Fixer Upper
Part 2
Perv!Kurapika x Fem!Reader
part 1
part 3
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warnings: mentions of Kurapika injuring reader in the past
(Name) threw the last article of clothing into the washing machine before starting it. It was around 7:30 am, and the boys were in the kitchen eating breakfast as she did some last minute cleaning.
“Killua, will you put this load of laundry on when it’s done? Kurapika and I are going into town to run some errands.”
Killua nodded, his mouth full of some sugary cereal he’d picked out.
“Thank you. I’ll be sure to pick you up some more chocolate robots.”
His eyes widened and he nodded frantically, seemingly excited.
“I should get ready. We leave in 30 minutes!”
She turned on her heels and ran upstairs, tripping halfway up before running up the rest.
Killua snickered. “She always trips on the 6th step. I think it’s slightly taller than the others.”
Kurapika hummed in response. He wasn’t paying much attention, focused on his breakfast. Today it was a fluffy omelet with a side of mixed fruit.
Now that he wasn’t shoving the food into his mouth so fast he could choke, he had to admit it was pretty good.
Once he was finished, he left to get dressed. (Name) had laid out his tabard and his old shirt. The torn sleeve of his shirt had been messily sown up, but it would do until he could get another one today.
As he pulled the shirt over his head, he noticed how good his clothing smelled. Usually he would just wash it with scentless detergent, but now it smelt floral.
‘Mmm… I wonder what detergent she used.’
He pulled the tabard on and looked at himself in the mirror.
For the most part he looked… okay. His hair had grown out to graze his shoulders, in need of a trim. Kurapika rubbed a strand of his hair between his fingers.
The day before his hair had been dry, yet oily at the same time, but now it was soft and smooth. Her shampoo worked miracles for him, but it didn’t fix his hair entirely. There were still split ends, but overall he felt a lot… better. Slightly more put together than he had been in a while.
After quickly combing his hair, Kurapika left his room.
(Name) was waiting by the front door, and he had to admit, she looked awfully cute.
Today she wore a floral tank top and jean shorts. On her back was a hello kitty themed backpack, several keychains hanging from it.
He recognized one of the keychains, his chest tightening slightly.
“You ready?”
He gave a curt nod, (Name) opening the door. “Alright, let’s go!”
——————
Kurapika climbed into the passenger seat of (Name)’s car. The front seat was clean and tidy, but one look in the backseat told him Killua had been there.
There were chocolate robot boxes strewn across the car floor along with random toys and gadgets.
“… does killua ride along with you often?”
(Name) laughed. “Yeah, he does. I take him wherever he needs to go, that includes to the airport when we pick up Gon or Alluka.”
He raised an eyebrow. “Gon stays with you as well?”
“Yeah, unlike Killua he has a loving home to return to, so he’s here less, but he visits for at least a week or two every other month. You should see the car when HE’S here.”
“I assume it’s worse?”
“You assumption is correct.”
The two laugh, (Name) cranking up the car and backing out of the driveway.
“What’s our plan for the day?” Kurapika asked, staring out the window as they drove through the neighborhood.
“First, we’re stopping at the nearest men’s clothing store and getting you some clothes.”
“Then?”
“Then we’ll stop and get you your own soap and toiletries.”
He nodded.
“We’ll grab some groceries, and should be home before lunch.”
Kurapika pulled his satchel into his lap and looked around. He still had his wallet, thank god. While running the other night, he’d dropped several of his personal items, including a pair of sunglasses, his portable soap, and his spare change of clothes.
“We’re pulling up!”
Kurapika glanced up to see they’d pulled into a small parking lot, (Name) parking before getting out and stretching.
“Ugh, I hate shopping so early in the morning, but I hate the crowds even more.”
“I second that.”
Kurapika joined her, making sure his weapon had been left in the car. He didn’t want to make a scene in case it were to fall from his satchel.
The two walked in, (Name) picking up a basket at the door.
“Hmm, Kurapika, what are you looking for exactly?”
“A few pairs of pants, shirts. Maybe a set of pajamas. I won’t be staying with you long.”
