The Curse Of The Cat Ears

Chapter Four

Year Four

This wasn't what Kyo had planned at all. When their neighbors told them that trick-or-treaters were rare in the area, he knew Tohru was disappointed. She had been excited for their first Halloween in their new home, and he could tell by the way her face fell when she heard the news that it had meant a lot to her. He had figured they could make up for it by catching a train to Tokyo on Friday evening and spending Halloween with their friends and family, soaking in the energy of the city.

But then Kyo got the call. One of the instructors at the dojo's wife had gone into labor, and he was being brought in as a permanent substitute until the instructor returned in six weeks. Kyo was thrilled—it was a huge responsibility and a step forward in his career. Tohru was over the moon for him too, her excitement evident in the way she hugged him tightly after the news.

But it also meant their plans had to change. They were stuck there for Halloween.

It was officially one week before the holiday, and they were sitting on the couch together. Tohru was on the phone with Momiji, listening as he animatedly went on about the Halloween party at the Sohma estate. From the decorations to the costumes to the games, Momiji was excited about all of it, and Tohru nodded along, smiling softly as she responded with, "That sounds like so much fun!" But Kyo could tell from the look in her eyes that it was hard for her to miss out on being home with everyone.

When Tohru finally hung up the phone, she set it down with a small sigh. Kyo turned to her, his brow furrowing with concern. "Hey," he said softly, reaching for her hand. "You okay?"

She gave him a sad but understanding smile. "Yeah, I just miss everyone." Her voice was quiet, and Kyo could hear the emotion in it. She was always so strong, but this time, the disappointment was harder for her to hide.

Kyo sighed, feeling a wave of guilt wash over him. He pulled her into his arms, pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head. "I know, baby. I'm sorry."

Tohru nestled into him, her smile warming as she snuggled closer. "It's okay," she murmured. "I'd rather be with you anyways."

Kyo smiled, grateful for her words, but he could still see the sadness in her eyes. He knew she meant it, but he also knew she wished they could be in Tokyo with everyone else, enjoying the excitement and the traditions they loved.

"We can do something fun," he offered, determined to make things better for her. "Anything you want to do?"

Tohru sighed softly. "I actually picked up another shift. There was a call-out for the morning shift, and they really needed someone."

Kyo nodded, though a part of him felt disappointed. Tohru worked hard as a front desk employee at a local children's clinic, and Kyo knew how much she cared about her job. She was perfect for it—her kindness and patience made her a natural. He had even encouraged her more than once to consider going to nursing school, but every time she'd say the same thing.

"We can't afford it," she'd say with a soft smile, and though Kyo hated hearing those words, he couldn't argue. They were still working hard to build their life together.

"What time do you think you'll be home?" Kyo asked, still determined to salvage the holiday for her.

Tohru thought for a moment. "Around seven, probably."

He nodded. "Maybe we can go out for dinner or something afterward," he suggested, hoping it might cheer her up.

She smiled and nodded in agreement, but Kyo noticed that the smile didn't quite reach her eyes. She was doing her best to stay positive, but he could tell how much she wished they could be with their friends and family for Halloween. She missed them, and though she wouldn't say it out loud, Kyo knew that not being part of the fun was hard for her.