Kurapika x Reader One-Shot Collection - Chapter 49: Chapter 49

I groan as I grab my phone to answer it. I usually don't answer calls from unknown numbers, but I want to tell whoever it is to fuck off and ask why they are calling me in the middle of the night.
"Hello?" I practically shout.
"Uh...(Y/N)? It's me. Kurapika."
I jolt up from bed.
"What the hell do you want?"
"May you give me a ride?" says Kurapika.
I run my hand down my face. I don't think this guy pays attention to time. He's searching for the scarlet eyes like they're damn dragonballs.
"What? Did you wreck your car again?"
"No, I just need someone to pick me up," he says.
"From where?"
"The...uh...hospital."
Leorio slams his foot on the brakes, practically giving me whiplash.
"Dammit, Leorio!" I rub the back of my neck. "Pay more attention to your surroundings."
"Sorry, (Y/N)." Leorio pulls his car in front of the airport.
I take a deep breath, leaning back against my seat. "Actually...I don't think I can go now. You injured me."
He punches my shoulder. "Get out! You're gonna miss your flight."
I unclick my seat belt. "Tell me again. Why couldn't you go instead of me?"
He throws my bag at me. "I'm on call this week. Sorry. Now go!"
I take one more deep breath before getting out of his car. "You do know he's not going to accept my help, right?"
"Just go already!"
Leorio presses the gas pedal before I have the chance to shut the door.
Security checks me as I pull up my ticket on my phone. I head straight to the terminal once they clear me. His blonde hair stands out in the crowd.
I stand behind him. "Hey, Kurapika."
His shoulders roll forward. He slowly turns around. "What are you doing here, (Y/N)?"
I look away, avoiding eye contact with him. "Just so you know, this wasn't my idea. Trust me, I have much better things to do than babysit you."
"Then why are you here?"
I reposition my bag over my shoulder. "Leorio bribed me."
"Well...you can tell Leorio I kindly decline his offer. I can't believe he sent you of all people."
I turn to face him, narrowing my eyes. "Hey, I don't want to be here anymore than you want me to be. Leorio is just afraid you'll do something reckless."
He sighs. "Fine. Just stay out of my way." He proceeds to walk down the gate that leads to our airship.
He keeps his eyes closed throughout the entire four-hour flight. I know he's not sleeping. Once we land, he crosses his bag over his shoulder and walks away like I don't exist.
We share a taxi to the nearest hotel. He checks into his room.
"Well...thank you for the company. I guess I'll see you around," Kurapika says, taking his key card from the receptionist.
"Sorry. I gotta share a room with you. Leorio's orders."
He winces. "Damn him."
We take off our shoes as soon as we enter the room. Kurapika claims his bed and starts to unpack his bag, hanging his suits up in the closet.
"My mission doesn't start until morning. I'll just be reading. Feel free to do whatever it is you do."
I throw myself on the bed, crossing my arms behind my neck. "What's the plan of action? Fight the current owner of the scarlet eyes, grab them and go back home?"
He rolls his eyes. "Honestly, (Y/N). Why do you always insist on fighting? I'm usually able to talk them into giving the eyes to me. I'm an excellent hunter."
"So am I. I just think fighting is more fun than talking."
"Good night, (Y/N)."
I furrow my brow. "Good night? It's still early. I was gonna order some room service. Want anything?"
"No, thank you."
I open the draw to the nightstand separating our beds. I pull out a menu. "Sorry. You gotta eat something."
He sighs in defeat. "Let me guess...Leorio's orders?"
"Yep," I say, perusing the menu. "How does hamburg steak sound?"
I hear Kurapika's stomach growl.
"I take that as good," I say.
I pick up the phone to place our order.
Once our food arrives, we eat in silence. I watch Kurapika as I chew on my steak.
I wash it down with water. I slam my glass on the table, breaking the silence. "Why don't you like me?"
He pushes his tray away. "You don't like me either so why does it matter?"
I shrug my shoulders. "You're right. I guess it doesn't."
He stands up. "Thank you for the meal."
So the bastard expects me to clean up after him? I sigh. This is going to be a long mission.
I hear the shower running as I walk up to the bathroom. I walk in anyway. The steam makes it difficult to see through the glass, but I can see enough. I don't even know why I'm staring. He must feel my eyes on him.
"What the hell are you doing in here?" Kurapika shouts.
I unzip my pants. "I gotta piss. Sorry."
"Well....make it quick. I like my privacy."
Now he wants to be in control of my bladder? Tch.
Kurapika's already sleeping by the time I crawl under the covers. His back is facing me on the opposite bed.
I sigh. I'm not even sleepy, but I don't dare turn on the television. I guess I'll just close my eyes.
The sound of metal clanking wakes me up. I sit up in bed, fixing my bedhead.
I yawn. "Kurapika? Is that you?"
The room is dark, but I can see his aura surrounding him. "Yes. I apologize. Did I wake you?"
"Uh...yeah. What time is it?"
"A little after two. I work on my Nen when I have trouble sleeping."
I lay back, pulling the covers over my head. "Well...I'm trying to sleep. We have a big mission in a few hours."
"We? May I remind you...you're only here because Leorio bribed you to watch over me."
I ignore his comment.
I hear him put his damn chains away and crawl back into bed. "(Y/N)?"
"Yeah?"
"Why are you here? I can't imagine Leorio paying you a lot of money," Kurapika says.
He's right. Leorio's a cheap bastard. The money he gave me barely covered my flight.
"I...I guess I care about your well-being as well."
I cringe. Did I just tell him the truth?
"You do? I didn't expect that answer. I really am blessed."
"Just don't let it get to your head. Now go to sleep!" I shout.
It's too damn quiet to sleep. I know he's still awake. He's probably thinking about my stupid comment.
"(Y/N)?" he whispers.
"What do you want, Kurapika? Need a sleep aid?"
He doesn't answer. Instead, he tosses and turns for the next few minutes, driving me mad.
I pull the covers off and stomp to his bed. "What do I need to do to make you fall asleep?" I lay on top of him. My lips find his. He doesn't move. I don't move. What am I doing?
