" You better watch out, you better not cry
You better not pout, I'm telling you why . . ."

     " Santa Claus is coming to townnn . ." , Kuwabara warbled in tune of the song being played on the mall speakers.
     It was a week before Christmas and Yusuke, Kuwabara, Kurama, Keiko, Botan, Shizuru, Yukina and yes, even Hiei had decided to do last minute shopping together.
     Here in the largest entertainment complex in the city, the young group chatted merrily as they passed a row of gift shops.
     " Do you have a date, yet, Botan?", Keiko whispered.
     The keeper of souls shook her head, her light blue hair flew softly 'round her face.
     " Oh, don't worry. I bet somebody really cute will come and escort you to the dance.", Yukina assured her. Kuwabara has successfully asked the ice maiden. With, of course, a few attempts from Hiei to sabotage his plans. The fire demon even went as far as burning the big guy's new tux.
     Botan merely smiled back. Only two days to the Christmas Ball. Everything's been prepared already. A pretty dress, matching shoes . . . and no escort. She stole a quick glance at the red-haired guy in front of her. Twice she hinted to him that she badly needs a partner. She had been waiting for him to ask her out, but unfortunately he hasn't. She kept her hopes high though, hoping that the well-mannered kitsune's only waiting for the proper time. Much to her dismay, that 'waiting for the proper time' is turning out longer that she had expected.
     Botan fell back from the group as a flash of white, on one of the display windows, caught her attention.
     She sauntered over to the store called Soft Cuddle. There behind the glass stood a foot and a half bear, wearing an old-fashioned baby pink satin gown and a ribbon full of satin white roses tied around its neck. It appears to be made of the finest pure white mohair.
     She squinted at the price tag hanging from its wrist and gasped. " Three thousand dollars?!"
     " Isn't that too expensive for a stuffed toy?", a soft voice asked. Botan looked over her shoulder and saw Kurama grinning mischievously. She was glad that he had waited for her. Would he ask her to be with him this time? She doesn't know. Turning her attention back to the bear, the price rang in her head. Doing a mental count of her money, she surmised that she had saved and brought two thousand and five hundred with her. Plus a bunch of coins which she estimated to be worth twenty-three dollars. That is all she got to buy a present for about thirty people on her list.
     Kurama eyed the deity closely. He caught her wistful expression and asked. " Do you want to buy it? I'll go tell the others to wait up."
     He was about to call on the rest when Botan held his arm and pulled him back. " No, I-I won't. Let's go."
     " Are you sure?", Kurama looked puzzled. He wasn't mistaken that she wanted that cute white bear so much.
     " Yeah. I mean, I wouldn't spend that much money for a measly kid's toy.", she lied, dismissing the subject with a wave of her hand.
     Kurama looked unconvinced but chose to accept this. " Okay. If you say so."
     Botan gave the bear one last look before heading to the store the others had entered.
     " There you are!", Yusuke greeted the pair as they walked into a jewelry store.
     " Yo, Kurama. Check this out!", Kuwabara called, pointing at something behind the glass case.
     Kurama joined them while Botan joined the other girls at the bracelet section.
     The saleswoman was holding out a double looped pearl bracelet with colored stones here and there.
     " How lovely!", Yukina said, her eyes flashing.
     " I've never seen such exquisite pearls!", Keiko gushed.
     Shizuru checked the stones and declared. " This would be perfect for my outfit."
     Everybody, especially the girls, were very much excited about the Christmas ball. And with only a couple of days to go, most of the teenagers in town were raving about it. The annual event was first held last year but this is the first time that they would be able to attend as a group.
     Botan inspected the precious piece of jewelry. " How much is it?"
     The girls looked at the saleswoman expectantly, silently hoping that it would cost well within their budget.
     " Two thousand, nine hundred and ninety nine dollars!", the saleswoman announced.
     Their jaws dropped. That's too much! They won't be able to afford it!
     " Are you going to take it?", the salesclerk asked.
     Shizuru and Botan shook their heads disdainfully. Keiko gave the clerk a disappointed look while Yukina looked as if she was ready to burst into tears.      " Uh, sorry, we need to go now . . .", Shizuru pulled the others away from the counter.
     " Oh, bummer . .", Botan sighed loudly.      " Wait!", a tall woman in her early thirties wearing a golden pin that says, Ami Hichigawa: store manager, called the girls back. " What are your names?"
     " Excuse me?", Keiko said.      " I asked for your names.", the manager repeated.      " Why do you ask?", Shizuru stared at her suspiciously.
     " An old woman named Genkai purchased four bracelets for four young women. She gave us their names so that we would be able to deliver the jewelry.", she explained, taking out four packages from behind the counter. " She gave us descriptions and you girls matched them perfectly. Now we would like to confirm your names."
     The girls looked on, shocked. Master Genkai bought them expensive jewelry for Christmas!
     " I'm Botan!", the blue-haired deity blurted out almost immediately.
     The others spoke their names as well and the manager handed out their respective gifts. Keiko was the first one to open hers. She quickly slipped the pearl bracelet with red stones through her wrist.
     " She said it will match your dresses.", the manager recalled.
     " You're right!", Botan agreed, holding out the same bracelet with blue stones.
     Yukina smiled gratefully, flashing her own jade studded bracelet. " Oh, it was so sweet of Genkai to give us these!"
     " I think we should give her a call right after she returned from holidays!", Shizuru suggested.
     " Okay, girls! Let's go!", Yusuke called, carrying a small paper bag.
     The guys were grinning broadly. A placard saying ' we have a secret' could well be pasted on their faces.
     The girls ignored them, focusing on the gift they had just received. Together they left the jewelry store and walked through rows and rows of shops. Sprigs of holly and shiny ornaments graced each store. While shoppers milled about, carrying loads of shopping bags with them.
     " Hey look! A mistletoe!", Yusuke yelled excitedly pulling Keiko towards the decoration in front of a small gift shop.
     They stopped right beneath it and the young lad grabbed his girlfriend and kissed her on the lips.
     The girls giggled while the guys appeared a bit displeased.
     " Of all places! Why the hell did he do that?", Kuwabara exclaimed.
     " It was said that if you kissed somebody beneath a mistletoe, that person will be your partner for life.", Kurama explained.
     " Uhuh, many couples confirmed it.", Botan agreed.
     " Who cares about that damned myth!", Hiei spat, eyeing the couple disgustingly. " Shit! Hey, enough already!"
     While Hiei looked as if he was ready to puke, Kuwabara, on the other hand, suddenly became interested. " You're not kidding are you, Kurama?", he asked, stealing a shy glance at Yukina.
     The small ice maiden gazed back at him, her cheeks turning a shade of pink.
     " Ehe, um, Yukina . . .", he started.
     Swish! The mistletoe dropped on the concrete floor, sharply sawed in half by no less than the brownish-red eyed guy in black.
     Kuwabara stared unbelievingly at the now ruined mistletoe.
     " Why you . . .!!", Kuwabara dove for Hiei but missed. " I'll get you for that!"
     " Oh, yeah?", Hiei challenged.
     Kuwabara chased the fire demon through the esplanade, bumping into oncoming shoppers, causing a bit of commotion within the complex. Teenagers yelled while old ladies waved their fists and shopping bags in the air along with razor sharp expletives at the two.
     Yukina slowly followed them, constantly apologizing for the disturbance they caused.

