*                                  *                                  *

Akane gasped, her back arching off her bed. Running an assessing hand along her length, she noted that she still wore the nightgown she had donned only hours before. Her breathing ragged, she looked around her little room and groaned in frustration.

“Why!” She whimpered, feeling hot tears burn a trail down her sweaty cheeks. Every night now for the past week, she had dreamt. Every night, the same thing. The need for Ranma’s touch grew stronger everyday. She couldn’t even sit close to him anymore, for fear of throwing herself at him. When were these dreams going to end?!

Night after night, waking up to nothing by this burning desire deep inside, a desire that she would never have fulfilled.

Every waking moment spent in his company, was taunting her, reminding her of what she would never have. She couldn’t even look him in the eye anymore. Too afraid that he might see her need for him burning deep inside.

Wiping her tears away she sat up and swung her feet to the floor. She looked at her clock beside her bedside and groaned in frustration. ‘Great one in the morning and I am awake...again.’

Every night for the past week she had woken up drenched in sweat. Her pillows, her sheets, everything was soaked through. She had yet to have a descents nights rest, as

every time she would awaken from the dream, she would be unable to go back to sleep.... every time.

Rising tiredly, she walked to her dresser and pulled out a pair of shorts and a t-shirt. There was no point in dressing for bed again. She might as well just wait till Kasumi called them to breakfast. Running a hand through her damp hair Akane grimaced.

She was drenched. Sighing, she threw her fresh clothing on her bed and grabbed her light blue robe from behind the door. ‘A bath would go a long way to making me feel better’ she thought, draping the soft garment over her arm.

Pulling her door open softly she quietly made her way down to the hallway, her head hanging wearily. The house was pitch black, and eerily peaceful. It wasn’t often that the Tendo’s house would stand in such silence.

Opening the door to the bathroom, she hung the occupied sign out just in case anyone decided to wander down. Not that anyone would, it was just the act of doing something familiar that seemed to sooth her nerves.

Once inside the bathroom she quickly discarded her wet nightgown and filled a few buckets with wash water while she waited for the bath to fill. Sitting on the stool she ran weary hands along her face as she let out a long yawn.

She was so tired. It was getting harder to explain to people why she was falling asleep in some of her classes. No one really said anything, but Akane knew that everyone was beginning to worry about her, but what could she tell them?? I am not sleeping well because every night I wake up drenched in sweat after a vividly erotic dream staring Ranma and me??

‘Yeah right...’ she thought as she flung the cool water over her shoulder. She could just image everyone’s reaction to that statement. Snorting in disgust she began to wash, her hand running along her arms and stomach before trailing up over her breast. She bit her lip hard to keep from moaning, as her nipple responded to her mild touch.

Her body was so sensitive, and every time she woke up from another dream, it would only get worse. Her body craved the touch of her dream lover. She understood that. No matter how vivid the dream she never managed to find completion within it. There was nothing that could be done about it though, for her dream Ranma, and the real thing were two totally different people. That was abundantly clear to her every moment she spent in his company.

There was only one way to stop these dreams, but she couldn’t imagine a more unlikely outcome. If she were to ask Ranma for help in this...God she could almost hear his reaction. Why would he want to do that with an uncute tomboy like her?

Sighing, she rested her forehead against the heel of her hand. No, she couldn’t go to him for help, and if anyone else where to learn of her problem they would probably get a good laugh at her expense. No, there really wasn’t anyone who could do anything to stop them. She would just have to become accustomed to restless nights, and unbearable urges.

Regardless of the fact that they were engaged to be married, Ranma and herself couldn’t

have less in common. Sure he liked martial arts, and so did she, but after that what did they have? All they ever did was insult one another. They could never stop hurting each other. Why would she begin to dream of him in such a manner? What did she hope to gain by this self-inflicted torture?

“Baka...” Akane whispered, not really sure whether she was talking about herself or Ranma. As much as she would have loved to blame him, Ranma was in no way at fault for her messed up little fantasy world. Cupping the bucket with shaky hands, she rinsed herself quickly, before sliding into the tub. A sigh of contentment slide past her lips as the warm water engulfed her. She sank deeper into the bath, and let its heat seep into her weary body. Leaning her head back, she began to relax, allowing a contented smile to linger on her lips.

The room was bathed in the gentle light of the moon, which filtered in from the window next to her. Akane was always surprised at the serenity she would find while bathing by the light of the moon. Perhaps it was the romantic in her, but the world just seemed to fade away when she was like this.

She could let her guard down, knowing that there was very little chance that she would ever be disturbed by anything, or anyone at this time of night. As much as she would have preferred sleep, she still cherished these few precious moments of solitude.

The room was silent, save for the soothing sound of dripping water somewhere off to her right. She could faintly hear the sounds of the night from just outside the closed window. It was a song she seldom heard anymore, due to the chaos that surrounded her every day life. ‘So peaceful, so... quiet?’ Akane’s head snapped up as she heard a faint sound coming from just outside. It wasn’t a sound that belonged to the night. Oddly enough, it sounded very much like a groan.

Frowning, she crept closer to the window and warily placed a hand beside it. Standing up slowly Akane cautiously peeked outside, only to jump back in surprise as two very familiar eyes stared back at her through the glass.

*                                  *                                  *

Kneeling on the floor, Ranma slid his door open quietly and watched as Akane made her way down to the bathroom. ‘Man that’s the fifth time this week!’

Ranma knew Akane wasn’t sleeping, and he was beginning to worry about her. She had started falling asleep during some of their classes. She was having trouble keeping up in gym, a class she had always excelled at, and just today had nearly gotten herself run over by a delivery truck.

He didn’t know what was happening to her...and it was scaring him. His heart had nearly leapt out of his throat when he had seen Akane stumble in front of that truck, and if...and if, he hadn’t been there...

If he hadn’t been there, she would be in the hospital right now, or even worse. He didn’t want to think of what his life would be like without her in it. Glancing over his shoulder he watched as the snoring panda shifted onto his back, oblivious to everything around him.

Standing quietly, he slid the door wider and stepped through it. Akane hadn’t told anyone what was going on with her, he knew because he had made it a point to listen in on some of her conversations. Something was obviously going on with her but she hadn’t even gone to Kasumi for help, and that really worried him.