Seconds pass. I need to do something...fast! I part my lips, covering his mouth with mine. He's not responding, and it's too dark to read his expression.
I can't just stop...I'm already too embarrassed. I force his mouth open with my tongue. Dipping his toes into the water, he glides the tip of his tongue over mine. No...this won't do. I need more. I press my mouth harder against his, forcing my tongue into his mouth. He tries to push me away, but I don't let him. He finally relaxes, giving into the kiss. He rests his hands on either side of my face. Thankfully, there's a thick comforter between us. Otherwise, he'd feel my growing erection.
Desperately needing air, I break our kiss.
"(Y/N)?" Kurapika says, voice hoarse.
"There...maybe now you can sleep." I start to crawl out of his bed.
He grabs my arm. "Don't go."
I feel my brow furrow. "What? You want me to stay?"
"Uh...nevermind."
I click on the bedside lamp to see his face. He shades the light from his eyes with his hands.
"Kurapika, what's going on?"
He pulls his hands away from his face, blinking until his eyes adjust to the light.
My mouth parts open. I've never seen such sadness before. I almost feel sorry for him. Almost.
"Hey, it's going to be okay. We'll get back the scarlet eyes. I promise."
He turns on his back and looks at the ceiling. "Right."
I change my position to hide my erection. I've never seen Kurapika look so vulnerable before. Dammit...why is it turning me on?
He's always been good at keeping his true feelings hidden behind a strong-willed facade. Not from me though. I'm so sick of his act.
I place my hand on his bare chest. "I'll be right back. Just gotta use the bathroom real quick."
I splash cold water on my face. I hate myself for wanting him. I take my time, praying he'll be asleep by the time I get out.
My eyes land on my bag. I pull out my first-aid kit, desperately searching its contents. I grin from ear to ear once I find the packet of lubricant. I put it inside the pocket of my pajama pants...you know...just in case.
Kurapika is still looking at the ceiling when I emerge from the bathroom. I take my seat back on his bed.
"You okay?" I say.
He gives me a puzzled look. "Of course I'm okay. What would make you think otherwise?"
So...he's putting on the tough guy act again. Well...I can change that.
I punch the mattress. "Kurapika, shut the hell up."
His eyes widen. "Excuse me?"
"You're not bulletproof," I say.
He glares his eyes at me. "Go back to your bed, (Y/N)."
"With pleasure. You know I hate you, right?"
"Hate? That's a strong word. Especially after that comment you made earlier."
He forgot to mention the kiss. I guess I'll have to remind him.
I reach down and lick his lips. He opens his mouth, inviting me in.
He moans against my lips. "No, he says. His lips never leave mine. "We need to stop this." He pulls me closer, deeping our kiss.
He kisses me with ferocity. I feel like he's trying to kiss all his pain away. And I'm enjoying every second of it.
This is my chance. I'm going to dominate him for once.
I pull off his pajama bottoms. I can see his erection through his underwear. I get rid of those too.
I smile. My mouth salivates as I stare at his length. I spread his legs, positioning myself between them.
I reach down and glide my tongue over the head, tasting his precum.
He jolts up. "(Y/N)! What the hell are you doing?"
I look up at him with narrowed eyes. "What does it look like I'm doing? Want me to stop?"
He stares at me, wide-eyed. "Yes."
I start to crawl off his bed, feeling his hand grab my arm again. This time, his grip is so tight, I feel like he'll hurt me if I leave.
"I mean...no." he says.
I smile as he spreads his legs, making room for me.
I wrap my hand around him. Tightening my grip, I move my hand up and down. He throws his head back. A moan escapes his throat as I take him into my mouth. I curl my lips under my teeth, going down only a third of the way and back up. His leg twitches and I smile, knowing I'm driving him crazy. I slowly descend, taking more of him into my mouth. I apply pressure to the spots I know I'd like by pressing my lips tightly around him. I've never done anything like this before, but he makes it easy. I just do what feels right, and it seems to be working because he's writhing in pleasure.
No...I don't want him to come...not yet. I go all the way down until I feel him hit the back of my throat. I pull him out, staring into his lust-filled eyes.
I pull the packet of lubricant out of my pocket before getting rid of my pants. My eyes never leave his as I apply the cold jelly all over my dick. I also squeeze some on my finger, pushing it inside of him. I might hate him, but that doesn't mean I want to hurt him.
I push my finger in, stretching him until I feel he's ready for me.
He grips the sheets as I slowly enter him. I can tell he's in pain. I reach down to kiss his neck.
"Relax," I say.
"But...it burns."
I grab his hair. "Kiss me. You'll feel better."
He obeys, melting into the mattress. That's better. I break our kiss, leaving a trail of saliva between us. I slowly push another inch inside of him. He stares at me through half-lidded eyes, face flushed. I glide my tongue over his neck, finding his sweet spot. He lets out a moan when I kiss the delicate skin below his earring. I concentrate there, distracting him while I inch my way further inside. He feels so damn tight and warm, I just want to ravish him. I stop when I'm all the way inside. The warmth travels down my spine.
I push up on my arms to check on him.
"Hey, are you okay?" I say.
He doesn't answer. Instead, he lifts his hips and pulls me in deeper. I clench my teeth...damn...this is my first time and I'm going to ruin it by coming too soon. I pull back out...in...out...uhh...the pleasure is too intense. It's too late. I've reached the point of no return and I don't regret it. The high is so extreme, I see white. I'm pretty sure the people staying in the next room can hear me as I fill Kurapika.
I pull out and watch as my cum pours out of Kurapika. I feel kinda bad...he's red and swollen. Not to mention he didn't get to have an orgasm. Knowing him though, he probably doesn't know how to. He doesn't know it's okay to feel good.
I'm about to change that. As soon as I catch my breath, I reach down, taking him back into my mouth. I bob my head up and down, suppressing the urge to cough as his hot cum pours down my throat. I swallow hard, attempting to take it all with one gulp. I fail miserably. I look at him as he basks in the afterglow of his orgasm. I wipe the corner of my mouth before crawling up to him. I take him into my arms, kissing him deeply. I make him taste himself on my tongue.
I comb his sweaty hair back. I break away, allowing him to recover. I inhale his scent. He smells like metal...the result of intense Nen training with chains.