She nodded, grabbing his hand and leading him to where he needed to go.
Her hands were always so soft and warm, a sharp contrast to his cold and calloused ones. He looked down to where their hands connected, his eyes softening.
“Oh, here it is!”
She let go and pointed. “You should be able find everything you need over here. I’m going to go look at the kids section. Killua’s grown out of his favorite pair of shorts, so I’m going to get him a bigger size. He’s pretty particular about what he’ll wear. Not as bad as Gon, though.”
She giggled to herself. Kurapika nodded, making a fist with the hand she’d held in an attempt to keep her warmth from escaping.
“Alright. I’ll meet you back at the car in 15 minutes.”
(Name) left the store with a shopping bag full of clothes, Kurapika raising an eyebrow.
“Didn’t you say he only needed a new pair of shorts?”
She purses her lips. “Well, the more I thought about it, the more I realized he’s grown out of his dress pants, and several shirts. Oh, and he’s always losing his socks.”
He smiled. ‘She’s like a mother. It’s… sweet.’
“I see. Well, if we want to get back before lunch we should get going.”
Her eyes widened before she unlocked the car. “Crap, you’re right! Let’s go!”
He almost laughed at how fast she slipped into her seat, following behind her.
—————
The next place they stopped at was a large grocery store. Kurapika and (Name) walked together to the hygiene care aisle.
“Mmm, are you okay with normal mint flavored tooth paste?”
“Yes. I’m not exactly picky.”
She nodded, placing a tube of toothpaste into the shopping cart, along with a red tooth brush and floss.
“Hmm.”
(Name) looked over the small selection of men’s hair and body wash. Between the 5in1 bottles to the soap that smelled too intense, (Name) was having trouble helping Kurapika pick.
“What do you usually use?”
“The scentless kind.”
She hummed in response. “Is there a specific scent you’re going for?”
“Not really, again I’m not picky.”
(Name) peeked at him, thinking of her next words carefully.
“So… you wouldn’t mind checking out the women’s selection then?”
He glanced at her. “I wouldn’t, but why do you ask?”
“Well…”
He knew exactly what she was thinking of.
While in York New together, the group of five had gone out to dinner. When the waiter stopped at their table, he hit on Kurapika, thinking he was a woman.
It was very awkward. Kurtapika didn’t hear the end of it the entire night, the other boys only stopping when (Name) put an end to it by saying they were jealous he was pretty enough to be hit on.
The memory of her words still made his heart flutter.
“No reason. The women’s section just has…”
She stared at the 5in1 bottle with a frown.
“Better options.”
He couldn’t argue with that.
The women’s section was something Kurapika had only ever looked at in passing, the man staring at all the options in shock.
“There’s more neutral scents down here. How about this one?”
She handed him a bottle, the man lifting the lid and taking a whiff.
It smelled tropical, like mango and coconuts. While smelling good, it wasn’t too intense.
“This is fine.”
She added it and a matching set of conditioner to the basket. “How about a body wash with a similar scent?”
He nodded, not paying much attention. Kurapika didn’t care too much about what she picked for him, knowing it would smell good and be good quality. She always worried about small details like that.
“Oh, wait.”
He blinked, staring down at her.
“I forgot, you had a bad reaction to this brand when we bought it in York New. Let’s try another one.”
Kurapika was surprised. He hadn’t even remembered that, how had she?
“Let’s do this brand instead. It’s a similar scent too!”
Kurapika grabbed the basket after she set the new set of hair wash in, the girl giving him a questioning look.
“… I’ll carry it for you.”
It was the least he could do.
She didn’t argue, only smiling up at him. “What a gentleman.”
His cheeks turned pink, the man quickly turning to walk toward the food section of the grocery store.
“Hehe, thank you sweetheart.”
That didn’t help his cheeks cool down at all.
(Name) walked along the aisles of food, tossing random items in.
“Mmm, we’re out of crackers… oh and Killua’s favorite cereal…”
She stopped suddenly, turning back to Kurapika with a grin. “If you see anything you like, just toss it in!”