She was not being herself. He wondered at her odd behavior this past week. He didn’t think he had held her eyes for more than a few seconds during these past few days, and when Shampoo had come barging in as usual during lunchtime, Akane hadn’t even raised a finger. She had just glared angrily at them for a second before getting up and walking out of the cafeteria.

Had she gotten tired of their crazy life?? Was she trying to say that Shampoo could have him? The thought that she had given up on him made his heart beat in an anxious rhythm. No, their life wasn’t easy, but would she really give up on him?

Silently approaching the bathroom, Ranma stopped and scowled down at the sign hanging from the door. Great she was already in there, probably naked. The thought of her soft skin sent a delicious shiver racing up his spine. He had seen her naked many times before, by accident of course, and it never ceased to amaze him how beautiful she was. The desire to wander in by ‘accident’ was almost overwhelming.

Ranma knew he wouldn’t though, because an accidental glimpse of her was not what he really wanted. No, he wanted something much more. He wanted to be able to touch her the way he would often fantasize. He wanted to be able to hold her, and not balk at the thought that someone might see them.

This whole engagement that their fathers had set up, only made things more difficult for him. Ranma wanted Akane with all his heart. He had fallen in love with her the moment he, or rather she, had laid eyes on her.

He knew his feelings for Akane ran deep, and he could not help but wonder if she felt the same. It was getting harder for him to keep his feelings locked away behind the mask of indifference. Ranma knew she might be in danger from his enemies and allies alike, if he were to ever confess his love for her.

But, there was something selfish inside him that wanted to claim her for his own anyway. To let all the Ryoga’s, and Kuno’s of the world know that they would never have her...because she belonged to him, and because Akane was the only one among his fiancé’s he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.

Sure the other girls where pretty, and smart, and talented...not to mention incredible cooks compared to Akane, but he still couldn’t feel for them what he felt for her. It would have made his life so much easier if he could return their feelings. But out of all the girls who chased after him, the only one he wanted, was the one who wouldn’t even give him the time of day.

Heaving a tired sigh, he opened the hall door and stepped out into the night. Ranma knew that talking to Akane at this point was going to be a big risk, considering just where she was at the moment. However, that didn’t change the fact that he needed to get to the bottom of what was going on. Breathing in deeply, he marshaled his waning courage and began to make his way around the side of the house.

He couldn’t stop to consider what the consequences might be of his intrusion on her bath, because if he did, he would surely back out. The one thing that sustained his courage at this point was the fact that he wanted his Akane back.

He wanted to hold her eyes for more than just a few seconds at a time. Ranma wanted her spitting mad every time one of the fiancé’s got close to him. He just wanted her to be herself again. Even if it meant he would be malleted to kingdom come.

Shaking his head in disgust he stopped outside the bathroom window and swallowed nervously. He knew she was inside, but hopefully she hadn’t made it into the bathing area just yet. That way his punishment wouldn’t be quite so harsh when it came.

Composing himself he let out a deep breath and took a look inside. The sight that greeted him was not what he had expected...it left him breathless. A mirage that could only have been found in one of his dreams. Akane lounged in the tub, her legs bent invitingly, as if waiting for a lover to slip between them. Steam curled around her head and shoulder’s giving her an almost ethereal look, her beautiful features set in a contented smile.

Ranma felt his heart speed up as his imagination began to run wild. Every fantasy he had ever had came crashing through his mind, engulfing him with longing. There she was, his every fantasy, his dream...only inches away. Ranma couldn’t stop the soft groan that escaped him as desire rushed through him.

Closing his eyes he lowered his head and struggled to regain some self-control. He may think this way about her, but whether she felt the same way about him was an entirely different matter. The one thing that always held him back from proclaiming what he felt inside was his doubt of her ability to reciprocate these feelings.

He knew she had been forced into this engagement, just as he had, but forced or not he wanted it to be real. The problem was, he didn’t think she wanted the same thing.

Drawing in a much-needed breath, Ranma steeled himself for what he needed to do. Raising his head he opened his eyes and prepared to knock on the glass. He visibly jumped however, when he found himself staring into a pair of smoldering black eyes.

He lowered his hand quickly and took a hesitant step back as the window slammed open.

“I-”

“Ranma?! Just what do you think you’re doing?!”

“Akane wait! You’ve got it all wrong!” He cried stepping forward to catch the swiftly closing panel.

“Oh? So I suppose you weren’t trying to spy on me through the window?!” She cried softly, glaring somewhere over his shoulder.

‘Ok, so maybe she doesn’t have it wrong, but wait, I know I had a reason...Oh Yeah!’

“Look Akane I know it looks bad but I really didn’t come out here to spy on you...”

“You expect me to believe that!”

“...If you would just stop being stubborn then maybe I could explain myself a little!!”

“You have nothing to explain to me you ...you...YOU PERVERT!” The Window slammed shut, trapping his fingers. Letting out a howl of pain, he jerked his hand back and began to wave it in agony.

“Who am I kidding? She is so uncute!! Uncute, uncute, uncute!!” He grumbled, before slamming the bathroom window open again, this time using his strength to keep it that way.

Akane quickly covered herself with her arms, whirling back to confront her unpredictable fiancé.

“Ranma! I don’t believe you!”

“Akane would you just shut up for a minute and let me talk!” He yelled, shocking her into silence. Akane’s eyes widened briefly as she witnessed his expression darken. Breathing out in frustration Ranma turned his eyes away from her, trying to somehow show her that peeping was not what he had originally intended.

“Look Akane, I know you’re mad right now, but I swear I wasn’t trying to see you naked! I just...I just needed to talk to you, and this was the only way I could hope to do it in private!”

Akane looked at his handsome face in profile, and felt longing rush through her. Dragging in a raspy breath she tore her eyes from him, and sank back into the tub.

She knew that whatever had brought him here had to be important or else he would have long since fled for fear of being malleted.

“Fine...what do you want?” Akane said a little sullenly, as she tried to keep her mind off the fact that her very desirable fiancé was only a window away from her, and she lay naked in a bathtub. Akane listened as he dragged in a deep breath, and watched his swollen fingers slide from the windows edge.

“Akane, I-I want to know what’s wrong with you!” He ground out trying to keep his eyes focused on anything but the beautiful girl sitting only inches from him.

