Persona 4 Golden: Yu and Yukiko's Full and Happy Life Part 1

Yu Narukami was exhausted. Nanako had fallen ill the previous evening and he had to stay up far later than usual making sure she was alright. On top of that, both Naoki and Shu were being quite the handful to deal with and even despite the help of a detective, they were still no closer to solving the case. All this on top of the usual coursework was enough to make the stoic hero let loose a small sigh. He could deal with all that and more but their was something that had been eating at him. An incident a few days back had left him and his guy friends labeled as perverts and pelted with barrels. It had been a complete misunderstanding and in front of Nanako no less! He could still remember that hurt look of betrayal in all the eyes of the girls, one girl in particular. He had wanted to smooth things over with Yukiko yesterday but had to help Yosuke with his Halloween thing. This wasn't something that could be done over text either.

His fears were confirmed today, whenever they would make eye contact, she would blush red and avert her eyes and had left the room as soon as lunch started, stammering out an awkward excuse. His fears were compounded when he had received a simple ominous message on his phone. "Meet me on the roof after school today." He slowly made his way up the stairs and marveled at the fact he was actually nervous. He hoped she'd be willing to listen.

When he opened the door he found his pretty young girlfriend frantically pacing back and forth and mumbling to herself. "...apologize and then I'll... no that's too forward, he might still be mad. No I'll ask him to forgive the staff first and then me, or maybe the other way around." Yu cleared his throat making her whip around.

Yukiko had a whole script she was preparing in her head, but now that he was here it all went out the window as she got more and more flustered. Her face went as red as her sweater and she bowed quickly. "I'm so so sorry about what happened Yu! Please forgive me!"

Yu was taken aback. He honestly hadn't expected an apology. He held back a chuckle when she peaked up from her bow to gauge his reaction. When she saw that usual calm expression on his face, she was able to steal herself. She explained the scheduling mixup and how the girls had decided to keep it a secret. She lunged towards him with her hands clasped together. She rested them against his chest and looked up to his eyes pleadingly. "I won't ask you to forgive me, but please don't think ill of the inn for my mistake!" She couldn't quite read the expression on Yu's face as usual. Yukiko was practicing and getting better at it but their were still times when it was difficult. He finally spoke up.

"Nanako doesn't think I'm a weird pervert, does she?"

Yukiko quickly assured him that they had made sure Nanako was aware it was all an accident. She let out a little gasp when Yu took her hands in his own and slowly lowered them down. "Okay then. I forgive you." She couldn't believe what she had just heard.

"S-so easily? B-but we pelted you with barrels a-and ruined your evening!"

Yu brought his hands up to her face and swiped the hair back behind her ears with his thumbs. "You made a mistake and you apologized. Remember when I ate all your tofu? It happens to everyone." Yukiko didn't think it was quite the same but she was relieved he seemed to accept her apology. "And I could never hate your Inn, Yukiko." Yu could feel her face muscles tense up as she smiled. "You're like a saint. I was so worried about what you might say and you just... just like that you..."

Yu let loose a genuine smile. "You did a really mature thing today. That more than makes up for it." At this, all the rest of Yukiko's doubts about the ease of his forgiveness. He had actually smiled! That was another "Make Yu smile" point for her! She had gained quite the lead recently. The heiress was broken out of her thoughts by Yu pointing to the bento on the nearby vent.

"That's bigger than usual. Is that for me?" Yukiko quickly grabbed it and presented it with a happy nod. "Yes. I worked extra hard on this one. Think of it as an extension!" It looked delicious. If it was something simple like a bento lunch, Yukiko was almost at his level. It's only when you got to more complex things that difficulties arose. Yu shook that negative thought out of his mind. That didn't matter. She would improve and mature and grow until she could make such things with ease. And that's what he loved about her. She wasn't perfect, but she never stopped trying. They sat down together and made conversation. It was so quiet and isolated up here so there were no interruptions. She watched him enjoy her bento happily. The raven haired beauty was so glad she could do something for him, even if it was just a small thing like this. She had promised to become a woman worthy of him and even small steps like this helped her reach that goal. But today, it was time for another bigger step.

"Yu." She said after awhile. "There was...actually something else." He looked at her curiously and swallowed the last of the bento. She took this as a signal to continue. "The other night made me realize I still have some shortcomings when it comes to being a girlfriend." She steeled herself and continued. "I need to learn many things and one of those things is to be..." her eyes narrowed and her cheeks took on a blush, "more intimate with you." Well it was out there. She couldn't take it back now much to her embarrassment but also joy. Back in April, she never would have dared to say such a thing.

The first time she had gone up to Yu's room, passions inflamed and lips locking, it was like he could sense her reluctance to go further and they limited themselves to an intense makeout and grope session. They had never gone much further than that but Yukiko could tell he was the one holding back.

Yu looked at her with mild surprise. "Yukiko, I'm fine with taking it slow. You don't have to make anything up to me." She placed a hand over his and looked him in the eye. His non flustered reaction helped her keep her own cool, it made it feel much more proper than it was. "I want to be comfortable with it." The frankness with which she said it surprised even herself. "I-I want to please you and provide for you and make all your worries disappear!"

"So please, don't hold back anymore."

Yu pulled her into a deep hug that made her let out a little squeak. "Thank you...Yukiko." Her heart soared when she heard the gratitude in his voice. Even as her face turned red again now that her adrenaline had faded, she was still glad she'd said it. He clasped her shoulders smiling, his grey eyes were alight with joy, so much so that Yukiko forgot to count his smile towards her total. "I love you Yuki. I promise I'll make your first time wonderful." Yukiko couldn't help but pout a little. He already had such a wonderful nickname for her but still she could find nothing good to call him. Things like sweetie and honey were okay but they weren't quite as warm and intimate as what she was looking for.

With Nanako being sick still and Naoto blowing up Yu's phone with requests for help with a mystery, they decided today wouldn't be the best day. Besides, it was best to think it over a bit. "I can still give you this," Yukiko said with a cheer, she giggled a little after pecking Yu on the lips. He kissed her back lightly at first but they continued until they were kissing so deeply that if they were inside the building, they'd be on a trip to the principal's. They broke off with Yukiko red-faced and panting. "See you soon," Yu said with a neutral expression before walking off. Yukiko tried to get her fluttering heart under control. She hoped she could make him feel this way whenever that day came.

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Yukiko didn’t quiet understand it. Had the quality of her work been faltering? Recently, she had found herself being thrown out of the Inn by the staff. “We can take it from here today, you should get out more. Why don’t you go see him?” It wasn’t really a secret who they were talking about. Though many of the staff failed to realize the silver haired boy who stayed over at the Inn a few nights ago with the rest of Yukiko’s friends was “the guy,” she certainly had her sights on someone. It didn’t take much to figure it out, Yukiko’s flustered expression when asked if the bento she was making was for a boy was all it took. Everyone at the Inn who had known Yukiko for a while felt they needed to help her anyway they could, and taking upon her Inn duties sometimes so she could go out was one of those ways.

It took some asking around, but she was able to learn that Yu was at one of his part time jobs at a day care center today. She hoped it wouldn’t be too much of a bother if she dropped by.

The laughs and screams of children grew louder as she approached the playground area of the daycare. It wasn’t hard to pick Yu out of the crowd, in addition to being the tallest one there, he was the center of attention. All the kids iwere running circles around him, trying to get his attention, asking him to play a game with them like hide and seek or tag. He was getting pulled in two separate directions by the arms while one child struck him repeatedly in the back with a toy sword. One particular rambunctious child had even jumped onto his back.

Seeing Yu being run ragged like that, she couldn’t help but snicker. However, that alerted one of the children to her presence. “Mr. Yuuuuuuuuuuuu!”

On the way home, the two stopped at a vending machine. After taking a giant swig of water, Yukiko spoke “I think I would be less tired if I DID go work out with Chie.” She took another gulp of water, afterward wiping her mouth. “I have to admit though, it was a lot of fun.” It was true, Yu was surprised at how quickly she adapted, and he could tell she was a bit dismayed once it was all over and the children’s parents appeared to begin to take them home.

Yukiko wrapped her arms around Yu’s. “You know, I should have known by the way you are with Nanako, but you're pretty good with children. I can tell they really look up to you.” Yu scratched his cheek, “Hey, you weren’t too bad yourself. I remember when Kozue fell and scraped her knee, you were on top of it instantly.”

Yukiko grew flustered again, “All I did was help clean it and apply a band-aid!” She had to admit though, that little girl thanking her made her face light up, like she did do something great. “And Kaito and Taichi are always fighting, and you even got them to apologize!” That got a little scary, as Yusuke and Teddie knew whenever they did or said something stupid, Yukiko could be pretty unforgiving, and she scared those two young boys straight. “You’ll make a fantastic mom someday.”

Both Yu and Yukiko's faces grew a deep red because of his last compliment. Luckily, they were close to the Inn, and after looking to see if anyone was around, they shared a goodbye kiss before Yukiko hurried back inside.

.......................................................................................................................................

Despite their promised to be more intimate with each other, the opportunity didn't arise for the next few days. As cheesy as it was, Yu really wanted her first time to be special and he couldn't do that if he was being pulled to and fro by all of his other friends. "These next few days will keep me quite busy," he had told her over one of her bento boxes. "We won't be able to spend too much time together." She nodded sadly but quickly perked up and told him not to worry about it. "You've helped me so much, it would be selfish of me to deprive others." Yu simply smiled and pulled out his schedule to mark around in it. Yukiko noticed for the first time just how packed full it was. There wasn't a blank space to be found on the white paper.

"Yu."

"Yes, Yukiko?"

"Don't be afraid to lean on me if you need to."

He didn't know what to say so he simply nodded. He knew she meant it too. He could call all the members of the Investigation Team his friends, even close friends, but none made him feel as at ease as she did. She had a loving warmth that radiated off of her that he had only felt from Nanako. "I think I'll do that right now." He grabbed her by the shoulder and leaned into her, smiling as he listened to her giggle and snort at his terrible pun.

This happiness would not last and was swiftly ended in the coming week. Nanako was kidnapped by a crazed kidnapper with a messiah complex and Yu could do nothing but watch it happen. Standing in the rain, they all agreed to save her as quickly as possible. It was a difficult journey with Yu even having to fight his own party members along the way but eventually, Namatame was captured and Nanako was returned to at least a somewhat stable condition. Everyone had pitched in to help their leader but none more than Yukiko. It was like her Persona sensed her resolve to be as helpful to Yu as possible and gained the ability to heal everyone of all wounds.

Unfortunately, that power didn't seem to extend to the real world. The first night Yu had come home after the rescue, he had unconsciously expected a chipper "welcome home big bro" and was greatly saddened when he realized that wouldn't be happening any time soon. Sunday was worse as he had no school to distract him. He sat on the table with his head in his hands as he ran over and over again in his head things he could have done differently, things he should have done. His model work had been set to the side, nothing interrupted his thoughts, it was just him and the cold silence of the house. He thought Inaba would finally be a change of pace, a new beginning where this wouldn't happen again. But no, here he was alone with no one to talk to. He snapped himself out of his self-pitying funk. No, this time was different, he did have people to confide in, people to rely on. "I'm only as alone as I choose to be," he thought to himself while thinking of Adachi and the old woman.

Nanako's kidnapping had made him realize something else though. Things could be taken away from you in an instant. Kunino taking control of his party had only further driven home the point. He looked over at the models he had been building and then glanced at the phone next to him. The choice was obvious and he typed out a quick message. "Want to come over?" He knew he wasn't alone, he knew that, but he just needed a quick little reminder. He hoped she wouldn't begrudge him for being a little selfish.

Yukiko gulped nervously standing on the front porch of the Dojima household. She had immediately accepted his invite and rushed over as fast as she could. Yu had looked troubled at school lately and she could easily imagine why. Just like at the beginning of the year, even if you were surrounded by people who cared about you, sometimes you still felt alone in your own head. She understood completely. He had brushed off her concerns of being by himself with an "I'm used to it."

She had put herself on standby to help him if he needed it and now it seemed her time had finally come. The door opened and she was met with a deep hug which she returned eagerly. "Are you okay?" She asked it with clear concern in her voice and Yu assured her he was fine. "I just wanted to make time for my girl." The slightly selfish part of Yukiko hummed happily at that. His girl.

They climbed up to his room for a more cozy atmosphere. Yu did the usual thing by asking her about her day. She honestly felt a little bad during these moments since she felt she prattled on forever about nothing important, but he never told her to stop and always seemed to be engaged. Yukiko realized partway into a story that any remaining worry lines faded from his face; her melodious voice filling the empty house with pleasant tales of family and friends. She resolved to keep going until she made him laugh. "...and then daddy er father told the head chef 'I don't care if you don't know how to make a mega beef bowl!'" Yukiko said doing her best gruff voice "'I'm not going to let anyone say that the food service of the Amagi Inn is not as good as some fast food joint. Not even some little girl. Now get to work!'"

Yukiko could barely contain her own giggling throughout the tale and quickly fell into a fit after it was over. "A-and that hahahah that was hohohoho w-when Chie and my father first m-met hehehe." She was a tad disappointed to see Yu not finding it nearly as funny as she was but at least he was smiling. "Your father sounds...passionate," he stated neutrally. "Oh he can be a little intense sometimes, but he always means well."

"Sounds like Dojima," Yu quipped. "Nanako really enjoyed her time at your inn by the way. Thanks for that." Yukiko blushed. "N-no problem. Maybe when she gets back she can come again. I'll make sure to give her the best room in the place this time."

"Best room?" Yu inquired curiously.

"Yeah the one I gave to you and the other guys. I wanted to show it to Nanako but Chie got all freaked out and poo pooed that idea." Yu's eyes widened as he realized what room she was talking about. "You mean Mayumi Yamano's room?" Yukiko nodded happily. "Yeah. People have been whispering that it's haunted and you can still hear the wailing of the victim. I hope you at least enjoyed it!" Yu began to chuckle and then broke out into a high pitched laughing fit of his own. Of course Yukiko would think being put in that room was a reward. This whole time, he thought they'd gotten a raw deal but the truth was she was trying to make sure at least one person got to enjoy it. She curiously asked him what was so funny. "Nothing. Just thinking about how much I love you." He placed his arm around her shoulder as she giggled happily. They sat in silence with her caressing his well defined chest and him gently rubbing along her hip.

