The Ultimate Vampire Resource and Directory

It was a cool full moon night as the lovers walked along the beach out in southern Japan. They held hands as the ocean roared beside them calmly. He would turn and gaze between her eyes and the water. She would smile back up at him as she would glimpse her eyes up between him and the moon. Their smiles and gazes felt like they were the only ones in the world without a care.

He stopped for a minute to turn and gaze into her sparkling hazel eyes. She looked puzzled for a moment into his stare. His beautiful eyes and wonderful smile almost made her melt. She blushes and turns her head to find her shyness. His hand slides upon her cheek to turn her back slowly as their eyes met again. He leans closer to her and began to close his eyes. Her cheeks go rosy as she leans up into what was going to be a kiss. Their lips so close, almost touching… Until…

“Wake up!!” An old women’s voice yelled. The girl from the dream was pulled out of her world into reality. “I don’t pay you to stand around and daydream girl. Now get back to work!” The elder women fussed. The young girl rolls her hazel eyes as she walks away slowly. “I don’t know what that girl is thinking at a time like this too.” The wrinkled women spoke to herself.

The beautiful young lady was walking in a small shack known as the “Hot Sake and Cold Tea.” It was a little restaurant her and her family owned together. The young girl was the waitress of the place and was always drifting off into her fantasy world. She didn’t like working there but at least it gave her money for new kimonos.

“Hey, Cherry! Can you give me a hand over here?” A man’s voice called out to the young girl. Cherry turned around as her short golden hair flew behind her. “I’m coming!” Cherry replied. She looks back at the people she was serving and smiles warmly. “One minute please.” She quickly runs off in her short black silk kimono. The man almost dropping a box but Cherry quickly saved it from crashing.

“Thanks.” The man smiled. Cherry giggles and helps carry the box into the back. “Geez Roshi, that thing is heavy what’s in it?” Cherry asked. The man looks up at Cherry with a goofy grin. “Its our new work supply. I got more pots and stuff for the sake.” Cherry nods as the wicked old lady walks into the room. “What are you doing back here girl!? There are customers out there!” Cherry just rolled her eyes as she started to walk back out into the main hall. The old hag was now scrolling Roshi in the back.

Walking in deep thought Cherry accidently ran into a young boy around her age. Cherry jumped in shock as she quickly looks back at a long black haired boy smiling so sweetly down at her. For some reason the smile of the boy made Cherry’s face turn rosy red. “I-I’m sorry Sir, did I hurt you?!” Cherry quickly said. The boy laughed slightly. “No. I am fine Ms. and your self?” Cherry gasped and quickly smiled. “Yeah, I am fine thank you!” The boy nods and looks around. “Nice place. I was wondering could I order a few sakes.” “Huh? Oh. Sure!” Cherry quickly said. “Please Sir. Follow me.” The boy waved as a few more boys walked in.

Cherry sat them down at a table near the view of the water. She starts pulling out a pen and paper out of her apron that was tied around her kimono. She looks up at the boys and smiled. “Okay, I am ready!” The boy looks at his friends and smiled. “Okay, since I lost the bet the order is on me.” The boys cheered loudly as they all start quickly telling her what they want.

Cherry walks into the back and hands Roshi the order. She sighs out of breath and sits on the ground. Roshi looked at her concerned. “You alright?” Cherry nods and took a deep breath. “Man, they made me write a lot.” Roshi looked down at the order and laughed. “It means someone is hungry. I’ll start working on it now; go back at there before grumpy comes back.” In the distance they heard the old lady yell. “I heard that Roshi!” Cherry and Roshi both started laughing.

After the order was done Cherry was having a little problem carrying it all. So close to the table a little boy runs by and almost knocked Cherry off her feet. “Ah!” Cherry screamed as the food starting to fall down. Before it hit the ground the food was saved and so was she. Cherry quickly looked up in surprise. There he was the young boy holding her and the food up smiling. “Are you okay there?” Cherry nods getting on her own balance she dusts herself off and began to apologize. He laughed that sweet laugh and smiles. “Don’t worry about it.” He walks over with her to the table as he serves his friends.

He was still standing by her side as he watched his friends chow down he starts to snicker to himself. “Thank you for helping me” Cherry blushed. He turns to her and smiles. “Its my pleasure. I wouldn’t want you to embarrass yourself.” She looks to the side and whispered to herself. “Yeah, then Grandma would kill me.” He looks confused. “Excuse me?” She smiles and quickly said. “Oh, nothing! Well, I better be going. You guys have a nice…meal…” She looks over to his friends a little disgusted. She turns around and walks away.

It was a few hours now and the sun was setting and they were about to close up. “Hey Roshi! Remember my 18th birthday is coming up you better get me something nice!” Cherry yelled to the back. Roshi looks out from the window of the kitchen and was amazed. “Your 18th birthday, man Cherry your getting old.” She was stunned by that. “Hey! Your older then me what are you talking about?” Roshi was only messing with her. “Women age quicker then men, if you haven’t noticed I am still sexy.” Cherry found that hilarious and so did the elder women as she spoke. “Ha, Cherry still has her good youth look; you look like your getting fat.” Roshi’s mouth about dropped. Cherry was giggling to herself. The elder women walked to Cherry and kissed her forehead and hugged her. “Well, I am off. You be good now understand?” Cherry nods hugging her back. “I will Grandma, you be careful.”

The women walks away with her silver hair pulled back as she walking to the main room. “Oh. Hello?” The women spoke. Cherry hears the chat of her grandmother and walks into the room. “Grandma yours still here?” Cherry’s eyes widen as she sees the boy who had saved her embarrassing fall. Cherry’s grandmother turned back to Cherry. “Is he one of your friends?” Cherry was too stunned to say anything. The boy smiles at her warmly. The grandmother looks both at her and the young man; she smiles. “Well I am off, you too be good.”

As she left Cherry was still struck as she kept her eyes on the boy. He smiles and laughs a little. “Uh… Ms. Cherry?” She shook her head and looked at him. “You know my name?” The boy bust out laughing. “Uh… You have it on your name tag…” She blushes at the stupid comment she just made. “Right…” “So your birthday is coming up?” Cherry nods. “How old will you turn?” He questioned. “I will be 18.” The boy nods and smiles. “That’s a beautiful age isn’t it?” Cherry shrugs as the sit on the counter together.

She turns to him with questioning eyes. “Might I ask what your name is?” He looks at her and smiles. “My name is Renji.” She smiles and laughs. “That’s funny.” Renji sighs but is still smiling. “Yeah, go ahead and laugh.” Cherry giggled. “I’m not gonna laugh at you.” He smiles. “I was wondering maybe for your birthday I can take you out to dinner?” She blushes and looks down. “You don’t even know me.” He smiles. “I would like to get to know you. Please don’t decline me.” Cherry laughs and nods. “Fine, I will accept.” He smiles and gets up. “Great, so when and what time?” Cherry jumps down and looks at him. “Around 7? And its on September 23.” He nods and kisses her hand and smiles. “I’ll be there.” She blushed even more as she watched him leave the shack.