“What’s...wrong...? I – I don’t know what you mean.”

“Yes you do. You haven’t slept through a full night in almost a week. It’s starting to effect you physically. Do you think no one’s noticed? I want to know what’s going on Akane!” Ranma could sense this was something she didn’t want to talk about, but he needed to know. He needed to know so he could fix it.

“Ranma I-I’m perfectly fine! You don’t have to...”

“Don’t tell me not to worry Akane! You sleep through most of our classes, you’re having a hard time keeping up with your training, and worst of all you nearly got yourself run over because you where so ‘fine’!”

There was a pregnant silence as the anger in his voice began to sink through to her.

“You...were really worried weren’t you Ranma?” Akane said softly, grimacing slightly as he quickly began to deny it.

“Of course not! I-I...Damn it Akane, you could have been killed!”

She was silent as she thought about all that he was saying. Yes, these dreams where affecting her life deeply but...there wasn’t anything she could do to stop it. Akane knew that that accident could have been a hundred times worse if Ranma hadn’t been there to pull her to safety. It seemed as if he was always doing something like that. You would think he would have just let it happen if only to save himself the burden of another fiancé.

Sighing, she looked past him to the moon above, knowing he was waiting for her to respond.

“Ranma...I know that something bad could have happened to me, but it didn’t. You saved me...you always save me.” Ranma felt his cheeks flush as she spoke. Yes, he always saved her...He always would, because he couldn’t afford to let anything happen to her. She was the only thing in this world that really meant anything to him, and the way their lives where, there was always some kind of ordeal that threatened to take her from him. But today was different. Today, it hadn’t been a rival, or an enemy; it had been ordinary life that had almost taken her from him.

He was waking up to the realization that anything could happen from this day to the next. Would he be happier never telling her what he held in his heart, could he live with himself, never knowing what was inside hers? He already knew the answer to those questions, but he also knew that now was not the time to talk about it. Right now all he wanted to know was what was bothering her.

“Just tell me Akane...I’ll do whatever I can, but you need to tell me.”

Akane glanced at her fiancé, and noted that he hadn’t turned to look at her once since their initial encounter. Akane knew that he was not nearly as perverted as she made him out to be. He could actually be quite sweet at times, when he wasn’t acting like a baka.

Still, she didn’t think she would be able to tell him of her midnight fantasies. Then again, this night felt different somehow. Perhaps it was the fact that he stood so close to her while she wore nothing, and she felt no anger towards him. Looking back down, she ran her fingers in a slow pattern through the water. ‘Guess I have to tell him something’ She thought, steeling herself for what was sure to be an irritating reaction on his part.

“I...I’ve been having dreams...”

Ranma glanced at Akane out of the corner of his eye, relieved to find that she was no longer focused on him, giving him a chance to study her.

“What kind of dreams?”

A blush quickly stole up her cheeks. Raising her knees she placed her burning cheek upon them, in the hopes of hiding her blush.

“Akane?”

“I- that is, its...I can’t really tell you.” She stammered praying that he wouldn’t press her further. Her emotions where running out of control, and she was having a hard time keeping a serene expression in the face of her biggest problem. She knew she was close to tears and hoped that he would leave quickly now that she had answered his question. Knowing things could never be different between them, Akane could only hope that he would take the hint and just leave it at that. It usually didn’t take much to make him run in the other direction, away from her, so he couldn’t see the pain that he often inflicted on her with his harsh words.

Ranma stared down at her huddled form, sensing this was the source of her problems. He knew it was something she really didn’t want to talk about, but he needed to get to the bottom of this so he could find a way to help her.

“Why can’t you tell me? Its just a dream right, what could be so bad about...”

“Look Ranma, I just said drop it!

“Now wait a minute! I don’t see why you have to be so uncute...about...it...Akane?”

At her muffled sob, he turned fully to face her. The sight of her hunched shoulders shaking with the force of her tears nearly broke his heart.

“Just go away Ranma! There’s nothing you could do to help me anyway.”

Ranma stared as her beautiful body glistened in the moonlight, and felt the force of his guilt lay heavily on him. He had done it again. Somehow, he had managed to say all the wrong things...again. Why did he always end up hurting her?? He never meant to, so why did it happen?

“Akane, I –“

“J-Just go!” Akane grasped her legs tighter, her lungs struggling for breath with each wracking sob. Why did he always have to be like that?! Didn’t he realize she already knew she would never be good enough for him! Did he have to make it hurt so much?

Lost in her misery Akane failed to notice the large shadow that blocked the light of the window. A moment later the water around her shifted violently. Glancing up, her eyes locked with those of her fiancé’s.

“Wha-!” She began angrily only to have her cry cut short by his large hand clamping over her mouth.

“Don’t!”

Akane struggled to free herself but Ranma only tightened his hold, dragging her roughly against him.

“Look Akane, I know I said something that made you mad...somehow, I always manage to say something like that. But I came here for a reason, and I can’t let you kill me till I know the answer! So you can struggle all you want, but we are not getting out of this tub until you tell me what’s going on!”

Akane glared daggers at him but ceased to struggle in his grasp. She was very aware that only a thin layer of clothing kept them from being skin to skin. Her body was reacting wildly at his closeness. Her breathing was becoming rapid, and her very center was wet with her need of him. She closed her eyes tightly and tore her mouth from his loosened grasp.

Ranma was silent as he waited for her to come to a decision. His body had instantly reacted to their close contact, and he thanked God that he had the thin protection of his tank top and boxers or else, he could not say what he might have done.

Looking down at her face, he watched every emotion as it flickered across her expressive features. He could see her anger at him, and her indecision, but he would not waver from what he had set out to do. He knew he was being much bolder than usual, but her health, as well as her safety where at stake here...he wouldn’t back down.

Ranma had noted Akane’s ragged breathing when she had torn away from his grasp. Her cheeks where flushed and she refused to make eye contact with him once she was free.

He was very curious to know just what was going through her mind at that moment. He could see that she was extremely uncomfortable, but shrugged her reaction off as he noted that they were sitting in a tub while she was quite naked.

Akane was furious, never had Ranma taken such a heavy hand to any argument they had had. Often enough it was Akane that won their verbal skirmishes, but right now she could see that he was not going to let the subject go.

