Kurapika x Reader One-Shot Collection - Chapter 47: Chapter 47

I feel like a small child every time I come here. From the rainbow colored walls to the brightly painted tiles on the ceiling, it reminds me more of a school than a pediatric hospital. The smaller children play random games while the older ones scroll through their phones. The younger kids probably don't know why they're here, but the older ones, they know. The depressed look on their faces says everything.
I straighten my dress after checking in. Even though I'm no longer a child, I refuse to change doctors. I take a seat in one of the purple cushioned chairs. I watch the children play with puzzles and whatever those toys are called where you slide shapes around some maze. I look at the parents watching them. They all have one thing in common. Hope. Hope that their child will celebrate their next birthday. You see, this isn't just any pediatric hospital. I look up at the colored letters above the front desk. Oncology.
"There's my favorite patient," Dr. Paradinight says as he extends his arm to me.
I stand from my seat and shake his hand. "You say that to everyone, don't you?"
He pinches my cheek. "Yeah. I mean it when I tell you though." He walks me towards the locked doors. He scans his badge and looks my way. "You look like you have lost weight since the last time I saw you. Are you eating?"
I shake my head as we continue to walk down the hallway. "Not really. You know these treatments make me nauseous."
He stops walking. "I gave you medication for that."
I stand in front of him, tucking some stray strands of hair behind my ear. "I know. I'll start taking it. I promise."
He flails his arms in the air. "(Y/N), do you want to get better or not? If you want me to continue being your doctor, you have to be compliant. You're lucky I took you back after you decided to stop treatments."
He grabs my chart from the rack behind him. I follow him into one of the rooms.
I hop on the exam table. The sound of the paper crinkling beneath me fills the silence. "You're right. I'm sorry."
He reads through my chart. "Do you need me to increase the dose of your antidepressant?"
I give him a blank stare.
He sighs. "Let me guess. You're not taking those either."
I look to the side, avoiding eye contact with him. "No. They make me feel like a zombie. I'm afraid if I'm given a moment of happiness, I'll miss the feeling."
He puts my chart down and walks closer to me, taking his stethoscope off his neck. "Are you telling me you've never felt happy before?"
"Sure. When I was a child. I'm sure the feeling is different now."
I take some deep breaths, allowing him to listen to my lungs.
He places his stethoscope back behind his neck. "You know what you need?"
"A miracle?"
"No. You leave that part to me. What you need is to go out on a date."
I tilt my head to the side. "Oh, yeah? Do they have those at the pharmacy?"
He fakes a laugh as he looks around the desk. After finding a brochure, he hands it to me. "Doctor's order. Go to one of these support groups. Trust me, guys will flock to you. I want to hear all about it during our next visit."
I pretend to read through the brochure. I always felt these support groups were a waste of time.
"I'll think about it," I lie.
His phone rings. "Excuse me." He pulls it out of his pocket and turns around while he answers it.
I feel the corners of my lips move upward into a smile. Like clockwork, his friend calls him at this time during my appointments. He's usually waiting for Dr. Paradinight out in the lobby. In fact, I've changed my treatment schedule just so I can see him.
Once we finish with my exam, Dr. Paradinight walks me to the treatment room. Recliners line up against the walls. I sit down in my usual seat, and wait for the nurse to access the port in my chest.
My eyes fall on the blonde leaning against the desk outside the room. He must feel my gaze because he looks my way. I quickly hang my head. I wait a few seconds before looking at him again.
I don't even feel pain when the nurse pierces my skin with the needle. I'm too focused on studying the blonde's features. He's not too tall, maybe five-seven or eight. His suit covers his small frame. His large eyes have a distinct curve to them. I can't tell what color they are from where I'm sitting, but I'd give anything to know.
I've never felt this way about anyone before. To be completely honest, he's the reason why I decided to start my treatments again. I hope to get better and maybe introduce myself to him. I know it's a long shot, but who knows?
Okay, back to his features. I've never seen such alluring lips. I bet he has a great smile. You know, one of those smiles that makes the sun shine brighter.
"What's so funny?" the nurse says.
She snaps me back to reality. Was I laughing?
"Oh...uh...just thought of something funny my friend said," I lie.
I don't have any friends.
Dr. Paradinight shines his penlight in my eye. "Well?"
"Well...what?"
He clicks off the light. "Well...how did the support group go? Did you find yourself a cute guy?"
Right. He wanted me to attend one of those stupid support groups.
"Oh. Sorry. I forgot," I say. No sense in lying to him.
He squints his eyes, studying my expression.
"Wait. You like someone already, don't you?" he says, raising an eyebrow.
I give him a half smile.
He pats me on the shoulder. "I knew it! So...what's his name?"
His name. Darn. I don't even know his name.
"Uh...I was hoping you could help me with that."
He jumps back. "Huh? Me?"
I nod. "Yeah. Your blonde friend."
He furrows his brow. "You mean Kurapika?"
Kurapika.
I'm already picturing his name next to mine like I'm in high school.
"Does he have a girlfriend?"
He starts to laugh. "Kurapika? Hell no."
"What's so funny?"
"Nothing. Let's just say...Kurapika isn't really the dating type."
I look at him with pleading eyes. "Can you just try? Please? I am your favorite patient, after all."
He places his chin between his thumb and index finger. "Hmm. But what about your prognosis?"
I grab his arm. "I'm not saying I want to get married. I just...you know...want to experience a little magic before I die."
He lowers his eyebrows. "Hey. No talk about dying. You're far from that."
"So...is that a yes?"
He sighs. "I'll do what I can. You don't know Kurapika. He's not the easiest to get along with. But don't get me wrong. He's got a big heart." He stares at my mouth. "Is that a smile I see?"