The blonde nodded hesitantly, following behind her.
After a few minutes, he spotted the pretzels he would snack on the most often.
(Name) caught him looking, immediately grabbing the bag and dropping it into the cart.
“… thanks.”
She didn’t respond, but sent him a smile before throwing another item into the cart.
Kurapika began to notice that nothing she had gathered was for her. She’d say this or that was for Killua or Leorio, but not a single thing was just for her.
“Oh, I need to grab some more meat, used the last bit of chicken a few days ago.”
She was talking to herself, off in a different world as she left the snack aisle, leaving without something of her own.
“Ahh, finally.”
The two were back in her car, the girl groaning. “Grocery shopping is the worst.”
Kurapika buckled himself in, watching as she pulled out of the parking lot.
“We’ll get home just before lunch time. Anything you want?”
He shrugged. “I’m-“
“I get it, you’re not picky, but is there something you’d prefer?”
Kurapika thought for a moment. Was there a food he liked more than others? He knew there were, but nothing that she would be able to cook. They were all Kurtan recipes.
But one thing did come to mind.
“… sandwiches.”
She nodded. “Alright, we’ll have sandwiches for lunch!”
Kurapika stared out the window for the rest of the car ride. For the first time in a while, he was looking forward to lunch.
———————
They pulled into (Name)’s driveway about 15 minutes later. Before getting out, she sent a text to Killua.
“Why are you texting him?” Kurapika asked.
‘She’s about to to inside, can’t she just tell him whatever she needs to then?’
His question was answered when killua came sprinting out of the house, throwing open the door to the car and grabbing grocery bags quicker than a normal person would be able to process.
“Was… was that-“
“Killua? Yeah. He takes the groceries inside in exchange for chocolate robots.”
The two leave the car, Kurapika opening the front door for her.
“(Name)!”
Killua stopped mid bite of a freshly unwrapped chocolate robot to jump up and smile. “What’s for lunch?”
(Name) hummed as she walked into the kitchen, Kurapika following behind. “We’re having sandwiches today.”
“I want ham and cheese!”
“Coming up!”
Kurapika watched from behind the kitchen counter awkwardly.
“Are you going to help her put up groceries, or are you just going to stand there looking dumb?”
Kurapika turned to see Killua staring at him with an annoyed expression.
“I was going to.”
Kurapika brushed past the boy, picking up a random item and staring at it.
“(Name), where does this go?”
“Oh, in the cabinet on the left!”
Killua snickered from his seat, Kurapika shooting him a look before putting the item away.
This went on until they were finished, (Name) patting him on the back.
“Thanks for the help! Now I can get lunch done faster.”
He just nodded in response, lingering in the kitchen. Kurapika wasn’t quite sure what to do with himself when he wasn’t busy. Should he sit and watch TV? Help (Name) with lunch? Go rest in his room?
His decision was made for him when (Name) grabbed his hand.
“Kurapika, why don’t you go sit down and I’ll bring you some lunch? You’re still not fully recovered, some rest will do you some good.”
Kurapika let out a relieved sigh. “Alright.”
He sat down on the couch, trying to relax. Kurapika wanted to recover as soon as possible. The faster he recovered, the faster he could get back to finding the scarlet eyes.
Killua jumped slightly when his side vibrated, patting his pocket and then pulling out his phone.
He put in his password before answering.
“Gon? Hey.”
Kurapika perked up. It had been a while since he’d seen Gon. He’d felt guilty about not being there for him when he’d nearly died around a year ago, so he’d been avoiding him along with (Name).
“Yeah. I’m sure she won’t mind. Hey, (Name)?”
The woman in question hummed in response, placing a finished sandwich on a plate.
“Gon’s asking if he can come over this week and stay for a month while his family renovates their house.”
“That’s fine, make sure he tells Aunt Mito I appreciate that basket she sent me after…”
She trailed off. Killua seemed to know what she was talking about, glancing at Kurapika with a frown.
“I will. I’ll be right back.”
