Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ If Anyone Falls ❯ The Morning After ( Chapter 25 )

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

Another update! Hope everyone enjoys it!

Chapter 25- The Morning After

August 21, 1993 Minamino Residence

Sunlight filtered through the window, brightening the room and Botan stirred, eyelids fluttering open, blinking to clear her vision. Turning her head to the side, the ferry girl's gaze fell on the sleeping features of Kurama and a loving smile tugged at her lips. She shifted onto her side, taking advantage of being the first awake to study her lover with tender eyes and a fluttery heart. He looks so beautiful and peaceful like this. She thought, a sudden blush bloomed across her cheeks as her mind turned to what happened last night. The things that they did to each other, the intensity of her desire for him and him for her brought out things Botan thought she'd never feel. But it was so much more than the physical intimacy that made her love for him so strong.

It was everything about him. His mind was unrivaled, his heart was loving and gentle, much more than the kitsune gave himself credit for. His soul was darker but the light of love he carried for his family and for her illuminated that darkness and was nearly blinding in it's intensity. His great strength was belied by his lean frame and she felt safe in his arms and she never wanted to leave his side. Reaching out, Botan traced her fingertips along the side of his jaw. “I love you...” She whispered, smiling as he began to stir.

Kurama felt the gentle touch of the ferry girl on his face, drawn to consciousness by her whisper and his eyelids fluttered open. He turned his gaze to study her, seeing the love light in her eyes and he matched her look, flashing her a tender smile. “Good morning, beautiful... How do you feel?”

She blushed at his question, feeling very shy as she answered, “A bit... sore... but I enjoyed what we did... a lot...”

Kurama chuckled inwardly at her reply. “As did I... You were wonderful, Botan. The things you did to me... Made me want you again and again...”

Botan lowered her gaze, whispering, “I didn't realize, just how intense making love was...”

“It's because of our love for each other, koishii...” He answered, reaching out to caress the side of her face with the back of his fingers. “Our feelings for each other makes it that much more intense and personal. My body wants you... my mind needs you... and my heart and soul love you... I've never... I've never felt this way before... And it.... scares me a little, Botan... But I also revel in my feelings for you.”

Botan leaned into his touch, features flushed as she lay back down beside him, crooking her arm over his stomach, nuzzling his neck. “I'm not afraid, Kurama... I can be the strong one... if you want...”

He enjoyed the way she snuggled into him, turning to kiss her crown, smiling. “Sometimes... you will be, Botan... I'm not... good at expressing myself emotionally with anyone but you... only you see the truth of my heart. Only you love me as I am... no matter what darkness I carry. For that alone I love you more than life itself.”

“Kurama....” She whispered, burying her face in his neck. “You're making my heart act up.”

He wrapped an arm around he as he tilted his head against hers. “I love your heart most of all, Botan. Because it loves me without condition.”

The ferry girl shifted her arm, resting the palm of her hand over his heart. “I love your heart too, Kurama. I love you as you are and always will.”

He lifted his hand to rest over hers, smiling tenderly. “Beautiful peony... now you're making my heart act up.”

She smiled, kissing his neck before lifting her head to study him. He was so beautiful and wonderful and all hers. Memories of last night flooded her mind and she remembered the way he touched her, the way his words sparked the heat in her blood, how good he felt inside her, his hot kisses and the way her name spilled from his lips when he... Botan's eyes widened suddenly and she bolted upright. Oh God... we... we didn't...

Kurama frowned at her sudden reaction. “Botan, what's wrong?”

The ferry girl opened her mouth to speak but the words wouldn't come out and the kitsune sat up in concern.

“Koishii... you look frightened... tell me what is wrong.”

Botan finally found her voice, feeling very shy even as she spoke, “When... when we... made love... We didn't... use protection...”

A knowing look spread on Kurama's features and he frowned. I should have stopped myself from going too far with her. But I wanted her so badly I let my body overrun my mind. “Botan... I'm sorry... It wasn't intentional..”

The ferry girl bit her lip. “I know that... but what if... what if I become pregnant?”

The idea of her carrying his child secretly pleased him but his mind understood that the girl was nervous and afraid of the prospect. And we're not ready yet for that... not for a while... “Koishii... there are herbs I can brew into a tea that will eliminate any chance you become pregnant,” He replied, reaching out to take her hand in his, wanting to ease her panic. “So do not be afraid, Botan. It will be alright, I promise.”

She looked down as his hand took hers and she whispered, “I want to have children with you, Kurama... It's just... You're still in high school... and I know it's not the right time... for that...”

Kurama smiled. “When we do have children, they will be strong and beautiful, Botan,” He stroked the top of her hand with his thumb, voice soft and tender, “In a few years, this human body of mine will be fully grown and then I will be ready to marry you properly and we can take that last step and begin a family of our own. But for now, I will make sure to be more careful with you.”