"Kurapika?" I whisper in his ear.
He doesn't answer. I turn to face him. He looks so peaceful with his eyes closed, breaths steady and calm. I smile. I knew that would make him fall asleep.
I rake my hair back with my fingers. I'm conflicted...do I sleep on his bed or go back to mine?
Fuck. Now I'm the one who can't sleep. The sound of my own heartbeat won't let me. What the hell just happened? And why did that feel so damn good? I thought I hated him.
I wake up to the sound of Kurapika getting ready. I blink a few times, recalling the details from last night. I turn on my back. I guess I fell asleep on his bed.
"If you are to accompany me, you should probably get ready," Kurapika says.
Damn...what happened to good morning?
I yawn as I stretch. I look down, immediately covering myself with the comforter. I forgot I fell asleep naked. I sure hope Kurapika didn't see my morning...uh...
"(Y/N)!" he shouts. "Did you hear me? We need to get going."
I sit up, wrapping a sheet around my waist. I get up and take a quick shower.
We ride the elevator down in silence. He walks out as soon as the doors open. I follow behind him.
"Hey, Kurapika, wanna give me the details about this mission? Like who exactly are we going after? Do you know if they are Nen users?"
"The plan is simple. You stay out of my way."
He rings the doorbell to the massive mansion. The friendly butler invites us in.
I have to admit, I'm impressed. Kurapika is good at convincing people. Even though I was hoping for a fight, it was pretty entertaining to watch Kurapika threaten the bastard who had the pair of scarlet eyes.
We share a taxi to the airport. I decide to break the silence.
"Kurapika, good job. You were right...you didn't need my help after all."
He looks out the window. "Hmph. Am I safe to assume you're an Emitter?"
"Uh...yeah."
"Why am I not surprised?"
I lean forward in my seat. "Hey, what is that supposed to mean?"
He closes his eyes and shakes his head. "Nothing, (Y/N). Nothing at all."
I slump back in my seat. I just gave the guy a compliment and he basically insulted me.
No...he's going to answer my questions.
"Why don't you like me?" I ask him, voice low.
He furrows his brow. "I thought we discussed this last night."
I shake my head. "Nope. You simply dodged the question."
He sighs. "You're not a good influence."
I raise my eyebrows. "Huh?"
"You know Gon and Killua look up to you. You boost their egos when they do something reckless."
Lava runs through my veins. "Who are you? Their mother? You know they do whatever they want regardless of what you tell them. Kinda like someone else I know."
"Why don't you like me? I'm sorry...why do you hate me?"
I let out a deep breath. "I don't hate you, Kurapika. You just...I don't know...you're always judging me."
He doesn't reply. Instead, he looks out the window again.
"You sure liked me last night," I say under my breath.
He scowls at me. "Are you seriously bringing that up now?" He glances at the driver before glaring back at me.
I nod. "Sure am." I rest my chin between my thumb and index finger. "If I remember correctly, you couldn't keep your legs still. Oh...and I didn't know you were capable of making those noises that came from your throat."
I feel the driver's eyes looking at me through the rearview mirror.
I make a fist. "Hey, why don't you keep your eyes on the road?" I shout to him.
Kurapika presses his palm against his forehead. "Seriously, (Y/N). Now is not the time." He drops his hand, giving me a disappointed look.
I place my hand over his knowing that'll piss him off. He immediately pulls back. I smile, blowing him a kiss.
This four hour flight back home should be fun.
He pretends to be asleep again. Even though I'm enjoying my view of him from across his seat, I stand up to sit next to him. I move his hair, exposing his ear. "Wanna sneak into the bathroom for a quickie?" I whisper.
His eyes shoot open. "(Y/N)!" He punches my shoulder.
I rub my shoulder. That actually hurt.
A look of seriousness crosses his face. "Last night was a mistake." His voice is low. "Please. Don't bring it up again."
Damn. That hurt more than the punch.
Leorio waves at us once we step out of the airport. He offers Kurapika a ride home.
"I appreciate the offer, but I must decline."
He turns around and walks away.
"So...how'd it go?" Leorio asks me once he pulls his car onto the highway.
I look out the window. "Good. Got the eyes. Mission complete."
Leorio wipes his brow. "Glad to hear it. By the way, thanks for doing this. I would have gone myself, but...you know. My job is pretty demanding."
I shield the sunlight away from my eyes with my hand. The lack of sleep is starting to hit me and I'm starting to feel grouchy. "Shut up, Leorio. I know your real reason. You wanted to hook up with that nurse you've been talking about."
A mischievous smile crosses his face. "You know me well. And yeah. I got some."
I let out a deep breath, annoyed. "I don't care about your sex life. Nobody does. Anyway, since you're bragging, I got some, too."
He shoots me a confused look. "Huh? From who?"
I pull the lever to the seat, leaning back. "Kurapika."
Someone honks their horn at Leorio, warning him he's swerving onto the next lane.
"Please don't kill us," I say.
Leorio straightens the car back on his lane. "How the hell did that happen?"
I close my eyes. "It just did. But it's never happening again."
"Shit," he says, focusing on the road. "I had no idea you two liked each other that way."
"We don't. It was a mistake. Please don't bring it up again."
I turn so my back is facing him, hoping he'll take the hint.
"Who made the first move?"
I wince, instantly regretting telling him. I should have known better. It's not in Leorio's nature to just let things the fuck go.
"Why does it matter? Are you trying to paint a mental picture?"
He makes a gagging sound. "Hell no. I'm just curious. Didn't think Kurapika had it in him."
"Well...I didn't force him."
"Gonna see him again?"
"Uh...no. He made that clear." I punch myself in the chest. Dammit. Why does my heart feel like it's being sliced into a million pieces?
Leorio glances my way. "You okay over there?"
"Leorio, you're a doctor. How do you know if you're having a heart attack?"
I see him smile out of the corner of my eye. "You're not having a heart attack." He reaches over and tousles my hair. "Your heart wants to give itself to someone special."
I push his arm away. "What are you talking about?"
He places his hand back on the steering wheel. "You're in love with Kurapika."