Yu would have been fine with just talking but soon the rubbing turned into kissing and one thing led to another and now here they were with Yu angled over Yukiko's lounging form still fully clothed but their hands were quickly working to change that. Yukiko realized in that moment that she truly wanted this. It was more than wanting to provide for her man, she was a young girl with needs of her own and she wanted them to be met. Their jackets were slipped over their heads and tossed aside. As she slowly unbuttoned the buttons on her white shirt and undid her bra, the cool breeze on her exposed chest snapped her out of her aroused trance and her modesty returned. She nervously covered her moderate chest with slender arms and looked away. Yu smiled and began to undo his own buttons, it fell behind him. "It's okay. I'm all exposed too." She couldn't help but chuckle at that and slowly raised her eyes to meet him. Just in time, she caught him removing a necklace. The same charm necklace she had given him to remind him of her when he left.

He noticed where her eyes had landed and grimaced. "I forgot I had that on," but she was smiling warmly at him. "No no don't apologize. I'm so happy that you wear it. It means I'm protecting you in some small way." Yukiko's heart was still aflutter in her chest but this small talk was helping her calm down a bit. Enough so that her arms slowly lowered and Yu got a view of her lovely pink nubs. His lunge towards them was interrupted when he saw her looking sadly at her lap. "You really are leaving aren't you?" Yu nodded. "I have to. I can't impose on the Dojima's hospitality." Yukiko may be a bit odd but she was still sharp. She caught his word choice there and realized he truly didn't want to leave and couldn't even think of a truly good reason not to stay. He was leaving not by choice, but by obligation. She was reminded of something else he had said to her earlier that week, something that made her want to hug him to her chest. She did so and he let out a gasp of surprise. "You said you were used to being alone. I was so sad when I heard that. Nobody should be 'used to being alone' Yu." He returned her hug and let out a simple "I know"

He never really talked about his home life, but from what she had gathered it was quite similar to Nanako's except even more lonely. His parents were bigwigs in some large company and he was expected to follow in their footsteps. As long as he brought home the grades they took a hands off approach to his life. However, even reminded of all this he quickly clasped Yukiko's shoulders. "But this time will be different. The bonds I've made here will last forever, and I plan on settling here as soon as I finish college." This took Yukiko by surprise. "But wouldn't you rather work in the city," she urged with a hand on his back. He shook his head.

"I love this town. I love it so much. No matter what I do here, I know I'd be happy. Therapist, mayor, I could even work at your Inn!"

That last part hung over the room like a blanket as the two looked each other in the eyes silently. Yukiko was the first to speak. "W-well ideally you wouldn't be just working at the inn, because if we're together that means you'd own it...with me." Yu's breath hitched at this and he laughed awkwardly, Yukiko was blushing heavily. "T-that sounds...wonderful." Yu touched his lips as the words left his mouth. He had never really thought about the inn itself merely loving Yukiko for Yukiko's sake. "Yes, it does," she responded equally as shocked. "We'd have to be m-married first though."

"In a big ceremony with everyone we know watching us proclaim our love." At Yu's remark, Yukiko slowly shimmied out of her skirt and Yu did the same with his belt. "We'd wake up side by side every morning ready to greet the day together." Their chests were both tight as drums as Yu removed his trousers and she dropped her leggings to the floor. "I'd help make you such a good cook, the Inn's chefs would beg me for lessons."

"I'd cook for you every morning and fill you up with my affection." They placed their hands on each other's underwear and slowly slid it down the others thighs. "For you...and for our children." Yu's lips met hers in that instance and he plunged into her. They didn't even bother moving to the futon they were so enamored. "Mmmph we'd hear their little feet coming down the stairs mmm" Yukiko let out a delighted cry from all the sensations hitting her at once. Yu wrapped his arms around her back and picked up his speed. More nuanced techniques could wait. This time it was just him and her, no gimmicks, no distractions. "Everyone -ahhh- would come to -ooh- see the wonderful n-nest we built together. We'd fill the g-ahh-guests with happiness j-just from watching."

Husky voices announced how wonderful such a life would be until eventually neither one could take it anymore. "I love you Yu. I love you so much." She just needed to hear him say it to finish.

"I love you to Yukikoooo." As soon as she heard his declaration, she had climaxed. Her walls tightened around him and he could take no more. As if that wasn't good enough, he collapsed right on top of her chest. The feeling of him resting warmly on her chest and him twitching inside of her was enough to get her to orgasm a second time. All in all, it was a good thing Nanako was in another neighborhood. Cuddling soon followed and Yukiko purred happily while she nuzzled into his bare chest. The feeling of his juices mixing with her own and running down her thighs was an odd one but nowhere near unwelco-. "Wait a minute," she thought to herself.

"Yu, sweetie."

"What is it?"

"You used a condom, right?"

She could feel his heart jump in his chest and they both sat up a bit in shock. "I didn't. You took a pill beforehand right?" She hadn't. Yukiko didn't even know how to go about buying them without opening the door to embarrassment. They both looked at each other panicked but their worried looks slowly faded as they stared into each others eyes. Yukiko slowly brought Yu's hand to her flat stomach and rubbed it in slow circles. "I guess it's up to fate what happens now. It's out of our hands," she said it nonchalantly like she was completely fine with either outcome.

"I could pray to the shrine," Yu suggested. Yukiko slowly wrapped her arm over his chest and pulled him into a laying position. "I think we should do that." She bit her lip. "I hope they have your eyes."

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The next few weeks were pretty uneventful. With Namatame in custody but in a coma, the investigation had hit a roadblock. Even if he never recovered, they had caught Namatame red handed so the team was certain they had succeeded in catching the true culprit. Nanako condition hadn’t improved, but she hadn’t gotten worse either, so Yu was thankful for that. With her still suffering from an unknown illness it meant she was still in the hospital, and the Dojima household was eerily empty. While what had happened was affecting Yu, he knew it was affecting Dojima that much more. Nanako was all he had. If he wasn’t working, he was at the hospital, only stopping by the house to do things like shower and change out of his dirty clothes.

The only thing that hadn’t stagnated was Yu’s relationship with Yukiko. After that magical night together, the two were closer than ever. Having the house all to himself meant he could have her over whenever he wanted. One phone call and she would be knocking on the front door within the hour. Yukiko mentioned that although she felt bad about lying to her parents, saying she was going over to Chie’s, she couldn’t help but find a thrill in acting so rebellious.

They would do their homework together, watch movies, practice cooking, they even started assembling one of Yu’s models together which Yukiko decided to paint almost entirely red. There were moments where, in their time conversing together, laughing together, and loving each other, where they seemed more than just boyfriend and girlfriend. In those moments, they were almost like a family.

Of course, there were also times at night where things got raunchy between the two. Unlike that first night, Yu always remembered to slip on some protection, but although neither said anything, with it, the sensation wasn’t as intense as that first. Little did both know, the “results” of that first time were about to become very apparent.

“Darn it! Did the staff change fabric softeners?” Yukiko tugged at her bra as she marched to school. It was killing her! She made a mental note to see who was in charge of laundry this week, because whatever they did was causing some sort of reaction. Her breasts were never this sensitive before. That wasn’t all. Yesterday while she was doing her various tasks around the Inn she was hit with cramps so severe she had to lie down. She had barely sat in her seat before homeroom started when her body threw her another curveball. Chie and Yosuke were in the middle of their routine mourning bickering about something or other, the increasing bubbling sensation in her stomach made it hard for her to pay attention. When all of a sudden, they both simultaneously stopped and turned to her.

“Yukiko you don’t look so good, are you okay?”

No, she wasn’t. “I’m feeling a bit nauseous…must have been something I at-“ Before she could finish, her hands shot to cover here mouth and she bolted out of her chair and out of the room toward the bathroom.

Chie had come to the bathroom to check up on her, but Yukiko assured her everything was alright. She wasn’t sure how long she stayed in the bathroom but after a while the feelings of sickness subsided almost as quickly as they arrived. Leaving the stall, she walked over to the bathroom mirror and began fixing her hair. She sighed, everyday there was something new wrong with her. It was funny, it was almost like when Shizune, who worked at the Inn, had gotten…

Yukkio blinked, “Pregnant?”

The hair on the back of her neck began to raise. Looking down at her flat stomach, Yukiko began to hyperventilate. She closed her eyes and brought her hand to her mouth to calm her breathing. She needed to relax! She remembered reading after that night, getting pregnant was only a 30% chance on her absolute BEST day, but the more she thought about it, the more it lined up. Her synmptoms, the time period, there was only one way to make sure. Yukiko took another moment to collect herself, and after leaving the bathroom she was confronted with Yu waiting for her outside.

Taking a quick glance around the hall and seeing no one, Yu rushed to hug her, a gentle warmth washing over her body. “You booked it out of class pretty fast, are you okay?”

With all that was going on, there was no need to worry Yu unnecessarily about her revelation until she knew one hundred percent what was going on. “Oh, no need to worry about me. The yogurt I had this mourning must have been bad. I thought it tasted funny!”

Yukiko’s demeanor didn’t match her words. Yu sensed something was eating at her but decided not to press the issue, at least not here at school. He offered to take her to the nurse’s office which she politely declined. Yu didn’t notice but the entire walk back to class, Yukiko’s hand never left her belly. She was a highschooler, unmarried, heiress to the famous Amagi Inn, too young to be thinking about things like starting a family, and yet, glancing at the silver-haired boy walking next to her, she couldn't lie to herself and say the thought of actually having a baby with "him," wasn't appealing.

Obtaining a pregnancy test, however, was easier said than done. With the Inn being the pride and joy of Inaba, everyone knew who she was. If she marched into the pharmacy and bought one herself, word would reach her mother before she even got home to use it. Asking Yu for one was out of the question too or else he would know!

What she need was someone who could buy one for her without rousing any suspicion, someone who she could trust or wouldn't realize the test was for her. That's when it hit her, of course!

She found the man exactly where she thought he would be, loitering outside Tatsumi Textiles. Yukiko gave a cheerful wave as she approached. "Hey, Kanji-kun your used to people assuming bad things about you right?"

Kanji grimaced, "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Kanji was known to be insulting, but Yukiko had a knack for hitting people where it hurt without realizing it.

"Nevermind that, listen I was supposed to do some shopping for the Inn today and I totally forgot! And I already promised to help Chie with some schoolwork. Could you do me a favor and pick up a few things?"

"No way, sounds like a pain in the ass," Kanji said bluntly.

"Oh please Kanji, I have a list! It should be easy. No time at all. Please please please!"

If it wasn't Yukiko being annoying with her constant badgering, the fact that her face started to get more and more fearsome every time she had to repeat the word "please," certainly changed Kanji's mind. He knew Yukiko could be downright cruel when she is angry. "Alright, alright, give me the damn list. This is the only time!"

Yukiko did a little hop and cheered in victory. After handing the list over and telling him she would meet him back here when he was done, Kanji got to work. To anyone else, the list wouldn't have made much sense. There was no rhyme or reason to the items on it, like someone just threw a bunch of random things together that had Kanji running all around the shopping district. Kanji however was not the sharpest tool in the shed and didn't take notice.
Finally he arrived on the last item. Walking up to the pharmacy counter he shouted "Hey, can I get some help over here? I need a rapid response test or whatever."

The man behind the counter took the list. Raising his eyebrow he reached for a nearby pink box.

The man showed some reluctance handing the item over to someone so young and was about to ask what it was for but Kanji was going to have none of it. The lady in front of him at the bookstore had already tested his patience and he wanted to end this. "Is there a problem or are you going to give me what I asked for!"
Despite only being in high school, Kanji towered over the pharmacist, and not wanting any trouble, rung up the purchase. Kanji threw it into the bag with the rest of the stuff and quickly made his exit.

"Oh Kanji, I knew you could do it! You're the best!" Yukiko took the bags and gave the delinquent a graceful bow of gratitude.
Kanji rubbed the back of his neck in annoyance, "I knew it was going to be a big pain in the ass, you owe me big time." Yukiko smiled, "I know, next time we have a meeting, I will make sure to let "her" know how dependable you are!"

Kanji's rough facial features softened and he began to talk over himself, "I-well-uhhh-I mean..." Yukiko chuckled, Kanji acted tough, but his emotions were pure. It was no secret to anyone in the investigation team except the lady in question that Kanji had a thing for the Naoto the "Detective prince." Well, everyone except Naoto and...

"I'll help make sure Rise sees the good in you. You have my word!" Yukiko's face grew stern and she gave a enthusiastic thumbs up.

Kanji was dumbfounded. "Hey that's not- I mean she isn't-why would you-AAAARRRRRGGHHH JUST SHOVE IT WILL YA!!!" Instead of trying to explain himself Kanji stormed away. Yukiko, unaffected by his outburst, just smiled and waved him farewell. "GOOD LUCK KANJI-KUN!"

Yukiko was antsy the rest of the day, she had to wait until everyone else was asleep, lest someone barge in and see what she was up to. She also had to makes sure to dispose of the box as well. Finally, in the middle of the night, Yukiko tiptoed to the bathroom and took the test.

She spent the time it took for the test to run thinking about what the results could mean. If it was negative, nothing would change. Things could on like they had been and eventually Yu would leave. If it was positive...

Yukiko looked back down at her belly and started to sweat despite being only in her underwear. She knew what her parents would say, what the town would think, how hard it would be having a baby at her age, but if she was pregnant, then if Yu wished it, he wouldn't have to go, he wouldn't have to be lonely anymore, they would be bound forever, no more pretend, a real family. For the typical teenage, getting pregnant would be a nightmare but for Yukiko it would almost be divine intervention, fate. As she reached for the test, Yukiko found herself acting a bit selfish, muttering, "Please be positive..."

Her heart racing, she closed her eyes as she flipped the test over. After a few seconds, Yukiko slowly opened her eyes and let out a soft moan.

Positive. Now she had to tell Yu.

.......................................................................................................................................

"Do you ever regret settling down so early? What I mean is, did you ever feel like you missed out on things?" Yu laughed a little. "Sorry if that came out of nowhere Hisano-san." The silver haired boy sat on the riverbank alongside an old woman dressed in black. She was leaving the town after today so if there was any time to ask an old soul for advice, now would be it. "I don't mind at all dearie," she replied with a warm smile. "And to be honest, no I don't regret marrying early one bit." The relief on the normally stoic boy's face was amusing to the grandmother. "Hehehe of course everyone married earlier back then."

