The Twin Rabbits (Yuki Sohma)

What is That Look For?

Katsumi clamoured out of bed, ignoring the strain on her aching muscles. She stood in front of the mirror, running her brush through her knotted hair. She paused setting her brush down as she stared at herself in the mirror, her fingers grazed the bruising that discoloured her cheeks. Every time Katsumi closed her eyes, she could see Akito raise his mighty fist for another strike. She flinched, clenching her tiny hands into fists ignoring the fear that clawed at her stomach. She shook her head, no, she wouldn't let Akito win. Katsumi would be the one who came out on top, she wouldn't let him hold her down any longer. She applied makeup to hide her bruising, and practised a plausible lie over and over in her head for the cut that held three stitches along her cheek. Dressed in her school uniform, and as confident as she could be, Katsumi padded softly down the steps. Everyone was gathered in the living room, likely not expecting the girl to emerge from her room. She silently walks into the kitchen, and begins to make herself a cup of tea.

"Good morning Sumi-Chan, are you coming to school with us today?" Tohru chirps, making Katsumi turn around and give her friend a pleasant smile. Yuki looks up from wiping the table at the mention of her name, her heart skips a beat. The two had decided to keep their relationship private, it was safer for everyone that way. She sent him a sweet smile, wanting nothing more than to reach out and caress his face.

"Good morning Tohru, yes I'm bored sitting at home." She replied as she seated herself at the table, taking a sip of her green tea.

"Are you sure you're feeling well enough to return to school Katsumi? You've still got all those stitches in your face. Though I have to admit you did a splendid job on your make up this morning." Her elder cousin remarked, taking a minute to admire her handy work. She grinned at him, striking a pose as he applauded her.

"Yes, I'm quite alright. A little sore, but Hari wrote me a note excusing me from gym classes on account of my broken ribs. There's no need to worry, I'm fine now." Katsumi said with a nod, cupping the warm tea between her hands.

"If you say so," Shigure said, not wanting to argue with the girl.

"Shigure, is there anything you need me to do around here on May first? I'd like to go out for a few hours in the afternoon." Tohru asked, drawing the three Sohma's attentions towards her.

"Oh! Take all the time you want! I'll be out on an errand most of the day myself. What's the story? Hanging out with friends?" Her elder cousin asked, glancing up the girl.

"Yes. It's been a year since my mom passed. We're visiting her grave." Tohru explained, with such a warm, happy smile on her face it nearly broke the act Katsumi had been putting on.

"Good girl. First anniversary, huh?" It was Shigure, who had broken the shocked silence first.

"That's right, but we're not doing anything too special for it."

"I'm sorry. I can't go." Katsumi felt bad, that is was only their elder cousin who had been speaking. But as she suspected, the three teenagers brains were whirling with guilt, and shock.

"Uh, no. Please don't worry!" Their friend frets, holding her hands up in surprise.

"Hey Tohru, if it's alright- I'd really love to come and meet your mom, she raised such a wonderful daughter....I'd like to pay my respects." Katsumi finally said, making her friends eyes widen in shock.

"Yes, would it be okay if I joined you too?" Yuki said also, sharing a gentle look between her and their friend.

"You two want too?" Tohru asked, a heartwarming gaze upon her face.

"Yes, we'd love too. If you wouldn't mind our company." Katsumi agreed, coming over and putting a hand on Yuki's head.

"Thank you very much. Mom will be so happy!" Their friend exclaimed, giving the couple a closed eye'd smile.