Botan enjoyed the simple contact, lifting her gaze to give him a loving smile. “Kurama...”

A sudden gurgling sound erupted and the red head quirked an eyebrow, looking down at the source of the noise. “Are you hungry, Botan?”

Botan gave a sheepish look. “Maybe a little...”

Kurama smiled. “Then let's take a shower and then I'll make us some breakfast.”

The ferry girl studied him in surprise, watching as he slid out of bed, admiring the sight of his naked form even as her voice squeaked out, “You want to shower together?”

He laughed softly at her reaction, eyes twinkling. “It's not like we haven't seen each other naked, koishii,” He paused, drawing his gaze slowly up and down her from, voice lowering in timbre. “I must say you lack for nothing.”

Botan felt the heat of his gaze, blushing darkly as her own eyes lingered on his body. “I could say the same of you, Kurama.”

He grinned, enjoying the way she looked at him and he was very tempted to pull her up to him and continue where they left off last night, but knew it would only lead to more trouble. And I want to ease her worry about the risk of pregnancy. “Hmm... well... perhaps it is best if we shower separately. I don't think I can behave myself with you just yet...” Kurama walked over to his closet, drawing out boxer briefs, white socks, jeans, and a light blue t shirt.

Botan watched the kitsune grab his clothing then head towards his bedroom door. “Where are you going, Kurama?”

He stopped, smiling down at her. “To use the bathroom in the spare bedroom, sweet. You go ahead and use mine.” He headed out and into the hall, turning right and following the short trail to the end bedroom and he opened the door, heading straight to the bathroom and he turned on the water, making sure it was nice and hot before stepping inside. He washed quickly, wrapping a towel around his waist as he wiped off the steam from the mirror, checking his jaw to make sure there was no stubble to shave then brushed his teeth. Kurama dressed and headed back to his room, smiling as he heard the water running and the girl softly singing and he stood still, listening for several moments, enjoying the sound of his lover's voice before he went over to his closet, drawing out the herbs he'd need to make the tea.

The kitsune then headed down the stairs and into the kitchen, digging through the drawer near the coffee maker, pulling out a tea egg and he opened it, placing the herbs inside. He put hot water in the tea kettle, allowing it to warm up before setting it aside. He took out a small sauce pan and filled it with water, setting it on the range. He turned on the gas switch, blue flame erupting underneath and the fox spirit lowered the temp, waiting until the water boiled before shutting it off.

Kurama dumped out the warm water in the kettle, the ceramic now warm enough to handle the hot water, placing the egg inside. With great care, he poured the water from the sauce pan into the kettle, putting the lid over it as he allowed the tea to steep. The kitsune heard the girl's footsteps as she made her way to the kitchen and he smiled, lifting his head to find the ferry girl dressed in light blue jeans and a yellow t shirt. “How was your shower, sweet?” He asked, pouring the tea into the small white cup, setting it before Botan who came to a stop before him.

The girl looked at her beloved, smiling at the way his still damp hair clung to his skin. “It was nice. The hot water felt good,” She answered, looking down at the cup as she reached out and lifted it to her lips, taking a small sip, surprised at how mild it tasted. “So how did you learn to make this tea, Kurama?” She asked, studying the kitsune with a curious eye.

He hesitated for a few seconds, wondering whether or not to tell her before he replied, “When I lived in Makai, I had many females vying for my attention,” He began, lowering his gaze a bit. “Youkai females have the ability to either allow for a pregnancy to occur or to reject it completely without the use of any outside influence. However, I could not risk any offspring coming after me, so I used herbs on myself that kept me functional but unable to impregnate willing females and gave them tea to make doubly sure nothing ever came about from any mating.”

The thought of him with other females drew out the jealousy in her and she asked, “Did you have to do that often?”

He blinked at her question, hearing a note of jealousy in her voice. “Not too often, no.”

“And you're sure you don't have any children living in Makai?”

He tilted his head, trying hard not to chuckle at her pouting expression. “No, love. If there were any offspring related to me, they would have sought me out and challenged me to a contest of strength.”

Botan looked at him in surprise. “Really? Why is that?”

“It is just the way it is in Demon World,” The kitsune answered. “Unless the parent has died, a child will always try to surpass his father and/or his mother in terms of strength. It can be simply to test their level of ki... or in the case of... revenge or some slight against one or the other parent... A fight to the death.”

“Even female youkai do this?”

Kurama nodded. “Yes, koishii,” He replied as he explained. “What determines strength in Makai is the level of ki, not the gender. It is the same for Reikai, is it not?”

“I don't know,” Botan admitted. “My knowledge of Spirit World is based mostly on the palace and what we do in relation to Ningenkai.”

Kurama studied the ferry girl with puzzled eyes. “So you never learned about the different quadrants in Reikai?”

“Well, I mean, I know there are four of them. That the SDF comes from the Northern Quadrant and that is where the Celestial Court is located. But that's really all I know,” Botan replied. “We're not allowed to travel the rest of Reikai per King Enma's orders.”

