#obiyukiwc

[nicotinemaiden]

6. Ways to win your heart

The first thing Shirayuki noticed when she walked into her office in the pharmacy was the little box carefully placed on top of her table. She was going to open it when Garrack's voice interrupted her.

“Obi left that there earlier this morning. He said he’s gonna be busy today and told me to make sure you eat it.” She was smiling in a way much sweeter than the redhead would have expected. As if she knew some kind of secret. “Oh. So… he’s not coming over today.” She sounded disappointed, disheartened, even if she herself couldn't tell why. “Don't worry, he will find time to see you. I doubt there's anything in this world that could stop him from it.” By the time she processed that sentence Garrack had already leave the room, leaving her wondering what was the meaning of her words.

When the time came for her to open the little box, smiling, she read the note that was placed on the cover.

“I know you don't like it TOO spicy so I’ve made it mild this time. You better eat it all or I’ll have Little Ryuu feeding you next time.

P.d: See u tonight miss.”

With every new line she read her smile widened. The thought that Obi made this for her warmed her heart in a way that wasn't new -because in one way or another Obi always caused this sensation in her- but this time she felt like home. As if there was no way she could be eating anything but this. As if she could eat it in repeat all of her life. And it was delicious. Her bodyguard had already shown her that he could manage himself in the kitchen but in those times it was a necessity or a petition. This time however he just doesn't wanted her to neglect herself, not after the fainting of the other night.

There were only a few grains of rice remaining when her name echoed through the corridors and a well-known prince with silver hair appeared by the door, smiling in the same way he always do. “Shirayuki!” “Oh Zen, perfect timing.” Her hands reached for his arms in a little squeeze that was more like a proof that they were there, together. “Do you think I can use the kitchen now?” “The kitchen? Like… The castle’s kitchen? Well, I don’t see a reason why not.” The squeeze intensified a bit. “Nice!” She needn’t anymore than that to start packing her things for the day. “I have some time now. Do you wanna hang out for a bit? We can go to the gardens or something.” She looked at the clock conveniently placed in the wall. 7 p.m. “If I wanna do this I don’t have much time... “ That line was more to herself than to her companion. She and her obsession with finishing everything before eating. “Do you wanna come with me? Although I warn you it may be boring seeing me cook.” “I don’t think anything you do could be boring”

But it was. Zen was desperately trying to bring up a conversation, failing with every attempt. Shirayuki wasn’t as good as cooking as she was mixing herbs, sadly, so she had to put all of her concentration to avoid putting sugar instead of salt. “So… why are you doing this? I thought you had eaten. We could have gone to the city and pick up something there.” The redhead interrupted her work for a moment just so he could see how happy she was. “I DID eat. This is not for me, it’s for Obi. He make me curry today so I feel like I should repay him in some way.” The prince glanced away, hiding an emotion he didn’t want her to see. “You know, I would love to taste your food too.” “If that makes you happy I can make some extra.” “Yeah, that would be lovely.” And once again, the conversation fell into silence while Shirayuki worked in the recipe she was reading from her notebook. She remembered Yuzuri saying that it was a dish that tastes like Lyrias so if she wanted to feel as if she was there again, the least she can do was to make it. “This recipe is special Zen, I can feel it.” There was so much in Zen’s expression that she cannot comprehend that she felt utterly worried. “A-Are you alright?” “Yes, of course, I was just thinking that I have to go now.” There was the smile she knew, albeit there was a subtle hint of sadness in it. “I’m so sorry Zen. I promise I’ll go see you tomorrow. And I’ll bring tea!” “That’s a promise then. And don’t worry about dinner, I’m sure Obi would eat my share without much trouble.”

By the time she’d ended it was half past nine. She was sure Obi’d already dined but they hadn’t seen each other throughout the day and his note says he’ll see her in the night. Well, it was night now and she asked herself how the day was so long if it had the same number of hours that always. Even more, she had seen Zen for more than five minutes today. Her run down the aisles came to a sudden stop when she bumped into the person she was looking for. His surprised expression didn’t keep her from smiling when their eyes meet. “Miss, don’t you know it’s dangerous to run in the halls? You could have bumped into Lord Haruka.” And he winked. He was always playful in this way. He can always make her smile, even in the most darkest of the situations. “Yeah but I was looking for you and here you are.” “Oh, looking for me in such a rush? Did something happen or do you miss me so much you cannot wait for me?” She hit his arm with her own in a loving way while they took path to her room. “I have a surprise and I wanted to make sure you hadn’t eaten yet.” Her bodyguard looked at her like he’d just happens to see a ghost. Then he looked at the bag she was holding, curious. “I’m suddenly the most hungry man in the world, I can assure you.”