Cherry screeched in joy and was blushing badly. “Some one has a boyfriend some one has a boyfriend.” Roshi joked watching her. She quickly turns to him. “Uh… How long have you been there?” He smiles. “Through the whole thing.” Cherry looks down blushing. “Now, go get some sleep love bird, we have a big day tomorrow.” Cherry nods as she runs upstairs to her room.

It was midnight now and Cherry couldn’t fall asleep. She sat up in her room thinking of the mystery guy. She wanted to know more about him. She guessed that was going to be soon. Lying now against the window shield she thought. What did she get herself into?

Next morning came along. It was Monday September 22. She was really nervous now that tomorrow would be the day she got to see Renji. Walking into the shack she sees her brother in shock. “Mom! Dad! You have arrived!” Cherry’s mouth dropped as she ran into the kitchen. “Hello Roshi, so happy to see you my boy.” The mother hugged her son. Cherry smiles big. “Mother! Father!” The father of Cherry turns to see her running. He hugged her dearly. “Hello sweetheart.” That day was a great start.

Working hard in the shop Cherry was trying to think of the moment to tell her parents about Renji. She knew her parents always were picky on boys she liked. Roshi could see his sister couldn’t make up her mind on something. “What are you planning on doing now?” Roshi called out. “I don’t know how to tell mom and dad about Renji.” Roshi smiles. “I have an idea.” He turns his back. “Mom, Dad, Cherry has a-“Cherry quickly covered his mouth before he could say a word. Cherry looks up at her parents and smiles. “I have a new kimono I like and I can’t wait to buy it.” Cherry laughed shyly.

Pulling her brother away from the parents she let his mouth go. “Are you crazy!? Your trying to get me killed aren’t you!?” Roshi laughed. “Why would I do a thing like that lil’ sis?” She looked at him coldly. “Because that’s the twisted evil brother you are.” She turns and starts to walk away. Roshi sat there on the floor and thought. “God. Women…” He stood up shaking his head and started to get back to work.

Closing up time came and Cherry was the one to close up shop now. Walking to the doors to shut it she looks out to see the moon. “It’s so beautiful.” She said. “So are you.” A voice from beside her whispered. She jumps quickly to look beside her. In shock she saw it was Renji in his normal cloths of all black. He smiles at her warmly and waves a soft hello.

Quickly closing the doors and pulling him away she asked. “What are you doing here?!” He looks a little shy. “I couldn’t stop thinking about you.” She blushed but tried to play it cool. “You don’t even know me!” He quickly held his hands within hers. “I know. But I want to. I want to know so much more about you. Please… walk with me?” She blushes and stared into his eyes. They seemed to sparkle and was forcing her to say yes. She smiles so sweetly to him. “Fine.” He smiles and waited for her to lock up. She grabs his hands as he leads her.

They walked together in the moonlight. He would make her laugh with stupid little jokes. But humor was always a good thing to her. She loved a good laugh. He looks at her smiling warmly. “So tell me more about you.” She looks up at him and blushed. She quickly looked down and said. “There’s nothing special about me.” He lifted her head and smiles and stared into her eyes. “Yes there is. Now please tell me more.” She sighs as she looks up at the moon. “Where do I begin...?

I was born in Kyoto, Japan. My mother and father both owned the tea and sake shop we work at now. My older brother is 6 years older then me. But my father isn’t the man who is taking care of me now.” He looked at her a little confused. “What do you mean?” She looks down “well…

My father was a solider for the Kunai army way back when… that’s how he kind of met my mom…. “Sir you must be calm I am trying to tend your wounds.” A soft lady’s voice spoke. “I need no tends, I am strong I am a warrior!” He groans quickly laying back down to the table. She giggles. “A solider that needs help. Please let me treat your wounds.” She bends down to him and began to wrap his wounds. Her long brown hair fell beside her as she worked.

“You smell beautiful, m’lady.” The solider said. She looks up with shimmering brown eyes. He couldn’t help but stare at her. “Women, might I ask your name?” She looks down at him and smiles. “It Mizaki.” “Mizaki…” He whispered to himself.

Back on the beach where Renji and Cherry still spoke; Renji was very interested. “More, please…what happened then!?” Cherry laughs and looked at him. “Wow, you really like my family history huh?” Renji nods and listened to her as she spoke.

“Well, after their meetings. My father just couldn’t get enough of seeing her. So after practice he would go to the nursing area of which my mother worked and see her.” The solider was slowly walking up to Mizaki smiling. She turns around and laughs. “Oh. Halku… Hello.” She giggles. “Hello.” He replied.

“The problem was that when my father wanted to see my mother is that it would get the general mad. For my mother was just a nurse. Was a specific solider and was not allowed to love.” Renji looked up. “I wonder what that meant.” Cherry looks down a little heart broken. “It means he wasn’t fully all there. He was psychopathic and wasn’t in the right state of mind.” Renji felt bad for asking the question but wanted to know more. “Please if it isn’t any problem please go on.” Cherry sighed as she continued the story.

“After a few months of romance with my mother the army couldn’t take it anymore they told him…” The general smacked Halku across the face as hard as possible. “You can’t love that woman!! If you dare even think of seeing her again I’ll rip your head clean off your shoulders” Halku just smiled insanely just like a psychopath would do. He began to laugh wickedly. “What is so wrong with my loving her?” He general got right into his face and growled. “Because you’re a psychopathic deranged lunatic. What makes you think you can raise a family with her?” Halku tried to punch the general with a force but the soldiers who stood guard grabbed him and pulled him back. “You love her and remember your head is coming off.” The guards pushed him to the ground and left out of his tent.

“So what did your dad do then?” Renji asked. Cherry still looking down trying to think of the story her mother told her. “He never stopped seeing her.”

“One night, one amazing night as my mother put it. My father and her made a beautiful connection. So you should know that’s how my brother was born… It was hard for them. When Roshi was born my mother had to go back to Kyoto so she could help raise him. My father was at least happy to know they had a child together.”

Renji still held her hand a little lost. “Huh. So what happened? I mean was he released? Did she go back what? I mean your alive aren’t you?” Cherry nods as she looks at the lightning bugs that were flying around. “She went back. They called her back. Because that’s when war happened.”

It was a bloody, bloody battle. My mother was called back to help nurse at least some of the soldiers back to health. My father had a bullet wound in the arm and was pulled back. He was amazed to see her.

“Mizaki?” Halku questioned. She smiles as she whispers “hello my love.” He seemed so happy to see her it was unbelievable. After the war he just couldn’t wait to spend time with her. Without the generals permission of course. My brother was 5 already and my parents did their fun time again. But this time was only worse…

“Worse? Why what happened?” Renji questioned. “They were noticed together...” Cherry whispered. Renji looked up and gripped her hand slightly. She looks up and he seemed a little uncomfortable about it. “Do you want me to stop telling the story?” Renji quickly looked down. “N-No! Please… Continue.”