     " WHAT HAPPENED HERE?!", a loud voice thundered.
     The noise quickly died down. The rest of the group looked over their shoulder and saw a middle aged man, storming angrily to their direction.
     " Uh-oh.", Yusuke said. Judging from the man's tailored suit and neatly combed hair, they knew that he is the owner of the gift shop.
     " What happened here? Why did you ruined my decoration?", the shop owner roared. " The young breed of today, the hope of the future?! Bah! The scum of the population is more like it!"
     All of them cringed.
     " We're very sorry. It was a bit of an accident. Our friend has a . . uh . . short temper.", Kurama apologized, digging his hands into his pocket.
     " He means, a VERY short temper.", Shizuru stressed. " We truly regret this incident. It's just that he couldn't refrain himself from using his SWORD."
     " A v-very short t-temper? S-sword? He owns a sword?", the owner asked anxiously, his expression's slowly changing to that of apprehension.
     " Yes, he does and he use it frequently, especially at a time like this. He hated to be, y'know, scolded, blamed or reprimanded.", Botan blabbered, taking advantage of his confusion.
     " Tell me about it. He's really scary when he's angry.", Keiko add in, flashing the owner a pair of frightened brown eyes. " Really deadly."
     Yusuke nodded, faking a serious tone. " Any encounter with him would surely be fatal. Good thing he only took his anger out on your decoration, sir. That mistletoe could be anything or . . . anybody . .".
     Despite the freezing weather, perspiration beaded above the owner's brow. He swallowed hard and shook his head as Kurama handed him a wad of money. " Oh. No, no. You don't owe me anything. Don't worry about the d�cor. We could replace it. It's Christmas anyway. So , ah , let me show you that so-called Yuletide spirit."
     " Okay.", Kurama shrugged his shoulders, tucking the money back in his wallet. A snicker almost escaped his lips.
     " Thanks grandpa!", Yusuke boomed, giving the man a hard tap at the back.
     Keiko pulled him quickly away from the shop's owner. The rest followed, their faces twisted and altered in all angles. They have gone a good distance from the shop when they all burst out laughing.
     " That was a blast!", Yusuke managed to say, tears streaming down the sides of his face.
     " Have you . . ehe . . seen his . . ha, ha . . expression?", Kurama asked, turning almost blue.
     " I think he was about to faint!", Botan giggled.
     " ' oh, no, no you don't me anything. It's Christmas anyway. So, ah, let me show you that so-called Yuletide spirit. ' " Yusuke imitated the man's expression sending the group into another round of laughter.
     " What's so funny?", Kuwabara asked as he walked toward them.
     Hiei was glaring at the big guy venomously. Good thing Yukina stood between them. She seemed to have placed everything in control.
     " Long story." Shizuru replied.
     " Why not talk about it over chick 'n chips and warm pizza?", Kurama suggested.
     " Yeah, I think we passed by a Shakey's outlet.", Yusuke put in. The others agreed. Lunchtime's a few minutes away and they were all hungry. Prattling cheerfully, the group trudged their way into the restaurant, laden with purchases.