Akane struggled to look anywhere but at the soaking man sitting in front of her. The thin layer of his clothing no longer concealed Ranma’s body from view. She was desperately fighting the urge to just sit there and stare at him, while weakly making and attempt to cover her own nudity. Battling off temptation, she swung away from him, and locked her arms around her knees.

Ranma stared at the bare patch of flesh exposed to him, and of its own accord his hand started to reach for the smooth patch of skin. Halting just inches from her, he clenched his fist and let out a slow breath.

He desperately wanted to touch her, but knew that now was not the time to indulge in such a fantasy. First and foremost he needed to know what was happening to her.

“Akane I’m serious...we can stay in here all night if you want to, but we are not leaving till you tell me.”

Akane grasped her fists tightly and crossed her arms over her chest. Damn him! He was giving her no choice! How was she supposed to tell him about her dreams! Akane sensed that he was serious this time; He would not allow either of them to leave until she told him what was going on. Under the circumstances she didn’t know whether to be annoyed or touched by his persistence.

“I- Ranma this is really embarrassing! Besides, it’s none of your business!”

“Oh come on Akane it can’t be that bad. Not unless your having sex dreams or something...” at the mention of her dreams Akane flinched and started to rise, regardless of whether Ranma saw her naked or not. However Ranma was quicker and he roughly pulled her back down into the water. He observed her tense form, and ever so slowly it dawned on him.

“That’s it isn’t it...your dreaming about...”

“You don’t have to say it Ranma!”

Recovering from his initial shock, Ranma stared at her for several minutes, a barrage of questions racing through his mind. She dreaming about...about...that’s why she’s so tired?

‘Must be a pretty good dream...’ He thought, frowning as a realization suddenly struck him. If she is having these types of dreams, then she must have some type of partner. Erotic images filtered through his mind, all featuring Akane and himself.

Ranma hadn’t been able to fantasize about anyone but Akane from the moment he had met her. But what about Akane? Who did she fantasize about? Anger twisted his gut at the thought that she might imagine some one other then him, and suddenly he was very anxious to know just what her dreams were like. He wanted to know who kept her from sleep at night.

“So...tell me about them.”

Frowning at the harshness of his tone, she felt a familiar anger build inside her as she suddenly realized what he had just said. ‘I don’t believe him! He wants me to talk about something like that?!’ Akane turned to glare at him, just before she swung a hand towards him.

“Pervert!”

Fortunately for Ranma, his instincts were fast, and he caught it before it could make contact. Unfortunately for Akane though, he was beginning to get extremely agitated. The jealousy that burned a whole in his gut wouldn’t allow him to walk away until he knew who her dream lover was. Flinging her hand away he growled softly.

“I’m a pervert?! I’m not the one having dirty dreams remember!”

Akane blushed and looked away from him. Retreating to the other side of the tub she turned to face him, drawing her knees in close to her chest.

“Look Ranma, I told you what you wanted to know. I think we can drop the subject now!”

“No.”

“What?! Why not?!”

“Because, I want to know....I want to know who you dream of.” Akane’s breath hitched in her throat as she stared back at Ranma.

“Why?” She asked her throat raw with emotion. It was now Ranma’s turn to look away a blush staining his cheeks

Looking out the open window, he watched as the leaves from the trees rustled softly on the night breeze. Ranma knew she wanted an explanation, but he didn’t know what to tell her. All he knew was that he needed to know.

“Tell me Akane.”

Akane regarded him thoughtfully. She couldn’t see into his eyes but there was something about his tone. If she didn’t know better she would almost think him jealous. ‘No, that couldn’t be it.’ What would he have to be jealous about? Its not as if he had a personal interest in who she dreamed about, so that only left one other possibility. Akane drew in an angry breath and turned her eyes from him.

“There is no need for me to explain it!” She hissed, rising once again to step out of the water. Ranma’s anger flared as he too shot up from the water, quickly spinning her around to face him.

“Who is it Akane?! Who touches you in your dreams?! Is it Ryoga? Or maybe it’s Doctor Tofu, or even better yet, maybe its Shinnosuke!” Akane slapped his hand away, infuriated by his accusations.

“You Idiot! I can’t believe you would even think that, let alone say it!”

“Then who is it Akane! It can’t possibly be Kuno!”

“That’s disgusting!” She shouted.

Swinging away from him, she stepped out of the tub and grabbed her robe. Confusion warred with her overwhelming anger. ‘What is his problem?!’ She thought glancing at him out of the corner of her eye.

She could see the firm set of his chin and knew that he was not going to let the subject drop. Tying off her robe she tried to think of a way out of answering him, but knew there was no way to escape. Growling in frustration she swung back to face him, resting a clenched fist on her hip.

She knew he was waiting. She had to tell him something, but what could she say! He would only be shocked if she told him the truth. Why was he insisting on it anyway! Its not like he cares! Memories of past insults flew through her head, as she stood there.

So what if she told him, what more could he hurt her than he did everyday! Anger fueled her boldness as she caught his eyes with hers.

“You really want to now who it is?” She asked, shooting him a fierce glare.

Ranma’s breathing had become accelerated by his anger. He didn’t want to think that Akane could dream of some other man touching her, holding her, and...and making love to her! He knew he was being unreasonable, but he couldn’t control himself, everything in him demanded an answer. The conquering warrior in him rose to the surface and recklessly faced the fierce goddess before him.

“Yes” His voice was raw, making him sound harsh and angry, but he didn’t care; he couldn’t rationalize just yet.

Akane’s courage waned as she stared into her fiancé’s fierce eyes, but her anger overcame the trepidation she might have felt otherwise.

“I see. Fine I’ll tell you...its you Ranma. You are the one the touches me and caresses me, and- and...” Akane couldn’t finish. The rest of her words clogged in her throat as the momentary spurt of courage retreated as the impact of what she was saying to him hit her.

Ranma’s anger melted away as he watched her suddenly look away. Her whole body shook from what Ranma could only assume was a delayed reaction to her words. After all, he was having just as much trouble accepting her rash admission.

She dreamed of him? Did that mean she desired him? Could she possible feel that way about him?

Jubilation raced through him as the light of hope quickly took root inside. ‘Maybe there’s a chance!’

“Akane I...”

“Don’t! It was stupid of me to admit such a thing to you, so just forget I said anything!”