[nicotinemaiden]

1.Ten things that make you happy

”Ten things that make me happy?” Obi blinked, searching the green eyes of his companion. “What’s this about?” His middle finger hit the paper in the table. The calligraphy in there was clear but cursive, decorating it. “It’s a New Year’s Game. Just a way to remember all the things that we loved this year.” She keep speaking before the confused look of his friend. “You didn't even have to let anyone look at it, it’s just a game after all.” But the smile in her lips told him that she was trying to make something for them. “Well if it’s that way I guess I can try.” Her smile widened and her hand reached for his arm, squeezing it lightly. ”I knew I can count on you Obi. I can always count on you.”

And that way he was here, looking at the paper, pen in hand and a “One” written in front of his eyes.

“One: Everytime she smiles, how the sun is envious of her brightness.”

“Two: The sound of her laugh, like music, like birds flying free in the great sky.”

“Three: Her strength and how no one can break it.”

“Four: The way that she always look for and find the positive in everything.”

“Five: The softness of her skin, the way it makes my heart twitch every time I touch it.”

“Six: The fact that she knows exactly where she is going in life and will do whatever it takes to get there. Her determination.”

“Seven: How she is always understanding with me even when I don’t deserve it.”

“Eight: The way she heals my wounds, even the ones that I thought hopeless, incurables.”

“Nine: How she makes me be”

He stopped suddenly, looking at the list before his eyes. He tilted his head back, closing his eyes. How did it came to this? Sighing, Obi got up and, after writing the last line, he decided he needed some air. This will be its end at some point.

“Ten: Her name. Her. Shirayuki.”

[nicotinemaiden]

8. Words of wisdom

“Never give up without a fight”

He couldn't remember who was the person that said this words to him. It could have been his Miss one of those times that things hadn't go as planned. It could have been his Master during a drunken conversation. It could have been Miss Kiki, even out of nowhere, because that was the way Kiki did things: unplanned, natural, bold. He doubt it had been Mitsuhide, it wasn't the kind of thing you usually hear from him. But that wasn't the point. The point was that lately this words had been echoing on his head at the most inappropriate moments. It wasn’t that he needed to be reminded of that, actually he always worked under that rule. Sometimes he carried it to the limit, fighting until he was falling apart. But he knows his mind was playing him, because that wasn’t what it was referring to.

He showed his cards, exhibiting them like a prize. “Fourth win in a row, Master.” “I can't believe you.” Zen’s hand moved to his forehead while his eyes looked at Obi in disbelief. “This is pointless Zen, Obi's a magician. Or a cheater.” The black haired man glanced towards Kiki disappointed by her comment. “Maybe you can win me at chess.” He grinned. Card games were always his favorites and, although his opponents were really good at them, he was better. His glass was empty now, his Miss offering to fill it with the half filled bottle of booze they were sharing. It was the third that night, though Shirayuki stopped after the second glass because -and these were the prince's words- “if you're too drunken later no one's gonna come and save the day.” He assumed it was because all the rest of them were going to be drunk at some moment. And Shirayuki was easily driven to that point. Still, she was happy. Like… happier. “Any of you want a rematch?” He didn't had the time to think if he was playing. Zen lifted his arms in sign of surrender immediately. “Oh, no, no, no. I’ve had enough humiliation for today.” Kiki was the next one to speak. “I think we should go to our rooms before the night become dawn.” Her glance was divided between Mitsuhide and Obi, clearing her idea. The bodyguard emitted a disappointed sound. “I guess that’s the end of the fun.” “You can dream about beating me up again at cards if you want” “You flatter me, Master. But since that’s something I can really do, I’d rather dream about other things.” Zen frowned before him.”Something tell me that I wanna question no more.” “When do you want to inquire about Obi? There are things that are better unknown.” “Probably he wouldn’t even answer if you asked.” Mitsuhide was right. If anyone had asked him he would have invented something crazy, that was his way. It wasn’t a lie, probably would be any other of the multiple things he liked to dream, but not exactly what he was thinking at that moment. He standed up, stretching his arms. “Shall we go then?”