"This might just be my age talking, but you young people are so hasty these days. You want to run out the door before you even have your pants on!" Yu couldn't argue with that, certainly not with the company he kept. He felt Hisano place a slender hand on his shoulder. "You're so worried about missing things that you miss out on what's already there. If you love someone, you love them. It doesn't matter if you're 18 or 80. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush they say." Yu let this perspective roll around in his mind for a bit. It went against everything he had ever been taught but he couldn't find a reason outside of that to disagree.

"Do you really love her?"

The frankness of the question took Yu out of his whirlwind of thought and he merely nodded. "In my opinion, there's nothing wrong with carving out a little place for yourself before going out to explore and grow and all that." Hisano chuckled a little bit. "But you knew all this already, didn't you dear?" Yu had to let loose a smirk. She saw right through him. "I just wanted to hear someone else say it. Thank you Hisano." Just then, a little birdsong came from his pocket. He recognized the customized ringtone.

"Go to her," the old woman said. "Live a long and full life together. That is the greatest thing you can do for your beloved. Some advice from an old woman."

.......................................................................................................................................

The message asked if he was available to meet at his place. He quickly responded he'd be there as soon as he could and broke out into a run. At first, he was blind to everything around him but slowly he began to slow down to a more sustainable jog. He took in the quiet calm of the riverbank, no shouting, no smog, no people on their cellphones ramming in to him. "Hey Yu, thanks for the lamp!" He was greeted by the old man who loved to take long walks at night, he'd really have to ask for his name sometime, but not right now. "Any time sir." He was met with thanks requests and greetings from all sorts of people on his way back home not all of them from humans either. He was in a hurry but he made sure to jot down anyone who needed his help. But they would have to wait. If his suspicions were correct, he was directly responsible for his girlfriend's dilemma.

Yukiko did not get much rest the night before. Not only was she tossing and turning with thoughts of the baby growing in her belly, but how Yu would react how her family and friends would eventually take it. This was not something that could be done over text after all. Worst of all was the persistent soreness of her breasts. It wasn't bad enough to cause serious pain, but it was still quite annoying. When she woke up, she was drowsy and thirsty but at least the spike of sickness from yesterday had died down somewhat to a more manageable nausea.

"What's wrong pumpkin? You've hardly touched your breakfast." Her father's deep voice was laced with concern as he looked at his daughter. "Oh I'm fine daddy, I just didn't feel well last night. I just need some fresh air." As she made her way to the front porch, she heard her mother's voice pipe up behind her. "You're not hiding anything from us, are you Yukiko?" Her face had a pleasant smile on it but the way she said it sent a chill down Yukiko's spine. Before she could respond, her father let out a big boisterous laugh.

"C'mon Yukina! She's just feeling a little under the weather. Don't be so paranoid!" At this, her mother's expression softened a bit and she nodded her head. Her husband was wrong of course, but there was no point in forcing it out of Yukiko either. She'd tell them when the time was right. Besides, the matriarch mused to herself, she'll learn the truth either way.

Yukiko let out a relieved gasp as soon as she was on her front porch. She felt a little bad deceiving her parents like this but at the same time, she didn't want to give them more to deal with during the busy season. Plus now would be a terrible time for Yu as well. She gave off a deep sigh and proceeded to take her walk. She wanted nothing better than to talk with him but it was quite early. The staff and owners of the Inn had to eat their breakfast before the guests even started to wake up after all. As active as he was, even she doubted he was up this early on a Sunday. In fact, the only other person who would be up this early would be...

"Yooooo Yukiko, what's up?!"

Yukiko whipped around to find the girl in question jogging towards her with her usual boundless energy. "You're usually not outside this early, guess that means you're feeling better, huh?" She stopped but continued to run in place, occasionally adding in a quick jab cross motion. Chie would often come through the mountains for a morning run, even on school days. The mountain air proved great for training and she always hoped to catch sight of her friend. "Yes I'm feeling much better, thank you very much for asking." Yukiko bowed her head formally making Chie laugh. Dressed in a formal pink kimono, the heiress was still in "hostess" mode right now so all her actions were a bit stiffer than usual. "Well if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask, your friendly neighborhood Chie is here to help!" Yukiko let a gentle smile creep on to her face. "I'll remember that. Would you like to join us for breakfast?"

Chie shook her finger. "No can do. Gotta keep my blood up." Yukiko giggled at her friend's enthusiasm. "I'm so glad you found your passion, Chie."

"Yep! I've gotta train hard hard hard to get into that police academy! I want everyone in this town to feel safe, specially you guys." Yukiko had to marvel at her determination. She was like a Phoenix Ranger! Who was the one who wanted to become a cop in season 6? Was it yellow or blue? Oh this was going to bug her! But Chie interrupted Yukiko's train of thought. "I have to get a move on, but it's always nice talking to you! Give me a ring if you're still feeling blah. We'll have a girls night in!" And with that, her friend was off, working towards supporting her friends in her own way. Yukiko took a big deep breath of air. That's right. She had responsibilities she had to attend to as well. As nerve-wracking as the upcoming conversation was, it could wait until she was finished for the day.

She said this and yet she couldn't help but keep glancing at the clock as her shift went on and on. Not helping was the fact that every once in a while she'd get a brief spell of wooziness and have to stare at the counter momentarily.

"Are you okay, Yukiko?"
"Do you need to lie down?"
"Please drink some water dear."

She brushed off their concerns with simple assurances but they could still tell something was wrong. "It's that boy, isn't it? I knew he was no good."
"Hey, don't talk like that, maybe they had a date planned later?"
"Nah, she didn't make him his bento."

The smell of something burning brought them and Yukiko back to the task at hand. She had been so busy debating over how to break the news that she'd accidentally burned the soup she was making. After the fire was doused, the servants all crowded around her making quite the fuss. "Please tell me what's wrong sweetheart," Kasai spoke up but Yukiko assured her it was nothing.

"Just staring out into space again, silly old me. Hahaha."

Kasai smiled. "Well, how about you go deal with that 'nothing' and come back once it's all settled." Yukiko bit her lip tentatively. "A-are you sure because-" another serving girl shushed her with a finger to the lips. "Just go. We'll tell your parents you were feeling ill and we'll beat up that boyfriend of yours if you need us." She was so filled with gratitude that she didn't even bother to deny their boyfriend accusation. "Thanks everyone. I'll be sure to pay you back tomorrow!" And with that she rushed to her room to get changed. Kasai shook her head. "When is that girl going to realize she's already paying us back every day?"

Yukiko ran as fast as her legs would carry her. She hoped her message hadn't been on too short a notice but he said he would be right there. She saw her boyfriend waiting outside of his house playing with a cat. It was so adorable that she was almost reluctant to open her mouth. "H-hello." Yu looked up and the next thing she knew she found herself pulled into a deep hug which she had returned without remembering. His warmth and the gentle rubbing of the hair along her back was enough to coax the confession right out of her.

"Yu, I'm pregnant."

"I know."

Yukiko looked up at him in surprise. "I just had a feeling." He glanced up and down the street. Their was nobody around right now but you never knew who might have their window open a crack. "Let's take this inside," he said simply. As the door closed shut behind them he gestured towards the living room sofa and they plopped themselves down. Yu decided to get straight to the point. "Are you keeping it?" Yukiko slowly nodded. "I don't really have a choice. If I get rid of it, everyone will know anyway and I wouldn't have anything to show for it." Smiling sadly she turned to Yu. "T-that means, you don't really have a choice either." She felt her chin being lifted up by a firm yet gentle hand. "I already made my choice." He kissed her full on the lips.

Yukiko returned the kiss eagerly, pushing into it just as much as him. A thin trail of saliva separated the two when the need for oxygen finally pushed them apart. "B-but I...I feel so guilty. Your future...you have to stay here now." Yu craned his head up in thought. "My parents...they moved around all the time. France, America, China, Germany. I've seen all those places, and there's nowhere I'd rather be than here." Yukiko could feel tears start to brim around the edges of her eyes. "Besides, I can always travel the world later. With you." Yukiko couldn't take it anymore. She brought a hand to her mouth and sobbed as the tears flowed down her face. Yu jolted up to comfort her but she shook her head. "I'm just...I'm just so happy. Oh Yu I can't believe I *sniff* even doubted...for even a second..." she slowly wiped her eyes and Yu pulled her into another hug. "Of course not. This was going to happen anyway, remember? We're just getting a head start on our happiness is all."

Yukiko giggled. That was true. They were just starting right away instead of waiting a few years. And if this really wasn't meant to be, wouldn't she have not gotten pregnant? She broke the hug and smoothed out her clothing. "Well I guess it's inevitable now. You can't leave, my parents won't let you. You'll just have to settle down with me and work to inherit the Inn."

"Darn," Yu said in the most deadpan voice he could muster and they both laughed until their voices were hoarse. "My parents will probably try to pull me back," he continued when they had settled down. They had a very strict preplanned path for his future and they wouldn't be happy to have a wrench thrown into it. Yukiko simplly smirked. "My parents will fight tooth and nail to make you take responsibility. Don't think you can escape that easily!" She grew serious for a moment. "They'll want you to start immediately I think. I don't think we should tell them yet." Yu voiced his agreement.

"I want Dojima to have time to recover before I drop the news on him and I want to make sure Namatame gets put away for good." He put his hand on Yukiko's flat tummy and began to rub in slow circles. "We can do this, together. We can do anything as long as we're together." Suddenly the events of the day flashed for Yukiko's mind and she fell into another giggle fit. "What's so funny?" Yu asked with a teasing smirk.

"You just *hehe* sorry *hahahaha* you say that like it's just us. We'll have everyone's support. They might be a little upset but they'll still be there to support us every step of the way, I'm sure of it!"

Yu chuckled. She was absolutely right. Dojima and Chie, Naoto might scold him and Rise and Teddie might cry but they would be by the young couple's side every step of the way. "And not just our friends," Yukiko continued happily. "Everyone at the Inn will help us too. Oh I can't wait for you to meet them all!" She told him all about how they fussed over her and gossiped about her boy troubles not out of cattiness but out of genuine concern.

"They sound wonderful. I can't wait to meet them either." He gave Yukiko's stomach a nice firm pat. "Our child."

"Our new start on life," his girlfriend continued on. People would gossip, people would snicker, people might even call her horrible names but she was okay with that. As long as she was living her life with her man by her side, she knew she could handle it. Not just Yu, but Chie and Kasai, and mother and father and everyone else. Who was the one who had taught her that? She slowly turned her head to see her wonderful boyfriend. Her wonderful gry haired rock that she could rely on no matter what. She began to undo his buttons much to his mild surprise. "You've really taken a liking to the 'sex' thing, haven't you?" He said with a chuckle. Yukiko looked up concerned. "Is that bad? After we did it once, I realized it's just like kissing, except more fun! You don't like it?"

Yu laughed heartily. "No Yukiko. I quite enjoy it. I love you for you but frankly sweetie, you're a fox." He punctuated his point by running his hand down her pantyhose clad thigh. She was looking at him perplexed before her mouth made a little o shape in realization. "Oh! You're saying I'm attractive! I thought you were calling me... never mind." She shook her head as Yu snickered a bit. Yukiko stroked his exposed chest and purred. "You're quite foxy yourself, handsome." And with that, they were on each other. After so much practice, they had become attunded to some of the things the other liked. Yukiko enjoyed having her slender white neck nibbled on and she especially loved when he would slowly run his hands down the lengths of her legs. She also liked for him to play around with her breasts a bit but this time she sucked in air at his touch in a painful way.

"S-sorry. They're s-sensitive," she muttered. Yu slid his hands down and gave her plump rump a squeeze making her yelp. "That's okay. I'll make do." She had never thought about her hips being so enticing before. She had always thought guys liked big breasts and had often worried she didn't quite "stack up" but Yu had assured her time and time again her breasts were perfectly sized and her "ass was amazing" as he put it with her bouncing on top of him. For his part, he loved her running her fingers through his hair and tugging on the bottom of his lip whenever they would kiss. The best was when she'd dig her nails into his back in the throes of passion. It hurt, but he didn't care. There was one pleasure they both shared however. One that they hadn't gotten to do in a while, but this time was different. As soon as he reached for a nearby box of condoms, Yukiko stopped him. "That's not...really necessary anymore is it?" Yu nodded and tossed it aside. She was twiddling her thumbs a bit. "I...I really liked when you finished inside me. It was like a warm pulse that made me feel even closer to you."

Yu nodded with wide surprised eyes. He felt exactly the same way. "So could you do that from now on, Yu darling?" He nodded. "If you insist." Yukiko had discovered a new trick almost on instinct. This time around, she wrapped her legs around his hips and held him in place right when he was about to finish. For that moment, it was almost like they were one with each other, completely and utterly.

Yukiko didn't mind the cleanup afterwards, it was more than worth it and it had been so so long since they had done it properly. How could anyone stand using those silly rubber things? No from now on it would be all natural for her. She hoped Yu didn't mind too much, it was his couch after all. Putting her bra on, she winced again as she accidentally went too fast. Yu looked her over and spoke up. "You shouldn't be wearing wire bras like that. I'll get you some more comfortable ones." Yukiko sighed in relief. "Oh thank you thank you thank you. That's soooo helpful. But where are you going to get them?" Yu thought for a moment. It would need to be somewhere where he could make one for her without rousing any suspicion, someplace he could trust and someone who wouldn't realize it's for Yukiko. And of course, high quality for the mother of his child. But who to turn to?

.......................................................................................................................................

"Hello Kanji."

The tough looking youth immediately perked up. "Yo, what is up senpai! Long time no see!" Yu pulled out a slip of paper with a design on it. "Kanji, would you mind doing a commission for me? I would pay you of course." As he dug into his pocket to pull out his wallet, Kanji stopped him. "I couldn't take money from you, senpai. Just consider it me paying you back for all the stuff you did for me!" Yu insisted but Kanji insisted more with a glare. "But Yu-senpai, I understand not wanting that Junes crap, but why not go to a professional?"

"I am," Yu responded simply.

Kanji rubbed the back of his head with his face turning red. "A-ah geez man. Don't say things like that."

Kanji assured his friend that he could get five or six of these cranked out in a week no problem. "You know senpai, everyone's been coming to me for favors recently. Sup with that?" Yu simply smiled. "It just means you've become a really reliable guy, Kanji." The delinquent's face turned even redder than before. "C-c-come on dude. Y-you're making me blush dammit." He was about to turn around and go inside, but something had been bothering him recently. Might as well ask the smartest person he knew who wasn't the source of the problem

"Hey senpai. If you have someone who you really really like, like a whole lot...let me start over. I have this friend you know, and he's having trouble talking to this girl and..."