---------------------------------------------------------------

     Botan practically threw herself on the leather couch and rubbed her tired arms. " Oh boy! That was monstrous shopping we did!"
     Kurama grinned, eyeing all the shopping bags around them. It was monstrous alright. It's clear that Botan had only a day to spare for shopping. Koenma should go easy on her, especially during the holidays, he said to himself.
     It was a minute past eight in the evening and Kurama volunteered to help Botan while Yusuke brought Keiko home as well as Kuwabara with Yukina. Hiei just disappeared but he knew his friend will be following the last two.
     Meanwhile, he and the deity decided to stopped by his house to put down his own bags and grab a few drinks. There's a bit of a problem though . . . " How in the world could you carry all those bags on an oar?"
     Botan smiled mischievously. She reached through her pocket and flashed a gadget the size of a cell phone.
     Kurama gaped at her. " Uh. What's that?"
     " It's a new device being used for teleportation.", Botan explained, pointing at the buttons. " You just pressed in the combination number corresponding to your destination and voila! You're there in a flash."
     Kurama took the gadget in his palms and inspected the odd-looking device. " Are you sure it really works?"
     Botan placed her hands on her hips. " Of course it is!" The kitsune grinned at her, his eyes twinkling. " Just making sure you'll get there safe and sound."
     The deity blushed at his reply. She quickly turned away and toyed with her nails. " Well, there's something I wanted to ask you . . ."
     " What is it?", Kurama asked.
     " This would only work if you're in an isolated place or a wide spacious lawn. Like a park for example.", Botan gave him a pair of puppy eyes. " I know this is too much but could you help with the bags? Until we reached the park, please?"
     Kurama knitted his brows and looked at her thoughtfully. " Hmm . . . I don't know . . ."
     A frown slowly replaced Botan's cheery expression. She closed her eyes for a second then shook her head a bit. She opened her moist purple eyes and faked a smile. " It's okay. You must have a lot of things to do."
     " Um . . .", Kurama wanted to cut in.
     Botan stood up and gathered her bags. " Thanks for the mango juice.", she said over her shoulder as she tried unsuccessfully to lift all her belongings. Then suddenly a loud laughter echoed throughout the living room. It didn't take long for her to realize that it was coming from behind her. Kurama had his hand on his lips, obviously trying to muffle whatever sound he's making.
     Outraged, Botan stormed right in front of him. " What's so funny?!"
     Kurama stopped abruptly, Botan's angry face loomed before him. His lips curved maliciously as he voiced out his reply. " You."
     She stiffened at the sudden change in his tone. Her face were only inches from him and she could almost feel his breath.
     Kuram smiled at her. She blushed as he brought his hands on her face to pinch her cheeks. " You look cute when you're angry."
     Before she could even react, he picked up more than half of her load and walked to the main door. " C'mon I'll take you home."
     Botan hurriedly obliged, reaching in for the remaining bags and following him out to the street.
     The cool evening breeze greeted the pair as they took a path to the city park not far from where Kurama's house is. The couple trotted side by side for a moment, quite unsure of what to talk about or what to say to each other.
     Suddenly Kurama broke the silence. " What's Christmas for you, Botan?", he asked, glancing briefly at the lady beside him.
     " Um, this may sound a bit mushy. But . .", she started gripping the plastic handle tightly. " Happiness. Togetherness. Celebrating with your family . . and . . loved ones."
     " Same here.", he remarked. He lifted his face to gaze at the dark sky. " But sometimes time flies in front of you. And there you are just a mere spectator."
     Botan lifted her brows in question. " What makes you say that?"
     " Y'know as if you're not satisfied with what you have. As if you're looking for something or someone you wished year after year to be with you.", Kurama turned his head towards her, searching her face for any sign of understanding. " Have you ever had that feeling?"
     Botan flushed at that question. He doesn't realize how accurate he was. If there was any being who has exactly the same problems, it's definitely her. Losing her entire family in a tragedy wasn't easy. It has left a gaping hole within her. Companionship and a different kind of affection, she knew can fill that void. But here she was, perky spirit guide, taking in all sorts of human grievances more than easing out her own.
     She bit her lip and said. " Yes, I do have that feeling." She immediately broke into a smile. " That's why I'm so happy to have met you."
     Kurama stopped dead in his tracks. " What?!" His eyes bulged at her statement. " What did you say?"
     Color drained from Botan's face, realizing her mistake. Omigosh! What did I say?! She fumbled for words, at first it was unintelligible then she regained her composure and blurted. " Ah, I m-mean. I was very happy I met you guys . . . eh, y'know Keiko, Yukina, Shizuru, Kuwabara, Hiei a-and of course Yusuke."
     " Oh, I see.", he said simply, then adding softly, " I knew you meant just that."
     Botan's hands turned clammy. She gulped a dozen times then started to walk again, quickening her pace. She wanted to break into a sprint and hide. How stupid of me! Now he would never ask her out on date! Surely I was a major turn-off to him.
     Kurama instantly sensed her discomfort. " Hey, easy we have all the time. Besides my feet are still sore from that shopping trip we did this afternoon."      Botan grinned sheepishly. " Sorry."
     They walked once more, their light footfalls echoed throughout the still evening.
     Botan could feel the tension building up between them. And the silence isn't helping at all. This was one of the moments when attacks of inarticulacy seized her. Either she had no energy to talk or she had too much of it. This time, though, its both. If she had only shut her big mouth up, this would not happen, she berated herself silently. Her eyes wandered sideways, his handsome face looking straight ahead. What is he thinking? Suddenly Kurama turned and caught her looking at him. She quickly turned away.
     " Botan . . .", he spoke gently. " I was happy to have met you, too."
     " Um, what do you mean?", she asked softly. Is he going to say it? The 'L' word? Or did he merely said it ease out her embarrassment?
     " I've never met a bubbly and cheery person like you. You're attitude's contagious. I hope you find that special someone you're looking for. You really deserve it you know."
     " Thank you.", she said. What would you say if I told you were that someone?She added silently.
     " You're the first person I knew having endured a long and lonely life as I did. Sometimes I don't realize it but . . . we pretty have the same anxieties.", his voice thick with sincerity. " Having found each other as friends surely has helped me accept that there are a lot of ways in which we could change our difficult lives to make it more enjoyable."
     Friends? Botan's heart sank. He made it clear that their relationship has no possibility of moving over the boundaries of friendship.
     " Do you believe what I said, Botan?", Kurama asked.
     " Uhuh. I guess.", she replied quietly. Her eyes searched the path before her and saw the lush bermuda grass and tall trees. Good thing they have reached their destination. There's no point for this conversation to go on. She might not be able to take in any more embarassment and worst, burst into tears because of it.
     Kurama noticed her silence as they entered the park. His green eyes roamed over her face. He knew she was deep in thought. She is special, he realized. One thing that he has to figure out though is the intensity of his affection to her.
     " Here we are." Botan gave a huge sigh and dropped her bags. She dug in her pocket and fished out the teleporter gadget. " Thanks for helping me with my bags, Kurama."
     He gave her a smile. " No problem. I'll do it anytime." He placed the bags around her, straightened himself and pored over her. Her lips caught his attention. Her small pointed nose. Long lashes gracing her purple eyes. Features which looked natural yet seemed to draw his senses closer. Suddenly he couldn't resist it, he leaned over and kissed her on the left cheek.
     Botan was taken aback by this gesture. A huge lump formed in her throat. She couldn't figure out whether she felt like crying or felt ready to jump for joy. All she knew was that more than ever he left her more questions than answers. She only wished she's not mistaken. But his soft lips on her face is enough to relive the hope that's been nagging her for some time now.
     The deity of death chose not to say anything instead she waved her goodbye.
     Kurama walked a short distance and stood a few feet away to watch her go.
     She glanced back and saw him returning her wave. A bunch of questions whirled through her mind. " What're you trying to do, Kurama?", she whispered, lifting a thumb to press the button.
     What's his game? She doesn't know. He's a big puzzle to her as everyone think he is. But one thing's for sure, she's determined to get through his hazy character and end this masquerade forever. No matter how long it may take her to do so.

