{These characters, except for that of Ryuuji, are not property of me. I would never attempt to claim them as my own. This story may not be used without my permission, and may not be used to make money in any way, shape or form. Characters and certain situations were created by Rumiko Takahashi, so don't try any funny stuff!}
by Lara Bartram
Ryuuji pulled the covers up around his chin. The bed was so warm, he didn't want to get up. Once he was awake though, there was no going back to sleep. He rolled around before settling on his back.
He stretched mightily, working out every muscle he could, groaning as he did so. He cracked his eyes open, taking in the brightness of the room. Morning always came so early, too bad it couldn't wait a few hours.
He yawned and lazily scratched his stomach. He would have to shower before he started his day, the previous day had been very.. active. He could still feel the sweat and grime on his body. He had a gentle ripeness to himself as well.
He pushed back the covers, revealing his bare skin to the cool morning air. He shivered a bit as the goosebumps rippled over his arms. He pushed himself to sit up against the pile of down pillows.
He wiggled his toes, getting the blood flowing through his legs, waking his body up. His thighs were a bit sore, but he had been sick with the flu for a few days previous and was still a bit run down from it. His stamina would return in the next day, he was confident of it.
He looked at the ornate clock against the wall. Almost 8:30. He was grateful for graduation, no more worthless high school to worry about, no more fake friends to wonder about, no more annoying teachers... His life was his own finally.
Except...
He watched her get dressed, thinking that maybe he should get up too. He started to remove his legs from the bed, not sure if they were quite strong enough to support him.
"Don't get up, Ryu-chan. Stay in bed as long as you like. I have a couple of appointments to take care of, then I'll be back." She smiled at him and slipped on her blouse.
Ryuuji nodded and relaxed in the bed. He would be on his own for breakfast, but that was fine with him. He watched his mother intently as she finished getting ready.
"Mom?"
"What is it, Ryu-chan?"
"I love you."
She turned around, a bit startled. "What was that for?"
He shrugged. "Just because." They looked at each other for a few moments more. "Because you're so good to me."
That increased the size of the smile on her face. She walked to the side of the bed and leaned down. She put her hand on his cheek, gazing lovingly into his eyes. "You're worth it."
Ryuuji leaned up and kissed her, putting his hands on her shoulders. She resisted his attempts to pull her down on top of him for a few moments before she gave in. Those appointments could wait until later.
She collapsed on top of Ryuuji as he put his arms around her, holding her tightly to him. "Oh, Mom," he whispered in her ear...