They’ll never had enough. By the time they get to their rooms they went to their respectives balconies and started to talk from there. She was still a bit happier than usual and her tone came out playful. “So what’s that big thing you can’t do and you want to dream about?” “Didn’t you hear miss Kiki, Miss? There are things that are better unknown.” “But you always tell me everything.” She was smiling, expectating. “Okay so… maybe a trip to Mars? I can’t do that but I definitely can dream about that.””With me?” How was she so bold sometimes, he wondered. “Of course Miss. We promised that way.” Suddenly, she dropped her head a bit, looking down. “Can I dream about you too?” His eyes widened. Where did that question came from? In answer to his disbelief, she continued. “Zen said tonight that no one will come to save me, but that’s not true.” Her eyes moved to his and stuck there for what if felt like an eternity. “I know you’ll be there. You’re always there.” Obi’s eyes drifted through the night sky. “I can’t save you from everything Miss. Sometimes I even get you in more trouble.” His mind came back to the moment with Umihebi. No, he wasn’t perfect. “I would hit you if you were more close.” “If that’s what you want I can jump over there in a second.” “Don’t say that twice or I’ll have to hit you for real.” In a moment, her bodyguard was supported in her railing, waiting. Her hand lifted until being at his cheek, stroking it. “If that’s a strike I think I’ve being loved all my life Miss.” But then she standed on her tiptoes and placed a subtle kiss in his cheek, between her hand and his lips, almost brushing them. For a moment he thought he would fall from the balcony, recovering balance just in time. He wonder if she could hear his heart, because no doubt anyone could hear it at that moment. “Thanks, Obi. For being here… with me. I-I don’t know what I’ll do without you. And I don’t wanna think about it.” She was blushing. For all the things he believed in, she was really blushing. He didn’t want to know how he looked right now. But, how can he not fight for this? Was this what his subconscious was trying to tell him? That he cannot give up on her, even if it was for his Master? But they were friends, nothing more. They cannot be anything more. She herself told him one day that she’ll follow the path that would lead her to the prince. He wouldn’t be an obstacle. “I’ll be with you until the day you decide you don’t need me anymore Miss. No problem.” “Then, we’ll be together until the end of our days.” 

[nicotinemaiden]

10. "What if..."

He couldn’t sleep. How would he. After an hour of stupids dreams he came back to reality and remembered all that happened before. Surely his miss would be mad at him. Really mad. He’d leave without a real reason and without letting her saying anything more. Of course, he had his own reasons but he wouldn’t say them out loud. Even less to her. He needed to find an excuse and apologise to her, soon. But, what could he say? “I can’t call you by your name because you are following Master’s path and all I want is to take care of you and love you the way I’ve loved you until this day.” Not working. Nothing will be working that way. There was no possible way he could sit and talk with her about this. The mere fact of he thinking about this had his heart near a syncope. Tired of the sensation of someone tightening his heart from the inside, nailing his fingers around him, he got up and head to the balcony. He won’t calm until he’d apologised and he knew everything is right. But he couldn’t do that in the middle of the night. All he can do was wait. It wasn’t his first night out and it won’t be his last.

