Ichiruzen's House

Ichiruzen lays his mother's head down, "You need rest mother...and I brought..you sweets..I hope you like them." He retrieves the bag he received and places it next to her.

Tatsuki giggles, "Thank you Ichi.." She looks at Sapphire, "Don't worry about it. People often make that mistake."

Sapphire smiles gently, "You should get some rest.. if there's anything I could ever do for you.. don't hesitate to ask." Sapphire encourages warmly.

Ichiruzen sighs, "You need to take your medications..mother."

Tatsuki nods and smiles, "Of course..." She looks to her son, "Yes..I forgot. ^^"

Sapphire stands quietly and allows Tatsuki to take her meds.

Ichiruzen gives his mother her medication, "Mother...I must be..going now."

Tatsuki nods and pats his pocket, "Keep that gift safe, okay?" She smiles. Ichiruzen nods and walks out of the room.

Sapphire smiles and bows before exiting the room. For a woman with such a joyful expression.. her heart holds mixed emotions.. does Ichiruzen realize how much he means to her? She closes her eyes as she thinks.

Ichiruzen shuts the door, tears streaming down his face.

Sapphire looks over and pulls him into a gentle hug. I'm so sorry..

"I can't save her.." Ichiruzen grits his teeth and sobs.

Sapphire hugs him tighter, crying slightly herself, not even realizing. I'm so sorry..

Ichiruzen takes a deep breath and sighs, "All I can do is prolong her life.." Damn it, damn it, damn it, DAMN IT! I can't help her one bit! I'm so useless!!

Sapphire strokes his hair gently, "She's happy though... The only reason she's sad.. is because you are..." Sapphire whispers.

Ichiruzen closes his eyes and sighs, "I wan't to help her no matter what...I'd lose the will to live if I lost her."

Sapphire wipes his tears with her thumb, "She sees that and that's what makes her sad... she's come to terms mostly..." Sapphire sighs and looks away, "I should go.. I don't want to trouble you."

"Thank you so much...for visiting..my mother...she really appreciates it...I know it.." Ichiruzen smiles slightly.

Sapphire nods and smiles softly, "You know.. I see how much she loves you and I can see why.." She dips her head, "Take care.."

Ichiruzen grabs her arm, "You can stay the night here if....you wish. There are...many rooms..here." He smiles shyly.

Sapphire blushes and looks at him, "Oh no! I couldn't possibly impose on you like that.." she smiles softly

Ichiruzen sighs and nods, "I understand. You are more than welcome to anytime though." He turns around and walks to the main living quarters of the house.

Sapphire sighs, "What do YOU want me to do?"

"I'd like you to stay the night, but if you can't then that's fine. Besides, you would probably have to get your parents' permission first. My mother wouldn't mind one bit." Ichiruzen looks at her with his right eye.

Sapphire smiles, "Then I'll stay.. my parents are used to me disappearing.. They know I'll come home.."

Ichiruzen looks away shyly, "I wouldn't want you to get in trouble just because you're staying here..."

Sapphire takes his hand and kisses his cheek, "It'll be fine.. I'm sure father will understand.

Ichiruzen pulls his hood over his head and blushes, "I u-understand. There are...m-m-many rooms here...you can choose any room..you l-like.."