No. No...no...no. He's wrong. "It's official. I'm never telling you anything about my personal life again."
Two months later
Work has been keeping me busy. When I'm not working, I keep myself locked up inside my apartment. I just haven't been in the mood to be around people.
I crack open a can of soda when my doorbell rings. I gulp half the can down before answering the door. I don't check the peephole which is probably a bad habit, but whatever...I'm a hunter so if someone wants to rob me, they are more than welcome to try.
"Hey, (Y/N)!" shouts Gon when I open the door.
Killua follows behind him.
"Hey. What are you two doing here?"
The three of us end up spending the rest of the afternoon together. They tell me about their latest adventure, and I find myself lecturing them on how they should be more careful.
"What the hell is wrong with you? You sound like Kurapika." Killua says with a puzzled look on his face.
"Yeah," says Gon, scratching the back of his head. "We thought you'd find it exciting."
I curse under my breath. Is what Kurapika told me about being a bad influence really getting to me? If anything, he's a bad influence...always traveling to sketchy places in search of those eyes and wrecking his car every few months.
"I'm sorry. I just haven't been getting good sleep lately."
Killua motions toward the cup of coffee in my hands. "Hey, genius. Maybe you shouldn't be drinking caffeine this late in the day."
I look down and laugh. "You're right. Now you're the one giving me advice."
A look of seriousness crosses Gon's face.
"Hey, (Y/N)? Leorio actually wanted us to ask you something. Do you mind looking after Kurapika again? He's going on a really dangerous mission tomorrow and he won't let us go."
I stand up and walk to my kitchen. I pour the rest of my coffee down the sink and grip the countertop until my knuckles turn white. Of course Leorio sent Gon and Killua to ask me. He knows it's harder for me to turn them down. But Kurapika is the last person I want to see right now.
I hear their footsteps behind me. I take a deep breath, trying my best to compose myself.
"(Y/N)? Are you okay?" Gon says.
I turn around and put on a fake smile. "Yeah. I'm just really disappointed. I can't help him out this time. Work is just...busy."
Gon frowns. "Oh, okay. I'm sure he'll understand. We're just a little worried about Kurapika."
Why is everyone so concerned about Kurapika? Do they not realize he's a grown ass man and he can take care of himself?
I turn the corners of my lips downward in an attempt to fake a frown. "I know. Wish I could help."
I toss and turn until finally...I fall asleep.
Not even an hour later, I'm awakened by the sound of my phone vibrating.
I groan as I grab my phone to answer it. I usually don't answer calls from unknown numbers, but I want to tell whoever it is to fuck off and ask why they are calling me in the middle of the night.
"Hello?" I practically shout.
"Uh...(Y/N)? It's me. Kurapika."
I jolt up from bed.
"What the hell do you want?"
"May you give me a ride?" says Kurapika.
I run my hand down my face. I don't think this guy pays attention to time. He's searching for the scarlet eyes like they're damn dragonballs.
"What? Did you wreck your car again?"
"No, I just need someone to pick me up," he says.
"From where?"
"The...uh...hospital."
"The hospital?" I repeat his answer just to make sure I heard him correctly.
"Yeah."
"Are you hurt?"
"No. I'm fine. They just sent me here to clean up my wounds," Kurapika says.
"Wounds? As in more than one?"
He lets out a sigh. "Can you get me or not?"
I turn on my bedside lamp, still half asleep, to search for a piece of paper and a pen. I scribble the hospital's address and tell Kurapika I'll be there as soon as I can.
Luckily, there's barely any traffic so I get there sooner than expected.
I run up the stairs to the fifth floor. I stop by the nurses' station before proceeding to his room.
"Excuse me? I'm here to pick up my friend. Kurapika Kurta? He told me he's been discharged."
The nurse shakes her head. "No, sir. He's not discharged. He has chosen to leave the hospital against medical advice."
"Wait...what? So he's not being discharged?" I ask, confused.
She reaches for Kurapika's chart to make sure my name is on his list of people who are allowed to obtain his medical information. I'm surprised he included me.
She returns her attention to me. "Your friend has sepsis. If he stops treatment, he risks serious complications."
I know what sepsis is. I've heard Leorio talk about it before. It's a dangerous blood infection that if left untreated can lead to death. Kurapika's intelligent, but he's also an idiot...if that makes sense. Why the hell would he leave the hospital knowing this? I'm sure they told him.
I feel bad for his nurse. Kurapika has to be the worst patient she ever had to take care of. "I'm sorry about my friend. Has he been giving you trouble?"
She shakes her head, but I can tell she's lying.
"I'll try my best to convince him to stay. Thank you for your time," I say with a bow.
I open the door to Kurapika's hospital room. He's already packing. He looks up at me with a smile on his face.
"Hello, (Y/N)! That was fast. You don't know how much I appreciate you."
I slowly walk to him. "Was I the first one you called?"
He zips his bag. "Yes. Why?"
"Did you call me because you knew Leorio would force you to stay?"
He looks down at his feet. "What are you talking about?"
"I spoke with the nurse. You're not discharged, Kurapika." My eyes fall on his left forearm. "And why are you bleeding?"
He grabs a tissue from the bedside table. "Oh...they took too long to take out my IV so I did it myself."
I sit in a chair, shaking my head. "Kurapika, we need to talk."
"Okay, but let's get out of here first. They treat me like I'm sick."
I resist the urge to punch him. "That's because you are. Where are your wounds?"
He looks away from me while he pulls up his shirt. Multiple bandages cover his abdomen.
"What happened to your Holy Chain?"
He doesn't answer.
I jolt up so fast, he falls on the bed behind him. I point my finger in his face.
"Kurapika, I know exactly what happened...you got injured during battle days ago, passed out, couldn't summon enough aura to heal your wounds, and by the time you arrived here, the infection already got into your bloodstream. Am I right?"
He finally makes eye contact with me. "Yes." He shrugs his shoulders. "Now that you figured everything out, will you take me home?"
I cross my arms over my chest. "No. I'm not letting you die."
He stands up, holding his arms out. "Look at me. Do I look like I'm dying?"
He doesn't. He stares at me with those compelling eyes of his. Damn those eyes. He could easily rob a bank with them.