“And you were never given a reason for such an order?” Kurama asked.

“No,” The girl said with a shake of her head. “I'm just a ferry girl. I have no power or authority to question the rules or laws laid down by Enma.”

The kitsune's features turned thoughtful. Enma keeps these girls regulated to one quadrant but why? What would the purpose be in denying them the ability to travel in their own homeland? Just what is he trying to hide from them? And does Koenma know anything about the reason for such restricted rules?

“Kurama?”

The red head blinked, turning his focus back on the ferry girl. “Hmm, what is it, love?”

Botan studied her lover with curious eyes. I know that look. Something is troubling him, but what? “Is something wrong?”

“Botan, you once told me that your parents died when you were very young and you remembered little of them.” He began, pausing as the deity confirmed,

“Yes, that's true. I remember my mother singing to me when I was little but I can't remember her face, no matter how many times I close my eyes.”

“And Koenma never mentioned their names or where exactly you hailed from?”

The ferry girl shook her head. “When I asked him about my family he told me that I was an orphan and brought to him to raise into a ferry girl.”

Kurama frowned. “Brought to him by who?”

Her brow furrowed as she tried to recall the information. Why? Why can't I remember? A sudden stabbing pain exploded in her mind and she winced, reaching up with her right hand to clutch her temples as she managed to pant out, “I... I don't know...”

The kitsune sensed her frustration and then the spike of pain and he flinched in surprise at the intensity he could feel. As if her mind is screaming for me to stop. Kurama backed off, reaching out to take the girl's hand in his left one, his right lifting as he pressed his fingertips against her forehead. He released a wave of healing ki, frowning as it was rebuffed and he used a stronger burst of energy, sensing the girl's own ki begin to weave around his own.

Botan felt him take her hand, felt him trying to help ease her suffering, her own ki reacting, their energy weaving together and the pain dissipated, the tenseness in her body fading and she relaxed, letting out a slow breath. “Thank you, Kurama...”

Kurama lowered his hand, looking at her in concern. “Are you alright, Botan?”

“Yes. I'm alright. It's just... odd...” She said in a confused voice. “I've never felt.... pain like that before.”

“You've never had a headache before?”

“Well, yes. But not like that,” Botan murmured. “It's almost as if... you asking me about my family triggered it.”

Kurama studied the girl, frowning at the implication that was forming in his mind. Could it be... someone blocked her memory of what happened when she was a child? “Botan, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause you pain. I won't ask you anymore of it.”

The deity looked over at the red head, tilting her head. “I don't mind you asking, Kurama. I am just sorry I don't know the answer. I would like to know about my family and where I came from. It's only natural, right?”

Kurama smiled and nodded. “It is, sweet.” He slowly withdrew his hand from hers and pushed off the counter. “Now then, why don't you finish that tea and I'll make us something to eat, hmm?”

“Okay, sounds good.” Botan said softly, watching as the fox spirit began to make them a light breakfast, admiring his skill as she sipped her tea.

Kurama put two slices of toast into the toaster then went to the fridge, drawing out some half and half and a package of eggs. Placing them on the counter, he drew out a purple mixing bowl, opening the carton and drew out four eggs, cracking them on the counter then lifting them over the bowl, splitting them open with both thumbs. The red head focused his attention on the eggs as he whipped them with a fork then buttered up the frying pan, keeping his troubled thoughts to himself. He didn't want to upset her further with the questions forming in his mind. But Botan's physiological reaction to his questions... The pain forcing her to withdraw and become confused... It was almost like someone had implanted a shield to block anyone from digging deeper. What happened to you as a child, peony, that Koenma... or whoever brought you to him.... Chose to manipulate your memories rather than risk having the truth of who you are revealed?

He went through the motions, pouring the mixture into the pan, using a rubber spatula to keep the mix from sticking, creating scrambled eggs. Shutting off the gas, he grabbed two small purple plates and divided the eggs and cut the toast before plating their breakfast. “Here you go, love.” He said softly, lifting the plate for the ferry girl to take.

Botan beamed, taking the plate from her lover's outstretched hand, sitting it down before her. “It smells really good, Kurama, thank you!”

Kurama smiled, grabbing a pair of forks, handing one to the girl. “You are welcome, Botan.” He replied, willing himself to drop the subject of her uncertainty of her past and his own lingering questions. But I will find out the truth for you, Botan. Just as soon as we're allowed access to Reikai once more. He vowed as he ate quietly with his beloved. After breakfast, the kitsune did the dishes and dried his hands. “Well, now that we've eaten, why don't we head into town? There are a few supplies I need for the house and some... other things... I should have purchased yesterday.”

Botan blushed, catching his meaning and she replied in a soft voice. “Yes... probably a good idea to buy... what you need, Kurama... don't want to be caught... in the heat of the moment again... not that I didn't... enjoy it...”