Killua walked out of the room, continuing to talk to Gon while he did.
This interaction troubled Kurapika. Were they keeping something from him?
‘I’ll ask a few questions, perhaps it’s just my imagination.’
“She sent you a basket? What kind?”
(Name) paused, a piece of ham falling onto the floor. Kurapika noticed this, his eyes narrowing.
“Oh, just a gift basket. Nothing special.”
“Uh huh…”
He began to ask her another question, but Killua walked in beaming.
“He’s catching a flight tonight and will be here in the morning!”
(Name) composed herself, giving him a smile back. “Oh dear, I may have to do another grocery run if Gon is coming. I’ll call Leorio and see if he wants to meet up as well. It’s been a while since we’ve all been in one place!”
Kurapika froze, another memory flooding back.
“No… no (Name), you can’t. I won’t let you.”
The girl wrenched her wrist away from the rage filled blonde, wincing at the pain blooming beneath her skin.
“I can, and I will. Why won’t you let me help you? You had no issue with Gon and Killua-“
“That’s because they aren’t fucking weak like you!”
Kurapika would never forget the look on her face when he yelled at her for the first time. Leorio had to step in to make sure she was okay, saying Kurapika had fractured her wrist.
The man glanced at the girls arm, seeing no injury. It had been two years, of course she wasn’t still hurt, but the memory of the pain he’d caused her would haunt him forever.
He was torn from his thoughts when (Name) called for him. How she still managed to smile at him after he’d hurt her didn’t make sense to him.
Kurapika was still that same man, willing to do anything to fulfill his mission. He knew, if he had to, he could bring himself to hurt her again.
And that’s why he couldn’t stay for long. It was better if he was gone, where he couldn’t hurt anyone he loved.
The sandwich he’d been looking forward to sat in front of him, the crust cut off the ends.
She’d remembered he didn’t like the crust.
He took a bite, letting himself enjoy a meal with his friends by his side. Kurapika knew this wouldn’t last forever, but just for a moment (Name) was sitting next to him, and Killua was laughing away at something random on TV.
It was peaceful, not quiet, but… calm.
—————
“Killua, I know you’re excited, but you should go to bed. We have to get up early to pick up Gon.”
Killua was currently pacing the hallways. He was in his new pajamas, staring up at the clock as it ticked away. (Name) flicked the light on and yawned, leading the boy into the kitchen.
“Let’s warm you up some milk. Should help you sleep.”
The sound of a door opening caused her to jump, the girl turning to see Kurapika rubbing his eyes from the doorway to his room.
“Is something the matter?”
(Name) tried not to react. The man was shirtless, only wearing a pair of baggy sweatpants.
“No, Killua is just having trouble sleeping.”
The boy pouted. “I can stay up for three days at a time you know.”
“Yeah, but that doesn’t mean you should.”
She ruffled his hair, the boy swatting at her hands, but Kurapika could tell he didn’t mind it at all by the way Killua was smiling.
“Sorry for waking you. Would you like some tea? I’ll be back down in a minute.”
Kurapika nodded, opening his door all the way and walking out into the living room. Killua raised an eyebrow.
“Why are you half naked? (Name) is right here.”
The man looked down then back up. “The clothing I bought today is still being dried.”
(Name) waved her hand dismissively. “I promise I don’t mind. Come on Killua, let’s get you to bed.”
She rushed off, dragging the boy behind her.
Kurapika watched in mild amusement, leaning against the counter.
He looked down at his torso again, frowning lightly.
Kurapika had lost weight again. When alone, he only ate just enough to fuel himself, rarely eating a full meal.
It wasn’t that he didn’t want to eat, he was just way too busy to have the time to. He’d get cranky in the middle of the day just to remember he had yet to have eaten anything.
A sigh escaped his lips. He ran his fingers through his hair. Kurapika didn’t want to worry her, he’d seen the way her smile faltered when he said he hadn’t been eating right.
He stood up and began to rummage through her cabinets.
——————
“You’re too trusting of him.”