The forest was calm, the moonlight bathing the leaves of the trees, mixturing their green and their blue in a beautiful and indescriptible color. No sound could be heard, not even his own steps. But in the middle of a clear, someone was looking at the stars. She was standing, a hood over her hair and a light coat covering her body. He would recognise her figure in the middle of a crowd. This was dangerous. For her and for him. “What are you doing here Miss?” He could see the little scared jump she made at the sound of his voice though she doesn’t look at him. “I don’t think Master will appro…” “I just came out to free the little rabbit. It’s no problem.” “But Miss…” “Don’t worry Obi. Zen wouldn’t know this and you won’t be in any trouble.” She was mad. Not only mad, but mad. He could feel his fear growing with everyone of her words. “That’s not the problem.” He wanted to explain himself with every inch of his mind but he was searching for the right words. “If Zen’s not the problem, what it is?” “You could be in danger being out here alone. You should have called me.” “I didn’t want to come with you.” That line was like a knife that was already nailed in his body came out and nailed itself again, bathing in salt. “Then you should have asked Kiki or Mitsuhide.” He tried to hide the pain in his words, but wasn’t sure he managed to do it properly. “If I asked them they would have question me about why am I asking them instead of you.” Obi muted the next words he was going to pronounce and waited. After several minutes in complete silence, her voice raise up again. “What are you doing here Obi?” “I just wanted some air.” “Isn’t it always that? You always ‘leave for some air’ when you have a problem. You just run away.” For the first time, she turned to him, she looked at him, at his eyes. “There are things of which I can do nothing more.” She came closer to him, much more closer. Suddenly the tree on which he was supported felt uncomfortable. “I don’t want you running away from me, like this evening. If there’s something I should know you must tell me instead of hiding away.” He walked one step away from the tree, nervously. “Miss I… There are things that I couldn’t tell you.” This was bad. The conversation was taking a direction he didn’t want to take. He couldn’t take. She, instead of pressing, took his spot on the tree and let her hood fall over her shoulders. Her gaze was intense, waiting. That answer hadn’t be enough. “Look, it’s my problem and no one can do anything about it.” Now they’ve come to be one in front of the other, their gaze not leaving the opposite. “And you can’t tell me what problem it is.” He denied with a subtle movement of his head. “Then, we’re done here. If you can’t trust me, I won’t trust you either.” “Miss, this could get me in trouble.” “You was the one who said that Zen wasn’t a problem. So what kind of trouble can you have only for telling me, I wonder.” He was starting getting tired of all of this. She wasn’t going to give up, for some reason he didn’t quite understand. His arm lifted to the side of her head, supporting it in the tree behind her. His eyes were menacing, dangerous. “If you are so sure you wanna know, I guess I have no other options left.” Her eyes were daring him, he could swear. He was trying to keep himself under control but it wasn’t easy. Not with her looking at him that way. He wanted to take a step back but, instead, he got closer to her. His mind wander to all the times he thought “what if I just lean down to kiss her?”. This was clearly one of those moments again. But… he realized that this time… this time he didn’t want it to be a “what if”. He wanted to know the answer to that question. “My problem has a name, Miss.”

She wanted to ask what that could mean until she remembered their conversation earlier this evening. Everyone around him has a name, except herself and Zen. Could he be referring to them? Was she a problem for him? For a moment, she wanted to cry. How could she had been so blind. Maybe he was tired of taking care of her every minute of his life. Maybe she’d pushed this too much. But at this time, with him being so close, she could hear her heart bumping desperate in her chest. She could feel his breath near her lips. Her hand moved alone to his shirt, catching the side of his waist. If he was gonna leave her again, she won’t let him. She needed her answer, as painful as it were. Her eyes didn’t leave his and she could read things there, things that he had wanted to hide years. Until now.

He leaned closer and she forced herself to close her eyes at the same time he could feel his warm lips over her own. At first she was surprised but after a couple of seconds her lips parted and she surrendered to him. She thanked the tree for sustained her for she could fall to the floor at any moment. His kiss was careful, delicate, as if he was still waiting for her to push him away. But then, the tight her hand had on his shirt became tighter and her other hand reached for his hair.

He’d lost control. He didn’t know how it happened, he only knew that this was much much better that he even dream of. He wonder how she couldn’t hear his heart from that distance, but it didn’t mind, not anymore. Her lips tasted to herbs and strawberries in one of the most delicious tastes he would ever try. His hand moved to bring her closer, pushing her to him from behind, while the other still supported him against the tree. If it weren't for the clear cold that was disappearing slowly from her lips, he wouldn't believe this was happening. She was kissing him in the same way he was kissing her. Her lips wet for the contact, her breath faltering, useless. He simply couldn't breath anymore but he didn't wanted it to end. He licked her lips lightly, deepening the kiss a bit more. She was pulling his hair as a way to sustain herself standing, but she didn't back up. He could feel her body trembling under his hand, under his mouth, and decided it was enough. At least if he only have this one kiss, he will remember it forever.

Once they parted from each other they took a moment to regain their breath. He wasn't sure if he wanted to look at her forever or never again. But she was too beautiful right now, flushed, her lips matching the color of her cheeks, shortness of breath… all because of him. And her eyes were smiling, fixed in his own. “Now we both have a problem, Miss.” “I think I already had it, only I didn't know.”