I cover my mouth. "Uh...I guess it is."
"In that case, I'll do whatever it takes to get Kurapika to go on a date with you."
I raise my index finger. "One thing, Dr. Paradinight. You can't tell him I'm your patient. Or anything about my condition for that matter. You know, doctor patient confidentiality."
He takes a deep breath. "Right."
Kurapika
I roll my eyes when I see the grin plastered all over Leorio's face. I haven't even taken my shoes off and he's already pestering me. What the hell was so important that he couldn't tell me over the phone?
"Did you have a good day?" he says, walking toward me.
"Not really. I..."
He wraps his arm around my shoulder, and we begin to walk to the living room. "I don't really care. I just need a favor," he interrupts me.
I pull his arm off of me. "A favor? What kind of favor?"
He's silent. That's never a good sign.
I sigh. "Just tell me. The sooner you ask, the sooner I can decline and go about my evening."
He stomps his foot like a child. "Oh, c'mon. You're not even gonna give me a chance?"
I slump down on the couch. "Fine. What do you want?"
He runs over and sits down next to me. "I just need you to go on one date for me."
I raise an eyebrow. "A date? With who?"
He grabs my hands. "Just a friend. Please...it'll mean a lot to her."
I stand up, releasing his hands from mine. "No."
He jumps off the couch. "No? Just like that?"
I walk to my bedroom. "Yes. Just like that."
"Fine. But you know what?"
I stop walking, and slowly turn to face him. "What?"
He points a finger at me. "You're not just disappointing me, but my friend as well."
I cross my arms. "I'm a busy person."
He clasps his hands together. "It's one date, Kurapika. That's all I'm asking for."
It just baffles me how pathetic he can be. The desperation in his eyes makes it hard for me to say no. I let out a deep breath. "Fine. One date."
His entire face brightens as he smiles. "Really? Damn. I thought I was going to have to break one of your limbs to get you to agree."
I ignore his statement.
"What's her name?" I say.
"Her name's (Y/N)."
I turn to walk away. "Tell (Y/N) I'm free tomorrow. I'd like to get this over with as soon as possible."
I walk into the bustling restaurant the next evening. The hostess greets me with a smile. I ask if someone by the name of (Y/N) checked in yet. Her smile grows. I follow her to a table situated at the corner. She tells me someone will return shortly to take our orders before walking away.
A young woman stands up and bows in front of me. She's punctual and has manners. Maybe this won't be so bad after all.
I wave a hand in the air. "Please. No need for formality."
She stands up straight, extending her arm to me. "Hi, Kurapika. I'm (Y/N). It's a pleasure to meet you."
I shake her delicate hand. "The pleasure is all mine."
We both sit down in front of each other. I honestly wasn't expecting her to be this beautiful. However, she won't stop fidgeting with her hands.
"Uh...are you okay?" I say.
She shoots me a nervous look. "Yeah...I just...it's nice to finally meet you."
"Finally?"
She blushes. "Yeah. I kind of wanted to meet a real hunter."
I furrow my brow. "Leorio is a hunter. Aren't you two friends?"
She waves a hand in the air. "Yeah, but he practices as a doctor. I wanted to meet someone who actually hunts for a living."
I cross my arms across my chest. "I thought this was a date."
She now waves both hands in the air. "It is...I mean..." She hangs her head in defeat. "This isn't going so well, is it?"
I take a sip of my water. "There's no need to lie to me. In fact, I highly discourage it."
She straightens her posture. "Can we start over?"
I extend my hand across the table. "Sure. My name's Kurapika. Nice to meet you."
She smiles as she shakes my hand. "And I'm (Y/N)."
After dinner, the two of us take a walk around the park. I was actually planning to leave right away, but there's something different about (Y/N).
We walk on a trail. The dark sky above us sparkles.
"What's your story, (Y/N)?"
She bites her lip. "Uh...my story?"
"Yeah. You didn't talk a lot about yourself during dinner. You already know I'm a hunter. What about you?"
She looks to the sky for an answer. I honestly didn't think it was a hard question.
"I...uh...I'm a college student."
"Yeah? What's your major?"
"I haven't figured that part out yet," she says.
"Hmm...your second lie to me."
She stops in her tracks. "My second lie?"
I stand in front of her. "Yes. You first told me you wanted to meet a hunter. I knew that wasn't the truth. And I can tell you're lying now." I place my hands on her shoulders. "I don't know what Leorio told you about me, but I'm actually a nice person."
I jump back as she throws her arms around my shoulders.
"I know...I'm just really nervous." She pulls away. "The truth is, I've been watching you from afar. This might sound cliche, but whenever I see you, I get this funny feeling inside my stomach."
My mouth falls open. "That wasn't a lie."
She shakes her head. "No."
I press my palm against my forehead. "I'm flattered. However, my schedule doesn't allow for a romantic relationship. I'm sorry."
She takes my hand in hers. "That's okay. I only asked for one date, and that's what I got. Thank you, Kurapika."
I look down at our hands. Her thumb runs across my knuckles. "Uh...no. Thank you. I needed this."
We stare at each other for what feels like minutes. I've never ended a date with someone I actually want to see again. I instinctively reach over and press my lips against her cheek. She smells pretty, like a meadow full of flowers.
I feel heat rise from my shoulders to below my cheeks. I pull away, searching her eyes for approval.
Her eyes are wide and full of confusion.
"I...I'm sorry," I say.
Damn. What the hell is wrong with me?
Before I have the chance to think about my actions, I feel her lips against my cheek. She pulls away wearing a smile on her face.