(Name) sighed, plopping down onto the rocking chair beside Killua’s bed. When he had trouble sleeping or the occasional nightmare, (Name) would stay by his side singing lullabies until he drifted off.
“He didn’t mean to hurt me, he just has trouble controlling his strength when he’s angry. He already apologized for that”
Killua scoffed. ‘Yeah, and for that only.’
“It could happen again. And if I did I would-“
“It won’t.”
She pushed back the hair on his forehead and planted a kiss. “He’s going through a lot, and I know that doesn’t excuse his actions, but let’s enjoy the time we have with him, alright?”
The boy sighed. “You’re too forgiving.”
“If I wasn’t, I wouldn’t let you live here,” she teased as she ruffled his hair. “I’m glad I don’t rent, with the amount of damage you’ve caused.”
He pouted, obviously embarrassed from the trouble he’d caused.
“Try to be nice, alright? He’s our guest.”
“As long as he’s nice to you.”
(Name) groaned. “No, Killua, you should be nice to him regardless. Even if-“
“Even if people are unkind, you shouldn’t let it influence your actions, blah blah blah. You’re being hypocritical. Didn’t you chew Illumi a new one during the final phase of the Hunter Exam?”
She pursed her lips. “That’s different. Adults stand up for children, not the other way around.”
She stood up, leaning down to tuck him in.
“Now, sleep. I’ll come check on you in an hour, come knock on my door if you need me.”
She stood up, making sure his nightlight was on before leaving the room. “Goodnight Killua, sleep tight.”
“Goodnight…”
She closed the door behind her.
(Name) began the decent downstairs, humming to herself. She could smell something, but couldn’t quite place the scent.
“(Name)? Perfect timing, the tea is almost ready.
(Name) peeled into the kitchen, seeing a tea kettle on the stove.
“Oh, thanks! You didn’t have to.”
He shook his head, placing two cups on the counter and inserting a tea bag into each.
“It’s… the least I could do.”
It was hard to look her in the eye now. He’d only been able to do it once during his stay, quickly shying away after.
He missed seeing the pretty (e/c) color of her eyes.
Kurapika set the cup of tea in front of her, (Name) inhaling the scent with a happy sigh. “Mmm, it smells amazing.”
She smiled up at him, those eyes staring right into his.
He looked away immediately, moving to sit right beside her to make eye contact harder to achieve.
“Have trouble sleeping?”
Kurapika took a moment to answer. “Yes. I get nightmares sometimes.”
He’d told her about that before, during the Hunter Exam. She placed her hand on top of his, pretending to not notice him flinch.
“We can watch a movie until you’re ready to sleep.”
He nodded. “Alright.”
He wanted to say no, to go back to his room and suffer in silence, but he couldn’t. He needed to be with another human being right now, to feel their warmth next to him.
It helped that it was (Name), one of the only people he could tolerate.
The two carried their cups to the couch, (Name) offering him a throw blanket before grabbing one of her own.
“Let’s see what’s on…”
(Name) turned on the TV, the last channel on being the news.
“It’s been reported that a member of The Phantom Troupe has been spotted downtown, causing havoc. Citizens are warned to stay indoors-“
(Name) changed the channel quickly.
“That’s unfortunate but-“
She was interrupted by the sound of his cup crashing onto the floor, the man standing up and rushing to the laundry room.
When he returned, she could see his eyes flowing a bright red.
“I’m leaving to check out that report.”
(Name) stood, grabbing his sleeve. “Kurapika, you shouldn’t, it’s late and you’re not fully recovered y-“
Kurapika whipped his head around, his enraged face enough to make her let go and shrink away. It he wasn’t so angry, he’d feel awful that he could cause such a reaction in her. Calming himself enough to talk without screaming, he gave her a small smile.
“… I’ll be careful. Don’t wait up for me.”
He left without another word.
——————
Killua woke up to (Name) shaking him.
“Come on, get ready. We’ve got to be at the airport in 30 minutes.”
He sat up and rubbed his eyes, pausing.
“I don’t sense Kurapika. Did he leave or something?”