Yu let Kanji stumble and talk in circles for a bit until he got the basic gist of it. "Talk to Naoto more when we're together in a group. Then we can focus on one on one time alright." Kanji attempted frantically to deny Yu's accusation before sighing. "It's really that obvious huh?" Yu nodded. "Yep. Another tip is to try and imagine her in her underwear." He laughed at the tomato that Kanji's head became before snapping his fingers. "Oh wait, that's for crowds. Sorry man." But it seemed as though the boy was out of commission for the next hour or so. Yu chuckled to himself. He probably wasn't the best person to ask for advice on a normal relationship anyway.

.......................................................................................................................................

Just when Yu and his friends thought they could close the book on the string of murders and kidnappings that had plagued Inaba, new developments pulled them right back in. The group was looking around Junes’s winter section for a new kotatsu to surprise Nanako with as well as discussing throwing a party for her once she was released from the hospital. Yu was also trying his best to help Kanji work up the courage to talk to Naoto, but his posturing and the fact he was almost yelling as he nervously stuttered out his attempts at conversation made him come off as scary and threatening more than anything else. He had a long way to go. "Maybe this party will be a perfect opportunity to help him relax and make him less jumpy around her," Yu thought to himself. He also needed to have a talk with Yukiko. If he didn’t know any better, by the way she was acting, it looked like she was trying to get Rise and Kanji together for some bizarre reason.

That’s when Yu’s phone rang. Nanako’s condition had taken a turn for the worst. Although, Adachi had told him over the phone to be calm, the run over to the hospital was anything but. On the way to Nanako’s room, they passed by multiple people panicking about the “toxic” fog that had gripped the town. It was just like the fog in the TV world and although Yu had tried to keep a level head about it, he found himself wondering more than once about whether Yukiko should be breathing it in.

When they first arrived, Nanako was asleep in her hospital bed. Although unconscious, everyone could tell how much pain she was in just be looking at her face. Even in his banged-up state, Dojima was trashing about, pleading with the doctors to save his little girl.

The doctors, unfortunately, didn’t know what they were dealing with and it wasn’t even an hour after that before Nanako passed away. Yu even held her scared, frightened hand as she did so. Dojima in a rage, headed straight for Namatame’s room. If what Adachi said was true, Namatame had a good chance of being let go due to lack of evidence.

The officers guarding the door taking an injured Dojima away gave the Investigation Team the chance to slip into Namatame’s room. A nearby open window made it look like he was attempting to escape, setting the already distraught team off. The anger the team felt for this one man was further strengthened when his shadow appeared on TV and proclaimed that he would continue to “save people.” That’s when the conversation on what to do about Namatame took a more ominous tone.

“No way I’m going to walk out of here doing nothing,” Yosuke declared. To Yosuke, this man was not only responsible for Nanako’s death, but Saki Konishi as well. His hate filled gaze could have burned a hole right through Namatame’s skull. Kanji was equally as pissed off and would have jumped the cowering man if he was given the go ahead. Then to everyone’s surprise Naoto stepped to the nearby TV and gave her own solution to the Namatame problem.

“...Although once he enters…he may find there’s no way out.”

Throw him into the TV, just like he did to his victims. A fitting punishment. It would mean almost certain death for the despicable man. Everyone in the room was waiting with bated breath to hear Yu’s thoughts on the matter. He would be lying if he said he didn’t consider it. Even though he had been living at the Dojima’s for such a relatively short amount of time, he had come to consider Nanako his little sister and to her, he was her “big bro.” The thought that Namatame, her killer, would go free made him sick to his stomach. Not only that, earlier he had tried to do the same to Yukiko…

Just before deciding on Namatame’s fate, his thoughts turned to the man's attempted third victim. Yukiko was almost in tears, still overcome with emotion for Nanako, and scared not knowing what was about to happen next. Slowly, Yu’s eyes wandered down to her stomach. It still looked as flat and trim as ever, but he knew that her body was already hard at work and soon her middle would swell with new life, his child.

His hand shook. If they did this, they would be just like Namatame. Could he really hold his future son or daughter with hands stained in blood? That moment of hesitation helped clear his mind of all his anger and frustration for Nanako, and that’s when he realized there was still a lot about all this they still didn’t know. They were so close to the truth and they couldn’t throw it all away now. Yosuke was less then pleased to hear his answers, but a rare instance of Yu raising his voice got everyone thinking straight again. They decided to let Namatame go.

It was almost like a greater entity rewarded the team for their decision because by a miracle, Nanako revived. It was such a relief to everyone, there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Later, Nanako began her slow road to recovery, and the team was able to speak with Namatame. As it turns out he was being manipulated by the true culprit and murderer of Saki and Yamano. Ironically because of their actions, Namatame believed he actually had saved Yukiko, Kanji, Rise, and Naoto by putting them in the TV.

It wasn’t long after that Yu was able to finger Tohru Adachi as the man they had been chasing all this time. This was all just a sick game to him. The team all agreed to go after him as soon as possible.Chasing him into the TV world, they were able to stop Adachi, defeat the entity responsible for the fog suffocating both Teddie’s world and theirs, and put the town of Inaba’s fears to rest once and for all.

With the case closed for real this time, Yu vowed to focus all his attention on his girlfriend and their child. With all the events happening around them, they didn’t really have time to talk since Yu had first found out about the pregnancy. In addition, to his shame, he had missed out on doing something for Yukiko’s birthday. He was going to make it up to her. With Christmas Eve fast approaching, he promised he was going to make sure it was one she would never forget. For most men, what he planned on doing would be one of the most nerve-wracking events of their lives, but after all he had seen and been through he was strangely calm. He knew what he wanted, he had nothing to fear.

The pair sat across the table from each other in Yu's room. The blush on Yukiko's face marred her otherwise perfectly pale skin. She looked a little tired but it was a tiredness born from her changing body. Whenever she'd feel a little nauseous or a little sleepy, she'd remember what it was all for and perk up. Yu had assured her that the first trimester was the worst and hardest to get through and she hoped that was the case. Yukiko wasn't even feeling up to eating that delicious white cake sitting between them that Yu had prepared. They spent some more time gazing lovingly at each other before Yukiko spoke up. "My parents think I'm being overworked and gave me the rest of the week off to recuperate." She chuckled a bit. "They're being overprotective. I can work through a little dizziness." Her smile grew even bigger as she adjusted the present box sitting in her lap. "But I can't be too mad since it means I can spend today with you."

She thrust the present towards her boyfriend with a beaming expression. "Since you're going to be staying here, I don't have to worry about giving you a memento." Yukiko chuckled as she remembered her original gift idea of a leather keychain to remember her by. She knew he'd probably be happy with anything, but since such things were no longer needed, why not do something special?

Yu opened the box tentatively. Knowing Yukiko this would either be extremely sweet or extremely dangerous. Her eager nodding for him to open it finally overcame his slight nervousness and he wasn't disappointed. "Yukiko...did you make this yourself?" he asked turning the white apron over in his hands. Embroidered on the front was a simple sentence: "Love you so matcha." Yukiko couldn't hold in her giggling at the expression he made. "Isn't it hahah -snrk- wonderful? It's like a hahaha a joke and a hug everytime you put it on?" Yukiko proceeded to explain how he'd have to learn how to make that type of tea now that he'd be working at the inn.

"I put a little drawing of a tea cup on it because I wasn't sure if people would get it otherwise." Yu took a moment to admire just how much work must have went into this. Yukiko just giggled again. "You seem surprised. Kanji and I did have the same teacher you know." Yu remembered that most of his friends relatives all knew each other. "I wonder if any of them knew my mother when she was growing up here? I should ask sometime," he mused to himself.

"I'll wear it everyday. Thank you Yuki." She blushed again at his affectionate nickname. She still hadn't managed to find one she felt matched. "One day," she affirmed in her head. After a bit of talking, she was able to nibble on a bit of the cake. It was good. Really good in fact. Yu had outdone himself with this one. He probably spent just as much time on this as she had on her gift and she couldn't help but frown. "You spent so much effort on this, and I can't even finish a single slice. I'm sorry sweetie." Yu merely waved her off. "That bun in your oven is far better than anything I could make. Don't worry about it." Yukiko excitedly told him she was six weeks along now tomorrow.

"Well technically eight weeks but isn't that exciting?" Yu proclaimed that was absolutely wonderful. If his research was right, she'd start showing around February. The pair sat in silence again just gazing at each other. Like before, Yukiko was the one who broke it. "I was thinking about why I like you so much." Yu merely shrugged. "It can't be helped," which made her laugh happily. "You're so confidant." She remembered that night in Nametame's hospital room, everyone was shouting at each other, arguing and afraid. But in the center of that sea of chaos was Yu. He was able to bring the fractured group back together working towards a third option that no one else had even considered. Like a sturdy lighthouse illuminating the path to safety for a group of lost sailors.

It was like nothing made him happier than helping others and judging by the talk of the townsfolk that extended beyond just their little group as well. "I...love you." She brought a hand to her mouth in surprise, she hadn't meant to say it out loud. She had said it before of course but it was like she'd never realized just how much until just now. Yu met her eyes and stared back at Yukiko. "I love you too Yukiko," he said with complete sincerity wondering what had brought this on. Yukiko made her way over to where he was sitting and sat down next to him. She put both of her hands on his and looked at him excitedly. "I want to make you the happiest man on earth, Yu. I want to support you in everything you do like you do for everyone else." Yu ran his fingers over his pocket. Now was as good a time as any. "Yukiko, could you stand up for a second." She obliged with a perplexed expression but soon had difficulty holding back tears after Yu pulled out a box and got down on one knee.

"You said you wanted to make me the happiest man on earth right? Then, Yukiko Amagi w-"

"Yes!"

He hadn't even opened the box yet and he looked into her tear stained eyes confused. She looked sad. "Oh I'm sorry, I got too excited and ruined your proposal." She looked legitimately dejected and Yu couldn't help but laugh a little. He stood up and took one of her dainty hands. "Actually," he said as he slowly slipped the ring on to her finger "I think you made it even better." Yu was almost knocked to the floor from the force of her hug. She sobbed greatly into his chest and he returned the hug, gently stroking her long black hair. She looked up at him with big teary eyes but her smile was so great that it made his heart skip a beat. "You know -sniff- it's almost unfair."

"What?"

"That a girl should get to be this happy. When I'm with you, I feel like my heart is singing. And when I think about starting a family with you... it feels like its about to burst."

Yu had been smiling this whole time, so much so that it was starting to hurt. He knew she would say yes but this was, well it was almost enough to make him tear up. He knew he had friends and he knew Nanako loved him like a brother but hearing someone who wasn't family say such things, it was intoxicating. He looked down at her flat stomach and pulled her closer. "I was just thinking the same thing about the two of you." Yukiko let out a little gasp at that. Removing one hand from around Yu's neck, she brought it down to her belly. Slowly, she raised her head again and smiled. "It's too bad it's not official but in my heart I'm your wife and you're my husband."

She brought her hand to her mouth and gasped. "My husband...husband...hubby, that's it!" Yu was taken back by her sudden shout and she quickly explained. "You're my hubby, that's my nickname for you hubby!" She gave Yu a little poke on the nose as he stood by bewildered. "It's the best nickname because I'm the only one who gets to call you that in the whole world!" Yu's expression immediately returned to a smile upon hearing this. "Well if I'm going to be your husband, I'd better practice for the wedding." Yukiko didn't even have time to ask what he was talking about before he swept her off her feet and into his arms. Her happy giggles filled the air as he carried her all around the room. Not even two months ago, she would have stuttered at him to put her down, but what was there really to be embarrassed about? She flung her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply. When they broke off, she slowly walked her fingers across his chest. "I told my parents I was at Chie's. So that means you have me all to yourself." Her face turned a little red but she wasn't going to pretend she didn't want it. He tossed her onto the bed and was immediately on her. It had been far too long. She missed the caress of his hands along her soft calves and she missed feeling his shoulders between her fingers.

They lay basking in the afterglow. Yukiko admired her knew ring. "Yu, it's so big a-and pretty. Where did you get this?" It had a strange warmth emanating from it as well and the surface of the metal almost seemed to be, moving? In the center was a milky white pearl that complimented the gold wonderfully, it seemed to be moving too. "I had old man Daidara make it out of the remains of Shadows. I've asked for weirder things from him so he didn't even bat an eye." Yu ran his finger along the metal. "You see the spirits moving all restless? It's because I made it out of the ones you destroyed. They're restless" Yukiko giggled in delight. A symbol of their love forged with their crushed enemies? What more could a girl possibly want? "Yu, when's your birthday?" She hadn't realized until reveling in her happiness over her birthday Christmas that she didn't actually know. She felt a little bad but it wasn't something that couldn't be fixed. "April 10th," he answered smiling. "Thinking about a surprise already?" Yukiko cupped his face with her hand. "Next time, I'll be the one who sweeps you off your feet!" Her voice held a bit of competitive steel to it but Yu was fine with that. Just as long as he was the one carrying her over the threshold.

.......................................................................................................................................

Yukiko wanted so badly to wear her ring and show it off, but she knew she couldn’t, not yet anyway. That night she hid it under her pillow, waiting for the day where she could slip it on and then never have to take it off again. The next morning, on Christmas day, the team was had gathered around in the Junes food court. As they discussed the case and Adachi's fate, Yu got a call from Dojima. Although not officially discharged from the hospital, Nanako had recovered enough that the doctors were going to let her come home for the time being! That girl was such a trooper. It was enough to get Rise and Teddie crying all over again.

Chie slammed her fists on the table, “You know what that means right? We gotta have that party we talked about!” Yukiko shared her best friend’s enthusiasm, “We’re going to need a cake!” Yosuke froze in terror, “Wait don’t tell me you are all…” Rise cut him off, “We’re going to make one, duh.” Kanji interjected, “Uhh, do you really think that’s such a good idea? I mean, we don’t want to put Nanako back in the hospital, do we?”

The three lousy cooks took offense to that last statement and saying something like that about Nanako wasn’t appreciated either. “STUPID MORONJI!” Rise screamed. “It won’t be like those other times! We are a lot better than we were before, right?” Yukiko turned to Yu for conformation. Yu put on his best poker face. It was true Yukiko’s cooking had improved considerably. For one, her food was at least edible now, but even he had to agree with Yosuke when he said that baking a cake may still be out of all three of the girl’s league, especially since it was for Nanako. Not wanting to hurt her feelings, he gave her a quick nod. “To the grocery department!” Shouted Chie with vigor as she grabbed Naoto by the hand. “Wha-wait! I don’t know how to cook! I can’t back a cake!”