"Fine. But under one condition."
His face brightens. "Anything. Just get me out of this jail cell."
"You're staying with me until you're better."
"Fine. Just please...don't tell Leorio."
I pace the room, thinking about his last request. "Okay. But if your health takes a turn for the worse, I'm calling him."
He extends his arm and I shake his hand.
Two
"I've never been to your apartment before," Kurapika says as he takes his shoes off. "It's nice."
I take Kurapika's bag from him. "Thanks. Are you hungry?"
He holds his stomach. "Famished. Do you have anything to eat?"
I look over my shoulder to the kitchen. "Not much. And I doubt any restaurants are open. How does instant ramen sound?"
He smiles. "That sounds perfect."
I place his bag on top of my washer. "Hey, do you need me to wash any of your clothes?"
"Yes. I'd appreciate that."
I start a load of laundry then make my way to the kitchen to make some ramen for Kurapika.
He slurps it down as if he hasn't eaten in days.
"Damn. When was the last time you had something to eat?"
He wipes his mouth. "I don't know. You should have seen the stuff they were trying to feed me at the hospital."
I wash his bowl when he finishes. "Hey, feel free to use my bath if you'd like."
He doesn't move.
I lean up against the countertop, facing him. "Kurapika? Did you hear me?"
He points to his stomach. "I can't get these wet."
I chew on the inside of my cheek. "Right."
He raises his arm, smelling himself. "I could definitely use one though."
I push myself off the counter, closing the gap between us. "I'll help you."
He furrows his brow. "But..."
I roll my eyes. "Oh, c'mon. I've already seen everything. I know you think it was a mistake, but it happened. You can try to forget all you want, but it's not going to change the past."
I take stock of my first aid supplies while Kurapika undresses himself. I'm going to have to go out in the morning to buy more. The nurse was kind enough to show me how to dress his wounds and how often they should be changed.
He wraps a towel around himself. "I'm ready."
I start by washing his hair in my sink. He leans forward until his head is under the faucet.
"That's cold!" he shouts. "I can do this myself, you know."
I step away. "Fine. Go ahead."
I crack a smile as I watch Kurapika struggle to wash his hair. I walk back to him.
"Stop being such a baby and let me help you." I grab the shampoo and squirt some in my hand. I massage his scalp. "There. How does that feel?"
He closes his eyes. "That feels...good."
His hair is so thick and soft...I can do this for hours.
I make sure the water is warm before I rinse his hair.
When I'm finished, I towel dry it and comb the wet locks. His hair is so long when it's wet.
"Finished yet?" he says.
"Uh...yeah." I look at my tub, trying to figure out how I'm going to keep his dressings dry. Luckily, I have a handheld shower. "C'mon. Hop in the tub."
I turn on the faucet, allowing the water to warm up.
Kurapika stares at me, gripping his towel. "Don't look."
I hand him the showerhead and soap. "I'll turn around. Just let me know when you need my help."
I look over my shoulder to...umm...check on him. My heart skips a beat as I start to feel my heart ache. He really took a beating.
"(Y/N)? Do you mind washing my back?"
I jump back. "Uh...of course I don't mind."
He hands me the washcloth and I scrub his back. I pretend to drop the washcloth just so I can touch his skin. My hand glides over his back, tracing each muscle. My brain fades in and out as I imagine sharing this shower with him every day.
"Finished?"
Again, he interrupts my thoughts. Thoughts I shouldn't be having.
While he brushes his teeth I search for an extra pair of pajamas to give him. I also make the futon for him.
When he emerges from the bathroom, his eyes fall on the futon. "I...I guess I'll sleep on your couch."
I wave him off. "No...you're the injured one. Take my bed."
"Uh...are you sure?"
I don't answer him. Instead, I walk him to the futon. He smiles as he gets comfortable.
"This is really nice, thank you."
I have to hold down my hand to keep it from caressing his cheek. "Yeah. I'll just be in the living room. Yell out for me if you need anything."
I cross my arms behind my neck as I stare out into the darkness. How am I supposed to get any sleep knowing Kurapika is on my bed? I turn over on the couch. I have to stop thinking about him. I'm simply looking after him until his wounds heal.
I hear him make whimpering sounds. I get up, slowly walking toward him. I turn on the bathroom light. He's in the fetal position with his teeth clenched. I touch his forehead. It's covered in sweat.
"Kurapika?" I whisper, slowly shaking him. "Are you okay?"
He opens his eyes. "I'm fine, (Y/N). Go back to sleep."
"You don't look fine."
He winces. "I am. My stomach just hurts a little."
Damn. I know Kurapika's gotta be in a lot of pain. All I have is Tylenol, and that's not going to help. Since he left the hospital AMA, they weren't allowed to give him any prescriptions. I'm tempted to call Leorio, but Kurapika specifically told me not to.
This is too much responsibility for me. But that's fine. I accepted it and there's no turning back now.
He squeezes his eyes shut. This must be excruciating for him.
I grab his hand. "Hey, we should go back to the hospital. They can help you."
"No. There's no way in hell I'm going back there."
I've never seen Kurapika like this before and it's scaring me. He never shows weakness, especially in front of me.
"How can I help?" I ask him.
"Just...don't...leave me. I'm...tired of...being alone."
I squeeze his hand. "Listen. I'm not going anywhere."
He finally falls asleep. My eyes fall on his slightly parted lips. I take the opportunity to kiss them. They feel so good against mine, I reach back down for more. "I'll never leave you, Kurapika."
He smiles in his sleep.
I lay down next to him and drift off to sleep.
"(Y/N), are you asleep?" Kurapika whispers in my ear.
Goosebumps erupt on my skin as his warm breath tickles me. He combs my hair away from my face with his fingers. He places his calloused right hand under my top. I adjust myself so I'm laying on my back.
"Kurapika...ahhh...what are you doing? You should be resting."
"I can't. Not with you beside me. I need to return the favor."
"What...favor?"