"You can kiss me whenever you want, Kurapika."
My eyes fall to her pink lips. What am I thinking? I have morals. Kissing her would be wrong.
"Have a nice rest of your evening, (Y/N)," I say with a bow.
(Y/N)
I smile as I walk into the exam room. I hop on the table and swing my legs as I wait for Dr. Paradinight.
My head turns toward the door as he walks in with my chart in his hand. He takes his pen from behind his ear and greets me.
I tilt my head to the side when I don't notice his usual smile. "Is everything okay?"
"Yeah." He tugs at the bottom of my blouse. "Mind if I pull up your shirt? I need to listen to your heart and lungs."
Why is he asking for my permission? He's my doctor. It's not like this would be the first time he saw me in just a bra. "Uh...sure."
I unbutton my blouse. He places the diaphragm of his stethoscope against my back.
When he's finished, he writes in my chart. Things feel weird. He's not his usual chipper self.
I cover myself back up. "Uh...Dr. Paradinight? Is something wrong with me other than the obvious?"
He sighs. "No. You're fine. It's...Kurapika."
My eyes widen. "Kurapika? Is he sick?"
He rolls his eyes. "Lovesick. Thanks to you. He hasn't stopped talking about you since your date."
This is what winning the lottery must feel like. My smile grows until my face hurts.
Dr. Paradinight places his hand on the exam table and stares at me. "This isn't good, (Y/N). Kurapika's my best friend. I don't want him to end up with a broken heart. We both know that will inevitably happen if he starts a relationship with you."
Like a drug addict who just had her favorite brand of heroin taken away, I feel the high I felt seconds ago leave my veins.
"I'm sorry. I'll make sure to stay far away from him."
I didn't mean to go back on my word, but when I received a call from Kurapika later that evening, I couldn't turn him down. Did I tell you about his voice? Oh my Kami, it's incredibly sexy, especially over the phone. Who can reject someone with a voice that's soft yet assertive?
A second date turned into a third. A third turned into whatever number we're on tonight. We go out at least three times a week, and we've been dating for about eleven months. Anyway, the math isn't important. The fact of the matter is, I've been letting this go on for too long.
"Do you want to come back to my place?" he whispers in my ear.
I open my eyes and wait for my breathing to regulate before turning him down.
"Yes," I say.
Turns out the word no leaves my vocabulary when his fingers are inside of me. My moans grow louder as he presses deeper. The backseat of his car isn't the ideal place to fool around, but we can't help it. No, we haven't gone all the way yet. But ahh...just thinking about the possibility of being in Kurapika's bed makes me come.
The car ride back to his apartment is pure torture as his fingers find their way under my skirt. I have to look out the window to distract myself.
We immediately start kissing as soon as we enter his apartment. He shoves me against the foyer table. Something glass shatters as it hits the floor. He doesn't bother to check. Instead, he reaches under my shirt. A moan escapes my throat as he runs his hunting hands over my skin.
The scent of a strong cologne fills my nose as we kiss. I know it's not coming from him. Oh no. I know who this scent belongs to.
"Good evening, lovebirds," Dr. Paradinight says.
Kurapika blushes as his lips leave mine. He turns around to greet his friend.
"Sorry, Leorio. I thought you were working tonight." Kurapika takes a deep breath before making eye contact with me. "I apologize, (Y/N). I failed to mention my roommate. I believe you two already know each other."
I knew they were best friends, but Dr. Paradinight never told me they were roommates.
I nod as Dr. Paradinight and I stare at each other. "Yeah. We know each other."
"I hope it doesn't bother you that he's here," Kurapika says. "But he won't be a nuisance. In fact, I bet he has a random woman waiting in his bed as we speak."
The vein in the middle of Leorio's forehead bulges. "Shut up, Kurapika! If it weren't for me, you two wouldn't be together."
Kurapika hangs his head. "You're right. I should be thanking you. My life has been better ever since I met (Y/N)."
My jaw drops. "Kurapika, do you really feel that way?"
Dr. Paradinight grabs my arm and yanks me away from Kurapika.
"Sorry, but (Y/N) and I need to have a little talk."
Kurapika raises an eyebrow. "Why? She's my guest."
Dr. Paradinight rolls his eyes. "Please...I'm not trying to steal her from you. I just want to have a friendly chat with her."
Kurapika lets out a deep breath. "Fine. Just don't keep her for too long." He presses his lips against my ear. "I'll be in my bedroom. It's the one on the right."
My mouth waters as I watch Kurapika walk down the hallway. He takes off his suit jacket, giving me the perfect view of his backside. He turns his head over his shoulder and winks at me before disappearing into his room.
"Ahem," Dr. Paradinight interrupts my thoughts.
I almost choke on my own saliva.
Once I recover, I turn to face him. "Nice to know I can depend on you in an emergency. I almost aspirated."
He slaps my back a few times. "You're fine. Now listen..."
I interrupt him. "I'm sorry. I know I told you I'd end my relationship with Kurapika a long time ago, but then you said my scan looked better. There's hope for me, right?"
He stares at me with pity in his eyes. "You're still sick, (Y/N)."
"Just please," I say, gripping my chest. "Let me love him."
His eyes widen. "You love Kurapika?"
I nod. "I do."
Dr. Paradinight grips his hair with his hands. "No...no...no."
I stomp my foot. "Why is that a bad thing? So I'm sick. Who cares? That shouldn't exclude me from experiencing love. Some people spend their entire lives searching for it. I can see why. It's magic, and I have every right to feel it."
A stream of teardrops stain Dr. Paradinight's cheeks. "You're right. It's just...I care about you both. Just please...tell him. He has the right to know."