Well, they were noticed by one of the soldiers who was walking by. First I guess the guy had no idea what to do. He must have been fighting with himself. Because my father wasn’t caught until after he made love to my mother. The general raced into the tent and looked at Halku so hatful. He looked at Mizaki with anger as well. The general grabbed Halku by the throat and threw him out the tent.

Mizaki quickly got dressed with her kimono top and begged for this none sense to stop. The general looked at Mizaki. “None sense?! None sense?!? This man disobeyed my rules and broke his word. He was not allowed to sleep with you ever!” Halku started to laugh getting up from the ground. “Well, your kind of late on that one ‘General’ I have a lovely son back at home and he is 5 now.” The general was furies. He gathered the soldiers to take him to the pole.

The guards did as they were told and wrapped Halku up to the pole but left him seeing his own death. Mizaki begged and pleaded for it not to happen. The general told his idiots of followers to hold her back so she wouldn’t get into the way. The general picked up his sword and walked over to Halku and then…

Cherry paused in mid sentence. “And then!?” Renji begged. “And then!?” She looks down with clear salt tears running down her cheeks from her hazel eyes to the ground. “Cherry, what happens!?” Cherry yelled out. “And then my father was slaughtered!!” Cherry fell to her knees crying her heart out. Renji had let go of her hand in silence. The sobs of Cherry broke his heart. He bent down and started to comfort her in her time of need.

After a few minutes of crying Cherry had calmed down. Renji was holding her close to him rocking her back and forth. Cherry laid comfortably in his chest almost falling asleep. “Do you want me to take you home?” Renji asked her. Cherry nods slightly as Renji picked her up like a princess.

When arriving at her home he sat her on her feet. “Thanks Renji, I guess I really needed to talk to someone about it.” Renji nods and smiles. “Anytime. We still on for tomorrow?” Cherry nods and hugged him. Renji softly kisses her cheek. “See you tomorrow then.” Cherry waves goodbye as she opens the door to the shop. Closing slightly a light comes on.

“Where have you been?” The voice struck Cherry as she looks behind her to see her mother. Cherry sighs softly as she walks weakly over to her. “Well?! Are you going to answer me or not?!” Cherry still felt the sadness deeply inside her. Mizaki looked at her confused. “Cherry?” Cherry felt so weak she had fallen into her mother arms. Mizaki screamed in shock. “Cherry!!” Cherry passed out from to much depression she has been hiding.

The next morning when Cherry opened her eyes there her mother stood. “M-Mom?” Cherry choked out as she began to sit up. “Oh! Cherry! Baby you scared me!!” Cherry rubbing her eyes looking to see the whole family in her room she asked. “What happened?” Her step father walked to her and felt her head. “You passed out last night sweetheart, anything you want to tell us?” Cherry remembered she was with Renji all last night. She blushes at the way he held her. “Cherry?” Her step father questioned. “I was just very tired that’s all.”

Cherry stretched as she heard her brother yell. “Happy Birthday!!” Cherry screamed not ready as she hit the floor. Roshi bust out laughing. “Ow…”Cherry muttered. Looking down at her tongue she gasped. “I’m bleeding!!” She freaked. Roshi set down her breakfast as he laughed. “Why you!!” Cherry growled. Before she was about to pounce on her brother. Mizaki heard knocking on the door. “I wonder who that is.”

Cherry was now on top of her brother wrestling him. She was growling until she heard her mother say. “Cherry, there is a guest for you down stairs.” Cherry punched her brother’s face in once before asking. “Guest?” Renji walks up into the room and smiles. “Hey Cher.” Cherry blushed badly as she quickly got off her brother. “R-Renji! W-What are you doing here?!” Renji laughs and smiles. “I came to see if you were okay. I mean after last night…” Mizaki looked quickly at Cherry and Cherry could already feel her mother’s anger.

Mizaki smiles at Renji and said softly. “I am sorry son. But my daughter isn’t allowed to be with boys at night. I am afraid I am going to have to ask you to leave.” Renji looked a little sad. “Oh. Okay. See you around Cher.” Cherry waves. Renji turned away as Mizaki looked at Roshi. “Get out. Your sister and I are going to have a long talk.” Roshi got up and laughs while Cherry hit him with her pillow. “Ow!” Was all that was left while Mizaki shut the door.

“Cherry what were you doing out with that boy!?” Mizaki asked first. “He asked me to go walking so I did.” Cherry explained. “But why? Do you know him fully?” Cherry looks down. “No.” Mizaki growls. Cherry looked at her mother. “I don’t get it. I am 18, mom. What’s the big deal?” Mizaki looked at her. “The big deal is that you shouldn’t be out that late without our permission! You know that I forbid you to go out that late! And that boy doesn’t even look all nice.” Cherry was trying to interrupt. “But mom!” Mizaki had had enough. “No Buts! I cant stand this. Cherry. I forbid you to see that boy!”

Cherry quickly stood up with anger. “You cant do that!” Mizaki nods. “Oh, yes I can. I am your mother and you will obey me. You shall not to see that boy when you live under my roof.” Cherry looks at her with hatred. “What if I just leave then!?” Mizaki smiles. “Where would you go?” Cherry looked down. Mizaki nods. “I thought so. Now think about what you have caused. Oh, and happy birthday sweetheart.”

It was now night. Cherry hadn’t spoken a word to anyone. She was locked in her room deep in thought. Around 7 at night Renji was walking up to the door. Mizaki opens it and smiles. “Oh, hello Reno” Renji smiles a half smile. “Its Renji, Ma’am.” Mizaki ignored his comment. “Cherry isn’t allowed out tonight. In fact she isn’t allowed to be out any night with you.” Renji looked confused. Mizaki frowned and walked to him. “Stay away from my daughter. I know what your trying to do and its not gonna work. Stay away!” Mizaki slammed her door as Renji looked confused.

Cherry was in her room looking out the window. She saw the whole thing she starting to cry. She put her head in her arms weeping of the lost of someone who had stolen her heart. She looks up and Renji was gone. Cherry held herself as she cried herself to sleep.

Wednesday September 24th the day after Cherry’s birthday was a busy day. Cherry was in the shack in the main hall of the tea/sake house. She didn’t smile as much. She heard a calling sound. She looks up and out the door was Renji. He was waving for her to come over. Cherry looks around to look for her mother. Mizaki was nowhere in sight. Cherry sat down the pitcher and ran outside before her mother could see.