He places his other hand under my shirt, massaging my chest. He runs them down to the waistband of my bottoms. He pulls them down along with my underwear. I close my eyes, feeling the warmth of his mouth. He moves up...down...up...licks my head....then back down until I feel the back of his throat. Damn...he's good at this. I thrust my hips up, forcing him to take more of me. I reach down, taking his hair into my hands. I allow the strands to slip through my fingers. He adds pressure to my most sensitive area. I want to scream...this feeling...it's pure ecstasy. I see a waterfall behind my eyelids as I explode into his mouth.
I'm out of breath. I open my eyes and...
I turn to Kurapika. He's sound asleep, snoring softly. Damn. It was a dream. I place my hand over where I thought his lips were. Fuck! I actually came! I slip out of bed to clean myself up.
Scared to fall back asleep, I take this opportunity to sneak out to buy some first aid supplies and groceries.
He's still asleep when I get back home. I don't know what he likes to eat for breakfast, but I figure I'm safe with rice and eggs.
Just when the rice cooker goes off, Kurapika walks in the kitchen. His hair is disheveled and dark bags rest under his eyes. I place a bowl of rice and eggs in front of him. He stares at it before lifting his head to smile at me. For someone who nearly died in battle, he sure has been smiling a lot.
After breakfast, I change his bandages. Some of his wounds are pretty deep. I pack them gently with saline-soaked gauze.
"There," I say. "All done." I slap on the last piece of tape.
He pulls down his shirt. "Thank you. For everything."
I get up from the kneeling position I was in and wave a hand at him. "No need to thank me. We're friends."
I walk to the living room and slump down on the couch. He follows me, supporting his abdomen as he sits down.
"(Y/N)." He stares at nothing, expressionless.
I grab the remote, turning the television on. "What's up? Wanna watch a movie?"
He looks at the television then at me. "I...I want to thank you."
"You just did. Now what kind of movies do you like?" I start searching through titles.
He shakes his head. "No. I've been a terrible friend to you. Yet...you still want to take care of me."
I shrug my shoulders. "I owe you. I haven't been a great friend either."
He winces in pain as he turns toward me. "Want to be partners?"
My heart rate increases. "Partners?"
"Yes. In battle."
"Uh...but you like to work alone."
He nods. "You are correct. But I enjoy your company."
I grin from ear to ear. "Yes. I'd love to be your partner." I pat him on his knee. "Let's just get you better first."
We spend the rest of the week relaxing...watching movies, reading, and talking. Sometimes we talk for hours, getting to know each other. He told me he's never spent this much time away from work.
He's doing a lot better, and I think he'll make a full recovery soon.
We both laugh while watching a comedy movie. I watch him as he laughs. His eyes close and it's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.
He wipes a tear away, pointing at the screen. "Can you believe he just said that?"
When the movie finishes, he holds a pillow against his abdomen. "We should probably watch something more serious. My wounds are going to open back up if I continue to laugh like this."
Is this the same Kurapika Kurta who used to insult everything I did?
I don't want to look away from him. I'm scared I'll miss something. Like the way his eyes crinkle at the corners when he smiles. Or the way he covers his mouth when he laughs.
My heart is getting that strange feeling again, and I wonder if what Leorio said was true. Am I in love with Kurapika?
"Hey, Kurapika? I'm going to grab a snack. Want anything?" I motion toward the kitchen.
"Just share something with me."
I bring back a box of Pocky. He puts one in his mouth, leaving half the stick out. I scoot closer to him, biting the other end. He gives me a perplexed look, but I ignore it and keep munching until our lips touch. Our eyes lock, and we both swallow hard. I part his lips with my tongue and he invites me in. We've kissed before, but not like this. He drops his shoulders, relaxing against me as I hold him in my arms. My heart pounds against my chest as I suddenly realize...
I pull away, staring into Kurapika's big eyes. "I love you."
I don't wait for him to respond. I press my lips hard against his and caress his tongue with mine. The taste of dark chocolate from the Pocky stick mixed with his own unique taste intoxicates me. The room spins around me when we pull away, desperately needing air.
"(Y/N)?" Kurapika breathes heavily. "I..."
I place my index finger over his lips. "Don't say anything. If you love me back, I want you to tell me when I least expect it."
He smiles.
The sun sets and darkness fills my apartment. The light from the television casts a glow around Kurapika. He yawns.
"Tired already?" I say.
"No. I just want to go to bed so you can...hold me."
I help him get ready for bed. I put down my toothbrush and look his way.
"Hey, maybe your Nen is back!" I say.
He rinses the toothpaste from his mouth and dries his face. "You're right!"
He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. He raises his right hand, concentrating on his Nen.
Seconds turn into minutes.
He clenches his jaw in frustration. I hold his hand.
"Hey, don't be so hard on yourself. It's only been a week."
"But..."
I kiss him on the cheek. "Don't worry about things you can't control. Someone smart told me that."
He smiles. "I told you that, didn't I?"
I nod. "Let's go to bed."
We lay on my futon with our foreheads pressed against each other's. I left the bedside light on so I could see his face. I tuck some of his hair behind his ear.
"Hey, Kurapika? I never asked, but...where exactly do you live?"
"Nowhere."
"Wait...so you're homeless?"
He lets out a laugh. "I guess so. I'm always on the go so I never found it necessary to buy a home. Besides, I don't like the fact that I'd be coming home to an empty house."
I pull him closer to me. "This is your home now."
I hear him sniffle.
"Kurapika? Are you crying?"
"These wounds...they hurt. But what hurts the most is not being able to express my love for you."
I hold his head against my chest and stroke his hair. Tears well up in my eyes and it's my turn to sniffle.
"Kurapika, you said it back. You love me."
He lifts his head and leaves a trail of kisses on the side of my neck. If he's not careful, he's going to ignite a fire. His kiss feels so damn hot on my skin.
He stops at my ear. "I do. So much that I'm going to go back to the hospital tomorrow to get better."
Tears make their way down my face. "Oh, Kurapika. Thank you."
He rubs his temples. "(Y/N), do you have something for a headache? I feel a migraine coming on."
"Of course."
I hop up and run to grab him some Tylenol and a glass of water. My face hurts from smiling so much. I'm the lucky bastard who Kurapika is in love with! I must have done something really good in my life to win his heart.
He takes his medicine and drinks the entire glass of water. "Thank you, my love. Now let's get some sleep. Big day tomorrow."