Despite her struggles, Naoto couldn’t break free of Chie’s grip. “Oh come on, we haven’t ever made one either, how hard could it be?” As the girls walked away, the three boys left sitting at the bench gave each other a worried glance while Teddie tried to think of a present for Nanako.

Nanako came home to a brand new kotatsu which she enjoyed immensely, but she felt a little downtrodden that she wasn’t able to go shopping with them. Everyone told her not to worry about it, her getting better was far more important. Everyone was surprised when the girls set down the large cake they had prepared. It looked amazing, but as the boys had learned before, looks could be deceiving. “Wait! NOOOOOOO!” Kanji screamed as Nanako took a bite before the others could test to see if it was safe. To everyone’s surprise the cake wasn’t pure poison at all. It was great even!

Although they girls tried to play it off, they were as shocked as everyone else. “Se-se-see! You guys were worried for nothing.” Yosuke still couldn’t believe it, “Nu-uh, no way you guys made this, this is store bought isn’t it?” And with that, Chie and Yosuke got into another one of their little bickering matches. While the two got at each other’s throats Kanji leaned over to Naoto. “Okay, tell me the truth, this was all your doing wasn’t it?”

“Oh? Oh no, I can’t take all the credit, it was a group effort.” Naoto said, pulling on a lock of her blue hair. “Hey, you don’t have to bullshit me. I’ve tasted their cooking before, there is no way they did this without your help.” Honestly all Naoto did was follow the directions in the cook book, but what Kanji said was true. This had been their third attempt, the first one Chie added almost three times the amount of sugar she was supposed to which wouldn’t have mattered since Rise had added some cayenne pepper to give it an extra kick.

Yukiko seemed to love to experiment, and ruined the second cake by adding liver “for extra vitamin A.” Why she thought a cake needed that was beyond her. It wasn’t until Naoto took over that they were able to make the cake in front of them now.

“I swear those girls could screw up a bowl of oatmeal," proclaimed Kanji. Then the unexpected happened, Naoto let out a rather girlish giggle. She thought it was wrong to laugh at her friend’s expense, but she couldn’t help it. She quickly cleared her throat and pulled her hat down over her face, “Excuse me.” With her face covered, Naoto couldn’t see that Kanji had started to blush. Talking to her like she was anyone else in the group made it easy for Kanji, but like her laugh just now, she would sometimes do something to remind Kanji of just how cute she was, and he couldn’t help it.

As the party resumed, Chie spoke up. “Hey Yukiko, your giving you stomach an awful lot of attention, you’re not still feeling sick are you?” Yukiko couldn’t help it, occasionally she would put her hand on her middle and take a quick look, reminding herself of the life growing inside of her. Nanako gave Yukiko a concerned look. “You’re not feeling good?” Not wanting to worry Nanako, Yukiko thought of a different explanation. “I’m fine, I was just thinking about how many calories are in this cake, don’t want to put on too much winter weight right?”

Fear wormed its way into Yukiko’s head. Pretty soon she would start packing on the pounds. It was all a part of the pregnant experience. In addition to a bulging belly, her thighs would begin to thicken, her already wide hips would flare out even more, her butt would grow softer and rounder… there was even a chance her face would get puffier. Her only solace would be that her chest would get bigger as well. If it was for the baby, she was fine with gaining a bit of weight, she just wasn’t sure what Yu would think of her at that size.

Yukiko’s thoughts were interrupted when Dojima started speaking. “You know, it will be spring pretty soon.” Nanako started playing with the scraps of cake on her plate, “and then your going to leave aren’t you?” Everyone grew a solemn expression as they expressed their thoughts on Yu leaving. Yu and Yukiko had to try their hardest not to crack a smile, as they would learn soon enough, he wasn’t going anywhere.

“We’ll just have to make the most of it while your still here,” Yosuke said with a reassuring pat. “Just don’t do anything stupid, my sister would kill me if you got into trouble…” Dojima reminded the silver haired boy. Yu started to sweat a bit, “too late,” he thought.

Luckily the party was very tiring for Nanako and Dojima, who went to bed, allowing Yukiko and Yu some alone time. Yu and Yukiko were glad they were feeling better, but they couldn’t help but feel a bit of disappointment that they were going to have a harder time doing what they have been the last couple of weeks. Dojima had given Yu a Santa outfit that was supposed to be for festival at the police station. He put it on, knowing Yukiko would get a kick out of it. “-snrk- HAHAHAH, you should have worn that during the party! I’m sure Nanako would have loved it, “Big Bro!” Yu sat down next to her and wrapped his arm around Yukiko’s waist. “You know, if I’m Nanako’s “Big Bro,” that means you’re her “Big Sis” now.” Yukiko hadn’t made that connection before. She buried her face in her man’s shoulder, “I’ve always wanted a little sister! I promise to be the best big sister I can!” Yu started to drum his fingers on the side of Yukiko’s middle. “And that means Nanako is going to be this one’s aunt.”

“Yu…” Yukiko said in a soft voice, “Umm…when I start to get…er…bigger…will you still find me attractive?” Yu couldn’t believe what he was hearing, “What kind of question is that, of course I will.”

“Even if I get as big as Hanako?” Yukiko's grip on Yu's chest grew tighter.

Yu couldn’t help but laugh. Lifting her up he placed her on his lap and looked her straight in the eyes. “There is nothing you could do that would make me think any less of you. If you think a little weight would help you get rid of me your sorely mistaken. You could become twice Hanako’s size and it still wouldn't matter. I love you, Yukiko Amagi, always.”

Yukiko thought her heart would burst.No matter how many times she heard those words, it always felt like the first time he said them.

feeling a bit better, she gave the tip of Yu's nose a small poke and waved her finger, “Well, I know I’m going to be plumping up, but I don’t plan to get THAT big, sorry if that disappoints you.” As they kissed Yu couldn’t help but give Yukiko’s butt a quick squeeze. An extra inch or two wouldn't be that bad…

Yukiko purred happily at his squeeze. "Don't get so frisky," she hissed at him but there was no anger in her voice. "Nanako and Dojima are here." Yu nipped at her ear a little bit. "You should stop being so cute then." Yukiko fell into another laughing fit as his ridiculous beard tickled her ear lobe. She took her time to settle down but Yu didn't mind. He had never minded. She pouted and stroked her finger up and down his big red coat. "I can't wait until we're married. Then we can make love any time we want." She blushed a bit but was still smiling. Was there really anything wrong with saying you were attracted to the one you love? It was really no different from holding hands in principle and it felt really really good. She looked so happy just basking in his warmth that Yu realized something. He didn't want to see her adorable face scrunched up with worry like it had been just a few moments ago.

"You know, a little weight would actually be a good thing if you think about it."

Yukiko looked at him curiously. "It just means you're doing a good job providing for the baby," Yu continued. "I think it's wonderful." He gave her belly a nice pat. "Plus, it's your only real chance to cut loose." Yukiko let out a little gasp and Yu just chuckled. "C'mon Yukiko. I see the way you look at the steak skewers when we pass by Souzai Daigaku. I know you want one." He let out a big "hohoho" when Yukiko's tummy began to grumble a bit. "That does sound nice," she finally admitted. She began to pat her hands down the length of her hips. "When you put it like that, it makes me want to start eating some ice cream right now." Yukiko giggled but her expression quickly became more thoughtful, yet still happy.

"You're just giving the baby what they need to be nice and healthy." Yukiko nodded and raised her face up again. She thought of her little pride and joy growing big and strong from her efforts and came to her conclusion.

"If being a mama means getting a little softer, then I'll just have to deal with it." Her stomach grumbled and she thought longingly about the nearby cake downstairs. "Sweetie, could you get me a piece of that cake downstairs? The baby's getting antsy." She was surprised at the speed at which Yu moved but was joyed at how eager he was to dote on her. She could certainly get used to that. He was back before she even had time to continue that thought and giggled as he let out a quiet "Merry Christmas." Yukiko cooed as he popped a forkful of the cake into her mouth. "D-do that again," she requested after swallowing the first forkful. Slowly, the entire slice ended up resting in her belly fed to her in bite after loving bite by her wonderful fiance. Her belly had a pleasant warm feeling that she wasn't quite familiar with. Is this what it meant to be full?

She leaned her head back and imagined each fluffy bite working towards nourishing her baby and let out a deep content sigh. Yu placed a hand on her tummy and began to rub. "It helps digestion," he explained. "We want them to get it as fast as possible right?" He didn't know if that was true or not but Yukiko seemed ecstatic by the idea. Feeling Yu slowly run his hand along her slightly pushed out stomach made it easy to imagine him doing the same when he was further along. She'd be even warmer too Yukiko imagined. People might snicker at the...extra padding she would get, but once they saw how hard she was trying to be a good mother, surely they'd understand. "Isn't this relaxing Yukiko? I'll make you feel this way all the time. It's good for the baby, and for you." Yukiko let out a squeal and gave him a big smooch. "Oh you're such a charmer." Slowly she started to lower his trousers and licked her lips. "I think Santa deserves a little presen-snrk- hahaha. I'm sorry I'm sorry I just can't say that with a straight face. And that beard pfhahaha" But she composed herself eventually. "Merry Christmas darling"

.......................................................................................................................................

Yukiko changed out of her kimono and into a more appropriate winter outfit. After all, what kind of customer came in wearing a kimono? She idly munched on a bag of jerky that Chie had given her the other day. Her friend had been quite surprised at the sudden request but quickly bounced on her feet in joy. "Finally coming around to my world huh? If you ever need good meat, you know who to call." Yukiko would certainly take her up on that. Sure she had partaken in beef bowls before, but this was a chance to finally partake in all the unique flavors and tastes she had missed out on. Plus, maybe it would help her become a better cook in the process. But most importantly, it was for the baby. She brought down a hand to her lower abdomen and rubbed it as her thoughts turned to her little bun in the oven. This time was different though. There, right under her hand was a little bump.

She removed her hand and let out a happy cry. She ran her hand along the now not entirely concave surface over and over again. The one downside to getting pregnant so early was that it would take a little to show. She and Yu had excitedly looked up pictures of what she might look like week by week and she remembered the disappointment they both felt had how long they'd have to wait for a proper baby bump. But none of that mattered now. It was finally here and she couldn't wait to show him.

A knock interrupted her thoughts as one of the servants asked if she was alright through the closed door. "I heard you shout. Are you okay Ms. Yukiko?" The girl quickly assured her that she was just excited for the upcoming day ahead which seemed to do the trick. Yukiko turned back to the mirror and felt a strange sensation on her chest. Like an extra sway and jiggle that hadn't been there before. She experimentally lifted one breast in her hand and marveled at the extra heft it now carried. She honestly hadn't noticed thanks to the comfy stretchy maternity bras provided by her lovely hubby.

Her body was changing before her very eyes, becoming more appropriate for a proper mother to be. She slowly slipped on a skirt but winced a bit when she realized it was getting a bit snug around the waist band. Nothing serious, just a little tightness that wasn't there before. The slight bulge was even slightly visible against her regular shirt, like she had a bit too much to eat. Yukiko looked at the slight swell and realized she still felt a little peckish. She placed another piece of the jerky in her mouth and began rubbing small circles over her stomach.

"Are you hungry? Don't worry, momma's going to get you everything you need." She felt her face grow hot as she realized what she had just done. But it made her feel happy. Like the baby was actually in her arms. It was really coming and that was enough to make her almost start weeping. Quickly looking around to make sure nobody was there, she spoke a little more. "You want some breakfast? Let's go get some breakfast."

It was weird to have her parents bowing so deeply to her. But today was very special. The Inn was closed today for what her parents called Customer Day. Yukiko's job today was to rate the inn from a customer's perspective, a task she used to never sign up for. But now, well such things were quite important to her. She was only supposed to look at it from a customer's perspective, but she couldn't help but look at the inn from a mother's perspective as well. Would the guests mind having a small child underfoot? She hoped not, they certainly seemed to be fond of her when she was a little girl but that was most likely because she was so quiet. The service was excellent, it was neither negligent nor overly attentive. Yukiko ate a little more than usual but it was no cause for concern. Really, her eating hadn't increased all that much. It was just a few extra bites here and there. School prevented her from doing much more than breakfast, but she hoped to give the inn a proper review someday

The gathered staff of the inn all waited with bated breath for the verdict of their young mistress. Their stony faces turned into smiles as her review rolled in. She bowed deeply. "Thank you very much for your continued service." They returned her bow with equal enthusiasm. Such truly wonderful staff who gave this place its signature atmosphere deserved nothing but praise in Yukiko's eyes. She looked to her parents and they both nodded with approval. She mixed and mingled with the assorted attendants and chefs giggling at their jokes and giving extra feedback when asked. Suddenly, she felt a hand clasp around her shoulder. "You've been looking much livelier recently. I guess that week off paid off huh?" She turned around to see her father giving her a big goofy grin with her mother close behind. "It is nice to see you well again." Her smile was more subdued, but it was still there. Several of the staff overheard this and mentioned what a joy Yukiko was to have around. "You're so much happier now."

Yukiko grimaced a bit. It was time to come clean she felt. "Everyone, I have...a bit of a confession to make." The room suddenly fell quiet as everyone turned their attention towards her. They looked at her with genuine concern. She took a deep breath and continued. "There was a period of time where I did not want to inherit the Amagi Inn. In fact, I even contemplated running away. Not just from the inn, but from Inaba." She bowed deeply once again. "I can assure you I no longer think such things but I want you to know I'm very sorry." A low chuckling made her raise her head and soon it morphed into uproarious laughter, even her parents were laughing at her. Yukiko stamped her foot in frustration. "You guys, this is serious," but Kasai came forward and explained through her laughter. "You hahaha had us worried there for a minute. We hehe sorry. We all knew that already Yukiko." The young heiress gasped in shock. "You actually knew!?"

Her father winced a bit. "You don't have to say it like that. Of course we knew, you're our daughter." Her mother placed a hand on her other shoulder. "Did you really think you were the first Amagi to get cold feet? I felt the same way when I was your age and I imagine my mother did too. But I'm happy you changed your mind." Yukiko looked around the room and everyone's smiles confirmed this to be the case. Her mother looked a bit pensive. "I thought it was just a phase, I should have talked to you about it." But the girl shook her head. "No it was something I needed to realize on my own." She felt a little silly. This entire time she felt like she had to keep her problems a secret, but they were never a secret to begin with. "Everyone..."

