lay down herself, no one would bitch to loudly about a room being out of use. If necessary she'd go find the one the Koorime was resting in and join her. Being as drunk as she was Yukina wasn't likely to wake up even if she did toss and turn while sleeping.

"How long have you been here?" He kept the question casual sensing her disinterest but yet trying to start a conversation of sorts. It wasn't as if he had anything better to do at the moment, as soon as they'd arrived his friends had taken off for parts unknown. He'd have to remember to voice his displeasure on that little oversight later. At the rate his evening was going he could have had a far better time sitting in bed naked watching television.

"Too long," Shizuru said with a sigh, seeing that the man wasn't going to leave her alone like she'd been hoping. 'Remind me to kick Kazuma's ass for this, he so owes me.' In fact, the man in question was now helping Kurama in trying to calm Yusuke down. Unfortunately it looked like he was making it worse, clearly the Toushin hadn't expected Koenma to do such a thing. 'Whatever, it isn't my problem. Yusuke should have kept his stupid mouth shut.' The sounds of his raised voice came across the room as he continued to bitch and the vague feeling of a headache began to form behind her eyes. "I swear to God I'm going to buy Keiko a whip and a ball gag for that dumb ass boyfriend of hers. Maybe for her next birthday. Maybe she can teach him how to shut the hell up."

Hearing the brunette's muttered comment had Fudo laughing, although in this instance he was inclined to agree with her. The man she was referring to was being obnoxious, ranting about some pacifier sucking brat or some such nonsense. He was betting it wouldn't be too long before the host of the party asked him and the two men trying to calm him down to leave. A smaller woman hovered nearby the three, trying to get the man to calm down as well. "He does need a gag doesn't he? Although I'm willing to bet that might not even be enough."

"Knowing Yusuke? Probably not, but then again it isn't likely Keiko would know what to do with him if it worked." Even now Shizuru could picture the look of confusion that would cross the younger woman's face the minute she saw the items. Unfortunately she was certain that Keiko would ruin it somehow, making the man go shopping with her or something instead of putting something else in his mouth to keep him quiet. The poor girl needed more than a few pointers in just what her man was good for but Shizuru knew that they wouldn't be taken. In order for that particular girl to lose her virginity Yusuke was going to have to take the lead. Unfortunately the man was too much of a pushover to do so though when it came to Keiko.

Fudo eyed the couple with a slight look of disgust, "If I can ask you a question?" Seeing her nod almost absent mindedly he continued, "What is it with women and liking that bad ass attitude? She wouldn't be the first girl I've seen going for a common punk. Is it the draw of being close to a dangerous person or what?" His observations had labeled Yusuke as a thug with little intelligence and a volatile temper. Surely the brunette could find someone more attractive and a bit more in the intelligence department. Why she didn't was beyond him.

It was a very good question, one of which Shizuru didn't have the answer to. "Truthfully I dunno. I guess the thrill might be part of it, maybe security. Think about it, with someone like Yusuke who thrives on fighting just how many men are going to walk up to his girlfriend with the intent to cause trouble? He's got a reputation for a reason after all and I don't think the more intelligent guys out there want to die for an attempt at a piece of ass." Of course she wasn't going to go into just how many demons had chosen Keiko as a target and paid for it with their lives. Then again, from what she'd seen of most demons very few of them had much in the way of brains anyway. Present demonic company excluded anyway. Kurama could give almost anyone a run for their money and she was willing to bet Hiei wasn't too far off either.

"You might be right, I can't help but think there's more to it than that though." Fudo nursed his drink for a few more minutes as they sat in silence. It looked as if things had finally calmed down though he was certain it could erupt again at any moment. The "dumb ass" as Shizuru had put it so eloquently still looked mad enough to kill even if he had managed to shut his mouth for a few minutes. Movement caught his eye and he looked towards the door with a raised brow, "Look, there's a classic example. I'd be willing to bet that within ten minutes he'd got at least three chicks approaching him."