The kitsune felt a smirk tugging at his lips as he whispered in a lowered tone, “I enjoyed it very much as well, Botan... so much so... I hope to do that again... real soon...”

The deity shifted a bit, affected more than she should admit to the simple tenor of his voice. God, do you have any idea what you do to me, Kurama? She wondered as she cleared her throat. “I want to as well... very, very soon...” She heard a low laugh erupt from him and she snapped her head up, pouting at him. “What's so funny, buster?”

His eyes twinkled at her reaction to his laugh and he went over to her, pulling her to him, nipping her hair. “Your reactions are cute, kitten. I can't help but enjoy the sight of you being flustered with me...”

She leaned into him, even as her tone retained it's faux irritation. “You're SO lucky I love you.”

He chuckled, hugging her. “I won't argue that, Botan. I am indeed very lucky to have you as mine and to be yours.”

Her features softened and she wrapped her arms around his waist. “You haven't always been mine, Kurama... there were many before me... I feel a bit... intimidated at the knowledge.”

The red head's features turned serious and he hugged her, voice softer and more gentle. “Botan, can I confess something to you?”

The deity tensed a bit, unsure if it was something she wanted to hear. But I love him. All of him. Even his darker past. I know he wouldn't hurt me or push me away, so I must do the same and listen. “Okay...”

He rested his chin on her crown, hearing her hesitation as he spoke, “In my life as Youko, I was never in love. I never sought a mate and I never needed one,” He began, whispering in a reverent tone as he nuzzled her hair, caressing her back gently with his fingertips. “I didn't understand love... until I met you, Botan... I never wanted love.... until you were at my side... I never felt love... until I looked into your eyes... and saw within you a light so precious I wanted to protect it and claim it as mine... so you see my lovely peony, other women may have had my body... but none of them ever captured my heart... you are the first to do so... and you will be the last.”

He was making her heart flutter madly and she trembled, tightening her hold on him. “Kurama... God... you're making my heart and my body act up...” She whispered, voice full of devotion and love as she tilted her head back to look up at him.

Kurama smiled, tilting his head down to study her, his eyes alive and bright, shining the truth of his heart as he leaned down, resting his forehead against hers. “Your heart is most precious to me, Botan... for it loves me without condition... and your body... well, it calls to me... yearns to be touched and taken... and protected... I revel in you, beautiful, lovely, peony. ”

She responded to his words loosening her hold to cup his face, giving him butterfly kisses. “Kurama...”

He groaned at the attention, pulling her tight to him again. “If you keep that up... I'll have to brew you another batch of tea...”

She grew still, pulling back, blushing a bit as she reluctantly lowered her arms down to her side. “I know... you're right... but you are so darn hard to resist sometimes...”

Kurama's expression became a bit teasing, easing the sexual tension and desire with a lighter tone. “Only sometimes?”

Botan laughed softly, admitting with a grin. “Okay... all the time...”

He matched her soft laugh, moving forward, wrapping an arm around her waist, guiding her towards the front door of the house and they slid on their shoes, heading out down the path and onto the sidewalk. Kurama held out his hand for Botan to take, smiling when she did so and they walked side by side down the street, making their way towards the local chemist shop. The kitsune stopped, reaching out with his free hand, wrapping it around the handle, pulling it towards him, holding it open for the ferry girl who beamed.

“Thank you, Shuichi,” She said, remembering they were out in public and she stepped inside, turning to watch the kitsune follow and the pair entered together. “So what are we looking for in here?”

The red head walked forward, clearing his throat, voice a whisper. “Protection.” He answered, unable to vocalize exactly what it was he was doing. I am not ashamed of this but I don't want everyone to know what we're doing. The longer I can keep the truth from my mother, the better.

Botan blushed at his answer, unsure of what to say or do. “Ohh... um... well... do you want me to help you... um... search?”

He wanted to chuckle at her shyness and hesitation but kept his features even. “It's alright, sweet. I can manage... unless you wish to accompany me?” He asked, looking over at her with curious eyes.

The ferry girl met his gaze, pondering whether or not to accept. “Well... I mean... I don't know anything about... this... but, okay... let's do it...”

His lips twitched and he smirked at her last statement. “Let's do it?” He repeated in a teasing tone as he studied his koishii with mirth.

Botan gasped then pouted, realizing how it sounded. “God, you really are as bad as Yusuke sometimes, aren't you?”

Kurama didn't bother to deny it, laughing softly as he made a motion with his head for her to follow. “Come on, koi. Let's go have a look.”

Botan enjoyed his laugh, giving him a playful look of irritation but went along, walking behind him as they walked down the various aisles, coming to a stop before a section marked prophylactics and she tried to gauge what it was they were looking for as she looked back and forth than up and down each row and column. “Um... so... how do we go about picking one of these?”

“I don't know...”