---------------------------------------------------------------

     Botan adjusted her left earring and ran a brush through her long blue hair. She smiled at her reflection. A midnight blue silk dress clung to her slender body. Shizuru helped her picked out the dress a month ago.
     She applied a light touch of lipstick and puckered her lips. Suddenly, she found herself staring at the mirror as a pout slowly formed on her lips. Yusuke and Kuwabara had invited Keiko and Yukina respectively. Shizuru told her that she's going to bring an officemate of hers. Hiei, with much prodding, agreed to attend but he hadn't told anybody whom he's going to bring. Same thing with Kurama.
     If Kurama preferred the deity as his date then he would've asked her already but . . .
     Botan sat on the bed. He doesn't want her to be his date. " He probably thought I would mess up or something. Or maybe he doesn't want me any more than just a good friend.", she murmured. " Just like what he told me the other night."
     Since she don't want to look like a woebegone soloist, she asked Koenma to be her escort. The prince had earlier volunteered to personally asked Kurama to bring her to the dance but she doesn't want to push it. She doesn't want this evening to looked like it was scripted or manufactured. Like a movie where the cast doesn't have to be true to their dialogues.
     She sighed and went out of the powder room. Koenma was waiting for her outside. The two was the first pair to arrive at the ball.
     " Keiko, Yusuke, Yukina and Kuwabara are already here.", the prince reported, looking really handsome in a black suit and printed tie.
     As if on cue, the four ambled toward them. Yusuke looked dignified in a beige suit while Keiko looked absolutely gorgeous in her red evening dress. Kuwabara, on rare occasions like today, was okay in a black tux. Yukina, on the other hand, appeared like a true ice princess in a white mini-dress. Her long green hair tied in an elegant chignon.
     " Hi! Botan!", Keiko greeted. Her face flushed with excitement.
     " Koenma!", Yusuke jeered. " Good thing you got rid of that pacifier!"
     " Not exactly!", Koenma answered, patting a lump on his coat pocket.
     " Have you seen Hiei?", Yukina asked.
     Kuwabara turned his head toward the door. " Here comes that little git!"
     The ballroom door opened revealing a small good-looking guy in a dark blue suit. The others gazed at him admiringly. It was the first time that the unsociable demon had actually threw off his cloak in exchange of a descent outfit.
     But the biggest surprise of the evening was the gorgeous woman beside her. A tall figure, wearing a sexy black dress, looked pleased as a group of young men stood gaping at her.
     Upon recognition, the group suddenly became tensed.
     " Mukuro?!", Yusuke exclaimed. " How in the world did she made it here in Ningenkai?"
     Koenma smiled calmly and winked at them. He personally escorted the powerful youkai himself. " Notice that jeweled choker she's wearing? It has the same power as my pacifier. If she tries anything, she'll be imprisoned forever."
     All heaved a sigh of relief.
     Suddenly a group of female teenagers screamed excitedly. " Look! It's Minamino!"
     All eyes turned to the door once more.
     Botan inhaled sharply as she saw Kurama's medium-built form in a khaki suit which makes his splendid green eyes glow magnificently. He appeared like a dashing debonair about to steal the show for the rest of the night.
     " Who's that?", Keiko pointed as a young woman, wearing a short miniskirt appeared behind him.
     " Is that Maya?", Yukina asked.
     Shizuru joined them, clothed in a stylish beaded dress. A matured good-looking guy stood beside her. " Hmp! She looks like a hooker! Would somebody please tell her this is a semi-formal occasion and not a gathering for matrons! Check out her make-up!"
     Botan gazed at Kurama's date enviously. Despite all the insult , that 'hooker' is lucky enough to be with him.
     Koenma glanced at his assistant and squeezed her hand reassuringly. She was about to turn away when she heard Kurama call her name. Darn it! Did he have to push it to my face!
     Botan let out a nervous sigh then turned her head. " Hi!". Hi!? Very original, Botan. She chided herself.
     " This is the first time I've seen you laid down your hair like that.", Kurama noticed. " You look much prettier in that style."
     " Thank you.", Botan flashed him a tight smile.
     " Don't I look pretty, too, Shuichi.", Maya toyed with his sidelocks. " Hmm?"
     Kurama gritted his teeth. " Sure, Maya."
     " I think we should leave you two alone.", Koenma offered, sensing Botan's discomfort.
      Kurama seemed not too please with the idea. " Umm, the dance's about to start. Why don't we join the others now?"
     Botan smiled triumphantly and nodded.
     " He's yours for now." She said to herself, glancing at Kurama's escort. " You just wait, Ms. Sassy! You just wait!"

     A few minutes later, a rigodon was in full swing. It is a classic western dance where couples dance in a circle formation. The most significant characteristic of this is the frequent exchanges of partners.
     Kuwabara looked green with envy as Yukina and Hiei danced together. It was the first shift and all females would have to dance with the guy on her left.
     " I don't get it. She doesn't look like Kurama's type.", Yusuke chuckled while Botan looked on in distaste as they saw Maya flirting with the prince of Reikai. Koenma looked irritated, constantly checking his watch as if the current shift would take over an hour.
     Another round was made, then another. Botan looked a bit uncomfortable as she danced with Hiei.
     " Saw that babe clinging to Kurama? Such a hot pair aren't they? ", he sneered.
     Botan looked at him sharply. " I don't think so."
     " Hn!", Hiei flashed her an annoying grin.
     Botan's heart thumped loudly as the last count of the shift ended. As if everything's in slow motion, she waltzed to her right and found herself staring at a gorgeous pair of green eyes.
     " You look lovely tonight, Botan.", Kurama commented, his voice a husky whisper.
     Caught off guard, Botan blushed wildly at his compliment. " You're not so bad yourself."
     That wasn't necessarily true. It was actually an understatement. He doesn't just look good, he's a hunky, delicious and irresistibly major babe!
     Kurama gave her a heart-stopping smile. " It was surely an honor for Koenma to have you escorted."
     Botan's face turned deep crimson. Goodness! He merely said two sentences and here she was, matching his hair color perfectly. " Oh stop it!"
     He chuckled and just before it was time to change partners again, he pressed his cheek against hers. It wasn't really a romantic gesture, just a normal and all too formal beso-beso. But why would he do that?
     " I wish I could have another dance with you before the night ends.", he whispered directly to her ear.
     Botan had to keep herself from smiling broadly. Instead she regarded the kitsune with a sweet smile. He really mean that, doesn't he? She felt like jiggling. She closed her eyes and savored the last seconds.
     When Botan opened her eyes, she found herself already in Koenma's arms. Koenma grinned teasingly at his assistant. " Was he a better dancer than I am?"
     Her eyes narrowed but her twitching lips were a dead giveaway.
     The prince laughed. He knew his assistant deserved a proper man like Kurama. " Botan, I knew you already made plans for Christmas eve but you are scheduled to guard the crystal orb this year.", Koenma reminded her.
     Botan stared at her employer shockingly. " Can you just lock it someplace else?"
     " It is already in a secured glass case but any orb stealer could get to it unless somebody who works for the palace will remain within the castle walls.", Koenma explained. He knew that this isn't the proper time to say this but he'll definitely have no more time since he might forget it later. " Some of the deities had already fulfilled this once in a lifetime obligation. We can't just ask anybody to do the job."
     " Uh. Okay then.", Botan said regretfully. " But you'll allow me to spend the day with the gang until you left the palace?"
     " Of course!", Koenma replied, glad that she seemed to have taken it lightly. She must've been in a very good mood tonight.
     Suddenly the music stopped. It was time for dinner. All guests crowded at the buffet table filled with mouth-watering food.
     " Hmm. This fried chicken looks yummy!", Kuwabara licked his lips as he reached for a crispy leg.
     Whaack! Shizuru slapped his hands away. " You slob! Use the utensil!"
     " I heard they served good tempura.", Kurama said over Botan's shoulder.
     " Really?", Botan asked. " Well, it certainly smells good!"
     " Would you like some?", Kurama asked, offering to put a serving on her plate.
     Botan cheerfully handed out an empty china. As soon as the steaming dish was poured, a shrilly voice sounded. " Shuichi!"
     Kurama narrowed his eyes. If he wasn't taught of proper manners, he would've ditched his date even before they stepped in the ballroom. He flashed Botan an apologetic smile and walked towards the snooty young lady.