Her father interrupted her. "Come on girls. Let's get a big hug." And he pulled his wife and daughter into a tight embrace. Yukiko laughed happily and her mother rolled her eyes, but even she eventually returned the hug. A few collective snickers and "awwws" caught Mr. Amagi's attention. "What are you still standing around for!? Get back to work!" And the spectators quickly scattered. Eventually the time came for Yukiko to head off to school and she happily waved to her parents. When she was out of sight, her father turned to his wife. "If she had decided to leave Inaba, what would we have done?" Mrs. Amagi looked at him like he'd asked the dumbest question in the world. "We would have let her spread her wings of course. Isn't it obvious?" He rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "Yeah, I suppose it is." She let out a bit of a cough and he quickly grew serious. "You shouldn't be out here without a coat on dear, it's freezing." She gave out a small protest as he dragged her inside but was secretly gladdened by how much he cared. Now if only he could be a little less oblivious when it came to that other issue. Yukina had her suspicions but she didn't want to confront her daughter until she was certain.

.......................................................................................................................................

"It was so embarrassing. Going home is going to be awkward, they'll tease me so much." She sat next to Yu on the bench where they had first connected on that rainy April so long ago. But today, the sun was shining brightly as the snow fell to the earth, it made Yu feel peaceful. Despite her complaints, Yukiko had a wry smile on her face. "They're such wonderful people," she said aloud. "They'd have to be." Yukiko looked at Yu strangely. "They raised you after all." She blushed, but she didn't stop smiling. As fun as it was to make people flustered, Yu had to admit he preferred this Yukiko. "I can't deserve all this. All this love and kindness from everyone. One person shouldn't get to be this happy." She slowly stood up and faced Yu. "That's why I'm going to become a person worthy of all this love. And then I'm going to give it back." She felt a strange familiar pulse throughout her body. A blue landscape flashed through her mind and she surged with newfound power. "My Persona...I guess that means I really have changed." Yu stood up and walked to her side. Her smile grew even bigger as she turned to face him from looking up into the sky.

"I guess I don't need to ask you to stay by my side, huh?" Yu simply nodded and pulled her close. "Of course I will." They stood there for a bit until Yukiko broke off. She glanced around the area making absolutely sure no one was around and lifted up her shirt. "Yu...look." It took a second but he finally saw the wonderful surprise she had for him. "It's beautiful," he managed to whisper out. She nodded in agreement. "D-do you want to touch it?" Yu nodded and moved forward almost in a trance. He removed his glove and placed a hand on her small bump. It was freezing but somehow the two of them felt warm anyway. "Do you feel that," Yukiko spoke to her stomach, "that's your father." Yu glanced up at her.

"Are you...talking to the baby?"

She nodded sheepishly but Yu just grinned. "Hey little guy. My name's Yu."

Yukiko's happy snicker hid her relief a little bit. "I thought you would think I was weird."

"Nope. I think it's great. Just as long as you don't think I'm weird for wanting to do this." He knelt down and gave her bump a little smooch. Her face looked hot enough to melt the snow but she couldn't hide her smile. "N-not at all. P-please feel free to do that again. Only...in private."

"We are in private," Yu pointed out. His fiance looked around again to make absolutely sure before laying down in the snow. Yu quickly followed and she rolled on top of him. "I feel so energetic lately," she said before giving him a big smooch. "It makes me want to roll around in the snow like a little kid!" Yu flipped her over and returned her kiss. "Sounds like a plan."

Before anyone saw the two lovers fooling around together in the snow, Yukiko and Yu got to their feet and brushed themselves off. “Oh! Speaking of which. I got a new outfit for the trip, I’m so excited!” Earlier in the month the team had made plans to take a trip to a nearby ski resort in the mountains. It was sort of meant to be a sendoff for Yu, a last bit of fun before he had to leave. He felt bad his other friends still believed he was leaving, but he couldn’t reveal he was staying yet. Besides, who would turn down a ski trip?

Yukiko’s excitement showed, hopping up in down in place, but she soon realized her mistake. Her dizziness and mourning sickness may have subsided, but her breasts were still as sensitive as ever, and their slightly increased weight crashing down made her gasp. Yu couldn’t help but chuckle, she was the picture-perfect image of the “giddy schoolgirl.”

“I never thought I’d hear you excited about something like your outfit. I thought that stuff didn’t matter to you?” It was true, her fashion was never really something Yukiko worried about. She didn’t need to, she always looked her best without really trying. It was probably one of the reasons she got so many love confessions. They had gotten more frequent recently, something Yu attributed to her increased chest size. It may have been a minor, but to a high school boy she may as well have been wearing a neon sign. As always, Yukiko turned every one of them down without even realizing there had been a confession until pointed out after the fact. It didn't matter even if she had known, she would have still turned it down, her heart had been claimed long ago.

Yukiko became more demure, “Well, I never had someone who I wanted to look my best for…” Yu shook his head, “Your so silly sometimes, has their ever been a time where you weren't beautiful?” They embraced each other once more, another pulse of warmth radiating throughout their bodies.

.......................................................................................................................................

It wasn’t long before the day of the trip arrived. The group dropped their things off at the cabin and hit the slopes right away. Unlike the rest of the group, Chie and Yosuke opted for snowboards, and broke off from the main group. To Yukiko’s disappointment, Rise clung close to Yu their entire first day of skiing. With Rise still being a novice and Yukiko’s “condition,” it meant they stuck to the easy trails.

Rise threw her arms around Yu once they got to the bottom of the hill. “I did it senpai! And I didn’t even fall over once! All thanks to my fantastic teacher.” Yu’s uncomfortableness was almost palpable. He shot a quick glance to Yukiko and showed her his hands as to say, “Look! I’m not doing anything!”

Yukiko wasn’t angry in the slightest. She knew how handsy Rise could be, and she didn’t hold any secrets when it came to her affection for Yu. Yukiko almost felt bad for the girl. Little did she know, her “senpai” had become forever out of her reach, even if it hadn’t been for the little bundle of joy taking shape inside her. She never stood a chance. Yu almost had to beat Rise off with one of his ski poles, causing Yukiko to laugh at his struggle.

“It’s a lot harder than it looks you know…”

Yukiko turned to the bluenette a few feet away who had mistakenly thought her laugh was directed at her. Naoto was having a difficult time just learning to stand on her ski’s, her legs shaking like they were made of gelatin. Skiing just didn’t seem to be her thing, even the group of children nearby were picking it up faster than her. Kanji was doing his best to try and teach her, but he lacked the finesse of a professional instructor. “Your stance is too narrow! Come on, you’ll hurt yourself if you try going down a hill like that!”

“Hill!?!?” Naoto shouted in suprise, losing her balance and falling on top of her instructor. Naoto realizing what she had done, grew red and desperately tried to stand up, the ski’s still attached to her feet making it more difficult. “I-I’m so-sorry!”

Rise noticing the commotion going on as the two tried to stand back up, gave Kanji some teasing words of encouragement, “WAY TO GO KANJI! YOU CAN DO IT!”

Teddie, who decided to wear his bear costume approached the group.

“Yuki-chan,! You. Me. Race. Now! If I win you have to go on a date with me.”

Any other time, she would have taken Teddie up on his challenge. She loved the feeling of the alpine air whipping through her hair, going down hill at breakneck speed. She could be a real speed demon sometime!. But, feeling the tiny bump under her jacket, she knew she couldn’t. She had someone else’s safety to think about. She was fine just taking it easy. “Sorry Teddie, I think I did something funny to my ankle earlier, I think I’m going to take things slow.” Yukiko’s expression got serious for a second, “And don’t call me Yuki! It just sound wrong when YOU say it.”

Before the others could ask what Yukiko meant, Yu suggested they all make way for the chair lift for another trip up the mountain. “What!?!? NO! I can still barely stand, and that lift looks so high!” said Naoto as Kanji led her to the lift with the rest of the group. “You’ll be fine. You just need some experience, trial by fire and all that.”’

After spending the entire day on the mountain, the Investigation team relaxed in their cabin.

“Geez Yukiko, that’s your fourth cup already! Weren’t you saying something to Nanako about watching your weight?” asked Chie.

Yukiko placed her mug down on the table and gave her friend a confused look, her upper lip stained with the distinct residue of hot coco. “I thought cozying up and drinking hot coco was what you are supposed to do on a winter's night like this?” A nice explanation, but Yu knew the real reason why she was drinking so much by the way Yukiko was lazily rubbing her little tummy swell.

“I guess but…” The other girls couldn’t find a fault with her logic, and a cup of hot coco on a cold night sounded very alluring. “You know… we did do a lot of skiing today,” reasoned Rise, “I guess it wouldn’t hurt…” “Yeah…” Chie agreed, “We must have burned a lot of calories this afternoon.” With that the girls went into a frenzy.

“I want whipped crème with mine!”

“Shaved chocolate would go great with that!”

“Do we have any of those cute little marshmallows?"

The boys were horrified at the girl’s sudden voracity. “Geez, little excuse was all it took for them to start to pig out,” Yosuke said as he slapped his hand against his forehead. “What was that Yosuke! You did NOT just call us pigs!” Chie screamed. “You’re the ones eating all the snacks and drinking all the hot chocolate!” He shot back.

Kanji interrupted their little spat. “Can you guys keep your yapping down. we don’t want…HEY! WHO TOOK THE ANIMAL CRACKERS I WAS SAVING?”

Kanji zeroed in on his box of crackers being passed between Rise and Yukiko. “Shorwy Kamji,” Rise said before swallowing a mouthful of crackers. “They go really well with the hot chocolate.” “THOSE WERE MY CRACKERS! I STILL HAVEN’T FOUND THE PENGUIN YET!”

“Penguin?” Yukiko said as she stuffed another cracker into her mouth without looking to see which animal it was.

Yukiko placed her mug down on the table and gave her friend a confused look, her upper lip stained with the distinct residue of hot coco. “I thought cozying up and drinking hot coco was what you are supposed to do on a winter's night like this?” A nice explanation, but Yu knew the real reason why she was drinking so much by the way Yukiko was lazily rubbing her little tummy swell.

“I guess but…” The other girls couldn’t find a fault with her logic, and a cup of hot coco on a cold night sounded very alluring. “You know… we did do a lot of skiing today,” reasoned Rise, “I guess it wouldn’t hurt…” “Yeah…” Chie agreed, “We must have burned a lot of calories this afternoon.” With that the girls went into a frenzy.

“I want whipped crème with mine!”

“Shaved chocolate would go great with that!”

“Do we have any of those cute little marshmallows?"

The boys were horrified at the girl’s sudden voracity. “Geez, little excuse was all it took for them to start to pig out,” Yosuke said as he slapped his hand against his forehead. “What was that Yosuke! You did NOT just call us pigs!” Chie screamed. “You’re the ones eating all the snacks and drinking all the hot chocolate!” He shot back.

Kanji interrupted their little spat. “Can you guys keep your yapping down. we don’t want…HEY! WHO TOOK THE ANIMAL CRACKERS I WAS SAVING?”

Kanji zeroed in on his box of crackers being passed between Rise and Yukiko. “Shorwy Kamji,” Rise said before swallowing a mouthful of crackers. “They go really well with the hot chocolate.” “THOSE WERE MY CRACKERS! I STILL HAVEN’T FOUND THE PENGUIN YET!”

“Penguin?” Yukiko said as she stuffed another cracker into her mouth without looking to see which animal it was.Yukiko placed her mug down on the table and gave her friend a confused look, her upper lip stained with the distinct residue of hot coco. “I thought cozying up and drinking hot coco was what you are supposed to do on a winter's night like this?” A nice explanation, but Yu knew the real reason why she was drinking so much by the way Yukiko was lazily rubbing her little tummy swell.

“I guess but…” The other girls couldn’t find a fault with her logic, and a cup of hot coco on a cold night sounded very alluring. “You know… we did do a lot of skiing today,” reasoned Rise, “I guess it wouldn’t hurt…” “Yeah…” Chie agreed, “We must have burned a lot of calories this afternoon.” With that the girls went into a frenzy.

“I want whipped crème with mine!”

“Shaved chocolate would go great with that!”

“Do we have any of those cute little marshmallows?"

The boys were horrified at the girl’s sudden voracity. “Geez, little excuse was all it took for them to start to pig out,” Yosuke said as he slapped his hand against his forehead. “What was that Yosuke! You did NOT just call us pigs!” Chie screamed. “You’re the ones eating all the snacks and drinking all the hot chocolate!” He shot back.

Kanji interrupted their little spat. “Can you guys keep your yapping down. we don’t want…HEY! WHO TOOK THE ANIMAL CRACKERS I WAS SAVING?”

Kanji zeroed in on his box of crackers being passed between Rise and Yukiko. “Shorwy Kamji,” Rise said before swallowing a mouthful of crackers. “They go really well with the hot chocolate.” “THOSE WERE MY CRACKERS! I STILL HAVEN’T FOUND THE PENGUIN YET!”

“Penguin?” Yukiko said as she stuffed another cracker into her mouth without looking to see which animal it was.

Yukiko placed her mug down on the table and gave her friend a confused look, her upper lip stained with the distinct residue of hot coco. “I thought cozying up and drinking hot coco was what you are supposed to do on a winter's night like this?” A nice explanation, but Yu knew the real reason why she was drinking so much by the way Yukiko was lazily rubbing her little tummy swell.

“I guess but…” The other girls couldn’t find a fault with her logic, and a cup of hot coco on a cold night sounded very alluring. “You know… we did do a lot of skiing today,” reasoned Rise, “I guess it wouldn’t hurt…” “Yeah…” Chie agreed, “We must have burned a lot of calories this afternoon.” With that the girls went into a frenzy.

“I want whipped crème with mine!”

“Shaved chocolate would go great with that!”

“Do we have any of those cute little marshmallows?"

The boys were horrified at the girl’s sudden voracity. “Geez, little excuse was all it took for them to start to pig out,” Yosuke said as he slapped his hand against his forehead. “What was that Yosuke! You did NOT just call us pigs!” Chie screamed. “You’re the ones eating all the snacks and drinking all the hot chocolate!” He shot back.

Kanji interrupted their little spat. “Can you guys keep your yapping down. we don’t want…HEY! WHO TOOK THE ANIMAL CRACKERS I WAS SAVING?”