Automatically Shizuru's attention turned toward the man who just walked through the door and she nearly groaned. Hiei it would seem had decided to make a reappearance, his gaze briefly sliding over to her. There was something lurking in those crimson depths though that she wasn't used to seeing before he turned his attention elsewhere. Scowling heavily, she looked over at the man next to her, "What makes you say that?" Irritation welled up in her thinking that his observation might be correct, even though she knew the apparition wouldn't put up with someone attempting to fawn on him.

"Just look at him," Vaguely Fudo gestured at the man who now had his back towards them. "He's got that 'I don't give a fuck' look about him, he's dressed in black. You know that Gothic crap draws chicks like a magnet for some reason." It was men like that in fact that pissed him off more than anything. Unfortunately women seemed to be attracted to the ones with a troubled past. Heaven help the woman who thought she could change that particular man or anyone like him.

"You sound almost jealous," Shizuru commented as she watched Hiei take up a position in a corner, one arm resting across his knee. Contrary to what Fudo had said everyone was giving the apparition a wide berth, most likely feeling the disgust the hybrid felt at being enclosed with so many humans. The few that looked like they were about to approach him were driven off with a glare that would freeze them in place. The vague thought of going up to the object of her dreams crossed her mind, the kitsune's advice springing to mind but she quickly squashed the idea. There was no way in hell Hiei would be interested in her like that.

"Hardly, more like disgusted." Fudo wasn't put off from his assessment in the least by the little show the guy was putting on. He'd seen it many times, performed by other males cut from the same mold. They'd act tough for a little while but eventually one girl would be allowed to get close. Of course she'd feel like she was special then, being the only one who wasn't turned away. Most likely he'd keep her around until the end of the evening and then take her some place for a quick fuck. Naturally the lucky one would give in and the cycle would start all over again at the next party. "That act isn't fooling anyone with half a brain, the guy is just another jackass looking to put another notch on his bedpost."

More than a little irritated at Fudo's comments about the apparition, Shizuru stood and leveled a chilling glare at him. She was distinctly aware of the hybrid's attention on her though as of yet she could tell he hadn't moved. It didn't matter though, she wasn't his keeper and it wasn't up to her to keep him from killing the man in front of her. "As interesting as this conversation has been I think I've heard more than enough. If you want a piece of advice, watch who the hell it is you are insulting. Especially when speaking to one of their friends, I seriously doubt Hiei would appreciate hearing your uninformed assessment of his character." Not bothering to wait to hear what he had to say, Shizuru turned and walked away from him.

Having heard every word of what was said, Kurama walked up to the brunette and laid a hand on her shoulder, "That could have gone better but I don't blame you. He was out of line." In most instances he might have agreed with the general opinion but he knew both Yusuke and Hiei better than anyone else in this room. To compare them to the average human male just looking to score was insulting to say the least but Shizuru had handled it quite well.

"Yeah well, so much for enjoying the rest of the evening huh?" As much as she wished she could say fuck it and go home she couldn't. At least not while Kazuma was still here, she'd never hear the end of it and the beginnings of the headache had blossomed into a full grown migraine. While she massaged her temples Shizuru looked around the room for her brother and saw that he was currently engaged in a drinking contest with Yusuke. "Great, so much for going home tonight," she complained under her breath. Now that they'd gotten started the two of them were likely to end up passed out under the table when morning came.

"So take one of the spare rooms," Kurama's voice was almost bored as he shrugged his shoulders. "It isn't like you have to worry about someone busting in on you. That would be suicide with the mood Yusuke's in if nothing else and that doesn't take into account the rest of us too." If someone were to even consider trying to take advantage of her while she was at the party they'd have the entire team on their asses before they could blink. That was assuming of course that Shizuru didn't take care of the problem herself, she was definitely one woman who didn't need help handling someone who happened to get out of line but he didn't feel any pressing need to further point that fact out.