“Renji!” Cherry smiled and hugged him tight. Renji wraps his arms around her as well and looked into her eyes. “What happened last night? Why did your mom flip?” Cherry sighs. “She thinks your trying to make me into a bad girl, miss work and become a screw up.” Renji was thrown off by that. “Really so can I see you tonight?” Cherry shook her head. “No I am forbidden to see you.” Renji was shocked. “Forbidden!?” Cherry nods. Renji let her go and started to walk around confused. He had and idea and smiles. “What time does your family sleep?” Cherry thought about it and said around 10. He smiles. “At midnight, when the moon is really high in the sky meet me at the beach” Cherry pulls him back. “Tonight?” Renji nods smiling. She smiles warmly. “I’ll be there.”

Cherry watched Renji run off as she was being called back to work in the shack. She smiles and turns back. “I am coming.” She turns over her shoulder smiling again. She looks back inside and runs to go help again.

At midnight Cherry was all dressed up in a very short white silk kimono with a red print of a spirit dragon wrapped around her. Her hair pulled up in a nice bun as she sneaks out the tea house doors. She starts to run to the beach as she sees the water sparkle in her eyes. Smelling the beautiful air a pair of arms wrapped around her. She jumps a little looking over her shoulder to see Renji.

“Hello.” She said smiling. He looks down at her and grins back. “Hello.” He replied. She turns in his arms to face him. He blushes slightly but smiles. “Walk with me?” Cherry giggles as they began to walk down along the beach together.

It was a cool full moon night as the lovers walked along the beach out in southern Japan. They held hands as the ocean roared beside them calmly. Renji would turn and gaze between Cherry’s eyes and the water. She would smile back up at him as she would glimpse her eyes up between him and the moon. Their smiles and gazes felt like they were the only ones in the world without a care.

“Renji?” She questions. “Yes?” He answered. “Do you feel like we have known each other for a very long time?” She asked as now just facing the moon. He smiles at her staring at the moon. “Yes. I do.” Cherry turns to him and blushes. “Do you have feelings towards me?”

He stopped for a minute to turn and gaze into her sparkling hazel eyes. She looked puzzled for a moment into his stare. His beautiful eyes and wonderful smile almost made her melt. She blushes and turns her head to find her shyness. “Maybe this will answer your question.” His hand slides upon her cheek to turn her back slowly as their eyes met again. He leans closer to her and began to close his eyes. She blushed badly as her dream was coming alive. She smiles as she blushes more as she lays against him as she pulls herself off her heels on to her toes to meet his lips with hers. His wraps fell from her shoulders to her waist. He pulls her closer and closer to where their heart beats matched. Her arms were around his neck as they deepen the kiss. It felt like a magical dream that surprisingly came true.

The moon was starting to fade and Renji knew he had to take her home. She lays in his arms. “I don’t want to go.” Renji smiles cuddling her in his arms. “I know. But I don’t want you to be in any more trouble.” Cherry sighs as she stands up. Renji gets up right behind her. He smiles and grabs her hand as they start to walk her home.

Reaching her home she looks around to see if anyone was awake. Walking back to Renji she shuts the door quietly. “Nope their all still asleep.” Renji smiles. “That’s good to know.” Cherry looks at him with romantic eyes. He looked at her back and smiles. “I love you.” He said. She smiles and blushes. “I love you too.” He kissed her softly as she kissed him back. “Meet me same spot tomorrow?” Cherry nods. “Goodnight my angel.” Renji said letting her go. “Goodnight my prince.” Renji quickly ran off and Cherry walks to her room.

It has been 3 months now and Renji and Cherry have been secretly dating. It was cold now for it was December 20th. 5 days before it hits to be Christmas. Cherry thinks everything was going good before…

“We’re moving!?” Cherry yelled. “Yep” Sukae smiled. “We cant move!” Cherry panicked. Mizaki looked confused. “Sweetie, we have a better deal for a better house a little ways from Tokyo.” Cherry protested. “I am not leaving!” Mizaki was getting tired of hearing her complain. “We’re moving Cherry and that’s final!” Cherry quickly ran out the house to find Renji.

Renji was out working in the fields with his father. Cherry ran to him crying her eyes out. Renji held her quickly looking confused. “C-Cher. Baby? Cherry? What’s wrong?” Cherry looked up with pain and cried. “I am leaving. My parents are making me move!” Renji was lost for words. “T-They cant!” Cherry still crying. “They can and they are! I cant get out of it!” Renji held her tight. “When are you leaving?” Cherry whipping her eyes off. “Tomorrow night.” Renji smiles. “Come see me tonight and I promise to make it special.” Cherry nods as she ran off before her parents went looking for her.

Cherry sat in her room packing most of her things. Roshi walks into the room quietly. “Peek-a-boo!” Roshi yelled. Cherry looks over at him sadly. Roshi’s smile turned into a frown. “What’s wrong?” Cherry looks at him mad. “What’s wrong!? What do you mean ‘what’s wrong’!? We’re moving!!” Roshi sighs. “I don’t see that big deal.” Cherry looks at him and almost screamed. “Dad lived here!!! Dad was born here!! Why would I want to leave the closest thing I have to dad!?” Roshi looks at her. “I don’t think that’s all your upset about.” Cherry looked at him. “I hear you at night Cherry. Now tell me the truth have you been seeing that boy?” Cherry looks away. “I knew it. I know you love him Cherry. I mean I’ve never seen you so happy in your life. But face it… its gonna have to end.” Cherry walks over to her brother and starts to cry. Roshi held her and comfort her. “We are leaving tomorrow. And I am sure you can find someone better there.” Cherry thought there was no one better.

It was a few months later when Cherry was finally getting settled into her new home. She bounces her body on her bed looking up to the ceiling. She thought to herself when she laid there. ‘Please don’t forget me.’ She rolls over looking out her window.

One morning on October 1st; Roshi came into the shrine as happy as ever. Mizaki was cooking over the stove as she looks at Roshi. “What are you so happy about Rosh?” Roshi smiles and shows a beautiful short black haired girl with golden eyes smiling holding onto Roshi’s hand. Mizaki smiles and put down the spoon. “Roshi, who is your little friend?” Roshi smiles looking over at the girl. “Mother, this is Kiku, Kiku, this is my mother.” Kiku shook his mothers hand in a greeting.

From the corner of the room Cherry watched a little depressed. They had smiles on their faces as they got to know each other. Cherry turns away not wanting to see the disgusting sight. She quickly runs up to her room and shut the door.

The night felt dreadful; Kiku was going to be eating dinner with them. Cherry felt a bit of a jealously. ‘Why do they like Kiku? I don’t get it? I am only 6 years younger then Roshi.’ Cherry thought. She felt anger coming to her and she couldn’t control it. Roshi leans over to kiss Kiku’s cheek and Cherry blew up. “That’s it! I had it!” Cherry yelled. Everyone got quiet. Cherry starting running to her room. “I am going to my room!” Mizaki looked confused and asked. “What about your food?” Cherry yelled back. “I’m not hungry!!” She slammed the door to her room.