Botan about fell over at the red head's comment, snapping her gaze in his direction. “What do you mean you don't know? I thought you knew everything...”

Kurama chuckled at her reaction, nonplussed in his tone as he replied, “Most everything... but this...” He paused, motioning at the various selections of condoms in colorful boxes before him. “Is something I have no knowledge of.”

Botan made a face, turning her attention to the many boxes and she reached out, grabbing the nearest one, flipping it around as she read the back, eyes widening at the rather frank description. Cheeks flushed, the ferry girl quickly stuffed the box back in it's place. “I think I'm going to... um... go look at the magazines... yes... I think that's what I'll go do...” She said as she turned and moved with great haste away from the aisle, leaving Kurama alone.

Kurama was amused at the girl's reaction, watching her flee and he reached out to take the same box she had chosen a few seconds ago, turning it around, quirking an eyebrow at the rather direct language about pleasuring a woman and he smirked. No wonder she took off... it's like porn... on a box... His brow furrowed as he read the practical information. Well, I've never even measured for that before. I know I'm bigger than most of the boys in my class... but not abnormally so... and I don't want anything that is too different from what I have so I think I'll put this one back.

He perused several more varieties before deciding on two different choices and he grabbed them, heading down the aisle, turning the corner only to come to a sudden stop as a familiar voice called out.

“If it isn't Shuichi Minamino!”

The kitsune turned around, discretely holding onto the two boxes in his left hand, keeping it behind him as he smiled politely. “Mr. Nakimara, it's nice to see you again. I didn't know you were working today.” If I had, I would have went somewhere else to get what I needed.

“I have been working less and less, it's true, but being a pharmacist and helping people is what I love to do so why stop now, eh?” The older man said with a friendly smile as he came closer to the red head. “How is your mother doing?”

“She's well,” Kurama answered as he remained in his spot. “Still on her honeymoon in Hawaii but she will be back in a few days.”

“Ah, that's right. She married that computer guy... Kazuya, right?”

“That's correct.” Kurama said with a nod.

“I bet she's happy to be married again after being alone for so long... I remember when....” The older male began then stopped as a bell began to ring. “Ohh... that's for me... I better go help out in the back. Do say hello to your mother for me will you? It was nice to see you again, Shuichi.”

“I will and it was nice to see you again as well Mr. Nakimara,” Kurama replied, subtly turning direction, keeping the pharmacist from seeing what he had in his hand. The fox spirit watched him pass and disappear and he let out a soft sigh. That was close. He thought, heading over to the cashier as he quickly paid for the two items, noticing the blush on the girl's cheeks as she run up his order and placed it in a small brown paper bag for him. “Thank you.” Kurama said softly as he turned and headed over to the magazine rack, sneaking up behind the ferry girl as he peered over her shoulder. “Find anything interesting, Botan?”

The deity jumped, nearly dropping the fashion magazine in her hand. “Ack!” She exclaimed more loudly than she intended. “Don't scare me like that!”

“Sorry, Botan...” Kurama replied, laughing softly as she pouted, fighting the urge to kiss her full lips. “Koishii... you keep pouting like that and I will be forced to kiss you...”

“Forced?” Botan said, pouting at his laugh before she countered with a huff, “You were quite willing to kiss me last night...”

His laughter died out, replaced with a surprised look, enjoying her retort. “Of that we are both in agreement... and I am more than willing to kiss you again tonight... if you so desire...”

Her gaze traveled from his face to the paper bag in his hand. “Well... given your... purchase... I am more than welcome for you to kiss me... as often as you want...”

Kurama grinned. “well... I hope I don't always need these...” He paused, holding up the bag. “Just to kiss you... but it's a good thing to have... just in case...” He saw movement from the corner of the shop and his grin fell, replaced with a sense of urgency. “Let's go, sweet.”

Botan heard the change in his voice, peering over his shoulder as she followed his gaze, blinking when the kitsune took her hand in his and gently pulled her with him towards the entrance door. They exited the shop, Kurama still holding her hand though he had slowed so they could walk next to each other. “What was that all about, Kurama?” She asked, looking over at her beloved in concern.

Kurama sighed. “The pharmacist that works in that store knows my mother very well and nearly caught me buying condoms,” The kitsune explained. “Mr. Nakimara is a nice man but prone to gossip. If word got out about this, my mother would eventually find out and we'd both be in trouble.”

Botan frowned. “Trouble for what? As long as we use protection, we should be okay, right?”

“Technically, yes. But my mother, as understanding as she is, won't allow us to have sex under her roof. I don't blame her... it's her house and her rules.... but I know we can only behave for so long before something happens and we forget ourselves... and she... or heaven forbid... Suichi... catches us in the act...” Kurama paused, looking over at his koi. “And I don't know about you... but it would be rather.. embarrassing for us both... to be found out... in the middle of such... intimacy...”