     Half an hour later, the attendants began to clear the tables. Dinner was great. The young crowd seemed to enjoy the exotic dishes served to them.
     Botan pushed her plate, stood up and said to Koenma. " I need to go the ladies' room."
     Just as marvelous as the ballroom itself, the bathroom was immaculately clean and well decorated. She had just entered one of the empty cubicles when she heard female voices.
     " Have you seen that blue-haired girl in a dark blue dress?", a female voice asked.
     " Normally I wouldn't be interested in such a pathetic damsel but I did notice that she clung to my Shuichi as if he's all hers.", an airy voice huffed.
     " If I were you, I wouldn't worry about her.", a third voice said. " I mean, you and Shuichi will exchange vows soon. When will it be held?"
     " Next month.", was the proud reply. " He and his mom would formally announce his proposal on Christmas Eve."
     " Girl! You really had him pinned down this time!"
     " It's no surprise since Maya always has the biggest catch.", the first girl giggled.
     Kurama? Getting married?! Botan appeared dumbfounded. Why didn't he told any of us? Why didn't he told me?
     She heard their heels echoed as the girls left the bathroom. If it's true, then he wasn't really attracted to her. But what about those sweet gestures? Those romantic compliments?
     She gripped the door handle.
     Maybe he was just leading her on. Taunting her. Playing with her. Who knows? He may have been making fun of her behind her back. Maybe he wasn't what she thought he is.
     Or maybe . . . she was too presumptuous.
     A solitary tear fell down her left cheek as that thought hit her. She sniffled softly and fumbled in her purse for a tissue.
     They were right. She is pathetic. Too stupid to think that his affection towards her could go beyond friendship. Knowing that he usually has good manners, she shouldn't have placed a meaning into it.
     She dabbed her eyes with a piece of crumpled tissue. And after making sure that the bathroom hall is empty, she went out of her cubicle and checked herself in the mirror.
     You look lovely tonight, Botan. His soft voice rang in her ears.
     " Well not anymore.", she grumbled. " That is. If you really mean it the first time."
     With a heavy heart, she gathered her purse and went out into the ball room.
     " Botan! Where have you . . .? Botan? Are you alright?", Keiko asked worriedly. She noticed the deity's pale complexion and moist eyes.
     " Are you sick? You want us to accompany you home?", Yusuke asked.
     " Uh, no. I'm fine.", Botan replied. She caught Koenma's eye as he approached her. " I just need to rest."
     " You want to go home, now?", Koenma asked. There was a hint in his voice which tells the other two that he'll take care of everything.
     Botan nodded, quickly grasping Koenma's right hand and half-pushing him to the door. She had to get out of there fast, she thought in panic, noticing Kurama and the others heading in their direction. She quickly turned away from the group and followed her escort to the door. If she stayed one more second in this party, she would certainly burst into tears.
     Kurama couldn't ignore her expression as she walked briskly outside with Koenma. He doesn't understand it but he does have a feeling that she was avoiding him. The others looked worried as much as he does but unlike him, they seemed to buy her excuse.
     He was snapped out of his thoughts when he felt Maya's cold touch in his elbow.
     " We shouldn't waste our time, honey.", she purred. He cringed at the sound of her exaggerated bedroom voice.
     Kurama let out a huge sigh. Making sure that she heard it loud and clear.
     " This is going to be a long night!", he muttered.