He lays his head on the pillow. "(Y/N), I want you to know...that night we shared wasn't a mistake."
I pull the comforter over his shoulder. I reach over and kiss him on the cheek. "I already knew that, Kurapika. Remember? I was there."
I turn off the light and fall asleep with a huge smile on my face.
"Uh...uh..." Kurapika moans in his sleep.
My eyes shoot open.
"Kurapika? Are you okay?" I turn on the bedside lamp.
"It's...so...cold," Kurapika says, teeth shattering.
I touch his forehead. "You're burning up!"
His cheeks are flushed. I immediately hop up to get him a cold washcloth to lay over his forehead.
He grips my shirt. "Don't leave me, (Y/N). Please...I need you."
I place his head on my lap. "Never, baby."
I feel my heart rate rapidly increasing. I have no idea what to do. Not to mention, I'm scared as hell.
I extend my arm to grab my phone. I call Leorio for advice. I tell him everything that happened and when I'm finished, he yells at me for allowing Kurapika to leave the hospital.
"Who...was...that?" says Kurapika, still shaking.
I pull the comforter over his shoulders, keeping him warm. "Leorio. He's coming to help you."
Not even thirty minutes pass and Leorio is already banging on my front door.
I get up too answer it, reassuring Kurapika.
As soon as I open the door, Leorio punches me. "Are you an idiot? Why did you let him leave the hospital?"
He doesn't wait for an answer. He runs to my room to check Kurapika's vital signs. I'm scared to follow him, but I promised Kurapika I'd be right back.
Leorio shakes his head when I enter.
"Is everything okay?" I ask him, slowly walking back to Kurapika.
He doesn't answer me. Instead, he calls the hospital.
My eyes widen when I hear him tell them Kurapika's vital signs. Temperature of one hundred and four point nine, blood pressure seventy over forty-eight, heart rate in the one fifties and respirations in the thirties. Classic vital signs of someone who is septic. I don't get it...he was fine only a few hours ago. What the hell happened?
Leorio starts giving them orders over the phone. "An ambulance is on the way and you better have everything ready for when he arrives!"
"(Y/N)? Please...hold me," Kurapika says, voice weak.
I jump on the futon and take him into my arms. I feel like I'm sitting next to a furnace. His temperature must be rising.
"Leorio, can't he have a seizure if his temperature gets too high?" I say.
Leorio stands with his back toward me. He pinches the bridge of his nose.
"Leorio, please...is my boyfriend going to die?"
He finally looks over his shoulder at me. Tears are welled up in his eyes. He just shakes his head. "I'm going to wait out in the hall for the paramedics," he says as he leaves me alone with Kurapika.
I lift Kurapika's head and give him a kiss on his burning lips. "You're going to be okay, baby. We'll get through this. I love you so damn much. I want you to know that."
"I...know. I...love...you, too."
Fear runs through my veins. Where are the damn paramedics?
"Thirsty," Kurapika says.
I reach over for the bottle of water on my nightstand. I bring it up to his lips, helping him drink.
I put the bottle aside, talking him back into my arms.
I've known Kurapika for at least five years now and I've spent the majority of that time hating him. Why? Why did we just realize it was because we actually had feelings for each other? Were we afraid of what others would think? We have the most supportive friends in the world and who gives a fuck of what stangers say?
I wasted so much damn time. Who knows where we would be if we both weren't so stubborn. Maybe we'd have a house. Maybe we'd be planning a wedding. Maybe we'd be interviewing possible surrogates for a baby.
The paramedics finally storm into my room. Leorio screams at them for arriving late, but they ignore him.
They ask me to move out of the way so I do. I watch as they take their own set of vital signs. My heart sinks to my stomach when I see the numbers appear on the small screen.
My eyes fall on Kurapika. The little color he had completely vanished from his face. One of the paramedics grabs his limp arm and checks for a pulse.
"There's no pulse! I'll start compressions!"
I walk a few steps backward until I hit the wall. I'm frozen on the outside, but inside, I'm a mess of emotions. Dread builds inside of my stomach and my heart threatens to rise up my esophagus.
Everything is happening so fast, but it's taking my brain a long time to process what's going on.
Leorio pushes the paramedic aside, taking over with compressions. Good...he's much stronger.
My legs fail me as I fall to my knees. My eyes never leave Kurapika. His body jolts in the air as they shock his heart. Leorio continues compressions. I'm pretty sure he broke one of Kurapika's ribs because I hear a loud cracking sound.
I don't know how long this goes on for because, like I said, I have no concept of time at the moment.
Sweat drops fall from Leorio's face. He clenches his jaw in frustration.
"C'mon, Kurapika! You're strong!"
I don't remember when the other paramedic inserted an IV in Kurapika's arm, but she's pushing medications through it. A normal heart rhythm appears on the monitor for a few seconds, then goes back to the peaks and valleys that were there before. I want to ask what's going on, but I hold back and allow them to do their job.
After a few more cycles of CPR, Leorio backs away. He stares at his best friend with disappointment in his eyes. Why did he stop?
I look at the monitor. The pattern looks different now. Actually...there is no pattern. Only a line. Wait! That's not good!
One of the paramedics turns off the monitor while the other one starts to pack their equipment. Tears stream down Leorio's face.
"Time of death...zero four zero four."
I scream, but no sound comes out. I run to Kurapika, taking his limp body into my arms. I kiss his blue lips. The lips that felt like a furnace less than an hour ago now feel like ice.
"I'm sorry about your friend," one of the paramedics says. She holds my arm.
I shake my head. "Boyfriend." I correct her.
Silence fills the room once they leave.
Kami, please let this be a nightmare.
Leorio wraps his arms around me. I turn around and fall into his chest. We hold each other, sobbing. I grip his suit jacket in an attempt to ease the pain I can only describe as being eaten alive.
I pull away, panting. "It's...my...fault."
Leorio shakes me. "Don't start blaming yourself! Do you hear me?"
I release Leorio and turn back to Kurapika.
Leorio slowly rises to his feet. "I'm going to give you privacy. I'll call Gon and Killua so they can come see their friend for the last time." He chokes his words out.