"You know, I think I just might do that," Shizuru contemplated the idea as she looked back towards the man she'd left only moments before. It was getting more then a little annoying the way she could feel Fudo's angry gaze burning holes in her back. It would seem that she'd managed to irritate the man with her scathing comments but she really didn't give a damn. He should have known better than to open his mouth about someone he didn't know. "Do me a favor if you can, make sure that dumb ass," she jerked her thumb over her shoulder indicating the man that was currently watching her, "doesn't bug me. I'd hate to have to throw him through a window cause he continued to piss me off."

"Consider it done Shizuru," Kurama chuckled at the sour look on her face. Oh yes, he believed it was only a matter of time before she approached Hiei. She was showing all the signs of being attracted to him and even if it didn't last Kurama knew that the two of them would enjoy the time that they did have together. As she proceeded to walk down the hallway the kitsune looked over at the apparition in question. While he hadn't moved away from his position there was no mistaking just where his attention was at the moment. The gleam in the hybrid's eyes was nothing short of pure appreciation as he gazed at the woman's finer attributes although he couldn't blame him. The brunette was definitely one fine piece of work. 'I wonder who will be the one to make the first move.'

Much to Shizuru's consternation it didn't look as if the party was going to wind down anytime soon. People were milling around in the hallways, sometimes gathering in small groups as they engaged in conversation. Normally she wouldn't care but when more than one person blocked her path and didn't seem to be too concerned about moving she realized her temper was a hair away from snapping. "If you don't mind, some of us are trying to walk here," her voice was waspish as she snapped at latest person who seemed to think he owned the walkway. When the man looked as if he was going to take exception to what she'd said her eyes narrowed dangerously and she moved even closer to him. Fortunately for his well being he backed down quickly, she just wasn't in a mood to deal with anymore crap from the male gender at the moment. Walking past the small group she at last came to one of the bedrooms and pushed the door open, making sure it was currently unoccupied. The last damned thing she wanted was to do was interrupt someone who was in the middle of entertaining someone.

"Thank god, finally I'll get some peace and quiet," she rubbed her head and whispered as she stepped into the room and shut the door quietly behind her. Immediately the noise dropped to a comfortable level and Shizuru closed her eyes for a moment, taking pleasure in the fact that she was finally alone. She wouldn't stand there for long however, not when there was a comfortable looking bed beckoning her. Quickly she engaged the lock which would ensure that she wouldn't be disturbed before turning the comforter down and climbing on the bed. The sheets were cool against her skin and the pillow welcoming as she made herself comfortable. It wasn't long before her tired eyes slid closed and she found herself drifting off into sleep.

Lively music floated gently through the room as she walked through the crowd, looking for someone who would be decent company for the evening. Shizuru didn't know why she'd even bothered coming to this little get together. Kazuma certainly didn't have a need for her to be there but had asked that she attend anyway. 'He probably thinks I can help him impress that new business partner. Fat chance of that, I'm not kissing anyone's ass just so he'll look better.' But wasn't that what she was doing just by coming here? And who the hell had the bright idea to hold a costume party anyway? Weren't these little get togethers supposed to be formal events that bored people to tears?

No, she most assuredly didn't want to be here but it was far too early for her to be able to leave just yet. As much as she wished she could just walk out the door her brother would never let her hear the end of it. She'd already heard repeatedly how important this event was but really, how hard was it to impress video game designers? Maybe that would explain the need for costumes, she'd seen more than one person dressed up as their favorite video game character, complete with insanely styled wigs that would be hell to attempt on real hair. At least she'd chosen something a bit more unique even if it had raised a few eyebrows, of course that was likely due to the short length of the skirt. Self consciously she tugged on it, next time she wasn't going to Botan for help in choosing a costume. While the idea of being a pirate captain appealed to her she doubted any of women who had attempted it showed off quite so much leg as what she was now.