Turning away she hurried towards the changing room.

“Wait a second, Akane you...”

“If you’ll excuse me I think I need to go back to my room now.”

Akane knew she was being a coward but right then she couldn’t face him. She couldn’t face the pity, or the ridicule that might enter into his face when he realized just what her dreams meant.

Reaching the door she threw it open and raced out of the bathroom, she heard him call out to her but didn’t bother to turn and see what he would say. She knew it would only hurt.

Turning the corner she raced for the stairs only to be jerked back as strong arms grabbed her from behind.

“Akane wait!”

“Ranma let me go...” She sobbed, clawing at his fingers.

Ranma roughly dragged her back against his chest and tightened his hold on his struggling captive. He could feel the sobs that racked her body, but knew he couldn’t let her escape.

“You can’t just say something like that and then expect to walk away from this conversation!” He whispered fiercely.

“Please...”

Her soft plea fell on deaf ears. This was going to be their moment of truth. They couldn’t hide anymore. He didn’t want to. Ranma glanced down as he felt a tear hit his arm.

“Akane stop. You know we have to talk about this. Please stop crying, its going to be ok...I promise.” His warm breath caressed the side of her neck as he spoke softly into her ear causing a shiver to race through her. A frightening longing rose up inside her as she felt the brush of his lips against her skin.

“I-I don’t think I can do this.”

Akane’s whispered words reached him in the stillness of the hallway. Smiling softly he turned his face into her neck and inhaled her sweet fragrance.

“Yes you can... All you have to do is answer two questions.”

He waited silently, until he felt a small nod of agreement from her.

“When you dream, do you mind that it’s me?” he asked quietly.

Ranma felt the tension rise in her, but smiled when he heard her whispered response.

“No...”

Feeling elated, he gathered the strength he would need to ask his final question. He knew she would struggle against answering it, but he desperately needed to know! So gathering his courage he leaned in and brought his arms more firmly around her.

“Akane...do...do you want it to be me?”

Akane stood frozen under the light of the moon. How could she answer that! There was no way she could answer him! Panic filled her as she felt his hold tighten. She instinctively knew that he would not let her go until she did, but what could she say? If she told him the truth, she would have nowhere left to hide. If she were to tell him that she wanted it to be him who touched her so intimately, she would have no more defenses around him.

But...did she really have any now? No, her defenses against him were all just lies. Lies that covered what she truly felt. She had nowhere to hide either way. Her heart already belonged to him; she could no longer take it back.

If she answered him truthfully, he would know how deeply she felt for him. For the first time in years Akane opened her heart, and examined her feelings. Yes, she loved Ranma. She had denied the words for so long that it felt as if some internal struggle had finally been laid to rest. She had always been aware of how she felt towards him, but could never seem to word it; as if admitting it would somehow tear past the last wall of defense she had left.

She had locked the words away for so long that she didn’t even know how they would taste on her tongue...but she wanted to find out. Drawing in a deep breath she turned her head slightly and glance up at Ranma out of the corner of her eye. His body was tense, as he stood waiting for her answer, his whole being intently focused on her.

“Yes...I wanted it to be you.” The soft words sounded like a cannon in the night. Ranma felt his heart shutter as he replayed the words in his head. He couldn’t believe what he had just heard. ‘She wanted it to be me...she wants me?’

Ranma looked down at her and knew that they could never go back. With that one simple sentence she had confessed all to him. Now it was his turn to tell her what she meant to him.

Akane trembled in his arms. Why had she told him the truth? With her confession she had left herself at the mercy of a man. There was no going back now, but she was so scared. She felt so vulnerable, and seconds later her whole body was shaking. Turning her head to look straight ahead she tried to calm herself.

He hadn’t said anything for several minutes now, and he hadn’t released her. Even though she knew it was futile she tried to pull free of his grasp. Lunging forward, she renewed her struggles against him.

Ranma knew that she was feeling vulnerable, but he couldn’t let her go. Not when he finally knew whom it was she really wanted. He would never let her go now.

Pulling her small body closer to his, he slammed the screen door open and burst out into the night. Ranma felt her body tense as he lifted her into his arms, and jumped past the garden wall onto the nearest roof.

“Ranma! W-what are you doing?!”

Akane’s small hand clutched his damp white shirt in her fist, while her features frozen in shock stared up at him. Looking into her startled eyes he smiled softly, never slowing as he continued to race across the rooftops with his prize.

“Do you trust me Akane?” He asked holding her gaze with his.

Akane blinked in confusion. Did she trust him?

“I- what kind of question is that?!”

“A very simple one. Yes or No...do you trust me?”

His tone was mild but the intensity of his gaze told her that her answer could alter their relationship for good.

“Y-yes.”

Her quiet answer blew past his ear like a lovers caress, that had he not been so focused on her answer he might have missed it, so softly were the words spoken. Ranma stopped and look down at his most precious possession. She was his. She didn’t want Ryoga, Dr. Tofu, or anyone else...she wanted him.

A surge of emotion swept through him as he stared at the woman in his arms. He needed to be alone with her, somewhere far from their problems. He needed to go somewhere where he could shout to the heavens in joy.

“There is something I want to show you, will you let me?”

Akane regarded him in a haze of confusion. He was not acting quite the way she had expected after her announcement. She really didn’t know what to make of it. Akane knew she had probably exaggerated his reaction in her imagination; but still, there was something more here than she had expected. The look in his eyes held her enthralled, and it was with little hesitation that she answered him.

“Yes.”

A grin spread across his face, and he continued his race along the tops of the houses. Akane relaxed in his arms, contentment filling her as the wind swept through her hair. She rested her head against his chest and inhaled his scent. She loved the way he smelled; there was something almost comforting in it. Even though she would never have admitted it, just being near him had a way of making her feel safe. She looked up to see him focused on the path before him. There was no one as strong as Ranma...or as vulnerable. Something inside him called out to her. It was nearly irresistible, but she had lacked the courage to do as it asked.

Perhaps tonight she would find her courage. Softly, she rubbed her cheek against his skin, before placing a feather light kiss upon his chest. She felt him jerk at the slight touch and smiled, feeling his arms tighten around her.