Kanji zeroed in on his box of crackers being passed between Rise and Yukiko. “Shorwy Kamji,” Rise said before swallowing a mouthful of crackers. “They go really well with the hot chocolate.” “THOSE WERE MY CRACKERS! I STILL HAVEN’T FOUND THE PENGUIN YET!”

“Penguin?” Yukiko said as she stuffed another cracker into her mouth without looking to see which animal it was.

“YES! THE SECRET ANIMAL!” Kanji thought his head would explode, this conversation was very reminiscent of one he had during the camping trip. Kanji was so focused on the two girls across from him, he didn’t notice the blue haired girl next to him trying to use her hat to hide the fact she was munching on a few of his crackers as well.

After all the snacks had been devoured. The group tried to think of a way to pass the time.

“Why don’t we do what people usually do when they get together at night?” Suggested Kanji. Without missing a beat, Yukiko shouted “Tell ghost stories!” The other girls were less than enthused at Yukiko’s suggestion but knowing how much Yukiko enjoyed anything “spooky,” Yu agreed. Naoto tried to look “cool” and “mature,” but even Kanji could tell Naoto was getting more and more nervous by all creepy things that Yukiko claimed happened at the Inn. Taking a big gulp Kanji took a chance, “Hey...uh...you know Naoto I...uuh...people say I can be pretty scary sometimes so I...uuh...feel free to...umm...I wouldn’t mind if you needed to grab my hand or something. To make you feel less afraid.” Naoto appreciated his concern but declined despite how clearly frightened she was getting. “Th-thanks! Bu-but I don’t think that wu-will not be needed!”

The room grew increasingly jumpier when, as Yu told his own story about a sinister looking man with a long nose, everyone heard a noise followed by the lights going out. They came back on moments later to reveal Rise and Chie griping each other tightly and shaking. Naoto had let fear get the best of her, and despite declining Kanji’s offer earlier, had forgone from grabbing his hand and leapt straight into his lap. Even Yu had gotten up out of his seat without realizing it, trying to move toward Yukiko to make sure she was okay. Standing in front of everyone was a familiar bear.

“Hoooooow daaaaare yooooou…” Teddie said in his best ghostly voice.

Safe to say, everyone wanted to give Teddy a hard smack on the head, except for Kanji for obvious reasons, and Yukiko, who was completely unaffected by everything and instead eagerly awaited the rest of Yu’s story.

.......................................................................................................................................

Safe to say, everyone wanted to give Teddy a hard smack on the head, except for Kanji for obvious reasons, and Yukiko, who was completely unaffected by everything and instead eagerly awaited the rest of Yu’s story.

Late that night, Yu heard a noise from the other room. Upon going to investigate, to his surprise, the source of the noise was Yukiko. The moon shown through the nearby sliding glass door, bathing her in a light that allowed Yu to catch a glimpse of her silhouette through her thin nightgown. The way the light reflected off her raven hair gave it an almost ethereal quality. She looked like and angel.

“I’m sorry! Did I wake you?” Yukiko said in a quiet whisper. Yu could hear one of the guys toss in their sleep, and motioned Yukiko to join him outside on the cabin’s patio so they could talk. Despite the clear night, a light snow slowly fell over the landscape. Everything was so quiet, peaceful.

“What are you doing up at this hour?” Yu asked. Yukiko put a hand on her little belly bump and blushed, “The baby wanted me to see if there was any more hot chocolate.”

“Oh, the baby told you it wanted some? I didn’t know it could talk.” Yu replied teasingly. Yukiko grinned, “The baby doesn’t have to tell me what it wants with words, we’re pretty close you see!” Both couldn’t help but laugh.

“Beautiful view isn’t it?” Yukiko said looking back out at the snowy hill. Yu never stopped looking at girl standing next to him, “Yes, it is.”

“You know, I saw some of the more expensive cabins have an outside jacuzzi. Doesn’t taking a dip in this weather sound amazing right now? Nights like this are my favorite time to take a bath in our spring back at the Inn.” Yukiko rested her head on Yu’s shoulder.

“Yeah, but even if our cabin had one I didn’t pack a bathing suit.”

Yukiko’s face grew red, “Well, if it’s just us, I don’t think you would need one...”

She couldn’t believe she said something so bold! Yu was almost as surprised as she was.

“I-I-can't-bel-“ Yukiko was interrupted by Yu planting a kiss right on her lips. Yu could feel one of Yukiko’s nipples poking through her gown and into his chest as they embraced, their hardness from the cold or arousal he couldn’t say.

Yukiko’s attention turned back to her belly bulge. "You know I wouldn’t mind coming back here someday, just the three of us as a family when this one is older." Then, Yu said something that caught her by complete surprise. Yu place a hand, lovingly on her stomach. “Just the three of us? By that time, don’t you think this one would have a little brother or sister or two?”

The heat given off by Yukiko could have melted all the snow within a 20-foot radius. Her parents only had one child, her, and she was so preoccupied with the baby growing inside her now, she never thought about having anymore children. Before she could reply, she heard the familiar voice of Chie.

“Yukiko, are you out there?”

Not wanting to get caught, Yu jumped over the deck railing and into a snow bank below.

“Yukiko what are you doing, it’s freezing!”

Sure, it was a bit chilly now that her man was no longer beside her, but she could only imagine what Yu was feeling right now buried in all that snow. Hopefully he didn’t catch a cold. She would have to make it up to him whenever she got the chance.

.......................................................................................................................................

The group's next day on the slopes was more of the same. Chie had gotten to the point where she wanted to try and do some tricks, and not wanting to be shown up by her, Yosuke did the same despite his better judgement. At one point, Naoto started to drift toward the advanced slope unable to stop when the group took their eyes off her, causing Kanji to have to try and save her. Yu knew Kanji was tough but going down the advanced slope backwards like he ended up doing after stopping Naoto did not look pleasant. Looking ahead, Yu could see some nasty looking clouds in the distance. As it would turn out, the night before was what was referred to as "the calm before the storm."

He and Yukiko had decided to stay out a bit longer than everyone else to get just a little more one and one time. That proved to be a mistake and potentially a fatal one. "Whatever you do, don't fall asleep!" Yu kept looking back to make absolutely sure Yukiko wasn't falling behind. Not only was she less conditioned than he was, but now she had an extra weight to contend with. "The snow looks like a futon to me. It looks soft." Her voice was sleepy and he could tell she was somewhat out of it. If he carried her on his back and shook her awake every so often, maybe...

"Yu, look!"

His sigh of relief was audible when he followed to where Yukiko was pointing. The cabin wasn't much, but it was shelter. Yu made sure to send a prayer to the gods when they found out it wasn't locked. Yu forced the door shut behind him and turned to face Yukiko. "Sorry. I should have been keeping track of where we were." Yukiko nodded. "Yes." Yu was taken aback by her directness but was relieved when he noticed her sympathetic smile. "But I should have too." They got a little fire going and sat warming themselves for a little while. Long enough for the blizzard to start dying down around them making it safe enough for concerned friends to start their search. Yu was still shivering a bit, but Yukiko was feeling oddly toasty. "This reminds me of the time I was trapped in the TV world. But this time, I know I just have to stay strong and trust in my friends."

"There's one more difference."

She felt a firm hand lay on top of her own and looked over at Yu. It was a little embarrassing being all alone with him, no one around for miles but she had to admit it was nice having him all to herself. The moment was interrupted when she had to remove her scarf and start fanning herself. "Whew. Why is it so warm in here all of a sudden?"

Yu glanced pointedly at her stomach. It was hidden under her heavy ski clothes but its appearance was clear as day to him anyway.

"T-the baby is keeping you warm. I'm h-happy that's not j-just an old wive's tale. H-helps me relax knowing you're safe." They both heard what sounded like a gasp followed by a loud "shhhhh." Guess the wind hadn't died down after all. Seeing Yu shivering like that was just too much for Yukiko. Immediately she embraced him in a big bear hug and he called out her name in surprise. "I don't know how much this helps, but please let me, no, let us warm you up." She could feel Yu's heart start beating faster at this. Good. Let him feel the love and comfort he gave to her. His shaking slowly stopped and she felt warmth spread throughout his body. "Us," Yu repeated aloud. Yukiko was trying her very hardest to send her warmth into him, her face scrunched up in concentration. "Yuki" She looked up at him with anticipation. His voice had grown serious and he was gazing at her intently. His heart was almost pounding out of his chest; she made sure to give him a gentle smile to let him know that no matter what it was, she'd be there.

"Yuki, I'm ready to be a family."

Tears began to well up in the corner's of her eyes but she held them back. She had been waiting for him to say those words for so long. "Me too. I'm so tired of sneaking around and holding back." Her smile warmed him more than the fire ever could. "I want everyone to see how much I love you." Yu smiled right back at her. He couldn't agree more.

"Tomorrow night? We'll tell our families?" He asked.

"Tomorrow night." Yukiko agreed. She nuzzled happily against his shoulder. This was really happening. They may be caught in a blizzard but she knew that everything would turn out just fine. "Can you imagine," she asked him. "We'll have our own little corner of the world where we can be like this every day. Just you and me and our child." He kissed the top of her head. "There's a name for that you know." She looked at him curiously. "What?"

"A home."

Home. The word sent a happy tingling throughout Yukiko's body. A home where she could be with both her families. She felt truly blessed to have been given such an opportunity, the opportunity to be together with everyone she held dear to her heart. A thought crossed her mind at that moment. Already she considered the child growing inside her to be one of those close to her. What if...what if she didn't have to stop at just one?

"Yu, um last night on the balcony...when you said we'd have a lot of kids...were you serious?"

Yu cupped her chin in his hand and gave her a deep kiss. She let out a little surprised squeak but quickly allowed herself to be lost in the feeling, closing her eyes and relaxing her breathing until their was nothing in the world except for the two of them. When they finally broke apart, Yu met her with a warm gentle smile. "Do you even have to ask? I'm willing to have as many as you want Yukiko. One, two, five it doesn't matter as long as we get to raise them together."

Yukiko gave out a gasp. "F-five? T-t-t-that's quite a lot." She gazed at her shoes red faced as her mind raced with the thought. Yu gave her shoulder an assuring squeeze making her meet his eyes again. "But that's a long time from now. Let's just...take it one at a time and see how we feel." His hands lowered to her covered swell and her flustered demeanor was slowly replaced by a calm contentment. "I'd like that." She placed her own hand on to his keeping it firmly in place.

"When you said that to me last night, that you wanted to have a big family together, it surprised me. But I want you to know it made me really happy to hear you say that." Yu responded by bringing her head on to his shoulder, one hand wrapped firmly around her waist and on the curve of her abdomen. She let out a coo and began to gently stroke his chest. It was like they had both forgotten they were trapped in a cabin, like they were just having a talk back at Yu's place.

"When that blizzard hit, I was kind of scared but you were completely calm. You really took charge. You're always so reliable." Yukiko's voice had taken on a bit of a lusty quality. Lately, she had been feeling a little more amorous when thoughts of her hubby entered her head. Exam week and the return of the Dojima family had kept them apart and she had no real outlet for the slowly building pressure. For Yu's part, the events of last night had given him quite an appreciation for his fiance's changing body. He could feel her pumped up breasts pressing against him and he knew they'd be just as erect as the night before. "The more reliable I am the less you worry and the less you worry the prettier you get." He easily hoisted her on to his lap so their faces were pressing quite close together and she was almost laying across his reclined chest. Yukiko continued to rub her hands across his shoulders and chest. "Mmmm no wonder Rise can't keep her hands off you. I feel bad for her though, she doesn't know this is all mine." She let out a yelp when she felt two firm hands clap around her soft bottom.

"Love the new outfit by the way. I've been wanting to do that all day." She surprised Yu by letting out a low moan. "I've been soooooo pent up recently hubby you have no idea." Yu had a bit of an idea. The cozy atmosphere of the cabin and their raging hormones had made the two normally responsible teens forget themselves. It was truly like they were on a romantic getaway. Besides, it was cold out and the other was so so warm, who could really blame them. The kisses started small and quick before rapidly becoming deep and hungry; a symptom of weeks without proper release. Just when Yu hooked his thumbs into the waistband of her pants, a TV suddenly flickered on with what sounded like snickering from the other end.

"Oh come on!" Yukiko shouted in frustration. Yu stood himself up. "Don't worry about it," he said indicating she should sit down while he investigated.

.......................................................................................................................................

"I-is this really the place for that?"

"Well okay. Just be careful."

Yosuke couldn't listen to another second of this. He was not about to listen to two of his best friends bang each other no matter how many more juicy details they might spill in the process. Rise, Chie and Teddie seemed to be in agreement and Yosuke took that as his cue to kick down the door.

"W-w-what're you guys doing?! I won't allow it!" His entrance was undercut somewhat by Teddie's horrible wordplay. "You can't just give 'inn' to your passions...eh eh. Although I guess you already have." Yukiko's mild embarrassment at almost getting caught was paltry compared to her relief. "Oh you guys came to rescue us." But the glares of her fellow team members quickly made her shrink into herself. "Why do I get the feeling that isn't the case?" Not only were they glaring, but everyone had hot blushes on their faces and couldn't quite meet Yu and Yukiko in the eyes. "They're still dressed!" Rise said with surprise and they seemed to be on different sides of the room too. Teddie was pouting a bit. "I wish Yuki-chan would call me hubby. Sensei, you'll have to tell me your secret someday." Everyone turned to glare at Teddie instead. He had just gone and given away the fact they had been listening in. "W-wait a minute, were you guys listening in the whole time!? Oh that's so mean!" Yukiko sounded so betrayed that it made the assorted members feel a bit guilty. Chie quickly tried to damage control.

"N-no we just got here, really! We didn't hear anything about a pregnancy!" Yukiko sighed with relief. "Oh thank goodness I was worried that...wait what did you just say?" Now everyone was looking away from each other. Yosuke was the one who broke the silence. "Wait, why do I feel guilty? You two have been hiding a pregnancy for months! A-and if that wasn't bad enough, you wandered off to...to go have sex! We were worried about you!"

"It's not like that!" Yukiko shouted.