Again she scanned the crowd and nearly rolled her eyes as she caught sight of her brother standing near the main table. For the moment he seemed to be engaged in a rather animated debate with a fellow who had what looked to be vinyl wings strapped onto his back. For a moment she wondered just how the hell the man managed to walk around with them, they had to get in the way. As if on cue someone yelled a name, causing the winged wonder to turn quickly and within moments the punch bowl was overturned, the sticky red beverage staining the ivory carpet. "Idiots," she muttered under her breath while she turned away from the accident. In her opinion if you couldn't be certain you weren't going to cause major damage with your props then you had no business wearing them there in the first place. But it wasn't her call and it really didn't concern her. It wasn't her house and she damned sure wasn't cleaning up the mess.

Shizuru rolled her eyes when her brother began calling her name but instead of going over to where he was waiting she pretended she hadn't heard him yelling for her. Instead she turned and began making her way out to the garden, avoiding a few slightly inebriated guests in the process. Before long she found herself standing before the Frenchdoors and Shizuru placed her hand upon the cool glass. A shiver raced through her body but that didn't stop her from venturing out into the dark. The chill in the air would keep the majority of the people inside and if it hadn't been for all the people determined to annoy her she'd likely be doing the same. As it was it wasn't likely she'd be able to remain outside for long, each breathe she took was clearly visible in the night air. 'I'll stay out here for a few minutes, just long enough for them to forget about me. Maybe then I can go home.'

"Now why would you want to do something like that?"

The deep voice had Shizuru spinning around in surprise, her eyes narrowing slightly as a shadow moved away from one of the walls. She knew that she hadn't spoken aloud but it wasn't exactly a cause for concern. Not when she knew just who it was that had spoken. "I'm surprised to see you here," she replied evenly, trying to conceal the way her heart began to race with anticipation. An event like this was certainly nothing to ensnare this particular man's attention so there had to be another reason for his appearance. While Shizuru wasn't certain she wanted to acknowledge what that possible reason might be her body certainly did and if the smirk upon his face was anything to go by he knew what effect his presence was having on her.

"I told you before that I would return to take what's rightfully mine."

Shizuru shivered with anticipation hearing the raw possessiveness in his voice as the apparition stepped closer. Desire gleamed in those crimson eyes leaving no doubt in her mind just what he intended to do. Shouldn't she be protesting now? Insisting that she belonged to no one? Slowly his gaze drifted along her body, pausing every so often to take in the way the dress hugged her body and the vast amount of skin that was exposed to his view. Her eyes drifted closed as his fingers slid along her jawline in a fleeting caress.

"Or will you stand here and try to deny the desire you feel?" The slightest hint of amusement colored his voice, as if daring her to do just that. No, he would make sure that she accepted what her body had known all along. She was his and always had been, now nothing would stand in his way of possessing her in every way.

Warmth flooded through her body and mind as the apparition stepped even closer and his hand cupped the back of her neck gently, pulling her down to his level. His warm breath ghosted along her lips

"Will you forget the way my touch makes you long for more? Will you pretend that another can drive you to such heights of pleasure?" The slightest hint of anger entered his voice when the questions were voiced. No, he would never allow another to take her from him nor would he accept the possibility that she desired anyone other than him. He'd waited so long to possess her, holding back his most carnal desires while he'd been forced to allow her the chance to make up her own mind. Tonight would be the night that he finally claimed her as his own.

Soft lips brushed against her own but pulled back before firmer contact could be established. How could he make her feel this way with a few mere words? Slowly her trembling hands gripped his bared shoulders as if she were trying to pull him closer yet she stopped when a slight nudge of his knee encouraged her to widen her stance. Shizuru held her breath when she felt a warm hand begin trailing up her thigh, stopping just shy of touching her intimately. Instead he seemed to be content to rub his fingers teasingly along the edge of her panties and it was all she could do not to snap at him to make up his mind about what he wanted to do.

A deep chuckle slid from his lips as the apparition nibbled on the delicate skin of her neck, "You can't can you? Even now when you hover on the brink of succumbing to my desire you know that it would be impossible. No other can give you what I can, no one else can begin to understand what you need."