I wrap my arms around him. He flails his arms in the air to keep from losing his balance.
"Thank you! I promise...I'll tell him everything," I say.
Kurapika is sitting on the edge of his bed when I enter his room. I sit next to him, tucking some of his soft hair behind his ear. He grabs my waist as he lays back, causing me to fall on top of him.
"What was that all about?" he says, running his right thumb across my lips. He leaves the metallic taste I love so much in my mouth.
"Oh, nothing. He just wanted to let me know that you're a virgin."
He sits up with widened eyes. "Did he really?"
I laugh. "I'm just kidding."
Sweat drops form on his forehead. It's the cutest thing ever.
My lips fall on his. I feel his erection against my thigh.
I fall on my side, breathing heavily. Anxiety builds in my chest.
As if sensing my apprehension, Kurapika rests his hand on my cheek.
"Hey, we don't have to go any further if you're not ready," he says.
"No, it's not that. I just...I have something to tell you."
A smile plays on his lips. "What? You're a virgin, too?"
"Wait...that was a joke. Are you really?"
He nods. "Not many women want to date hunters. And I refuse to have a one-night stand."
"Oh, Kurapika."
I think about what words I should use. Trust me, I don't want to hurt him anymore than Dr. Paradinight does.
I open my mouth, but he interrupts me with a kiss. Not just any kiss. This one is hungry.
He breaks the kiss, leaving a trail of saliva between us. "I love you, (Y/N)."
Okay...it's now or never. "I love you, too, Kurapika. And I have..."
He presses his lips against mine, continuing our kiss. I guess the truth will have to wait. There's no way I'm ruining this moment.
He grinds his hips against mine. These darn clothes are in the way.
He glides his tongue down my neck as he unbuttons my blouse. "Move in with me."
I throw my head back as he leaves a trail of kisses down my torso. He stops below my navel.
He stands up and pulls my skirt and panties down.
I stand on my feet in front of him.
"No fair. You're still fully dressed," I say.
"You're more than welcome to change that." His voice is deep with passion.
I slowly unbutton his shirt. My mouth hangs open as I stare at his V. My hand involuntarily wraps around his growing erection.
"Damn...that feels so good," he says.
I slowly stroke him. I've given him handjobs before so this part isn't new to me.
He looks at me through half-lidded eyes. He lets out a moan. I look into his deep crimson eyes as I glide my hand up and down.
"Don't stop," he says.
Stop? I wouldn't stop if someone placed a gun to my head.
The heat between our bodies intensifies as I pick up the pace.
I kiss his neck, gliding my tongue up to his ear. "Take me."
His eyes shoot open. "Are...you...sure?"
"Please."
I want him inside of me so badly it physically hurts.
He wraps his arms around my waist and lays me on his bed.
We laugh as he plants kisses all over my face. Trust me...what you've seen in movies is nothing compared to being in love in real life.
Flashing lights appear around Kurapika. I close my eyes, and they're still there. My Kami. I didn't know love came with side effects.
I open my legs, letting him know I'm ready.
A flash of gold appears between my legs as he glides his tongue over my womanhood. I throw my head back, gripping the sheets. He licks all the way up my slit, passes my navel, and stops at one of my breasts. He takes my nipple into his mouth and caresses my other one with his hand. I was right...his bed is so much better than the back of his car. Don't get me wrong. We've had a lot of fun back there, but there's only so much we can do. Even with tinted windows, it's a little strange to go down on your boyfriend while people walk around outside.
I purposely stopped some of my treatments for this moment. After throwing up all over Kurapika's lap one night, I decided I didn't want to go through with that embarrassment again.
Oh, but Kurapika...he's a dream come true. He only cared about how I was feeling. He didn't care about the mess I made in his car, on his suit, or...the fact that he didn't get to finish.
"Are you ready?" he says, propped over me.
I nod, staring into his lust-filled eyes.
My virginity vanishes as he presses himself into me. It's something I thought I was going to die with. Not that being a virgin is a bad thing. It's just...I never thought I'd find someone special enough to take it away.
A burning pain rips between my legs as he pushes himself further. After all the foreplay we've done in the past, I thought I'd be more prepared.
He stops half way when he notices me clenching my jaw.
"(Y/N), are you feeling pain?"
"It's okay...don't stop," I say.
His mouth is slightly parted, inviting me in. The sweet taste of apples lingers on my tongue as he kisses the pain away. I can smell metal on his skin as if he has his chains conjured. He keeps his thrusts gentle until...ahh...pleasure floods the area that was once filled with pain.
The weight of him envelops me like a warm blanket. I rock my hips, matching his thrusts.
I stare at Kurapika as he makes love to me. The tips of his blonde hair touches my face. Pink clouds rest on his cheeks. His moans vibrate throughout my body, bringing me close to my sweet rapture.
His hand finds mine and our fingers interlock. "I love you," he says. His warm breath tickles my ear.
I run my free hand down his back, feeling every muscle as they flex.
A few more thrusts and I hold him in. My eyes close involuntarily as I experience my first real orgasm. I call out his name. The white flashes become brighter even though my eyes are closed. The pleasure ripples throughout my entire body. The strong pain medication I'm prescribed doesn't come close to giving me the high I'm feeling.
Once I fall back on the mattress, Kurapika continues to thrust in and out of me. I can't comprehend the words that are coming out of his mouth. His body stiffens and falls on top of mine.
Tears fall down the corners of my eyes. Why is life so unfair? Am I wrong for wanting Kurapika to ask me to marry him? Am I wrong to want to have his babies? I know these things aren't possible for me, but it's still nice to fantasize.