Ranma glanced down at her, a surprised look on his handsome face. The feel of her lips upon his skin had nearly stolen the breath from his lungs. Looking ahead of him again, he finally spotted the gates that he had been looking for. Jumping from the roof, he landed with catlike grace upon the street below. Walking quickly he approached the gate and leapt over it. On the other side a beautiful garden stood, its gentle scents drifting on the breeze. He felt Akane stir in his arms and reluctantly put her down. He could see the wonder in her eyes as she took in their beautiful surroundings.

“Oh Ranma...”

Her breathy voice sent a shiver racing through him. Approaching her quietly her stood behind her and encircled her waist.

“Do you like it?”

Akane’s whole body melted at the feel of him against her, his hot breath tickling her ear. Nodding, she gingerly placed her hands over his.

“I wanted to bring you here sooner, but there was never a good moment before now.”

His lips trailed burning heat down the side of her neck. Lost to the magic of the moment, Akane angled her head giving him better access. A soft whimper escaping her as she leaned further into his body. Her limbs beginning to give way to the awesome sensations that raced through her.

“Ranma...”

His name passed her lips as an urgent plea, one only he could answer. Ranma felt as if his whole body was on fire. The robe she wore did little to protect him from the heat of her body, and it scorched him through out every place they touched. He knew that if he didn’t stop now, he would never be able to. So with reluctance and a last lingering kiss on her ear, he loosened his hold and stepped away.

Akane felt dazed as she turned to look up at him. Why did he stop? She wondered, uncertainty filling her. She looked away from him quickly, and stared at the garden that surrounded them. It was breath taking. A canopy of leaves covered the stars from view before stopping at a small pond, water lilies crowding its still surface. She could hear the sounds of the night more clearly in that little space. It was so full of life.

Entranced she stepped past the shrubs that surrounded the entrance only to stop when she caught sight of a house. It was small in stature, with a terracotta roof. The walls, a pale shade of yellow, were graced with the curling tendrils of ivy that climbed its rough surface.

“Wha-...where are we?”

Akane stepped back, concerned that they had trespassed on private property. A warm body hindered her progress and she swung around to look up at him.

“Its ok Akane.”

“What do you mean it’s ok? This place obviously belongs to someone! Aren’t we trespassing?”

Ranma stared down at her, his body still burning with the desire to claim her fully. Tearing his eyes away he stepped past Akane and made his way over to the door of the small cottage.

“Ranma wait! We shouldn’t be here! What if we wake them up?”

Twisting the handle he swung the door open and stood to the side.

“Come on I’ll show you around.”

“I- but doesn’t someone own this place?”

Ranma grinned at the worry that marred her expression.

“Yes...its ours.”

Akane jerked and stared up at him in consternation.

“What do you mean ours?? How could it be ours??”

Ranma grabbed her hand and pulled her in through the low doorway.

“It was a wedding gift from someone on my mothers side.”

“A-a-a wedding gift! B-but I thought we sent everything back after...after...”

Ranma cupped her cheek with his free hand and pulled her closer. His thumb ran across the seam of her lips, imagining it was his mouth that settled over hers in a gentle caress.

“We did send everything back. This was the only thing that we couldn’t return. The property is legally in my name, and I cannot change that until I come of age at twenty one.”

“B-but if it’s in your name then it isn’t ours...it’s yours.” Akane frowned as she imagined him living in the beautiful cottage with one of his other fiancé’s. The sting of tears burned the back of her eyes and she turned away so he would not see them

A gentle hand clasped her chin and forced her to look back up at him.

“No Akane. The cottage is ours.”

Ranma looked deep into her eyes so full of confusion and finally gave into his desires.

Lowering his head he swiftly claimed her lips, feeling her gasp as his mouth settled over hers. A delicious heat spread through him as his arms circled her.

Bringing one hand up he brushed his fingers through her hair, clasping her tightly as a soft whimper escaped her. Running the tip of his tongue softly against the seam of her lips he let out a rumble of satisfaction as her mouth parted. Wasting no time he plunged into her velvet warmth and tasted her for the first time. Their first kiss was everything he wanted it to be. There was no coercion from their parents, no pressure from their peers. The moment was theirs, no one would ever intrude on it.

Pulling away he gazed down at her through half lowered lids. Her breathing was harsh, much like his own, and her lips were tinted a dark pink. They looked as if they had been ravaged.

A gleam of satisfaction entered into his eyes as he looked down at HIS fiancé.

Tracing his hands through her hair he tilted her head up and waited for her to look at him.

Her lashes fluttered a second before revealing dreamy eyes that now stared into his.

Everything she felt now shinning in their lovely depths. Ranma’s heart began a desperate rhythm in his chest.

“I-I don’t understand...I thought you didn’t like me?” She whispered, her doubts beating down on her.

Ranma stared at her in confusion a moment, before breaking out into laughter. He could feel her tense to pull away from him but he just tightened his hold and pulled her in closer to his body.

“Baka...you really have no idea, do you?”

Jerking in response to his insult, she pulled back enough to glare up at him. Placing her hands against his chest she began to shove.

“Let go! I can’t believe I let a pervert like you talk me into trusting you!”

Anger filled him as her word sank in. Locking her to him he turned swiftly and trapped her against the wall. His body pressed aggressively against hers as he stared down to see her shocked reaction.

“I have never done anything to warrant that insult from you. I have always respected you, and I would never do anything that you wouldn’t want me to!”

Glaring down at her, he eased his body as close as he could against hers, feeling her warmth penetrate through his still damp clothing.
”Ranma I- I don’t understand what you want from me! In the last half hour I have answered all your questions honestly. I’ve spilled my heart out to you, and I still don’t know what you feel! How do you expect me to react when you laugh and then insult me?!”

Tears now spilled down her flushed cheeks and her eyes burned with more than just longing. Ranma’s anger melted at the sight of them. Lowering his head he kissed the wetness from her cheeks before bringing his forehead to rest against hers.

“I’ll tell you what you want to know...all you have to do is ask.”

She felt herself drowning as she stared deep into his eyes. All she had to do was ask? Did he really mean it?

Drawing in a deep breath her lashes drifted shut as she leaned closer, her lips brushing softly against his. Akane could feel his body tighten, but he made no move to stop her as she continued with the feather light contact.

“Ranma...what do you want from me?”