---------------------------------------------------------------

     " Are you sure, you still want to join the caroling?", Koenma asked. It was Christmas Eve and as the group had planned a couple of weeks ago, they will go 'round the area to sing some Christmas carols.
     " I've already committed to them. And besides whatever we get from this would be for a good cause.", Botan replied. They had decided to donate their earnings to the street children's foundation. Which is their way of greeting a Merry Christmas to the less fortunate.
     For a while, Botan thought of not coming. But then she realized that the others would surely notice her absence. Especially after she walked out of the ball early, complaining a stomach ache or something.
     The blue-haired deity flew to Ningenkai on her oar, wearing a cream-colored silk skirt and knitted top. She dressed up as cheerfully as possible to give her friends the impression that whatever happened the other night shouldn't be an issue today.
     " Botan!", Keiko called her excitedly, wearing a baby pink mini dress and matching sandals. All in all complimented her brown eyes and hair.
     " Hi!", Botan waved as she set foot on the Minamino residence. She promised to herself that she won't pay attention to Kurama, but her presence in his own house makes it inevitable.
     " Hi! Botan! Lemonade?", Kurama greeted, offering a glass of the cold drink. He gazed at her admiringly.
     Botan managed a smile and accepted the glass, she's thirsty anyway.
     " One down, two to go. What's taking Hiei and Yukina too long?", Yusuke asked.
     Jealousy flashed across Kuwabara's face. " I told Yukina, I'll pick her up but she insisted to go alone, saying she had to talk to somebody first."
     Botan, Kurama and Yusuke all smiled knowingly. Hiei declined to join but Yukina had been very persistent. She must've made a last ditch effort to convince him.
     " Kurama, you'll have dinner with us?", Yusuke asked.
     " Sure, I just need to spend some time with my family and other friends." Kurama replied. " Mom and Maya prepared my favorite stuffed turkey and I don't want to leave without even sampling it."
     Botan winced at the sound of Maya's name. She felt a pang of jealousy as she thought of the fact that his fiance seems to be hitting it off with his mom.
     " Yukina!", Kuwabara's voice snapped her back to reality. She raised her eyes and saw her friend wearing a cute light blue mini-dress. Hiei stood behind her, wearing his version of a grunge outfit - cargo pants and matching long-sleeved shirt.
     " He, he, it's showtime!", Yusuke grinned excitedly.
     The others followed him outside and into the next block where they planned to start their caroling. The group was greeted with a cool winter breeze giving an air of a perfect christmas atmosphere.
     " All the weather outside is frightful . .", Kuwabara crooned. " . . . but the fire is so delightful . . ."
     " Since we've no place to go . . .", he sang wholeheartedly. " Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it . . !"
     Smack!
     A group of small kids giggled, their hands filled with snowballs.
     " Grrrrr! Shrimps!", Kuwabara grunted, his orange hair drenched with cold water.
     Yukina giggled, melting his anger almost instantly.
     Botan tried to concentrate on the splendid decorations adorning the houses. Lanterns hung gracefully above the lightposts while green, red and gold lights twinkled brightly.
     Out of the corner of his eye, Kurama glanced at Botan. She looked really cute in that skirt she's wearing. But her mood seems to be the opposite. He had tried to strike a conversation with her the moment she arrived, but to no avail. One didn't have to be a genius to guess that she's avoiding him. But for what reason? Has he done something wrong?
     Kurama ended his musings when the group stopped in front of a huge estate, decorated with expensive lights, poinsettia, wreaths and garland.
     " Think we should start here.", Yusuke said. He gave the others an inquiring look. " What song?"
     " How 'bout 'Deck the Halls'?", Keiko suggested.
     The others agreed. It took them a minute to arrange themselves and start clearing their throats. Kurama stroke the first chords of the song then . . " Deck the halls with bows of holly . .", they started.
     " Fala lala la lala la la.", Kurama sang perfectly. Botan couldn't help but admire his voice. She wanted to forget that she was standing elbow to elbow with him.
     " 'Tis the season to be jolly . ." Yusuke played his guitar as well while the girls and the others either clapped their hands or shook their tambourines.
     " Fala lala la lala la la.", Botan sang, returning Kurama's grin with a tight smile.
     " Don we now our gay apparel . . ."
     " Fala . . la . . lala . . la la . . la.", Kuwabara croaked while Koenma's voice seemed to fade all by itself. Their eyes flared with anger, accusing each other of the fault they both committed. That is . . . singing like a gut-shot dog or a pregnant goat on labor.
     The others supressed their giggles. " Show the ancient Yuletide treasure . ."
     " Fala lala la lala la la.", Shizuru sang.
     " See the blazin' Yule before us . ."
     " Fala lala la lala la la.", Yusuke followed.
     " Strike the harp and join the chorus . .", they all sang, looking at Hiei expectantly.
     Silence.
     " STRIKE THE HARP AND JOIN THE CHORUS . . .", they repeated, louder this time.
     Hiei glared at them. " Hn!" The others gulped.
     " It's not 'Hn!', you freak-ass!", Kuwabara grunted.
     " Look who's talking!", Koenma snarled.
     Yukina nudged the fire youkai and whispered the lyrics.
     Kurama sighed. " Okay let's do it again."
     " Strike the harp and join the chorus.", they sang.
     " Fala lala la lala la la.", Hiei sang in a flat tone.
     The others smiled at the effort and sang merrily, " Follow me in merry measure . ."
     " Fa lala lalala la la la.", Keiko and Yukina's soft voice blended excellently.
     " While I tell of Yuletide treasure . . ."
     " Fa lala lala lala la laaaaa . . . ."
     Their voices held on to the last note. They looked on excitedly at the window.
     " Merry Christmas!!!", they greeted cheerfully as a young woman dressed in black and white apron handed them a white envelope.
     They said their thanks and huddled together to see how much the offering was. Kurama ripped off the seal and took out a crisp one dollar bill. The others looked on expectantly, waiting for him to fish out another bill or even a larger one. The red-haired guy stared back at them, flipping the envelope upside down.
     They sweatdropped! A dollar! They never expected a low offering coming from somebody living in a billion-dollar mansion!
     " C'mon guys cheer up! Let's go to that simple bungalow house.", Keiko said.
     " Hiei would you do the solo part this time?", Yukina asked.
     Hiei looked at her in panic.
     " Please!", Yukina pleaded once more. She wanted him to enjoy this activity just as they do. And he won't be able to if the fire youkai won't even try to involve himself.
     Without waiting for his answer, the girls started off. " Jingle . ."
     " Jingle . .", Koenma followed.
     " Jingle . .", Yusuke tuned.
     " Jingle . .", Kuwabara chant.
     Hiei narrowed his eyes. I shouldn't have come along in the first place! He regretted, finally deciding to give in to his sister's request. " Jingle bells, Jingle bells, Jingle all the way.", he hummed, somewhat less jovial. " Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh. Hey!"
     A group of kids huddled closer to them. His friends, especially Yukina looked at him encouragingly.
     " Jingle bells, jingle bells, Jingle all the way . . .", Hiei continued, now starting to relax.
     " Bom, bom, bom, bom, bommm.", the guys intoned.
     " Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.", the usually aloof young man doesn't look too frightening anymore. In fact he seems to be enjoying himself. " Dashing through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh, all the things we go, laughing all the way."
     " Ooohhh whaaaaa.", the ladies' sweet voices blended in. " Bells on bobtail rings making spirits bright . ."
     " What fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight. ", Hiei's deep voice was perfect for the song.
     " Jingle bells, jingle bells . . . .", all sang.
     The caroling group finished the song magnificently. They were greatly rewarded when an old man handed them twenty dollars along with a food basket.
     The group was inspired to continue as they made their way to the next lot.
     " Nice going, Hiei! You should do that more often.", Yusuke jeered. " That Christmas song? It becomes 'ya!"
     Hiei instantly grabbed his collar, sending the two into another brawl. But not serious this time. The others joined in, their laughter echoed through the streets as Christmas lights danced gracefully around the decorated houses.