He kisses my forehead. "Why are you crying, babydoll?"
"Tears of joy," I say. I mean, that is partly true. I've never felt this happy before.
Kurapika hands me a pair of his pajamas and helps me get dressed. He pulls my arms out of the sleeves.
"I am capable of putting on my own clothes," I say.
"I know. I just enjoy taking care of you." He watches me put on his pajamas. "You know...you never did answer my question," he says.
I pull on a pair of his boxers and pajama pants. "What question?"
He changes into his own night clothes. "About moving in with me. What do you say?"
"You never asked me. You told me." I smile at him. "And I can't say no to you."
He grins from ear to ear as he pulls me in for a hug.
"We can start looking for our own place tomorrow. This apartment is too small for three people. Besides, I don't like the way Leorio looks at you."
I open my mouth to tell Kurapika the truth about me, but he stops me with a kiss. As much as my heart wants to tell him, I slow down to savor this incredible moment.
Kurapika places pillows on what will be my side of the bed. "We can purchase a bigger bed if you'd like," he says.
I sit down on the soft mattress. "No. This size is perfect. It forces me to sleep close to you."
Kurapika sits next to me, running his fingers through my thinning hair. "In that case, we'll get a smaller one."
Instead of reaching over to give him a kiss, I stare at nothing. The sensation of hundreds of needles piercing my skin makes it impossible to move. I can see my own heartbeat as my head throbs.
Kurapika is shaking me, but I can't seem to focus on anything but the blank space in front of me.
He waves his hand in my face. His lips are moving, but instead of words, I hear nothing. My muscles twitch involuntarily as I fall to the floor.
Fear crosses Kurapika's face. Dr. Paradinight runs into the room. Then I see...darkness.
"(Y/N), babydoll...wake up," says Kurapika as I open my eyes.
"Kura...pika?"
Kurapika squeezes my hand. He lets out a deep breath of relief. "Thank Kami. You're okay."
I take in my surroundings. Oh no. What am I doing here? I turn my head back to Kurapika.
"What...happened?"
He pulls down the bed rail and sits down next to me. He combs my hair away from my face with his fingers. "You had a seizure. But don't worry...they're running tests to find out why."
Dr. Paradinight walks into my room. Kurapika's face brightens when he sees him.
"Hey, Leorio! Did you find anything out? When can I take (Y/N) home?" Kurapika returns his attention back to me, nuzzling my neck. "I'm going to take such good care of you when we get home. You'll probably get sick of me." He smiles.
"Sick of you? Never," I say.
Dr. Paradinight opens the chart he's holding. "(Y/N). We should discuss your MRI results."
Kurapika straightens his posture as he turns to face his best friend.
I press the button on the side of my bed to raise my head. "Yes, Dr. Paradinight?"
Kurapika furrows his brow. He looks at me then back at Dr. Paradinight.
"Wait. Why did you just call him Dr. Paradinight? Aren't you two friends?"
Silence fills the room. All that can be heard is the constant humming of my IV and the heart monitor over my bed.
Kurapika crawls out of my bed. "Wait a minute...I never did ask how the two of you know each other." I see his throat roll as he swallows hard. "Leorio, is (Y/N) one of your patients?"
"Kurapika, I'm so sorry," he says, hanging his head.
Kurapika closes his eyes. "(Y/N), how sick are you?"
"I'm sorry, Kurapika...I meant to tell you...but the timing was never right."
Kurapika opens his eyes and flails an arm in the air. "Will the two of you stop apologizing and just answer my damn question? (Y/N), how sick are you?" Kurapika says, anger evident in his voice.
I twirl my hair around my finger. "I have an astrocytoma."
"What's that?"
"It's a type of brain tumor."
Kurapika winces. "Is it curable?" He looks away as if he's afraid of what my answer will be.
I shake my head. "No. They told me I have five years. That was six years ago."
He finally looks my way. His eyes remind me of flames. Red with just a touch of orange to them.
Kurapika
I can't tell if I'm irate or full of sorrow. Is there an in between? Because if there is, that's what I'm feeling. It hasn't even been twenty-four hours since you told me you loved me, and now I'm listening to you tell me how you should be dead.
I glance at Leorio. I know it's not his fault. You most likely convinced him to keep your diagnosis a secret from me.
"Leorio, where do we go from here?"
He clears his throat as he looks through your chart. "I...umm...actually want to go over (Y/N)'s MRI results."
You look in Leorio's direction attentively.
Leorio pulls up a chair and sits next to you. His long arm extends to your shoulder.
"(Y/N), I'm sure you know what I'm about to tell you based on your recent seizure."
You take a deep breath.
I can tell Leorio is trying to act more like a professional than a friend.
"Your astrocytoma...it developed into a glioblastoma."
You bury your face into your hands.
I raise my hand. "Can you put that in layman's terms?"
Leorio's eyes are full of pity as he stares at me. "It's a fast-growing brain tumor."
I turn around and pinch the bridge of my nose to keep from crying. You just gave me your heart...why are you taking it back so quickly?
I turn back around and walk toward your bed. Leorio is listening to your heart with his stethoscope.
"Can I listen?" I say, sitting closer to you.
Leorio takes the stethoscope out of his ears and wipes the earpieces with an alcohol wipe. "Go ahead."
I grab the stethoscope from Leorio. I put it in my ears, pressing the diaphragm against your chest. I close my eyes, allowing the lub-dub sound to fill my ears.
I can't hold it in any longer. Tears stream down my cheeks. "It's the most beautiful sound in the world."
You take the stethoscope out of my ears. "You're the reason why it beats."