She needed to breathe, she needed a moment to compose herself. Reluctantly she pulled away from him and took a deep breath, trying to calm the feelings that raged through her body. Why did he always have to be right? She couldn't deny even one thing that he'd said and the bastard knew it. The apparition was like an addiction she just couldn't break. Slowly she walked deeper into the garden, stopping only once she reached a secluded gazebo but she knew that he had followed her. His presence was nearly overwhelming in its intensity. Quietly she spoke to him, needing to know just why he tormented her so, "Why is it that you ask questions you already know the answers to?"

"Because you continue to fight your desires, because you need to admit the truth, to yourself and to me. I will accept nothing less than your complete devotion." For the moment he was content to wait as she struggled to come to terms with what he'd said. Her desire for him was at war with her fierce need for independence but this was something he wouldn't compromise on. "Why deny what you want? What you need. Give yourself over to me and feel the fulfillmentthat only I can give you."

It felt as if all her defenses were crumbling beneath his smooth words and the gentle touch of his hands on her hips, the gentle fingers that were rubbing teasingly against the thin material of her dress. When he forced her to turn and face him Shizuru looked down into those intense glittering red eyes that she could so easily get lost in. She swallowed, trying to rid herself of the lump that had risen in her throat as she felt herself giving in to his demands. "And if I do?"

"Not if Shizuru. You will, your desires are too strong to deny forever." A throaty chuckle emerged from the apparition's throat, one that was full of promise and pleasure for the woman standing before him. It wouldn't be long now, he could almost taste the desire that was demanding to be satisfied. Her body knew that he was the only one that could possibly fulfill the growing need that coursed through it. Slowly he forced her down until she was seated upon the stone bench behind her and then lowered himself beside her. Before she could utter another word he captured her lips with his own, slipping his tongue into the warm recesses of her mouth. Slowly he savored the sweet taste of her while pulling her closer, needing more of the woman in his arms. Breathing heavily he pulled back and stared into her heavily lidded eyes, "It's time that you accept what I am offering to you Shizuru. Don't deny yourself or me any longer."

Nimble fingers made short work of the buttons of her blouse and before long the material parted beneath his questing hands. Entranced Shizuru stared at the apparition while he went to his knees before her bringing his mouth level with her heaving breasts. Though her bra was still firmly in place the thin material did nothing to conceal the way her nipples had hardened. If she thought the scrap of fabric was going to do anything to deter the hybrid she was sadly mistaken for moments later he'd leaned towards her, his lips brushing against a hardened peak. The touch was fleeting and left her needing more but she knew that he wouldn't leave her wanting. Already his fingers were gliding over her sensitized skin, leaving a pleasant tingling in there wake as he moved towards the clasp that held the garment closed.

"How should I touch you Shizuru? Should I take you forcibly, taking possession of everything that you are even as your body begs me for more?" His tone was husky as he pressed closer, his tongue darting out to lap at a pert nipple. To emphasize his words the apparition suckled the hardened peak, scraping his teeth against it before bathing it with his tongue again. A hand tightened in his hair, pulling him even closer but he resisted the hold. He wasn't going to give up his position of dominance, she would answer him before she received what she wanted. "Or perhaps you'd prefer I take my time, drawing out each moment of our time together. Teasing you until you cannot help but beg for more, pleading for me to finish what I've started. My name falling from your lips as I begin to enter you slowly, tormenting you with the knowledge of what's just beyond your reach."

"You talk to much," Shizuru gasped out as her head fell back against the edge of the bench. The apparition's words were enough to destroy the last of her resolve and right now it wouldn't matter which option he chose so long as he followed through. It seemed as if he sensed her submission for a triumphant smirk crossed his face while his hands trailed down her thighs only to push the skirt up around her waist. Eagerly she slid her legs further apart, giving him more room when his fingers began to rub against her aching core. The panties she wore quickly became damp under his ministrationsthough he seemed to be content with tormenting her. Impatiently she grabbed the flimsy material and yanked it to the side, moaning when his fingers finally encountered her bare flesh.