A mortified look bloomed on Botan's face. “God... that would be... terribly embarrassing, you're right...” She admitted then pouted. “But... I like being intimate with you... I don't want to give that up forever...”

“Neither do I, Botan,” Kurama replied, leading down the sidewalk towards the grocer's. “We'll figure something out, I promise. In the meantime, let us enjoy the time we have together, alright?”

Botan nodded. “Sounds like a plan.” She replied, entering the store with him.

The pair walked close to each other and the kitsune picked a few items for the house, taking them to checkout, each of them carrying a bag as they made their way towards home, content to be in each other's company and so they remained, even as their time alone soon came to an end as Shiori and Kazuya returned from their extended honeymoon and the school year began.

September 21, 1993 Meiou High School

Kurama stared out the window of his homeroom, ignoring the repetitive voice of Mr. Okudara as he went over quadratic equations with the class, the kitsune's mind lost in thought over his current situation. First there was the matter of his new family. Kazuya and Suichi had moved in with Shiori and the red head and though he loved them all, having so many people in the house made it impossible to have any alone or romantic time with Botan. Not that I need such attention all the time. But I get lost in her. The little things she does... her sighs... her pouting... the way she touches my arm... or speaks my name. Sometimes it just sparks my want of her and it becomes difficult to control. He admitted to himself. Not that he would even attempt to act out on such desires while everyone was there. It wasn't proper or right. Besides, I don't know if that is what Botan wants right now. As much as he longed to show his koishii how much he desire her, it was always the ferry girl's decision how far she wanted to go. I love her too much to ever ask for more than she's willing to give.

His mind shifted gears, going over the mission for Yomi and all that detailed. The six fighters he'd chosen had the ability to improve in both power and speed and Genkai was more than capable of bringing out the most from her students. But will it be enough for this war? If I have to fight Yusuke and Hiei, will I manage to survive as I am? He wondered. No. He answered himself, brow furrowing in concern. I am not at a high enough level in this form to compete with them. I am closer as Youko but still, I must get stronger. Yet, I cannot train here. There are too many distractions... and I do not want to alarm my family with my... changes... I will have to go to Genkai's as often as I can and train as well. Only then will I be able to grow stronger to protect this world and the other realms from harm.

He sensed a very familiar energy and his concern vanished, a smiling lighting his face as his gaze shifted, spying the form of Botan as she stood outside the entrance of the school and he rose, just as the bell rung to signal the end of class. Announcements began straight after but the kitsune paid no mind, heading straight for his locker, grabbing his book bag and he headed down the stairs and out of the school, walking towards the ferry girl who waved and smiled brightly at him.

“Hello, handsome!”

Kurama smiled tenderly, coming to a stop before her. “Hello, beautiful,” He replied, eyes twinkling a bit. “Come to walk me home, have you, hmm?”

Botan enjoyed his teasing nature and she made a face, gasping playfully as her eyes widened a bit. “It's like you can read my mind,” She stepped closer to him, studying his features with mirth, though her tone was serious. “What else am I thinking about right now?”

The kitsune chuckled at her reaction and expression, reveling when his ferry girl played along and he reached up, tapping his index finger to his lips, mimicking her usual habit as he spoke. “Hmm... interesting... But I'm not sure that it's something I should share with so many people around, Botan.”

Heat flared across her cheeks at his answer but wouldn't fall for the bait and she lifted her hand, wagging her finger at him. “Nope! Guess again!”

He quirked an eyebrow. I think this is the longest she's lasted without pouting and calling me out for my silliness. He thought as he rubbed his chin. “Hmm... I'm drawing a blank... enlighten me, love, as to what is on your mind.”

She shook her head. “Not going to tell you... until we get home...” She answered, holding out her hand for him to take.

Kurama was surprised but intrigued and he reached out, blinking when the ferry girl tugged him gently but insistently out of the gate and onto the sidewalk. He felt the stares of his classmates but cared not what they thought, locking his fingers with hers as they walked side by side, making towards home.

The pair remained quiet for a few moments, content in each other's company before Botan broke the silence first.

“So... um... how was school today?”

“Long,” Kurama answered. “But I survived.” He turned, looking over at her. “So what were you up to today, Botan?”

“Well, I spent the day mostly visiting with Keiko and Kuwabara at their new schools,” The ferry girl replied, meeting his gaze. “They seem to be adapting well and making new friends but I can tell they miss Yusuke greatly.”

Kurama nodded. “I imagine so,” He said in a soft tone. “Three years is a long time to wait for a loved one to return home. Especially with no guarantee that Yusuke even survives in those three years.”

Botan's features fell at the red head's comments, a pain in her heart growing for her human friend. “Please don't talk like that, Kurama. I don't want to think what will happen to Keiko if Yusuke... if he...”

“If he dies? Or if he never returns?” Kurama finished for her.