I take your face in my hands. "I always wondered if there was someone out there stupid enough to fall in love with me. Now I know why you did...it's because you have a brain tumor."
You punch me in the shoulder. "It was my heart that chose you. Not my brain."
I let out a small laugh. "I'm glad it did."
A look of concern crosses your face. "Hey, Kurapika? What if I told you about my cancer earlier? Would you have broken up with me?"
I take a few strands of your hair between my fingers. "Don't ask stupid questions. There's nothing in this world that could keep me away from you."
I turn around to face Leorio. "What now? What options do we have?"
"That all depends on (Y/N). We can continue treatment, buying her a little more time, or focus on keeping her comfortable."
I grab your hand. "You hear that, (Y/N)? You can continue treatment."
You're silent with your eyes downcast. "Kurapika, I know you want me to continue treatment, but the truth is, I'm exhausted. You didn't know this, but I was going through with them this entire time. I just want to live out what little I have left of my life with you."
I feel my bottom lip tremble. "So...you want to give up?"
"No. I'm just tired of delaying the inevitable."
"I just...I don't get it. You don't look sick."
You offer me a soft smile. "That's how I know you're truly in love with me. You never once noticed the bags under my eyes or my thinning hair."
I cross my arms over my chest. "Are you sure you don't want to give it one more try?"
(Y/N)
Kurapika carries me up to the apartment. He gently lays me down on our bed.
"Is there anything I can get you? Are you in any pain?"
"I actually have a craving for a chocolate milkshake. Do you mind picking one up for me?"
"Anything for you. Leorio is in the other room, shall you need anything while I'm gone."
He kisses my lips. I watch as he closes the door behind him.
As soon as I hear the front door close, I reach over to the nightstand and pull a mirror out of the drawer. Tears stream down my face as soon as I look at my reflection. Love does come with side effects. I had already accepted my fate and was ready to spend my last weeks pain free in Kurapika's arms. However, he convinced me to have a craniotomy to get as much as the tumor removed.
I run my fingers over the part of my head that's shaved. The worst part is, I'll be starting chemo and radiation again in six weeks. I swore I'd never put myself through that hell again. But Kurapika has hope for me. Did he even listen to Leorio? There's no cure. I guess he only hears what he wants.
I sigh, turning the mirror over. I don't actually have a craving for a milkshake. I only told him that so he'd give me a few minutes alone. He's been hovering over me since I woke up from anesthesia.
Don't get me wrong. I love him more than anything in this world. I just wish I shared his optimism.
I must have fallen asleep because I feel Kurapika lightly tapping my shoulder.
"(Y/N)? Your milkshake is here. I also brought your pain medication. You haven't had any since we left the hospital."
I wipe the drool away from the corner of my mouth. He helps me sit in bed.
"Thank you, darling." I yawn, noticing the huge bouquet of flowers on the nightstand. "Oh, Kurapika. Are those for me?"
He looks over his shoulder at the bouquet. "No. Those are for Leorio." He laughs at his poor attempt at a joke. "Of course they're for you, my sweet love." He reaches over and takes out the card.
I take it from his hand, planting a kiss on his lips. I open the tiny envelope.
My heart rate accelerates. "Kurapika, I can't read! They messed up my brain!"
He runs his fingers through the little hair I have left. "No...no. It's written in the language of the Kurta. I'm sorry...I thought it'd be romantic." He shakes his head in disappointment. "I'm an idiot."
I smile, caressing his cheek with my fingers. "It is romantic. However, I still can't read it."
"Here." He reaches into his pocket. "Maybe this will help."
He hands me a tiny box. I flip it open, gasping when I see its contents.
"Kurapika, is this..."
He takes the ring out of the box and slides it on my finger. "The card says, 'will you marry me?'"
I'm pretty sure sobbing puts pressure on my brain, but I can't help it. I cry into his shoulder as he strokes my back.
"Is that a yes?" he says.
I pick my head up. "Yes...a million times yes."
We get married right before I start chemotherapy. Leorio drives us to an elaborate hotel. After parking the car, he turns to face Kurapika.
"Hey, not to ruin your wedding night and all...but I'm afraid you won't be able to consummate your marriage. (Y/N)'s still recovering from major surgery."
Kurapika kisses the tip of my nose. "Leorio, there are many ways to express one's love for someone. You, unfortunately, wouldn't know that."
Leorio scowls at Kurapika. "Why do you have to be so damn annoying?" He faces me. "(Y/N), I wish you all the luck in the world."
Kurapika pulls me in for a kiss as soon as we enter the hotel room. I'm just a mess of emotions.
He pulls away from me, wiping my tears away. "It's your wedding day. You shouldn't be crying."
I take his hand from my cheek and plant kisses on it. "I know. It's just...I'm reminded of everything I can't be."
He jumps back. "What do you mean?"
I look away. "I can't be the wife you deserve."
He turns my face so I'm looking at him. "Don't be ridiculous. I couldn't conjure a more perfect woman than you."
I thought my treatments were torturous. Damn was I wrong. As I lay in bed next to my new husband, I contemplate breaking the rules and making love to him. I breathe heavily as he gently kisses my neck. My hand moves down.
"Don't make me use my chains on you," he says.
I release his manhood from my hand. He's not making this any easier by saying those words. I wrap my leg around his waist.
"I'm serious." His voice deepens. "We're not messing up that pretty head of yours."
I stare into his scarlet eyes, resting my hand on his porcelain-colored cheek. For a brief moment, I feel sorry for his mother. She would have loved to see how handsome her son turned out.