"Impatient aren't you? And so very wet, it's a wonder you held out for as long as you did," Hiei spoke huskily while staring at those pretty pink folds displayed so enticinglybefore him. Gently he pushed a finger into her, relishing the tightnessthat surrounded it. The feeling had his own body tightening to the point of being painful, if she were hugging his finger so tightly how would it feel to have his cock buried deep within her? To feel her clinging to him so deliciously as he showed her just what passion she inspired within him.

When a second finger entered her Shizuru opened her eyes and stared at the apparition intently, her expression one of pure desire. The digits were moving with an agonizing slowness that wasn't enough to sate the ache forming deep within. Even the thumb that rubbed against her clit with its teasing caresses did little to satisfy the need she felt. Her hips bucked into his hand impatiently, demandingly yet they still kept that maddening pace which nearly had her snarling in frustration. Before she could take matters into her own hands though Hiei captured the tiny bundle of nerves between his lips, tearing a moan from her lips. "Oh please!" The gasp was torn from her lips as the apparition began thrusting his fingers with more force, driving her closer and closer to her release. Nothing else mattered but the feel of his mouth and hands as she tangled her hands in his wild hair, pulling him closer. The trembling wracking her body became more insistentas she panted, his free hand coming up to roll a nipple between strong fingertips. The added stimulation was too much and Shizuru fell over the edge that Hiei had been holding her over. A cry filled the air, her voice filled with passion as the pleasure consumed her. Afterwards she continued to tremble, enjoying the last few spasms of a release that had been more intense than any she'd been given before.

Smoldering eyes met her own as Hiei pulled his fingers free and his hands went to work feverishly on his own pants. When his erection sprang free Shizuru licked her lips, knowing she was only moments away from feeling him buried inside her. His hands found her hips, pulling her closer to the edge so he could impale her in one smooth motion and she found that she couldn't wait. The smooth skin of his erection brushed across her opening as he positioned himself to take her. "Hurry," Shizuru whispered to the demon. She was tired of waiting, she was tired of feeling incomplete. She needed him and everything that he was offering to her. But she would wait no longer, even now she could see Hiei's muscles tense as he prepared to make her his and she knew that her wait had come to an end.

Shizuru sat up suddenly with her eyes wide, clutching at the front of her shirt as a crash echoed through the room. Loud voices could be heard on the other side of the door and the wall shook under the force of an impact. "Son of a bitch!" Shizuru yelled out her frustration, both at having the dream to begin with and having it interrupted just when she'd been about to feel him inside of her. Immediately the noises outside the door ceased but it was far too late to for the interruption to be ignored. Angrily she tossed the sheet off of her and stood up, marching straight to the door and hurling it open. Expressions of stunned disbelief were on most of the faces of in the hallway but only two people standing there concerned her. One of which was Yusuke who had his fist cocked back and ready to strike, the other was that of Fudo who was staring at the Toushin with an expression of horror. Glaring daggers at the two of them she stalked up to the pair, there would be only one reason she could think of that Fudo would be down here incurring the wrath of one of her friends and that was to find her. "I've got this one Yusuke," she stated, hauling her own fist back. All of her anger and frustration over the situation poured forth into that one blow, slamming into the man's jaw and propelling him back into the wall.

As he slumped to the ground Shizuru stood straight and stared at everyone who had gathered around to watch the fight. Even Hiei and Kurama were both staring at her with appreciative gazes, enjoying the way she'd taken care of the problem. However seeing the hybrid brought back the very reason she was pissed off in the first place. If she was going to be forced into having the damned dreams in the first place then why the hell couldn't she at least enjoy them completely. Sighing heavily she looked at Kazuma, "I'm going home and so help me the first person who attempts to wake me up before noon is going through the nearest window. Good night." As she stalked away she could feel their gazes following her but she no longer cared. All she wanted to do was sleep for the next twelve hours, hopefully by then her headache and the dreams would be nothing but memories.