---------------------------------------------------------------

     " The nerve of that f**king kitsune! Making me carry all these f**king presents!", Hiei complained, a load of gifts tucked under his arms. " He'll rush from his mom's f**king house just before midnight so he thought it would be best if he won't have to carry these f**k with him. So here they are!"
     The group, minus Kurama and Koenma, proceeded to a park after the caroling. Their version of a midnight dinner? Toasting nuts and marshmallows in an open fire along with a lot of packed delicacies, jamming into another round of Christmas tunes.
     Hiei placed the gifts on the grass along with the others.
     " Well, you have to be thankful since one of those f**king presents would surely be yours!", Yusuke told him, reaching for an average-sized boxy gift. " Hey! This f**k's for me!"
     Kuwabara peered behind his shoulder. " It won't hurt if we opened our gifts before Christmas, eh? I mean its Christmas eve, so . . ."
     " Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, It's the same.", Hiei grabbed a package and eyed the glossy wrapper excitedly.
     They weren't supposed to open the gifts until twelve o' clock which is officially the Day, but knowing these guys!
     " Shouldn't we wait for the proper time?", Keiko asked.
     " I guess it's okay.", Botan said meekly, her gaze fell on a huge package assigned to her.
     Both Yukina and Shizuru seemed to agree.
     Letting their impatience dictate them, they grabbed the packages with their names on it and ripped the wrappers off.
     " An Original Air Jordan Shoes!", Yusuke exclaimed. " Botan! You're a genius!"
     " Thank you, Yukina!", Keiko said gratefully, clutching an off-white silk blouse against her chest.
     " Same to you! I'll surely wear this shoes to the new year's party.", Yukina said, trying on the strappy lady's shoes.
     " A certificate for Slimmer's World!", Shizuru shouted angrily. " What do you mean, Kuwabara? Than I'm overweight?!!!!"
     Kuwabara swallowed hard. " Eheh, it's not that!" The burly guy fumbled for an explanation. " I-I thought you w-would like i-it t-to m-maintain your nice form, sis."
     Shizuru looked at him suspiciously. " Whatever. Thanks anyway."
     Kuwabara breathed a sigh of relief.
     Botan's eyes fell on a huge bulky gift bearing her name on the tag. She quickly grabbed it and inspected the tag for the sender.
     She immediately felt excited at the sight of Kurama's name. Her hands flew as she tore the shiny gift wrap until the content became evident to her.
     " Oh.", that was all she could say, reaching out to hug the cute white bear she saw on display at the gift shop a week ago. Kurama had indeed paid attention to her that day.
      She took a moment to inspect what he had offered the others. Yusuke has been given a Playstation2 unit and Kuwabara got a discman. There's a jacket by Dolce & Gabbana for Hiei, a whole new book and vcd collection for Yukina, a Palm Pilot and a Nokia 3310 for Keiko and Shizuru respectively.
     Botan gave her bear a tight hug, its soft mohair covering felt good against her cheeks. Kurama really knew how to pick the best gifts. Probably because he's well off than the rest of them but then again, he knew what they all really wanted to have this Christmas.
     She also noticed that none of them was a piece of jewelry, although she did saw him checking out something from the store. He probably didn't buy anything, she thought. Or . . . he might have given it to somebody else. To his fianc� perhaps?
     " Ohhhh . . .", Keiko's overwhelmed voice interrupted her musings. Botan tilted her head and saw Yusuke adjusting the clasp of a gold necklace around his girlfriend's collar.
     Botan had to restrain herself from laughing out loud. It was so . . un-Yusuke thing to do. But then again, she did notice that he has grown mature through the years . And even if the number of their fights haven't gone down enough, Yusuke seems to have mastered the art of winning back his Keiko.
     She jerked up in surprise when something vibrated within the silk fabric of her skirt pocket. She reached in and pulled out her communicator.
     " Botan.", Koenma's teenaged face flashed on the mini screen. " Time's up. You have to go now."
     She felt her heart plummeted down like a watermelon dropped from a fifty storied building. " Oh, Koenma. Can I stay a bit longer? Like 1:00.?"
     " I'm sorry. My father called me ten times already. I have to see him immediately.", Koenma replied. He knew that this was coming and if only he could do anything to make his assistant happy, like allowing her to spend the entire Christmas season with their friends, he would gladly grant her the privilege. But he was stumped at the moment.
     " How about until 12:30? Please. I want to stay until midnight.", Botan pleaded, crossing her fingers. The truth is, she wanted to stay until Kurama arrives. To finally settle some things with him.
     " No.", Koenma replied firmly.
     " 12:15?"
     " Botan . . ."
     " 12:01?", Botan's voice cracked. She was clutching the communicator rather too tight.
     " I would have asked somebody else to the job for you but they had already done their shift in the past years.", Koenma explained, trying to ignore the tears brimming on her purple eyes. " Besides, everybody has left. Even George has gone home to celebrate with his family. I'm sorry, Botan. I'm really sorry."
     " Yeah, me too.", Botan swallowed hard and forced herself to smile, no matter how faint it is. " Okay. I'll be right there."
     She bid everybody goodbye, gathered her gifts, mounted her oar and flew away without a backward glance. What for? To see pity written all over their faces? They all knew that she doesn't have a family any more and that before she met them, she spent holidays with fellow deities. All that and the fact that duty calls three hundred fifty six days a year unless her boss grants her a vacation.

---------------------------------------------------------------

     Botan sat on a comfort chair, gazing out on the twinkling stars on Reikai. A light drizzle of snow rained down while a low sound of ' O Holy Night' emanated from a stereo.
     Fifteen minutes have passed since Koenma left the palace to his family's vacation house a few miles away.

     " Here's a stereo Yusuke and Keiko gave me for Christmas. I'll lend it to you.", he said. He glanced at Botan worriedly. If only he could do anything.
     " In case somebody brakes in or any trouble in here, call me immediately.", he added. " There's food in the kitchen. Help yourself."
     Botan merely nodded.
     Koenma hesitated. He wanted to say happy holidays. But judging from her mood right now, he doesn't think it is the proper thing to say. Instead he handed out a package. " For you. Hope you like it."
     She silently took the gift and murmured her thanks.