I close my eyes. Lights flash behind my eyelids as Kurapika presses his fingers deep into my skin. He starts from my arms, massaging me all the way down my sides. He turns me around. I melt into the mattress as he adds pressure to my shoulders. He takes his time running his fingers down my back. He whispers to me in his language. I don't know what he's saying, but I've never heard anything more romantic. His accent...his voice...his touch...it's enough to make me come. I know I can't...I shouldn't, but ahh...I don't think I can help it.
"(Y/N)? Are you okay?"
I can't move. My brain turned into mush. He turns me back around, taking me into his arms.
"Babydoll, wake up!"
I notice the panic in his voice. I open my mouth to speak, but words don't come out. I'm still recovering from whatever trance Kurapika had me in.
He lets out a breath of relief when he notices the smile plastered on my face. He pulls me closer to his warm body.
"Don't you dare scare me like that again," he says.
I go limp in his arms.
"I...I'm sorry."
I don't tell him that his massage brought me to climax. He rocks me back and forth, kissing my head.
"Go to sleep, my love. May your dreams be filled with images of me."
I close my eyes as he tucks me in bed. I fall into the most delicious sleep of my life.
The sun's rays sneak in through the curtains. I reach for Kurapika, but his side of the bed is empty and cold. I sit up, scanning the room for him. I crawl out of bed, searching the large hotel room.
I stop dead in my tracks when I see him sitting on an upholstered chair with his pants down to his ankles. In his left hand is a picture of me and in his right is...
He moans softly as he strokes himself. My heart sinks to my stomach. I'm not angry. He's a man, after all. He had needs. Needs I can't fulfill.
I spin on my heels, walking back to bed. I pull the pillow over my face, crying until I fall back asleep.
Kurapika wipes my mouth with a cold washcloth after I throw up into the toilet. I've already had a few rounds of chemotherapy and just as expected, my scan hasn't changed.
"Do you feel better now?" he says.
"Uh...yeah."
He takes me back to bed where I spend most of my time. He crawls in next to me, opening a book to read while I rest. I hear him shut the book and throw it across the room. I turn to look at him. He holds his forehead as he begins to sob. I've never seen Kurapika like this before.
"What's wrong, darling?" I say, resting my hand on his thigh.
He locks his reddened eyes with mine. "This is my fault. I'm putting you through hell for selfish reasons."
I use all my strength to get up into a sitting position. "Kurapika, it's not..."
"I'm the one who made you go through surgery. And now chemo." He shakes his head. "You're doing this for me, aren't you?"
I nod.
"Well...I want you to stop. I should have honored your wishes from the beginning."
Tears stream down my cheeks. "Thank you, Kurapika." I rest my head on his shoulder.
I'm not scared of dying. I accepted my fate the day I found out about the cancer. I'm more afraid of leaving behind the man who made my life worth living.
Kurapika
A few weeks pass by, and I slowly open the door to our apartment. I take off my shoes and quietly place them on the rack. I tiptoe to the living room to check on you. The curtains are drawn closed and the television's volume is barely audible. Light and sound exacerbate your migraines so Leorio and I make sure to keep everything as comfortable as possible for you.
You lift your head up from the pillow. "Kurapika?"
I sit on the couch next to you. "Hey, babydoll."
You push the comforter off and wrap your frail arms around me. Where did this energy come from?
"Where did you go? I missed you," you say.
I run my hands up and down your back, feeling every one of your ribs. "I'm sorry. I just wanted to buy you a present." I pull away from you and press my forehead against yours. "How are you feeling? Are the headaches getting better with the new medication Leorio prescribed you?"
"I don't need medication as long as you're around." You take my hair into your hands.
I reach into a bag and pull out a box. I made sure to wrap it in your favorite color.
Your eyes widen. "Kurapika, why would you get me a present?"
"Why wouldn't I? You're the love of my life. Now open it."
Like a kid on Christmas morning, you rip open the package. Your jaw drops as soon as you notice its contents.
"Kurapika, it's beautiful. But...why?"
"You're a Kurta." I tug at the bottom of your pajama top. "Let me help you put it on."
"But...I haven't bathed yet. I want to be clean before dressing in such elaborate clothing."
"Then I shall help you," I say, getting off the couch and standing in front of you.
I help you balance as you stand up. I hold you close while we walk to the bathroom.
"Do you feel dizzy?" I say, running your bath.
You sit on the toilet. "A little, but I'll be fine."
After helping you undress, I hold your hand as you walk into the bathtub. You wince, pressing your palm against your forehead.
"Are you okay? Does your head hurt?" I say. "(Y/N), if you need medication, take it."
You allow your arm to fall to your side. "No. They make me drowsy and I want to be as alert as I can when I'm with you."
Even with brain cancer, you still put others first.
I shampoo your hair. Strands fall out as I rinse it. "Fine. I'll make this quick." I take the bar of soap and lather your body. It's only been a few weeks since you stopped treatment, and you already lost quite a bit of weight. The nausea doesn't help, but luckily we have Leorio for that. He came up with a wonderful concoction for your nausea.
I wrap a towel around you when I finish your bath. You shiver as I pat you dry.
You look away from your reflection when you pass the mirror. My heart sinks to my stomach when I see the disappointment in your face.
I find a hairbrush and pull out the blow dryer from under the sink. "Hey, let me style your hair for you."
You throw down the lid to the toilet and flop down on top of it. "What's the point? I'm still gonna look ugly."
"Don't you dare say that about my wife. I'm not lying when I tell you you're the most beautiful woman in the world."
I style your hair, careful not to hurt your head with the brush. You look back in the mirror once I'm finished. "Is that a smile I see?" I say.
"Maybe. Now help me get that tabard on. I want to be dressed like you."