The girl lowered her gaze. “That would be awful, either way. It will kill Keiko's heart. She smiles and laughs... but I can see his absence killing her bit by bit as the days grow longer and they remain apart,” She paused, grumbling out, “Yusuke's a jerk for leaving her alone like this.”

“Koishii...” Kurama said softly, drawing her attention back to him. “It couldn't be helped. Yusuke needed to go to Makai to better understand who he is and his place in the world. He could not remain here with Reikai breathing down his neck... He had to leave... you know that as well as I do.”

“Yes... but still... he's a jerk... for making her wait so long,” She insisted. “He couldn't come back and visit every once in a while?”

“He needs to train, Botan. To get stronger. Just as Hiei does... Just as I do... This war... if it comes... only the strongest will survive. To protect this world... Yusuke left... But he gave Keiko a promise and I know he will keep it. One way or another... he will come back to her.”

“But how do you know that for sure, Kurama?” Botan asked, coming to a stop as they reached the gate of her adopted home.

“Because he loves her.” He answered. Just as I love you and would do whatever it took to come back to you. He added silently as he reached out with his free hand, opening the gate for the girl to enter first.

Botan loosened her hold of his hand, walking past him and down the short path that led to the front door and the pair entered the house.

“Shuichi? Botan? Is that you?”

Kurama slid off his shoes as he answered, “Yes, mother, it's us.”

Shiori came out of the kitchen, looking at the two teenagers in surprise. “You're home early. Don't you have club meetings to go to?”

Kurama smiled, walking over to his mother, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Not today, mother,” He said softly. “Do you want us to help you make dinner?”

“That would be lovely, Shuichi, thank you.” Shiori admitted, heading back into the kitchen.

Kurama and Botan followed, helping Shiori to fix their evening meal, Kazuya and Suichi joining in as everyone sat at the kitchen table.

“So how was school today, Suichi?” Botan asked, looking over at the young teen who beamed back at her.

“It's going great! I'm doing pretty well in all my classes and I took up judo as a club sport. I've already learned a few take down and holds, though I am a bit sore from the foot sweep practice.”

“You'll get better at it, Suichi,” Kurama said, smiling over at his brother. “Just remember not to try too hard and over exert yourself. It's very easy to get hurt, even during practice.”

“I will be careful, Shuichi,” The younger boy said with a nod. “What about you, though? What clubs did you join this year?”

Kurama was put on the spot by the question, though he answered quickly enough. “Botany of course.”

“That's it?” Suichi asked, brow furrowed. “You're really good at music, why not join a music club? Or kendo? I bet you'd be really awesome at fighting with swords.”

The boy's enthusiasm and honest praise made the kitsune smile. “Perhaps next year. I'd rather just focus on my studies.”

“So what is it you wish to do when you graduate, Shuichi? Have you given thought to your career goals?” Kazuya asked.

Kurama's features turned thoughtful. “Well, I do love working with plants but I'm not sure I want to make a career out of it.”

“What about music?” Botan asked, looking over at her beloved. “You're such a wonderful musician and singer, you could do really well in that field.”

He smiled softly. “I do love music as well but there are no guarantees that I'll succeed if I follow that path.”

“Well, if you find yourself unable to decide, you could always come work for me until you choose your path, Shuichi.” Kazuya offered.

Shiori listened to her son talk, not surprised at Kazuya's offer and she reached out, resting her hand over her husband's. “I'm sure Shuichi will take you up on your offer if he has a difficult time, Kazuya.” She said softly, looking over at her son. “But no matter what you choose to do, know that we support you 100 percent.”

Kurama smiled softly. “Mother... I... thank you... that means a lot to me. It really does.”

“You are welcome, Shuichi,” Shiori replied, pulling her hand slowly from Kazuya's as she rose. “Now then, who's up for some dessert?”

Everyone was treated to a lemon tart before the group rose, helping to clean up and Kurama headed upstairs, Botan right behind him. The kitsune entered his room, opening his book bag as he drew out his homework for the day, laying it on on the desk as he sat down. The deity went over to the closet, crouching down to unzip her pink backpack, drawing out a book and she rose, walking back to the kitsune's bed, laying down on her stomach as she opened the book and began to read.

Kurama finished his history and math work then stretched, swiveling in his chair, his gaze falling on Botan, smiling as the the sight of her completely engrossed in a book and he rose. He crouched down, peering over her shoulder, voice and features curious. “What are you reading, koishii?”

Botan jumped at the sudden sound of his voice, the book flying from her hand in reaction, landing on the wood floor with a loud plop. “Ack!” She exclaimed, pouting as she looked over her shoulder at him. “Kurama!”

The kitsune chuckled, bending over to pick up the book, quirking an eyebrow at the image of a couple in tattered clothing clinging to each other on the front cover. “Stranded Passion....” He read the title out loud as he rose, shifting his gaze over to Botan, finding her face had turned beet red.