Cherry lay on her bed about ready to cry. She held her bear that Renji had got for her. She replayed memories in her head feeling so sick inside. She closed her eyes and held the bear close to her heart. She whispered as she cried. “I miss you so much.” She was starting to fall asleep as the memories still replayed.

“Renji! Renji!” Giggles Cherry. Renji held Cherry on his back walking around the town festival. “Having fun Cher?” Renji looked back at her. She nods and smiles. She looks over to see a black and white bear hanging at a festival game. “Renji! I want it please!” Renji nods as he sat her down and walked to the game.

“What shall it be sir?” The carnie vender asked. “One game please.” Renji smiled. The vender gave Renji a bow and arrow to hit into the target. Cherry was watching carefully. Renji smiles as he pulled the arrow back and hit the mark. “Winner!” Yelled the vender. Renji smiles and pulls down the bear and walks over to Cherry. Cherry was smiling and blushing being silent. Renji bows slightly. “Madam?” Renji handed her the bear. She holds it close to her smiling. “Thanks you Ren.” Renji bends down and kisses her forehead.

What was just a memory seemed so much more to Cherry. She slept so sweetly now smiling as she thought of Renji. She knew she would always be happy in her dreams. Since she knew that is where Renji would be.

“Cherry. Cherry! Cherry!! Wake up!” Cherry was opening her eyes now to the morning sun. She groans as she looks at her older brother Roshi. “What!?” She growled. “Its time for work. Come on you can’t stay in bed all day.” Cherry growls more as she lies back down in her bed.

After getting down stairs Cherry puts on her apron on to go serve people. Cherry was tying the apron around her white kimono as her brother comes up to her. “I think I want to be with Kiku forever.” Cherry rolls her eyes. Roshi was confused. “What?” Roshi questioned. Cherry shook her head as she walks out into the main room which was bigger then her old shack back in Kyoto.

Cherry was working hard until a boy walks into the room smiling. Cherry didn’t pay much attention as she walks over. “Hello Sir. I am Cherry I will be your waitress today do you wish to have a seat?” Cherry asked. He nods as she follows her to a table. He sits down and looks at her and smiles. “Ms. you are very beautiful.” Cherry shrugs and pulls out a pen and paper. “May I take your order?” The boy looks down at the menu and smiles. “I would love shrimp fried rice, with a few rice balls and hot green tea.” Cherry nods as she walks away.

Roshi looks at Cherry smiling for the longest time. She looked confused. “What?” she asked. “That guy was flirting with you.” Roshi smiles again. Cherry shrugged. “Aren’t you interested!?” Cherry shook her head no at her older brother’s question. “Oh! Come on Cherry you need to get over Renji! Okay? Just face it. Your never gonna be with him again.” That set a fire in Cherry’s eyes but she knew it was the truth. She sighs as she starts to take the food to the customers.

‘Maybe Roshi is right.’ She thought. ‘Maybe I will never be with Renji again…’ She sighs as she thought it would be better if she started to be her normal self again. She puts on a beautiful smile and starts to flirt back with the boy she had just met.

When the day was done Cherry was walking to the back. Roshi smiles at her. “Now you’re starting to act like my little sister again.” Cherry smiles and looks back at the boy she had gotten closer too. Roshi laughs. “Okay love bird lets get some sleep shall we?” Cherry nods as she walks up to her room with her older brother.

It was been about 5 months now and Cherry and the boy from the first day was dating. Cherry couldn’t have felt happier. She felt like her old self again but yet deep down inside she still knew she would always be in love with Renji. But her brother’s words were true. She had to get over him or she would never be truly happy.

It was now March 3rd and Cherry is soon to turn 21 now. She was working late at night with her parents for Roshi was out with Kiku. When they were closing up Roshi and Kiku were smiling big looking at them. Cherry was first to ask. “What’s going on?” Roshi and Kiku looked at each other laughing slightly. “We are getting married!!!” Cherry was overwhelmed with joy. Mizaki and Sukae came in clapping. “Congratulations!!” Mizaki walks over to Kiku and hugged her as Sukae walks to pat over Roshi’s back. In a slight way Cherry only felt a bit happy. The sadness was some how over whelming her.

“So tell me how did it happen?” Mizaki asked Kiku. It was late and it was a girl’s night to be alone. Kiku was smiling. “Well, we were walking along the beach holding hands…” Cherry was in the corner leaning against the wall. When she heard the words of beach it brought herself to shock. Cherry started to think of Renji. How he and she would always be at the beach and that’s also what she dreamt of.

“He just got on his knee and proposed! It was so romantic!” Kiku stopped to look at Cherry who was leaving the room. “Cher? Where are you going?” asked the mother. She turns back slightly with the door in her hand. “I am just going to go get some air.” Mizaki nods as Kiku started again. “Anyways, I can’t believe we’re getting married!”

Cherry shut the door quietly as the muttering of the bride and mother were killing her. She sighs softly as she stairs to walk down the stairs to the entrance. Reaching the door to outside she opens the door slightly. She gasps to see her brother out on the porch. He quickly looks up to see his little sister as he smiles. “Hey!” He greeted so proud. She waves slightly walking out into what seems to be a full lit up moon night. “How do you feel about me getting married?” Cherry shrugs. He looks at her a little displeased. “What’s wrong?” Cherry shook her head looking up to the stars.

They sat in silence until Cherry started to hum an old lullaby their father sang to them along time ago. Roshi began to sing along with the tune. Roshi put his arm around his little sister knowing how she was feeling was a lot of pain. He smiles. “Cher Cher.” Roshi said smiling. She turns to him as he was still looking up at the moon. “You know the wedding is in Kyoto right?” She looks confused but slightly delighted. “Really?” Roshi nods and smiles. “We’re all leaving next week to start working on the wedding and its just gonna be me, you, and Kiku.”

Cherry felt overjoyed knowing she was going to Kyoto again without her parents there. “How long will we be there!?” Cherry had to ask. Roshi started to think. “Well the wedding takes a few month so… About maybe 3-4 months?” Cherry smiles and was extremely happy. “And, mom and dad already know your going to there is no need to explain.” Cherry hugged Roshi tight and thanked him for everything.

It was Sunday morning the day before heading out to Kyoto. Cherry was so happy she also got the day off. She was in her room singing to herself. She was jumping and dancing while packing all her stuff in a little basket her mother made for her a long time ago.

While she was in her zone the door opens. Cherry quickly looks up to see her mother with sorrow in her eyes. Cherry was so confused and kept looking at her mother. “Mom?” Cherry asked. Mizaki walks over and hugs her tight. “I am going to miss you.” Cherry has a slight laugh to her and wraps her arms around her mother. “Well, I am only going to be gone for a couple months.” Mizaki whips off her tears and smiles. “Right…” Cherry just smiles at her mother words.