Once he closes the door, I wrap myself around Kurapika. I stare at his sleeping eyes, combing his hair away from his face.
"Hey, baby. It's time to wake up. We need to go to the hospital so they can make you feel better."
He doesn't respond so I gently shake him. "Kurapika? Did you hear me? We need to get ready."
Chains appear around his body. Tears fall down my cheeks once I realize what's happening.
Residual Nen. Dammit...where was his Nen when he needed it to heal himself?
I watch as the chains wrap themselves tightly around him. I'm sure whoever has one of his Nen daggers, they can feel it pierce their heart. The pain can't be worse than what I'm feeling right now. Hundreds of Nen daggers repeatedly stab my heart. However, it still manages to beat, only to remind me I'm still alive. How can I still be living when half of me is gone?
I lift his right hand, kissing the chains he'll conjure for the last time. The chains that will forever be wrapped around my heart.
Once the chains disappear, I hop off the futon to grab a brush from my bathroom. Our friends will be here soon, and I don't want them to see Kurapika looking like a disheveled mess.
I brush his hair and fluff the pillow behind his head. I straighten out the blankets over him. Good. Now he looks like he's sleeping.
He's so exquisite. How unfortunate. The most beautiful thing that has ever been created is now gone. And there's no way Kami can create something that even comes close to the beauty that was Kurapika. I guess Kami wanted to keep his artwork for himself.
I know Kurapika's soul is back with his clan, but I still like to pretend he's just sleeping.
The sun's rays peek through the window. It's the beginning of the first day without Kurapika.
The sound of footsteps running to my room fills my ears. The door creaks open, and Gon walks in, eyes focused on Kurapika. His lips are trembling. He walks until he reaches the foot of the futon. He stares for a few more seconds before falling to his knees, covering his face with his hands. The sound of his scream goes through my ears and straight to my heart.
Killua follows behind. He rests his hand on Gon's shoulder while staring at Kurapika. Tears well up in his eyes, and I can tell he's trying his hardest not to let them fall.
Leorio walks in, glancing at me before looking at his best friend. He walks until he's standing next to Gon and Killua.
Reality sets in. I can't pretend anymore. I stomp out of my room and destroy everything in my path. Fuck my neighbors who can probably hear me destroying my apartment. Fuck my security deposit that I most likely won't get back because of the damage I'm causing. Fuck everything.
I see Leorio out of the corner of my eye. I dare him to try to stop me. He's an Emitter, like me. However, I'm confident my Hatsu is stronger than his.
He's not stopping me though. He's just staring at me, and to be honest, it's pissing me off.
I grip my next victim...the television. I wait for Leorio to stop me before I throw it across the living room, but he doesn't. I clench my jaw. He's my next victim.
We both watch as the sixty-inch screen shatters. Once I know it will never come back to life, like Kurapika, I stomp toward Leorio. I pull my arm back, making a fist with my hand.
My knuckles graze the corner of his glasses before he finally speaks. Luckily, out of the five of us, I have the best control. Before I make contact with his face, I aim my punch downward.
My chest heaves. "What? You were going to let me punch you?"
He takes a step closer to me. "Right now, I'll let you punch anything."
I furrow my brow. "But...why? I killed your best friend."
He grips my shoulders and hunches over to reach my ear. "If you say that one more time, I'll be the one punching you."
I feel the adrenaline leave my veins. Leorio catches me before I fall.
Gon and Killua run out of my room, wiping away their tears.
"I miss him, Leorio. I don't know how I'm going to live without him."
The four of us hold each other in silence.
A banging on the door interrupts us.
Leorio lets the police officer inside.
"Sorry, we received a few phone calls about a disturbance coming from this apartment." He scans my now ruined apartment.
I step forward. "I apologize. That was me. My boyfriend just passed away and I decided to take it out on everything I own."
He gives me a puzzled look. "Your boyfriend?"
I raise an eyebrow. "Yeah. Is there a problem, sir?"
He slaps his knee and supports his abdomen while he laughs. I feel my temperature rising. As much as I want to punch his ugly face, I take a deep breath and compose myself.
I find my wallet and pull out my hunter's license. I flash it in his face.
"I'm a hunter, therefore, I rank higher than you. I'm going to have to ask you to leave," I say.
"You don't have to ask me twice," he says.
I walk him out the door. "Sir, I'd rather be gay and experience love than straight and live a miserable life. I bet your wife is cheating on you as we speak."
His smile fades as seriousness crosses his face. Thought so.
I lock the door as soon as he leaves.
I shake my head. "Sorry about the mess, everyone. I bet Kurapika is laughing at me from the Heavens right now."
"That's okay. We'll help you," Gon offers.
I start to walk back to Kurapika. Leorio extends his arm, stopping me.
"There's something I have to give you." He opens his suit jacket and pulls out an envelope from the inside pocket. "This is from Kurapika." He hands me an envelope.
Later that evening, once my apartment looks halfway decent, I place the envelope Leorio gave me on my kitchen counter.
I sit on my stool, taking a deep breath before opening it. The envelope has Leorio's name on it, so I'm a little confused as to why he gave it to me.
Leorio,
I know this mission is taking longer than my others, but rest assured, I'm doing just fine. Yes, I'm eating and sleeping whenever I can.
I have a little extra time so I decided to write you, Gon, and Killua a letter.
Everyone except (Y/N). To be honest, I doubt he'd even open it. Please let him know I'm thinking about him as well. Actually, I'm thinking about him the most. I like him, Leorio. You're a doctor. Is this feeling in my heart normal? My heart rate accelerates when I'm breathing the same air as him.
Anyway, I'll spare you the details. We can talk when I return.
Your friend always,
Kurapika
I stare at his beautiful handwriting. Leorio knew this entire time. That's why he insisted on me going on Kurapika's missions.
I pick up my phone and pull up Leorio's number. I want to thank him for the letter, but instead, I put my phone back down. I get up and walk out to the balcony. I look up to the sky.
"Kurapika, thank you for showing me love. Even though your heart left mine, I still feel it. I love you, and I promise, I'm going to complete your mission. I'm going to find the rest of your clan's eyes. I stake my life on it."