Yu took this as his cue to step forward desperately trying to explain that they had gotten lost and this cabin was their only shelter. He hoped his expression would pull through and it seemed to help at least somewhat although some still seemed skeptical. "So there was a blizzard, you took shelter in this cabin and then things started 'heating up'?" When Rise put it like that, Yu had to admit it did seem pretty sketchy. "It was a matter of life or death! A-and besides, if we weren't lost why would we take shelter in this cabin in the middle of the woods?" Yu and Yukiko felt their faces growing redder and redder as Chie explained it was behind the lodge the whole time and none of the others had seen any sign of a blizzard. In fact, bright light was shining through the window right now as if the blizzard had never even happened. "And why would the TV even turn on? That whole case is over remember? And that still doesn't excuse you lying to us!"

"We didn't lie!" Yukiko shouted. "We just had our reasons to not tell you." Yu nodded and walked over to where Yukiko was. "If you want to be angry with us, that's fine. But at least hear us out." Just then, Chie stepped forward and placed her hand on a dejected Yukiko's shoulder. Taking a deep breath, she gave the rest of the group her brightest smile. "Yukiko isn't the type of person to lie for no reason. I trust her on both counts." Yukiko was truly touched. "Chie..." she began.

"We should at least investigate the TV at any rate. Everything else aside," Naoto added. Everyone seemed kind of sheepish looking now. Perhaps they'd been a bit too hasty. "Yeah okay, that sounds good to me. Sorry man, we probably shouldn't have been listening in the first place. We'll talk later, okay?" Yosuke was back to his old cheerful self, clapping his partner on the back as a sign of camaraderie. Yu had to smile a bit. It was just like when he'd stupidly gone to confront Adachi on his own. Anger born of worry. He couldn't ask for a better group of friends.

Yosuke had an embarrassed grin on his face. "My mouth was moving faster than my brain again, haha dammit. Sorry" Yu assured him he was being too apologetic. He could empathize with Yosuke's position easily. "You're too damn easy going sometimes, Yu. I'd feel better if you yelled at me." The two shared a little chuckle before Yu paused. Speaking of yelling, Kanji had been pretty quiet this whole time. In fact, where was Kanji? The rest of the team seemed to sense his thoughts when he started looking around. "Oh yeah, he ran off all flustered when Yukiko-senpai started talking about being pent up." Rise began giggling at Yukiko's flustered reaction. "That wasn't very nice saying I can't keep my hands to myself," she gave off a fake pout but quickly put on her signature wink. "Especially since it's the pot calling the kettle black."

"S-stop it!" Yukiko wasn't so appreciative of all the teasing at her expense but she understood why she was doing it. All the tension had left the room like air being let out of a balloon, even Naoto was smiling a bit while she poked around with the TV. "I've been waiting to do that allllll day. Gee sensei I didn't know you were so lustful."

"All right Teddie, that's enough," Yu chuckled good-naturedly. But Teddie, being Teddie did not stop. "But wow, five whole kids. Who would have thought that our stoic sensei had such passion brimming-" he was cut off by two firm hands clasping his shoulders and turned to find the two lovers smiling at him but there was no joy to be found there. He could feel their grips through the suit and it was quite painful. "Teddie, you should really learn when to quit while you're ahead," Yu advised.

"Yeah, Otherwise, you might crash...and burn." Teddie gulped. "S-scary. You two really are meant for each other."

A sudden scream interrupted them that they recognized as Naoto's. They turned just in time to find her being pulled inside the TV. "Naoto!" Kanji came rushing in and jumping after her.

Everyone looked at each other for but a moment before quickly following their friends in. As they crashed down into a strange snow covered world, they heard a voice call out to them. "Please forgive the slightly impolite invitation, but I was growing quite bored." A loud battle cry tore through the quiet landscape as Kanji slashed at the strange white haired woman. He was easily swatted aside but it was the thought that counted. As he was swatted aside, a stunned Naoto quickly shot up and called forth her own Persona with Kanji quickly recovering and moving to join her. "Quite a lively group you have here." She sounded as utterly disinterested as ever. "Everyone stop. She's a friend." I think, Yu added in his head. Kanji grumbled but eventually he stood down. "Someone oughta teach this broad some manners." He recoiled in horror when he caught sight of her outstretched hand in front of him.

"A thousand apologies once again. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance Emperor. My name is Margaret and I have been helping your friend throughout his journey." Kanji begrudgingly took it, although he didn't meet her eyes. "Daaaamn. Now that's a woman." At least Yosuke seemed to be taking a liking to her.

She bowed and introduced herself to the rest of the group and began to explain she was here to fulfill her promise. "This is where Marie has shut herself away. The closed realm created in this world of the human mind. The Hollow Forest." The previous events were put out of mind as Margaret continued her explanation. All that mattered was there was someone in danger and only they could help her. Any anger over being dragged forcibly into another dangerous undertaking was quickly cast aside. "The path ahead will be relentless You alone will not be able to reach her." The resounding shout from his teammates that he wouldn't be alone in this task brought a smile to his face. "As if we'd let you do this alone! We're friends, and that includes Marie too!" Chie yelled

As they left to prepare for their dive in to the Hollow Forest, Margaret stopped them one last time. "I believe congratulations are in order for the guest and the Priestess. I hope your life together is a happy one." She bowed deeply once again before disappearing from sight. When they were back in the safety of the cabin after much pushing and shoving through the tiny TV, Yu made sure to apologize for once again keeping secrets. Surprisingly, Naoto was the first one who assured him it was fine. "It's not exactly something you can explain to someone else. It would be like us trying to explain the TV world to Dojima without a television on hand." Everyone else was giving him an understanding expression. And if he had a good reason for this secret, then that would mean...

Naoto cleared her throat. "I believe it is time to address the elephant in the room. Why did you feel the need to hide the pregnancy from us?"

"W-well that's...we-" Yukiko felt a hand wrap around hers and was filled with a sense of calm. "At first it was because we didn't want to give everyone something else to worry about." Yu continued after her. "Then we couldn't find a good time to make the announcement. We were going to tell everyone tomorrow but well..."

"It's not that we didn't trust you, it's just that what if someone had overheard?"

"We also wanted to get out of the first trimester, to make sure the baby was really coming."

"Plus you guys and your teasing..."

Yu was relieved to see everyone slowly relax and start smiling when their reasons were laid out. Yosuke especially it was good to see relieved. "Here I was worried it was because...well never mind. Congratulations guys." Yu was perplexed. Was it really that easy? "You're not going to lecture us?" Rise was the one who stepped forward to explain. "Well we heard a lot of your talk including the parts where you said how happy the thought of settling down and starting a family made you guys."

"It's a little um odd, but it's already happened you know? I was just miffed you didn't tell me!" Rise said with a pout.

"You two are way smarter than me so I'm sure you've already thought of anything I could bring up. Besides, I think you'd be great parents!" Yukiko was touched by Chie's words. "Y-you really think so?"

"I know so! And you'll have old reliable Chie helping you out!" Chie was nearly knocked over by the force of Yukiko's hug. "W-woah easy there girly, I haven't even done anything yet!" Yu was busy contending with his own bear hug. "Waaaah sensei thanks for making a whole bunch of Nana-chans for me to play with! You're so thoughtful!" He felt the bear lifted off of him by a very determined looking Kanji. "Senpai. If you ever you know need someone to make things or whatever. What I mean is if you're in the neighborhood you know" Kanji was brought out of his rambling by a firm clasp on his shoulder. "I know...and thank you." But there was one person who wasn't joining in on the celebrations.

"What's wrong Naoto?" Yukiko inquired. The detective sighed. "I'm sorry. I know I'm being negative again but I can't help but feel you two are settling down too early. I'm sure you've talked it over but what if you end up hating each other in five years, then Yu is stuck here with no way out."

The silver haired boy responded simply. "That's a risk I'm willing to take," and Yukiko felt like she could swoon right there and then. Naoto still looked unconvinced. "Yes but you're both still so young, are you really prepared to be chained to one place by a child?" Yukiko remembered a conversation her and Yu had a while ago and tried her best to reword it. "There's nothing stopping us from traveling and doing exciting things. We'll just be doing them together. As a family." Naoto opened her mouth to respond but quickly closed it and smiled. "I suppose that doesn't sound so bad after all."

That's when Yosuke thought of something. "Wait you guys didn't do this on purpose just so Yu would stay did you?" The two normally composed teens turned tomato red. "W-well Yosuke that's not entirely the case."

"Y-yeah we were just talking about the future and then one thing led to another a-and..." Yukiko reflexively brought her hand to her belly. "Hey don't be ashamed Yukiko senpai, you guys are passionate and I think that's wonderful!" Rise gave a little encouraging bounce. She had to wonder if her own parents were that way once long ago. Hopefully these two wouldn't turn out that way but she had a gut feeling they wouldn't. The group returned home laughing and jesting but mainly excitedly discussing the baby. All except two. "Kanji." The former punk turned to see Naoto staring right at him. "Y-yeah whatsup?"

"Rushing in to the TV by yourself without thinking was incredibly stupid and reckless even if it was to save me! Don't do something like that again!" Kanji was about to tell her she sure had a lot of nerve before he was interrupted. "But thank you. I truly value you Kanji." Before he could ask her to elaborate, she ran to join the rest of the group. "Geez first she yells at me and then she thanks me? I don't get girls at all."

Rise was humming a happy tune to herself much to the confusion of Yosuke. "Rise, you're taking this really well. I thought you'd be more...?"

"Upset?"

"Yeah."

Rise sighed. "I'm a little sad. But I like senpai. I really really like him a whole lot and it's because I like him so much that I'm happy right now. Does that make sense?" Yosuke was able to nod firmly. "Yeah I get exactly what you mean. You know I used to have a crush on Yukiko too." Rise giggled. "No really!?" He pretended to be injured by her teasing. "Wow rude." He grew serious for a moment. "It gets better." The idol smiled at him warmly. "Thanks Yosuke. You can be almost cool sometimes." Their lighthearted banter continued far into the shopping district.

"That was...embarrassing." Yukiko was walking with Yu to his front doorstep to see him off. "Yeah but I'm glad they know. It means we can do this now." He nuzzled into her nose and gave her a quick peck. Nanako and Dojima were both home for the next few days after all. "Me too. We have even more people to share our joy with now! I think Rise will love being a bridesmaid." Yu chuckled at the mental image of Rise fighting to catch the bouquet. He mentioned what Kanji had said to him about stuff for the baby. "Oh that's so sweet of him." Yukiko began to rub her stomach once again. "We have such good friends. I'm sure you'll love to meet them all." At that moment, Yu didn't care who might be watching. He scooped her into his arms and kissed her then and there. She let out a small squeak of surprise but quickly mewled into his mouth. There was nothing wrong with getting a little sample after all.

They broke apart with Yukiko still held in his arms. "I want you to do that every night," was all she said in response. Yu happily agreed. The pair also decided to put off their confession for just a bit more. Valentine's Day would do it. Just in case something happened with Marie. Besides, if things went horribly horribly wrong it would be their last chance to see each other. They waved goodbye to each other both ready to do whatever it took to save Marie.


.......................................................................................................................................

As it turned out, the group had become quite proficient at hero work. Those extra days of training really paid off. Even with the energy draining effects of the Hollow Forest, they were able to reach the end and defeat another aspect of the fog deity. The most difficult part of the trek came from the crew itself. "The scent of flowers wafts!"

"Fantastic job, Yuki! That was amazing!"

"Thanks hubby. It's because you're such a good leader."

Yosuke pinched the bridge of his nose with his fingers. "Oh my god," he groaned out. Naoto and Chie seemed to share his sentiment.

The group thought Marie could use a nice relaxing trip to the Amagi Inn after her life or death experience. Yukiko's heart soared when she realized the group now associated "nice and relaxing" with her family's inn. She hoped they'd come here whenever they were overwhelmed or stressed and just unwind in the springs. "I'm sure the baby will help too." It had been a bit of a hassle sneaking her mild bump into the springs without the servants noticing but here she was. "Gosh Marie, your skin is so smooth and your complexion is amazing!" The girls gushed over the Velvet attendant and she expressed annoyance. "Gosh whatever it's just skin." Rise turned to say something to Yukiko when she caught a glimpse of her skin as well. "Oh wow Yukiko senpai, have you been using a new lotion?"

"W-what?" Yukiko was a bit uncomfortable with the sudden poking and prodding from Rise at her exposed form. "You're skin is so bright looking, like it's glowing." Chie came over and took a strand of her hair in her hand. "And your hair, it's so shiny a-and thick! What shampoo do you use?" Naoto cleared her throat at this. "It's obviously because of her pregnancy. Why do you think her *erm* b-bust size has increased so much?" Yukiko covered her now much larger chest at that comment but not before Rise noticed hers were now slightly smaller with a huff. Her eyes lowered on the small swell on Yukiko's stomach. It wasn't much, but it was a proper bump having outgrown her pelvis and spreading further up her stomach. A nice little curve where once was only a trim tummy. Yukiko's embarrassment faded when she noticed where they were looking. "Would you like to touch it? I don't mind." Rise and Chie both nodded and placed their hands on it beginning to rub and pat. Yukiko couldn't hide the smile that crept on to her face. "Isn't it wonderful? I'm 15 weeks along you know."

"How long have you and senpai been dating anyway?" Rise asked after she was done rubbing.

"Since August!" Yukiko chirped.

The heiress caught a gasp of surprise from Naoto who quickly covered it up with a serious expression. "O-of course, obviously. All the signs were there." Naoto heard water sloshing as Yukiko slowly moved towards her. "You don't have to lie, it's okay. Yu and I were very subtle." The girl tried to cradle her baby bump but it wasn't quite big enough to do that yet serving only to emphasize its presence on her body. "But now we don't have to be and that makes me happy. Would you like to touch it?" Naoto spluttered and stuttered that she couldn't possibly and she wasn't all that interested. Yukiko merely chuckled. Hopefully she'd come around. Chie and Rise resumed their gushing over Yukiko's body while Marie watched on. "My...my skin's pretty too. Remember?" She said dejected.

Meanwhile, Yosuke and Teddie were trying their best to get a peep show. "I want to see what pregnancy did to those melons." Teddie shouted aloud. Yosuke was a bit more subtle but he couldn't hide his excitement. Suddenly, they felt themselves pulled down. "Ow, what the hell?" Yosuke whined but he quickly clammed up when he saw two figures glaring menacingly at him. "Yosuke, you two wouldn't happen to be peeping on my beautiful fiance when she's trying to bathe now would you?" For the first time he could remember, his partner cracked his knuckles. "Yeah no way you dumbasses would actually be doing that right?" The two gulped. Looks like things had changed in more than one way around here.