Whipping off the remainder of the tears and sniffled a little and smiles. “Well, sleep well my baby girl.” Mizaki smiles. Cherry hugs her mother tight and smiles back. “I love you so much Cherry.” Mizaki said. Cherry nods and just lies in her arms. “If I ever did anything to harm or hurt you, you know its only because I am protecting you right?” Cherry nods as she lets go of her mother. Mizaki smiles and watches her lay in bed. “Goodnight Cherry Girl.” Cherry smiles as she starts to fall asleep.

It was now Monday morning and Cherry was sleeping over. A boy walks in and smiles at the sleeping beauty. Cherry felt a presence of someone watching her. She slowly opened her eyes to see her current boyfriend. She jumps a little freaked as he laughed. “Hey, I heard you were leaving and you weren’t even going to say goodbye?” Cherry smiles and laughs. “I am sorry.” She stood up and wrapped her arms around his neck. “How long are you going to be there?” Cherry was thinking about it and laughed. “I will be there for about 4-5 months” She didn’t want to tell him the truth for she didn’t want to come back.

They started to talk and before you knew it Roshi came in. He smiles up at the boy and looks at Cherry. “Hey ready to go?” Cherry nods and looks at the boy. “Well, I am off.” Her boyfriend nods and hugs her again and whispered ‘I love you’ in her ear. She didn’t reply to it as she walks off with her stuff to the carriage her brother had waiting. They said their goodbyes to everyone as the left the town.

On the road to Kyoto, Cherry was in the back thinking so much of Renji. ‘Am I going to see him again? Will he remember me? Does he still love me as I do him?” The questions seem to haunt her as they got closer and closer to Kyoto. She was starting to get chills and nerves.

Arriving at Kyoto around 6 in the afternoon they checked into the old tea house they once lived in. Walking up to her old room she opened the door and looked around. Everything seemed to be the same as she smiles as she lies down on her old bed. Her brother walks in and starts to laugh at her. “Wow, your lazy” She looks up at him and smiles “I am home!” Her brother nods and walked to her. “Come on, we have to get going… We have to meet the wedding people at the park.” Cherry nods and smiles as she gets up and rushes back out.

It was a nice day in the park sun was shining; the day couldn’t get any better. But…

While Cherry and her brother were setting up the decorations; Cherry heard a familiar voice call out to her. “Cherry?” Cherry turned around slightly to see the beautiful boy she had once saw almost 3 years ago. “Cherry is it really you?” She paused at his voice almost as if not able to speak. “Cherry??” She shook her head quickly. “Y-Yea, it’s me. S-Sorry, it’s just been so long.” Renji had put on his sweet smile that used to make Cherry melt as he asked. “Walk with me?” Cherry nods as she runs to him.

They walked side by side talking about what’s new and what was old. They talked about how life was going and why Cherry was back in town. “My brother is getting married.” Renji seemed so shocked “Who… Roshi??” Cherry laughed slightly. “Yes, Roshi. He is getting married to a girl named Kiku here at the park.” Renji nods as he looks down as if he was thinking of something. Cherry could hold in her feelings any longer. “I’ve missed you so much Renji, not a day went by that I haven’t thought of you.”

Renji was speechless as he looks up at her. He sighs slightly and put his hands in his pockets. “I’ve missed you too Cher. But… I’ve moved on…” Cherry felt the smash of her heart break as she looked away. “Oh, Oh. I see.” Renji smiles and looks up at the sky. “She is so beautiful Cherry, you would love her. Just as much as I do.” Cherry hid the tears the felt like they were going to blast out of her heart. Renji looks over to see a long haired golden eyed girl as he smiled. “Well, that’s her. I have to go now. I’ll see you at the wedding.” Cherry nods as he began to run off.

Cherry felt like she couldn’t breathe any longer as she watched the new couple kiss each other. She quickly turned away as the tears made their way through her hazel eyes. She thought that is would be a smart idea to walk off the tears before she went back to Roshi. God only knows what he would say to her.

It was now dark out, as Cherry started to walk back to the park. Everything seemed to shine so bright even at the night. It was just so breathe taking. Cherry walked over to Roshi and Kiku. Roshi looked at his little sister. “What’s wrong Cher? Where have you been?” Cherry looked up and put on a fake smile. “Nothing is wrong. I was just wondering around the park.”

Roshi and Kiku shrug as they put most of the stuff up already. “Well come on, we need to start heading back.” Cherry nods as she got in the carriage as they began to ride back to the old shrine.

Cherry got out of the carriage and began to walk upstairs to her room as Kiku called out to her. “Aren’t you hungry? You haven’t eaten anything all day.” Cherry shouted back that she was tired and was ready to go to sleep. Cherry walks over to the old bed and sat on it as she started to doze off into a lightly sleep.

“Cherry? Cherry you awake?” Cherry was hearing voices it felt. “Cherry, Please you need to wake up. Cherry!” Cherry sat up quick in her bed as she looked out the window to see Renji standing there looking in. She quickly ran to the window and opened it. “What are you doing here?!” Renji smiles and asked her. “Come to the beach with me.” Cherry blushed as she couldn’t deny his perfect smile.

She went with him all the way down to the beach of Kyoto. Where the sand was pure white; the ocean roared loud and calm; and the moon seemed to shine so perfectly on the water. “Why did you bring me here?” Cherry asked. He was starring at the sky smiling. “You told me your past and everything, and I never told you mine.” Cherry crossed her arms. “And?” Renji looked at her. “Are you telling me you’re not interested?”

Cherry blushed feeling foolish of herself knowing she cares about almost everything about Renji she looked down and asked. “Where do you wanna begin?” Renji smiled as he held her hand as he started a story she would never forget.

“I was born on the northern side of Tokyo. My father abandoned my mother and me before I was even born. My mother is a very, very independent woman. I swore to kill any man who tried to get close to her. But, I wouldn’t stop my mother from falling in love.”

Cherry looked at him a little confused. As she continued to listen to his tell. “When I was about seven I still had no idea who was my father was, and sadly I could have cared less. This guy started to date my mother after a while. I didn’t like him to much. I didn’t like anyone who came around my mother. Because I knew she needed no man to be happy.

The only strange thing about this guy was he was a lot nicer than all the rest. Normally men saw me and didn’t want my mother because she had already had a son. That threw most people off. But him… He took me with them one night, and he treated me as his own… So I called him father right after he proposed to my mother.”

Cherry was stunned to hear all that. “Why are you telling me all this now?” Renji shrugged slightly as she looked at her. “Because you told me, you haven’t stopped thinking about me. When I know I lied to you when I told you I moved on.” Cherry blushed a lot and looked down understanding what he was telling her.

Renji sighs slightly as he looked back up at the stars. “I was just so surprised to see you I wasn’t expecting you to come back. And… you looked so happy…” “You thought I moved on.” Cherry said finishing his sentence. Renji blushes a little embarrassed. “How did you know?” Cherry shrugged and looked at him. “A random guess?” Renji snickered a little as he looked up at the moon. “I still remember everything that happened here, on this beach.”