[nicotinemaiden]

11. Blessings in my life

Ryuu opened the door of Shirayuki’s office without really being concerned about the laughs that could be heard from there. He was sure it was no more than Master Obi telling another one of his jokes. Or that was what he thought until he looked up at them. Obi were fast positioning himself again against the wall with a happy “Hey, Little Ryuu!” but Shirayuki had his eyes fixed in the papers on her desk, her hair hiding her face.”Hello Ryuu”. Even her voice was trembling. Had he… interrupted something? He frowned, looking at them. No, it wasn’t possible. Yes, he had known for years now Obi’s feelings but, according to the lastest news he had, Shirayuki was still in love with the prince. It would make no sense. He discarded the thoughts and proceed to place the jar in her desk. “Garrack wanted me to bring this. It’s the new ointment for the most delicate wounds.” After that, the redhead found the guts to look at him, her cheeks as red as her hair but a smile that he swear he hadn’t seen before. “Thank you so much Ryuu. I didn’t know it was ready.” He felt the flush reaching his own face before he could look at the side of the room. “I-It’s nothing. You could do it blindfolded. I’ll teach you later the recipe.” He started his way over the door again, looking at them over his shoulder before closing the door. The way the two of them looked at each other… it wasn’t so different than before but it seemed as if now.. it was more like a secret and less something that happens without they knowing it.

The next time he takes the time to knock on the door, just in case, even if this time it was only Obi in her office. “Little Ryuu! Miss is working on the gardens right now, I’m just here to pick up some things.” “I can left this here so she can have it when she’s back.” “I’ll tell her that you have prepared a meal and she’d be here in no time, I assure you.” “That’s not necessary…” “Oh, c’mon. We should all eat together this time.” Obi’s arm was on top of Ryuu’s shoulders before he can run away from him. And Obi’s smile was wide, more sincere that the one he was accustomed to. “You told her, didn’t you?” His companion made a soft “uhm?” and tried to understand what he was trying to say. “You told Shirayuki your feelings.“ Obi froze. It had been less than three days since… all happened. How did he figured out so quickly? Were they being SO indiscreet?

It wasn’t something so serious, was it? She would play along his pick up lines and he would tickle her abdomen. They would hold hands during their walks and she would come to his room in the middle of the night only so she can sleep at his side. It really wasn’t so different at all. Now, when they were alone, he will kiss her, softly, sweet, as if she would change her mind about this at any moment. But then her hand will come to his arm, grabbing it, almost nailing his fingers on it, just to prevent him from getting away. And he will smile on her lips while they both fall into the mattress or the floor.

“Yes” Ryuu deserved an answer, after all. He has already enough weight on him not telling master. He feel like he was lying to him but the other option was to betray his Miss’ confidence. Ryuu stopped in his tracks to look at him and he could swear he was smiling. Just a little bit but significantly more than he usually show to anyone. “I can't have any more luck.” His words were only a whisper but he could hear them, so he hugged his arm a little more around Ryuu’s neck. “I don’t know what’s going to happen hereinafter and I… I’m truly afraid.” “She’s gonna be at your side, come what may. Maybe the prince will rage and the people will comment and gossip, but for the people who already knew both of you this was just a matter of time.” Obi’s eyes widened a little. “But she… and Master…” “No one really have faith in that relationship.” He stopped again, looking the gold orbs that looked at him. “Look at you Obi. You always were by her side, you always protected her, you even came to Lyrias with us so you can be with her.” He didn’t stop himself from hitting Ryuu’s head suddenly. “Hey, I wanted to be with you too.” He smiled again. “And I want to be with you, both of you. You’re the thing most close to a family that I ever had. I’m happy seeing you both happy.”

“Obi! Ryuu!” She was radiant, waving a hand to say hello to them from the middle of the garden. “She’s happier than ever was since I met her, you know.””Yeah, me too..” It seemed so fragile, his happiness. But until they had to stop it, better enjoy it. Even if they should keep it a secret by now.