Once I help you get dressed, you run your hands over the pink and rose gold tabard.
"You look absolutely gorgeous. Like a true Kurta," I say.
"Thank you, darling. This is the best present I've ever received."
I hold your hand as we walk back to the living room. I kiss your cheek as soon as we sit down.
"I love you," you say.
"And my everlasting love is yours."
You fall asleep on my shoulder. I smile, picking you up and taking you to our bedroom. I tuck you in, kissing your cold lips.
I sneak in under the covers and watch as you dream. I hope you're dreaming about me.
I'm surprised when you wake up an hour later. You must be hungry. You haven't eaten all day.
You sit up in bed looking confused.
I sit beside you, wrapping my arm around your waist. "Hey, baby. Would you like me to get you a piece of cake? Or perhaps some tea?"
You fall into my chest. "Oh, Kurapika. Thank goodness. I had a terrible dream. And my head hurts like hell."
The moonlight pours in through the window. I notice the look of fear on your face.
"I'll grab your medicine. And I'll bring you some cake. They had your favorite flavor at the bakery today."
"I don't think I can swallow cake. But tea sounds nice."
"I'll be right back." I kiss your cheek.
"Hey, Kurapika?"
I tilt my head. "Yes?"
"The doctors tell me the flashing lights I see are caused by the tumor. I tell them no because they only appear when I see you."
I feel my face contort as I begin to sob.
I kneel in front of you, grasping your hands. "(Y/N), I didn't want to scare you by telling you this, but...I think angels surround you. I constantly see their wings when I look at you."
It's your turn to sob. "Kurapika, that means my time here is over. Please...don't leave my side. I didn't think I would feel scared."
I crawl in bed beside you, pulling you close. "Don't be afraid. I'm right here with you. You just lay here on my chest."
I hold your feeble body, listening to you breathe. Your breaths slow down and become irregular. I start counting them.
"It's okay, babydoll. I'm still here." I take your hand in mine.
I pick up your other arm that is hanging off the bed.
"(Y/N)?"
I'm frozen in place. I feel my throat roll up and down as I swallow hard.
"Leorio!" I manage to shout.
He comes rushing in. "Yeah? Is everything okay?"
I don't answer. Instead, I continue to watch you sleep.
Leorio follows my line of sight and immediately grabs your arm, feeling for a pulse. He hangs his head.
I look away. "No. Don't tell me. I don't want to hear it."
Leorio sits next to us. "Kurapika?"
"I said I don't want to hear it, Leorio!"
I've been injured in battle many times, but nothing compares to the pain of having your heart split in two. Half of me is gone.
I squeeze you, burying my face in your neck. I thought I was ready, but how can one prepare for losing the one thing that makes you happy to get up in the morning? My heart eats itself alive. The pain is unbearable. I scream. I sob. Leorio tries to comfort me, but I push him away.
"It's unfair, Leorio!"
Leorio pulls you away from me. He fluffs your pillow, gently placing your head on it. He covers you with the comforter. "I know, buddy." I can tell he's holding back his own tears for my sake.
I pull my knees to my chest.
Leorio rests his hands on my shoulders and stares into my eyes. "Kurapika, we all knew this was going to happen."
"So I should just accept it and move on? Is that what you're telling me?"
Leorio hangs his head. The tears he was holding finally make their way down his cheeks. "No. Not at all. This is just going to be the hardest thing you'll ever go through. I want you to know...you'll never be alone. I'm here whenever you need me."
I stare at my best friend. I always thought doctors eventually became numb to death. Especially in his specialty. But not Leorio. He has a heart. That's why he strived to become the best at what he does. Because he cares. (Y/N) was more than his patient. She was his friend, and I can tell his heart is hurting.
Two months later
I stare at the cursor on my screen as I spin my wedding ring around my finger. The door creaks open. I turn to look over my shoulder.
"Hey, Leorio."
Leorio pulls up a chair and sits next to me. "Whatcha working on?"
I lean back in my chair. "I'm trying to put together my favorite memories of (Y/N). I just don't know where to start."
A chuckle escapes Leorio's throat.
I feel my brow furrow. "What's so funny?"
"I never told you this, but you actually met (Y/N) long before your first date."
Shock travels through my veins. "Huh? When?"
"It was the day she was diagnosed with brain cancer. You came up to have lunch with me and saw her waiting for her parents in the waiting room. She was only sixteen back then, but I remember watching you try to comfort her."
I stare at nothing as the memory floods my brain. "You're right! I recommended my favorite books to her. She never told me her diagnosis, but I knew she received bad news that day."
Leorio places his elbow on the desk and rests his head in his hand. "And do you know what she asked me after meeting you?"
I shake my head.
"She asked me if flashing lights was a side effect of brain cancer because she saw them around you."
A tear rolls off my cheek and I immediately start to type.
"Tell me more, Leorio. I want to know everything about (Y/N)."
"She was just as stubborn as you." He laughs. "I had to threaten to fire her as a patient if she continued to be noncompliant. But we both know that wasn't true. I loved that girl. Nothing brought me more joy than watching her grow into a beautiful woman."
"Thank you for taking such good care of her. You have our gratitude." I log into one of my bank accounts. "I'd like to donate some money to your hospital. I want it to go directly to brain cancer research."
Leorio's mouth falls open. "How much?"
I put my chin between my thumb and index finger. "How does seventy-three million jenny sound?"
Leorio falls out of his chair. "Are you serious?"
I proudly stroke the gray ribbon tied to my suit jacket, smiling. "Yes, Leorio. And that's just the beginning. I want to put an end to this monster they call cancer."