His need for her was furious in its intensity, as an overwhelming desire crashed through him. Biting back a groan, he relished the feeling of her soft lips against him. Her warm breath brushed against his sensitive skin driving him further to the edge of his sanity. He need to stop, he needed to tell her. Forcing himself under control he breathed in deep, inhaling the fragrance of her hair.

Grasping her gently he pulled her away and stared deep into her eyes. Their breathing, ragged in the stillness of the cottage, only lent them the illusion of being the only two people in the world.

“What I want from you Akane is simple...” He said lowering his head to brush a kiss along her jaw.

“I want you to be my lover...”

His hand began to work on the loosened ties of her robe as he planted open mouth kisses down the side of her neck.

“I want you to be my partner...”

The ties parted and his hand quickly took advantage, trailing a burning path up the side of her waist.

“I want you to bear my children...”

Ranma gently cupped her breast feeling it press against his hand with every panting breath she took. He raised his head from her shoulder and stared down into her eyes. They where glazed over with passion, and something more. He felt his gut clench as her tongue darted from between her lips, leaving a damp trail of honey. Bringing his head lower his mouth halted only inches from hers.

“I want you to be my wife...”

His whispered words sent a raging heat burning through her. Clasping his hair in her fist she stretched to capture his lips in a searing kiss. Her free hand wandered beneath his shirt to trace over the ridges of his stomach. Her body was burning, her head was swimming, and all she could do was cling to him.

Ranma reveled in the feel of her pressed against him, but still, somehow it was not enough. He wanted to hold her so close and bury himself in her so deep, that she could never escape him.

Raising his head from her lips he quickly discarded his damp shirt. Reaching for her he lifted her, capturing her burning flesh with his mouth. He could taste the salt of her skin, smell the scent of the soap she had used. Taking her into him, he bit down gently on the rose tinted pebble, eliciting a loud moan from her parted lips.

Her arms wound around his head trapping him against her breast.

“Ranma...please...I need- I need...” loosening his hold so she could slide down his body, he crushed his mouth to hers briefly, before looking into her eyes.

“I know...I need you too...” He said, desire written clearly in his eyes. Quickly he brought his arm under her legs and cradled her against his chest. He looked down at her flushed face and swollen lips and nearly lost control then and there.

Breathing deeply he walked toward the back of the cottage making his way down a darkened hallway. Stopping before a closed door he lowered his head and brushed a burning kiss against the base of her throat.

“Get the door...” He growled still nipping at her skin.

Akane fumbled with the handle a moment before she managed to finally release it. The door swung open and crashed roughly against the wall.

Moonlight illuminated the room beyond, casting a bluish tint against the white walls, and furnishings.

Stepping through the doorway Ranma strode to the middle of the room and set her down, shivering as her body dragged against his.

Turning, Akane looked at her surroundings. The room was surprisingly large, leading Akane to believe that the cottage was much bigger than it had originally appeared.
Her eyes explored the room, coming to rest on a large western style bed. It looked lavish in the sparse settings. Swallowing nervously, she lowered her head and began to pull her robe closed. But before she could, warm hands encircled her and cupped her breast. A strangled breath left her as Ranma trailed his hands over her before settling on her shoulders. Sliding his hands beneath the smooth material he lifted it and watched as it pooled at their feet. The fabric slid down her skin in a sensual caress, just before warm hands traced over the muscles of her back.

Ranma’s mouth played softly with the soft skin of her ear while his hands explored her. Sliding his hands along her stomach he heard Akane whimper as his fingers began to trace a slow path to the very center of her being.

“Akane, tell me you want this... I need to know. Before this goes any further and I can’t stop, tell me you want me” His hands stilled as he waited for her answer. Akane’s breath came in short pants, as need took over and consumed her. Turning her head to the side, she looked up at him, raising her arm to gently encircle his neck. Drawing his face closer to her own her lashes drifted shut as her lips brushed the corner of his mouth.

“There is nothing in this world I want more, than for you to make love to me.” Her teeth sank into his bottom lip tugging it gently into her mouth. She released it to claim his lips with all the fire that consumed her.

Ranma’s knees locked as her words penetrated his passion filled mind. His hands shook as they continued their downward descent. He ran his fingers through the springy hairs that hid her greatest treasure, reveling as her body arched into his touch.

“Ranma...”

“Let me show you...let me touch you.”

A strangled cry was torn from her as his finger slipped into her smoldering passage. He stroked her gently, his mouth leaving a molten trail in its wake along her rounded shoulder. As his fingers worked their way in and out of her, his hips rocked gently against her back. His free hand slid up to cup her breast, teasing her till she thought she would scream.

Akane could feel her body come alive under his loving touch. Never had she felt anything like it in her life. Not even her dreams lived up to the reality of his gentle lovemaking.
Arching her back she moaned as she felt herself stretched wider with his fingers. Restlessly, her left hand reached behind her to grasp him through his boxers.

He froze at the touch of her warm hand through his shorts. He groaned as she squeezed him gently, stroking him against the rough fabric of his boxers. He wanted her so badly, that it was all he could do to keep from embarrassing himself right then and there.

Pulling her hand away he turned her roughly and captured her mouth in a passionate kiss. Lifting her up, he brought her legs up around his hips, and gasped as he felt her wet heat settle against his length. Akane clasped his head in her hands returning every ounce of his passion.

Walking to the bed on shaky legs, he grasped the dusty coverlet. Ripping it from the bed, he revealed a crisp white sheet beneath it. Still locked in their embrace, he gently lowered her onto the bed, his hips pressing against her core as his weight settled over her.

Akane’s hands tugged at the band of his boxers and he raised his head long enough to grin down at her frustrated features.

“Take them off.” She demanded, still struggling to get them past his hips. Chuckling wickedly he nipped her neck and quickly discarded his underwear.

“Anything you desire.” He whispered, settling himself against her wet center.
Unable to help himself, he rocked his hips against her, coating his length in her moisture.

Akane’s head rolled back as the feel of him pressed against her pushed her further over the edge.

“Please! I need you...Ranma, I can’t wait anymore!” Her hips arched wantonly against him, as the sound of her plea shattered his self-control. There was nothing he would not do to make her happy.