     Botan wasn't used to being alone. If spending Christmas without any living family member is torture enough, try spending it alone.
     But she can't blame Koenma. He had been very considerate the past week. He allowed her to do shopping and attend the ball including a few hours of hanging out at the Urameshi residence with the gang. But right now she felt so empty. All that preparation and still failed to witness the celebration itself.
     She had been watching her friends from the viewing screen in Koenma's office, but after seeing their happy faces, she immediately turned it off.
     Botan's eyes roamed around her. Gifts lay scattered everywhere. Almost every thing she had wished for this Christmas has been given to her. From a Prada handbag, to a perfume down to the latest Madonna CD. That a lot more. They weren't really that much. Not much compared to what has been take from her. Her purple gaze stared at the white bear Kurama gave her. A stuffed toy as a christmas present having a price she could never bear. He took her heart, her hope. Her hope that one day he would realize that she was the one for him and that she was waiting for him all along.
     Well, she almost blurted it out last week. Still, no favorable response. The bear's wistful black eyes stared back at Botan. " You're the only company I have." She propped the fluffy toy on her lap and stared at the roses on its neck.
     She was wrong to ever thought that Kurama would somehow notice her. Although he treated her like a full blown lady, she was still considered by the others as ' one of the boys '. Nobody had really taken her seriously. She fell for other men before, some had even asked her out on a date. But none of them felt as special as the kitsune.
     She clutched the bear and hugged it tightly. The scent of roses invaded her nostrils. Suddenly she felt something hard touched her face. She leaned back and eyed the bear closely. Gingerly, she fingered the silk fabric of its dress. She unbuttoned it and pinched its stomach. At first she felt only cotton then her nails hit something. She stared hard at the fluffy white fur and noticed an inch long slit across its belly. She reached inside with her two fingers and felt something hard. With a lot of effort she brought out a small blue velvet-covered box.
     " What is this?", Botan looked surprised. " A promo or something?"
     She carefully raised the lid and gasped.
     A flash of red reflected on her purple eyes.
     With hands shaking, she raised a ruby studded ring.
     Then she noticed a note pasted on the inside of the lid. It said " Be with me at the stroke of twelve. I'll be waiting 'till then."
     Botan knitted her brows. First, it was rather unusual, to have an expensive ring embedded in a stuffed toy. Second, the note, though a bit corny, sounded like a proposal carefully composed or maybe stolen from a poem. Unless, of course it wasn't incidental . . .
     Her heart started to thump loudly. Are they all connected? Did Kurama wanted to tell me something? Did he intentionally embedded the ring inside the bear to give it to me? Is it true? Did he really wanted me to be with him?
     Questions whirled in her mind.
     Ding! Dong!
     " Huh!", Botan raised her eyes at the grandfather clock. Both hands above the twelve mark.
     Be with me at the stroke of twelve.
     " No . .", Botan couldn't believe it. " Does he mean I have to be with him on or before twelve?"
     I'll be waiting 'til then.
     Botan's eyes wondered on the ring in her finger.
     Waiting 'til then.
     She glanced at the writing at the back of the lid.
     . . . 'TIL then . . .
     " Kurama . . .", tears welling up in her eyes. What happens if she didn't meet with him?
     She glanced at the clock once more. It read 12:02. She might be able to make it!
     She quickly jumped to her feet, looked back at the orb and sighed. " I'm sorry."
     She was about to rush out when hesitated. She felt something. From her place she could make out shadows of the thieves Koenma told her about. If she leave now, it would be disastrous. Not only for Reikai but for the other worlds as well. But . . .
     She peered at the clock and saw 12:05.
     " This ring and note. They may not come from Kurama at all.", she murmured. " Maybe it is a ruse to make me leave the palace and the orb."
     The clock read 12:08.
     But she knew that the note sounded very sincere. It was the kind of a mind-boggling note a romantic and clever young man like Kurama would write.
     She sank back to her chair and buried her face on her hands. Even if she decided to meet with him, she's too late anyway. Kurama's known for his punctuality. If he wrote something, be sure that he means every word.
     'til then. She played those words over and over in her mind. She blew it. He had given her a chance.
     Even if she recited a whole litany and sang halleluiah over and over, he won't be hers. And she didn't expect him to come rushing to Reikai for her.
     Keiko told her a few hours back that Kurama was arranged by his stepfather to marry Maya, who turned out to be the daughter of a business associate. He wanted to refuse but he was afraid that his mother would be disappointed at him. Having in mind that his mom would think that he only refused to stress his dislike of his stepfather. She knew that Kurama would do anything for Shiori. If he had almost gave his life to her, he wouldn't hesitate to sacrifice his happiness for her own.
     Botan sank deep in the plush cushion. She had never felt so alone. All throughout the hundreds of years in her life, she had never felt so tired. She gripped the bear tightly, her lips quivered as a cold winter breeze rushed through the slightly opened window.
     Her whole body shook, not of the cold but of all the aching solitude sweeping through her. Whether it's her own doing or just a mean and ugly twist of fate. Who knows? Maybe their destinies weren't meant to fuse together.
     Botan had to grip her shoulders to stop herself from trembling. This isn't her idea of a merry Christmas.
     Suddenly the air grew heavy then she felt warm. Feeling a heavy coat draped over her body, she slowly opened her eyes, searching the entire dark room.
     " I thought you might need company.", a voice echoed not far from where she lay.
     She stiffened. She knew that voice.
     " Want some hot cocoa?"
     That soft, calm voice . . .
     " I brought a few dishes with me."
     Tears flowed from Botan's eyes. Suddenly, she couldn't hold herself anymore, she collapsed on his chest and sobbed uncontrollably. " Kurama . . ."
     Kurama wrapped his arms around her. " Sorry, if I kept you waiting . ." His eyes fixed on the ruby on Botan's finger. " Glad you accepted my proposal."
     At this Botan stopped. She raised her eyes and stared at him. " Why didn't you just ask me personally? Why do you have to put me through all these? And what about Maya?"
     Kurama laughed. " One question at a time!" His fingers wandered over her cheek, gently stroking it. " I was a coward."
     " Coward?! As in afraid? Scared? Fearful?", Botan appeared shocked. Kurama was never afraid of anything! Much less afraid of her? " What do you mean?"
     " It wasn't until tonight that I realized I couldn't fool myself anymore. So I told mother about you.", Kurama replied.
     " W-What d-did she say?", Botan asked, still at a loss at the sudden turn of events.
     " You wouldn't believe it! She actually thought I like Maya that's why she never said anything against her.", he looked at her lovingly. " She said she really liked you and that we looked perfect for each other."
     Botan blushed wildly. She couldn't think of anything to say. Maybe this is what they call a Christmas miracle!
     Kurama smiled then stood up. He walked towards the stereo and played a CD.
     The first chords of a slow song filled the room.
     His green eyes searched hers as he extended his hand. " Shall I have that dance I asked you at the ball?"
     Happiness bubbled inside her as she received his invitation.


" Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Let your heart be light
From now on our troubles will be out of sight. "

     The soft voice of the lady singer echoed through the empty halls of the Reikai palace. It seems to vibrate beyond the walls of the castle. Serenading the world with its melodic tune. Painting the place with its deep, meaningful words.

" Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Make the Yuletide game
From now on our troubles will be miles away. "

     Botan buried her face against the thick fabric of his sweater. This is the first time she has ever felt so . . . loved.
     She had never been so happy in her whole life. She was wrong to have judged the guardians of fate. They don't twist unpleasantly. They just make your life more complicated, colorful . . . and fun. Leaving you staring at such a wondrous game filled with all emotions anyone could ever have.
     Emotions of both joy and loneliness.
     " I'll take joy anytime" , she whispered.

" Here we are as in olden days
Happy golden days of yore
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Gather near to us once more. "

     Kurama pulled her closer. He won't let her slip away. His face firmly pressed against his fresh-scented hair. He had never felt so . . . complete. Having to share this special day with somebody he had always longed to embrace. A special day which would leave him yearning . . . and yearning for another.
     He lifted his face and gently kissed her forehead. But then, he won't have to worry about that won't he? 'Cause nothing could make them fall apart. Nothing, he vowed to himself. Nothing.

" Through the years we all will be together
If the fates allow.
Hang a shining star upon the highest bow "

     Sometimes they feel pain. Most of the time, they feel joy.
     One true thing which has always been undeniably present in each being.
     Yet its overpowering strength never ceases to amaze us.
     It seeks their hearts. It pierces their souls.
     It's love.
     The meaning. The reason. The best present one could ever give . . .
     . . . and receive.

     A soft moon light illuminated two souls alone in the dimly lit room. A soft sky blue glare from the crystal orb reflected against the couple standing still in each other's arms, locked in a long, passionate kiss.

" And have yourself a merry little Christmas now. . ."

     A feast for a birth . . .
     A celebration of Love.
     which they will share together
     this Christmas . . . and forever.



I wrote this story last Christmas but I wasn't able to publish it since this YYH site wasn't fully constructed at that time. Anyway, hope you like it.

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