It was a hot and breezy night. The night before Cherry had to leave. They laid there on the beach, holding; kissing; and loving each other. The sighs of Cherry seemed to turn Renji on more and more. Pulling her closer kissing her deeper his hands traveled her body. She looked up at him and broke the kiss. “I’ll love you forever.” Renji smiled and kissed her again. “As I will do the same.”

The kissing and touching lead to the most magical night of Cherry’s life. The night she lost her “cherry.” It was a night they both would never forget. Since they were both each others first love.

Coming back from that memorable day Cherry just began to laugh. “That was the most wonderful day of my life.” Renji turns to her with lust filled eyes. “Do you still love me?” Cherry’s face went blood shot. “Well? Do you love me?” Cherry looks down as Renji picked up her chin once again. Renji looked deep within her eyes and whispered. “I will forever love you. Just as I promised that night. I shall never stop loving you.” Cherry blushes a lot more as Renji pressed his lips deeply onto hers.

The kiss felt like it lasted forever but Cherry didn’t care. She got to feel the warmth of his kiss once again that’s all that seems to matter to her. She broke this kiss and starred at into his eyes. “I will forever love you as well. I never stopped thinking of you” Renji smiled as he kissed her again as they seemed to get lost under the full moonlight night.

It was the day of the wedding and everyone seemed to be happy. Renji was happy with Cherry once again and Cherry wouldn’t be more satisfied. Everything was seeming to go in order for Cherry except.

“Hey Baby!!” Cherry’s boyfriend showed up the day of the wedding. She was so upset she didn’t want to be there with him. Her boyfriend walked over and hugged her. She slightly pulled away and looked unhappy. He looked at her confused. “What’s wrong babe? Not happy to see me?” Cherry shook her head as Renji started to walk over.

Cherry covered her head starting to panic; she didn’t tell Renji about her boyfriend Mitsu. She felt as if she was going to lose him again. Renji came over and kissed Cherry on the cheek and held her close. “Hey Cher. Who is this?” Cherry looked at the anger that came on to Mitsu’s face. “I’m Mitsu, Cherry’s boyfriend, Who are you!?” Renji let go of Cherry. “Boyfriend huh?” He looked at Cherry. Cherry was ready to cry again as she stuttered. “Renji, I can explain.” Renji crossed his arms. “Save it. I’ve heard enough.” Renji walked away. Cherry felt her heart break even more as Mitsu held her close and everything seemed to fade out of Cherry’s vision.

The voice of Renji was the only thing left in her head. Nothing else seemed to affect her harder then that. She seemed to fall into a very light sleep as she falls down in Mitsu’s arms.

“I love you.” The laughs of their past seem to haunt her even in her sleep. She felt the tears start to fall as she wakes up dramatically as she looked around. The crowd of the wedding seemed to be crowded around her as she searched from Renji.

Her older brother seems to walk up and look at her concerned. “Cherry, Are you okay?” She was still searching for him when she finally looked at her brother. “Where is Renji?” Roshi looked at her a little sad. “He left Cher.” Cherry quickly stood up and started too looked for him. “Give it Cher. He isn’t coming back.”

Cherry felt the pain in her chest as she starts to run off. Everyone didn’t seem to bother since they knew how much pain she had already felt.

Cherry ran all the way down to the creek close to the park as she fell to her knees. She couldn’t believe she lost Renji again. She kept thinking of how to get him back. But she realized. He wasn’t coming back.

It was finally getting dark as the harvest moon began to shine. Cherry knew it was time to go back but she didn’t want to leave. Her stomach seem to hurt every time she though of him. She stood up and dusted herself as she began to walk back.

She was almost back to the park before she was stopped by the hazel eyed boy she hurt a few hours ago. She turned away and began to walk past him. “Cherry!” He called after her. She paused but didn’t have the courage to face him. “What…?” She choked out almost in tears. “I’m sorry…” He looked down.

Cherry was shocked in her own thoughts as she looked back at him. “What?” He was looking down and walked a little to her. “I can’t be mad at you. I mean I had a girlfriend and… Well, I came back to you. I… I should have thought it before I got mad at you.” Cherry had the tears starting to fall. Renji looked up at her. “Please Cherry don’t cry.”

Cherry covered her face as she looked down still crying. Renji quickly pulled her into him as he held her. “I’m sorry Cherry, I’m sorry. Just please stop crying.” Cherry looked up at him with the crystal tears sliding down her cheek. “So, you’re not mad at me? You’re not going to leave me?” Renji smiles and kept her close to his heart. “No. I’m not mad anymore. And I told you before. I’ll never leave you.”

Cherry stayed in his arms crying but she slowly started to fall asleep. Renji sat there holding her as the stars began to show more now. He laid his head on hers as Cherry just laid there asleep with her tried tears still showing.

Renji stood up and held her like a princess and started to walk through the park. He walked all the way to her old shrine where Roshi and Kiku where waiting. They opened the door to see Renji holding Cherry. They both sighed in relief as Renji walks in with her still in his arms.

It was late and Renji was sitting beside Cherry who was asleep on her bed. Renji told Roshi and Kiku he was not going to leave that night. They had no problem with it. By the time Renji was tired he had walked over to her bed and laid behind her. She woke up a little to look at him. He looked at her and asked if she minded. She shook her head no as he wrapped his arms around her.

By the morning Renji was still there holding Cherry close. Cherry was still asleep from all the emotional stress she had the other day. Renji just laid there looking at her smiling. She was so beautiful as she slept. He didn’t want to bother her until the door slam open.

Renji and Cherry both sat up quickly to see Mitsu looking at them. Cherry was dizzy from the sudden movement but she could still see Mitsu’s anger. “Mitsu!” She said shocked. Mitsu walked over and grabbed Renji by his shirt and threw him into the wall. Cherry screamed. Renji looked at Mitsu as he hit Renji deep into the stomach. Renji bent over from the pain as Cherry yelled to stop it.

Roshi and Kiku came running into the room as they saw Renji against the wall and Mitsu standing over him as Cherry was on her bed. “Mitsu! What are you doing here!?” Roshi growled. Mitsu looked at Roshi and smiled evilly. “I heard about Cherry and this… Punk… last night and I decided to end the problem.” Mitsu looked back at Renji and kicked him in his stomach again.

Cherry was getting more and more angered as she stood up and hit Mitsu away from Renji. Mitsu turned and pushed her to the ground. Roshi yelled as Kiku held him back. “Don’t touch my sister!!” Renji stood up silently as Mitsu looked at Roshi. “Or what?” Renji growled and said. “Or this!” He grabbed his shoulder and twirled him around and hit him straight in the jaw.

Mitsu went falling right beside Cherry as she quickly stood up and hid behind Renji. “Don’t you ever touch her like that! Or I’ll rip your heart out!” Mitsu stood back up and growled at Renji and ran towards him. Renji dodged as Mitsu fell to the ground. Renji picked him up by his shirt and punched him in his face again and started to drag him to the Shrine.