[nicotinemaiden]

2. Something that someone told you about yourself that you never forgot

“It feels as though Obi might suddenly appears at Lyrias”

Weeks ago, that seems only as a though, a distant wish of being with her. But now, waiting in one of the multiples corridors of the castle, it was a fact. He is here, in Lyrias. The wood of his new mask was cold, as the rest of the place. But him… he was trembling. He’d thought he wouldn't be able to see her for the next two years but Master… Master was too kind with him. His decision was made since the moment the question was asked but talking with Master about this was relieving. Now he had no secrets with him. He doesn't need them. It would make him feel as if he were betraying master. But now…

It was time. Without any trouble he slipped into Little Ryuu’s room, waiting for him to wake up. Obi wasn't waiting his scream, but it only make him smile briefly under his mask.

And there she was, even if he could only hear her voice that was enough to make his heart flinch. For a moment he thought of getting up and stretch his miss into his arms. The simple idea lifted his spirit a little more.

“Little Ryuu did you shut the window?” He can't see their faces but the strange pitch in her voice, almost screaming his name, denoted her emotion. He can almost swear that his miss was holding back her tears and Obi feared his voice betrayed him and came out choppy. Luckily for him, he managed to steady it while looking at her. How can anyone be so perfect. And he was here, with her, for the next year at least. As though Shirayuki’d make a prediction the day she left. Maybe she was putting into words the same wish he’d had. Being at her side again made him wonder how could they even regard the possibility of being detached from each other. He’ll always be his bodyguard and she’ll always be his Miss. As long as she needed him at his side, he will remain with her. Always.

[nicotinemaiden]

9. Something for which you feel strongly

“Ryuu! Move that box over there and bring the borage!” Garrack’s orders were absolute, her voice strong and high, her arms moving, giving directions to all the pharmacy members. Shirayuki’s work’s turn started in the evening, so they’d just arrived. People there won’t stay put, boxes being stacked near the entrance, a bunch of plants and herbs spilled over Garrack’s table. “Oh, cleaning day?” The redhead asked, willing to help. “It seems that we have someone stealing medicine from our warehouse so we’re arranging it here for now until we catch the thief.” Ryuu answered from behind some boxes he was carrying. “That’s some work for the great Obi.” He picked up some of the boxes so they could see Ryuu’s face and left them with the others. “I don’t know Obi, the guards say they didn’t see anything. No one used the front door nor the windows.” “What do you say Miss? Wanna come on an adventure? Maybe you can see a ghost.” He lifted his arms in a ghostly way, while saying “uuuuuu” to her, who broke out laughing immediately. “And what if it is a real thief?” “Who said a ghost cannot be a real thief?” “I said it” “Well, I’ll be there, be it a ghost or not.” “If you’re gonna go try, go already or I’ll have to keep Shirayuki to arrange boxes too.” Garrack’s voice startled them, coming from another room. “Orders are orders.”

“I can’t believe this.” His friend looked hurted, almost crying. “Who would do this? It’s so cruel…” The floor in the room was filled with herbs, broken, shattered. They could have been useful at some point but right now, they were useless. “This isn’t the work of a thief.” The leaves that wasn’t completely torn apart did have little brands that seemed like nibbles. He picked one up, examining it. “And neither it’s a ghost.” He followed the leaves that have marks only, approaching one of the boxes that no one picked up yet. This one was sideways, half open. “Hey hey Miss, close the door.”  In less than 5 seconds the door was closed and Shirayuki eyed curiously the box before her bodyguard. For a second, it moves, but then suddenly stopped again. Obi opened the box carefully only to receive an angry welcome from the little animal that was hiding there. Luckily he was expecting exactly that so he put his hand away right before the animal could hit him. “This little boy has to have a stomach ache. He’d eaten a lot of different plants.” Shirayuki tried to see what kind of animal it was, but she couldn’t. “Shall we take the box with us?” “I don’t think so. With so many people at the pharmacy he would go crazy.” Obi shoved his hand inside the box, trying to touch it. “Auch. You little…” His miss looked worried. Worried about her beautiful plants, the ones that she’d worked so hard to care so they can use them later, so they can use them to save lives. It was beautiful to see her working with such passion but it was smasher seeing her in this state.

Finally Obi picked up the little fluffy animal and brought it to the light, though he had a clear idea of what it was: A bunny. A little baby black bunny with a white stripe in the chest and a pair of eyes as black as coal. “Hello new friend, are you hurt?” He could hear a muted “aaaaw” by Shirayuki, who had already forgot what happened in the first place and now was more worried about the animal in Obi’s arms. “Do you think he's alright?” “I don't know. He’s trembling and doesn't takes right if I try to touch his belly.” “We need to take care of him.” She sounded motivated, enthusiastic even. She'd found something to take care of other than the plants and the patients and she seemed to enjoy it.