The ferry girl blushed darkly, embarrassed at having been caught reading a love novel. “It's um... not what you think...” She stammered.

Kurama smirked. “And what is it you think I'm... thinking, Botan, hmm?”

His teasing tone always affected her and she pouted even more. “You know... that I... that I like...” She started then stopped, unable to voice the truth of what was in such works.

“Love scenes?” He finished for her, eyes twinkling though he held out the book for her to take.

She blinked when he handed her the book and she took it. “Yes...” She admitted in a shy tone. “I can't help it... I read it and imagine...”

He sat down on the side of the bed, studying her. “Imagine what, koishii? Us doing the same thing? Nothing wrong with that.”

She lifted her gaze. “It's not wrong?”

His brow furrowed at her serious response. “No, Botan. Why would it be wrong?” He paused, giving her a gentle smile, “So you like romance novels... so do most women. Granted it's not my kind of thing but I would never say anything to discourage you from reading what you want.”

“So you don't think I'm a pervert?”

Kurama laughed softly. “No, sweet, I don't think you're a pervert...”

Botan felt relief, the tenseness in her body easing and she looked down. “I'm glad...”

His laughter died off and he reached out and trace his finger down her nose, gently tapping the end, his eyes full of mirth and love as he smiled tenderly down at her. “Silly peony... I love you and I don't think any less of you for reading something you enjoy...”

His touch brought her focus back on him and she found his smile infectious, an urge to kiss him growing and she shifted, surprising them both as she leaned in to catch his lips in a kiss.

Kurama watched her shift, thinking she wanted to sit up, eyes widening a bit in surprise at the gentle and slow kiss, returning it, eyes partly closing when he felt her hands on his face, groaning when the girl tugged on his bottom lip before pulling back. “Botan...” He croaked out. “What... was that for?”

Botan caressed the sides of his face, marveling at the beauty of the man, even if he loved to tease her often. “For being you... for loving me... for being... so damn cute...”

He enjoyed the attention, his body waking up though his mind maintained control. “Damn cute?” He asked, smirking at hearing her swear.

“Okay... really damn cute...” She admitted with a grin.

Kurama chuckled. “Well... I can't say I don't like your praise... but I better get back to home work before I get into trouble...”

Botan pouted as he rose and she dropped the book at the end of the bed, her arm snaking out to grab his hand, not wanting him to go as she pulled him back down to her.

The kitsune laughed as he was tugged back into bed, laying down, wrapping his arms around Botan as she latched onto him, snuggling her body against his. “Peony...”

The ferry girl nuzzled along his neck, smiling. “Hmm?”

Kurama's eyelids fluttered at the attention to his neck, voice lowering a bit in response. “You keep this up and bad things could happen...”

“Bad things like what?” She asked softly, lifting her head to look down at him.

The kitsune looked up at her, loosening his hold to caress the girl's cheek. “Things that would get us in trouble, love. Things... we can't do right now...”

Botan turned to kiss the red head's wrist as he touched her face, voice soft and sad. “I know... but I can't help but want to kiss you... and other things...”

He smiled at the kiss, whispering. “I want those things too, Botan,” His gaze met hers, seeing the love and desire reflected in her amethyst orbs, his own feelings as strong as the ferry girl's. “Very much so...” He added, tracing his fingertips down her neck and arm, taking her hand in his, twining his fingers with hers. “I love you and love expressing that physically.”

Botan's heart raced at such a simple touch, body alive at the way his hand held hers. “I love it as well... and I love this, too... I do... just... I feel... an ache inside... again... and it's hard to ignore...”

“I understand, Botan... my body.... craves yours... but I also love... simple things... as well... holding you like this... pleases me, too..”

The deity smiled, lowering her head beside his. “It is very nice... I could do this all day... and be happy...”

He turned his head, kissing her forehead. “It is nice... and pleasant... and I promise... soon... we can... express ourselves... without prying eyes and ears...”

“We can?”

Kurama nodded. “This weekend, I thought we'd take a trip up to Genkai's. It will allow me to evaluate my men... and... give us the privacy we need...”

Botan beamed. “I like that idea!” She said. “I can visit with Yukina and Genkai... and see what Koenma's been up to as well!”

“Then it's settled,” The kitsune replied. “I'll make sure to pack... everything we'll need...”

Botan blushed, knowing what he was talking about, excited at the prospect of seeing her friends and spending alone time with her lover. “Sounds like a plan.” She said, holding onto the kitsune, enjoying the closeness, letting go reluctantly, knowing her koishii had to finish his home work, sighing as she sat up and reached out, scooping up the book, picking up where she left off, finishing it in time for bed and the pair retired for the evening.

Another chapter concluded. All K and B centric but that is what I wanted to focus most on in this story of mine. But for those who want more of everyone else, don't worry, that will come as well. Next time we will travel to Genkai's for training, information updates about Reikai... and... ahem... special time between Kurama and Botan... among other things.