Gritting his teeth against the rush of desire, he grasped her hips and brought his length to rest against her entrance. Ranma watched with passion filled eyes as Akane reached between them to grasp his length.
”I- I love you Ranma...please don’t let me hurt anymore!” Her voice shook with the emotions raging inside of her. She stared up at him willing him to love her back, willing him to end her suffering.

Ranma heart nearly burst, a single tear slipping down his cheek Akane grasped his face between her hands and arched her hips, her eyes begging him for release.

‘She loved him...’ He would have never thought that possible had he not heard her soft cry. Lost in her eyes he lowered himself against her petal soft skin, and rested his weight on his elbows. Clasping his fist in her short hair, he lowered his head, brushing her lips with a gentle kiss.

His thigh muscles trembled as he pushed past her folds to stop just at her entrance. Her heat singed the tip of his manhood, nearly making him whimper in expectation.

Akane stared into his eyes, those magnificent eyes, and watched them burn with his need for her. Ranma’s desire was only for her. The uncute, violent tomboy that had been forced on him years back.

She wanted to weep as her happiness mixed with the pain of their lost yesterdays. A muffled sob escaped her as she continued to stare deep into his glowing eyes.

Ranma swept the tears away his gaze never leaving hers.

“I love you.” He whispered, just as his hips surged forward. Akane cried out as his length filled her. Any pain she might of felt was overwhelmed by the sensation of finally having him deep inside her. His hips began a torturous rhythm. His slow movements sending waves of pleasure crashing through them.

Ranma closed his eyes in ecstasy. He had waited so long...wanted her for so long, and now the feel of her robbed him of his very breath. He felt like weeping, felt like screaming, as a barrage of emotions swept through him. Instead, he tortured them both with his slow movements, wishing that the moment would never end.

Akane pulled at his hips begging him to go faster. When he didn’t comply she took matters into her own hands. Wrapping her long legs around his waist she rocked her hips just as he pushed in causing him to sink further into her tight passage.

“A-Akane...” His body was crying for release as she took him still deeper. A strangled cry was torn from him as he rocked into her with more force, increasing his speed as she joined him in their desperate dance. Akane wept freely as she watched the play of emotions cross Ranma’s handsome face. She had never wanted any man the way she wanted him. He had crawled deep inside of her, and before she knew it, he had stolen that which she had guarded fiercely for so long.

Her heart belonged to him, as surely as her body now did. He loved her. He had said so just as his hips had slammed into her.

Akane felt the pressure coil tightly inside her body, when would it end? When would she find release?

Ranma was so close, he couldn’t wait much longer, but he refused to leave her behind. Her happiness came first, it always had. Lowering his head, he ravaged her mouth with a searing kiss. Grasping her legs he brought them higher up on his hips, allowing him to push deeper into her hot sheath. Groaning in near agony of the pleasure she gave him, he looked down to see her brown eyes widen as her end quickly came upon her.

She screamed his name as waves of pleasure crashed through her, the pleasure so great she had no choice but to escape her body in order to endure the release.

She felt herself soar out of her body, and began to be afraid as she felt herself stumbled out of control. Then suddenly, he was there. Holding her close guiding her back into the darkness of their room.

Panting softly in his ear Akane stroked his hair. His weight was heavy on her, but she didn’t mind. She felt fulfilled in every sense of the word. She smiled gently and brushed a soft kiss against his ear. Turning slowly his eyes met hers, an intensity burning deep inside them. She stared at him, still marveling at the fact that he had wanted her. Her, the uncute tomboy.

Raising his hand he brushed a few strands of hair from her face, and continued to stare deeply into her eyes. He would never let her go now. She belonged to him.

“Marry me...”

His whispered words sounded loudly in the stillness of the room. Akane regarded him in surprise, unsure whether he was serious or not.

Ranma pushed himself up enough to look down on her, trapping her head between his hands giving her nowhere to escape.

“I-”

Brushing his lips over hers softly, he silenced her with his kiss.

“This is not for our fathers and not for the dojo...I am not even asking because of what just happened.”

Staring down at her he brushed his hand gently against her cheek.

“Marry me because I need you...marry me because I love you, marry me because I could never live without you.”

The strength of his emotions made his voice thick. He tried to swallow the lump that had formed in his throat, but he couldn’t get past it. He needed so much to hear her answer, and the wait was nearly killing him. But she just continued to stare up at him, her silence eating away at his soul.

What if she said no? The thought nearly stopped his heart. His breathing became harsher, as her silence grew longer.

Akane couldn’t believe all that he was saying. Things like this didn’t happen to her. This was too good to be true. Surely, she must be in another dream, but if she was then she didn’t want to wake up! Akane continued to stare up at her fiancé, now seeing the anxiety that burned deep in his eyes. She wanted to say something, say anything! But her words where trapped somewhere in her throat.

Suddenly, she felt his grip tighten, and watched as Ranma lowered his face to hover only inches from her own.

“Akane Tendo, I told you what I wanted from you a little while ago...now I want to know. What do you want from me?”

The anguish in his voice tore at her heart and she finally found her voice. Akane watched him carefully, her head twisted slightly in thought. His brow was creased in worry and she wanted nothing more than to smooth it away. Lifting her head she brushed her lips against his, and focused everything she felt into that one simple kiss.

Pulling away, their eyes locked and a slow smile spread across her beautiful face.

“I want to be your lover...I want to be your partner...I want to be the mother of your children...and I want to be your wife.” She raised her hand to cup his cheek, and felt a shiver race through his body. Arching her neck she rested her lips against his mouth, and spoke.

“...I will marry you because I need you, I will marry you because I love you, I will marry you because I could never live without you.”

Akane nipped lightly at his lower lip before soothing it with a lingering caress.

“What I want is simple...” she whispered her breath tickling the side of his neck.

“...I want you Ranma Saotome...Forever.”

Ranma closed his eyes and buried his head in her shoulder. He didn’t know what God had graced him with the heart of this woman, but he would be eternally grateful to the one who had made it possible.

Because despite the heartache he had caused her, despite the trouble he had dragged along with him. Somehow, Akane managed to love him. Turning slightly he brushed a soft kiss below her ear, grinning as she giggled at his light touch. Raising his head he looked down at the woman beneath him. He recalled the day he had first laid eyes on his Akane, and even now, after all his travels, and out of all the women he had met...To this day, he had never seen anything more beautiful...and now...she was his.

“...Forever...”

~The End~