They took it to her room where he could be at peace, far away from Garrack's hateful eyes for tearing apart their plants. “What do we do now?” “I’m feeding him herbs that would clean his stomach.” The little one was eating without any problem on top of the desk, Shirayuki’s hand caressing his loin.”I hope he’ll sleep after this. Then I guess we can return him to the forest.” “He seems comfortable here, it's a shame he has to go.” “I don't think Izana want a bunny running through the palace. Besides, we already have an animal running through the palace.” Her eyes fixed in the eyes of her friend. “That was a low hit Miss.”  They both laughed. “I know, I know, it was just too obvious for a joke.” This felt like a family. They were taking care of a little baby, alone in her room and it felt right. Every piece in its place. That thought made him smile at nothing, looking at them.”We should call him Little Obi.” His Miss voice was sweet, low, almost sad. “We shouldn’t name him or we’ll appreciate it too much to let him go.” Instantly a cold breeze filled the room and silence reigned. For some reason he felt as if he’d said something horrible. And when she spoke, he knew it was bad. “That's the reason why you never use my name?” He was petrified, unable to invoke any word. She wasn't so wrong. At first he thought it would help him not to take her as something serious but now… Now it was his only reminder that she was unattainable. “I understand. I’ve told you before Obi: You're a free spirit. It's only logical for you to try not to make fond relationships.” “And do you think it worked?” Shit. He hadn't had time to think that sentence before saying it out loud and now he can't go back.”I'm here, aren't I?” She just looked at him, unconvinced but reasonable.”You're always saying what will happen if I’ll go or how I wanna go, but every time I say that I wanna stay with you, you never remember. Well listen to me Miss. I’ll be here. And I’m not trying to maintain myself away from you by calling you 'Miss’ because it's too late for that. Now if you’ll excuse me I need to rest.” Or something. He needed anything right now. So he just closed the door behind and locked himself in his room. He’d said too much and he’ll gonna regret it, but that's a story for another day. For tonight he just dreamt about her.

[nicotinemaiden]

3. Pet peeve

“And what in the world is he doing?” Shirayuki glanced towards Obi, who was near the window, looking at a hissing prince with a murderous gaze while trying to cover his ears with his bandana. “He just can't stand Raj’s whistle” The redhead shrugged. “He’s been doing it for like an hour now! Doesn't he run out of breath or something?” Shirayuki frowned. “It has been 10 minutes Obi” The incredulous look on his bodyguard's eyes showed that he had no idea of this fact. “That's impossible!” She can swear he growled before trying to cover his ears again. She landed his gaze in Yuzuri’s eyes, searching for a solution or some kind of clue on how to make him feel better. “You know, it’s kinda annoying but it's weird he’s capable of driving Obi mad” Instantly Yuzuri snapped his fingers. “I know! This must be one of what people call ‘pet peeve’. Let's see…” She started to whistle in the same way Raj was doing it. It was high, penetrating. “Not you too! What's wrong with people today?” Obi’s voice was almost a scream, a desperate one. “I’ll go somewhere else”. The moment he exited the room, laugh fill it. Shirayuki's bodyguard wasn't one prone to this kind of thing, it was him who was always joking about this kind of things. For once, it was nice.

On his behalf, Obi was starting to go crazy. It seems like the entire palace knew about his little mania and wanted to try it. Garrack, Kiki, Zen… even Mitsuhide. Today wasn’t his day. It was better just to wait for Shirayuki in her balcony and let it be. She was the only person that had NOT tried to drive him mad. At least, until that moment.

She knew Obi will be waiting for her in her room so she entered it whistling a beautiful song. Her friend was leaning on the railing of her window, glancing through the sky, humming the exact same melody. “I thought it would bother you” He stopped, turning to see her. “You can’t bother me” She seemed… disappointed? “Perhaps you wanted to drive me crazy?” With her hands in front of her face, moving them in denial, she denied it. “N-No! Of course not! It just… it seemed fun?” Shaking his head he dared to move a bit closer to her. “You don’t understand Miss. There’s no way you can piss me off. And…” With a slight movement of his hand he placed her hair behind her ear and smiled. “You already have me crazy”.