Roshi opened the shrine door as Renji throw Mitsu out onto the dirt ground. Mitsu looked up at the family in anger. Renji growls in anger and pointed at him. “I am warning you once; and only once, stay away from Cherry for I will kill you got that!?” Mitsu smiled. “I don’t think you have the balls to do it.” Renji stuck a long bladed sword right between Mitsu legs and seemed full of hatred. “Try me!”

Mitsu was shaken up as he quickly started to get up and run as quick away from the shrine. Renji turned to Cherry with concern. “Are you okay?” Cherry nodded and smiled as she hugged him. “I am always okay when I am with you.” Roshi and Kiku smiled at them as they embraced each other as well.

It was now almost the end of summer and Cherry was about to turn 22. As Renji just turned 23. Roshi and Kiku were having a little one on the way as they all lived together in Kyoto. They opened their open Tea & Sake shake everything was going so well.

Cherry was out serving people with the pregnant Kiku. As Roshi and Renji were the chiefs in the back. Cherry had grown her hair long. Past her shoulder blades and her hazel eyes never shined brighter. Renji kept his hair kind long but short and neat as his eyes seem to sparkle with happiness. They worked together and it fills like everyday was filled with new surprises.

“Where are my beautiful daughter and son??” Cherry looked up to see her mother and step father walking into the shrine. Cherry’s face shined up with glee as she yelled. “Roshi!! Roshi!! Mother and Father are here!!!” Roshi comes out from the back as he sees them. He smiles big as hugged them. Mizaki was looking around as she laughed. “Where is Kiku?” Kiku was slowly walking back into the main room as she sees them. “Hey guys…” Mizaki smiles as she runs over and starts to chat with Kiku.

Cherry smiles as her step father hugged her. She quickly looked up at him and smiled. He smiles and pulls her outside. “What’s up dad?” He sighed and looked at her with a smile. She was confused. “Mitsu told me about the wedding.” Cherry’s face went fully red. Her father sighs. “So, who is he?” Cherry looked down and got quiet.

It was the longest silence she has ever been through it felt like. “Well are you going to tell me?” Cherry had her hand behind her back as she whispered. “Renji…” Her father looked up her. “The same boy from along time ago? You and him just couldn’t stay away from each other could you?” Cherry quickly sat next to him and held his hands. “Dad, don’t take him away from me please I beg you!” He looked up at her confused. “Why in the world would I take him away from you? I mean look at you.” Cherry looked at herself a little confused. “You’ve never look so happy in your life. And I wouldn’t want that shine on your face to fade.” Cherry smiled big and looked at him. “You mean… I can be with him!?” He nodded as Cherry quickly hugged him tight. “But of course we have to sit down and talk to him you know.” Cherry nodded and hugged him more. “I’ll make the best dinner tonight!!” He laughs as she seemed to glow more.

It was night now and Cherry was out in the kitchen preparing dinner. Renji was a little scared since Mizaki and her step father was looking at him. Cherry walks back into the room and sets down the plates as she sat next to Renji. “Now then.” Her father began. Renji just looked at him but smiled.

They sat up almost all night having a great time getting to know Renji. Cherry was very happy to know that it was going well. She had never seen her mother laugh or smile so much with a boy that she was with. Cherry held on to Renji as Mizaki smiled.

After dinner Mizaki and Cherry where in the kitchen cleaning up the dishes as Renji and her step father continued to talk. “Excuse me sir.” Renji whispered. Her father looked at him. Renji was kind of shy but kept whispering so Cherry nor Mizaki would hear him. “I have to ask you something.” He leaned in close to Renji. “I’m listening.” Renji cleared his throat as he asked the hand of Cherry in marriage.

“Listen, sir. I know I may not look like much but I am totally in love with your daughter. I would do anything for her. I would die to protect her, and I will beat the crap out of anyone who tries to take her away, but please. I beg of you. Please sir. Let me have your daughters hand in marriage.” Her father smiled proud to hear those words come from his mouth as he nodded. Renji was shocked. “R-Really!?” Her father smiled and whispered “Make me proud son.”

Renji smiled as Cherry and her mother walked back into the room. Cherry sat next to Renji and Mizaki sat next to her husband. Her step father winked at him. Renji smiled. Cherry caught it and looked confused as she turned to Renji. “What’s going on?” Renji shrugged and held her to him as he smiled. “Nothing at all.”

Mizaki and her husband looked at Renji and Cherry as they yawned. “Well we are going to call it a night.” Renji nods as he said sweetly. “Sleep well.” They nod as they start to walk up to their guest room to call it a night. Renji grabbed Cherry’s hand and smiled. “Come on.”

They left the shrine a while back as they start to walk down the roads towards the beach. Cherry looked at him. “What’s going on Ren?” He smiled as he kept walking forward. Cherry could see he wasn’t going to tell her. She stayed quiet as she walked with him.

As they reached the water the air smelt more fresh then normal. Taking a deep breath Cherry smiles. “Its so beautiful out here” Renji kept his eyes on her and wouldn’t take them off. She was left in confusion. “What’s wrong Renji, did something bad happen?” Renji walks close to her and kissed her deeply. Left in confusion she kissed him back. He starred into her eyes as he broke the kiss.

They were left in silence. It was so calming and peaceful it was unbelievable. Renji looked into Cherry’s eyes again but only more sweeter then normal. She blushed and questioned him again. He just snickered at her concern. “There is nothing wrong my love. I promise you this.” She blushed it was incredible. “Than what are we doing here?” she asked. “Do you really want to know?” Renji smiles. She nods as she looks at him.

Renji smiles as he held her left hand. She looked down at him confused. He smiles and got down on his knee. “Cherry, I’ve loved you forever and I will always love you, but its now to tell the truth. Will you become mine forever?” Cherry was laughing. “I already am yours forever.” Renji pulls out a ring from his pocket and looked up at her. “I mean, really become mine, and like be my wife?” Cherry was amazed to see him blush from the first time.

They were in silence again and that worried him. He looked down until she tackled him to the sand. “Ah!” He screamed catching her in the ring into his arms. She was crying out of joy as she yelled repeatedly yes over and over. He smiles as he kisses her softly. She kissed him back as she put on the ring. It was the perfect night. Everything seemed to be in place. Nothing was seeming to go wrong.

It took a few hard months but finally by late autumn the deal was finally done. Cherry had become Ms. Cherry Takadae wife of Renji Takadae. The wedding was so beautiful there was no eye that didn’t have a tear in it. Even Renji couldn’t keep his eyes from watering. It was so wonderful and Cherry looked so gorgeous in her traditional white kimono. The night was an unforgettable night. And the wedding couldn’t have gone better… Its all Cherry and Renji wanted on that night. It felt like the perfect Red Harvest Moonlight Dream.