Killua finally got a good look at (Name). Her hair was a mess, and her eyes were red with dark bags decorating them.
“He… it was reported that a member of the Phantom Troupe was causing trouble down town, so he left to see if it was true.”
Killua jumped up. “When did he leave?”
(Name) sighed. “At around 1 am, so 6 hours ago. He…”
She wrapped her arms around herself. “He hasn’t answered my calls.”
“Did you get any sleep?”
(Name) shook her head. “No, but I just had a cup of coffee so I should be fine. I’m taking a nap after we pick up Gon, so don’t worry.”
Killua nodded, pulling out his phone to text Gon. The two may need to go searching for the blonde later.
The two got dressed, (Name) downing another cup of coffee before getting in her car.
“We’ll pick up some breakfast after getting Gon.”
“Alright. He said he’s getting his luggage now.”
The two sat in silence, the only sound a random pop song playing on the radio.
It didn’t take long for them to reach the airport. As they waited outside for Gon, (Name) attempted to call Kurapika again.
Killua frowned when she pocketed her phone.
“He’s still not answering?”
She shook her head. “No. He’s… he’s probably busy.”
This wasn’t an uncommon occurrence. Killua remembered the countless phone calls him and Leorio had made when Gon had been hospitalized.
If only Kurapika knew (Name) had been in critical condition too.
Killua hoped that if he had known, he would have come. That hope was the only reason he was able to allow Kurapika in (Name)’s home.
She’d begged them not to tell him, though she wouldn’t say why.
“Killua, (Name)!”
The two looked up to see Gon sprinting towards him, his luggage flying through the air behind him.
The boy jumped into the air, pulling them both into a hug so fast they all toppled over.
“Hey, careful! (Name) could of gotten hurt!” Killua scolded while squeezing Gon tight.
“I’m fine, Gon you’ve gotten taller!”
The three laughed, Gon pulling (Name) to her feet. “Aunt Mito says she’s going to put a brick on my head to keep me from getting taller than her.”
Killua stood as well, pausing when he stood in front of Gon.
“I have to agree with her. You’re taller than me now!”
It was true, Gon had grown to be an inch taller than his white haired friend.
“Aww he’s just having a growth spurt. You’ll have one too, maybe if you’d eat more of your vegetables-“
He smacked a hand over her mouth.
“(Name)! I eat plenty of vegetables.”
“Do chocolate robots count as vegetables?” Gon asked, giving him a sly grin.
“Shut up, both of you.”
—————
(Name) and the boys entered a small diner, Leorio waiting for them inside.
“(Name), Gon, Killua! It’s been forever!”
The man pulled them into another hug, Killua squirming free.
“It’s only been three months.”
“That’s way too long!”
(Name) laughed. “It’s going to be nice to finally have the whole gang back together!”
Killua and Leorio shared a look.
“I heard Kurapika was in town. Where’s he at now?”
Killua shot him a look, shaking his head.
“Ah. Did something happen?”
The three sat an a random booth, the boys sitting together on one side and the adults on the other.
“He… last night he saw the news reporting there was a member of the Phantom Troupe in town.”
Leorio groaned. “I saw that too, I was just hoping he wouldn’t. What, did he go to check it out?”
She nodded. “He left at around 1 am and hasn’t answered any of my calls.”
“I’m sure he’s fine, Kurapika is strong. We should try not to worry.”
Gon wasn’t wrong, but Leorio knew (Name) would worry anyways.
“Didn’t get much sleep last night?”
Leorio glanced from the dark circles under her eyes to her nails tapping against the table.
“Yeah. Was…”
“Waiting for him to get home?”
She nodded, picking up her menu. “I’m alright though. I’ll take a nap and be good as new.”
Gon noticed Killua frown. The boy nudged his friend.
“Is something up?”
“… no, just…”
He sighed. “Just worried about the current situation.”
Gon hummed, leaning his head against the table. “We can go look for him later if he doesn’t show up by lunch time.”
The waitress took their orders, leaving the group in silence.
“Hey, why don’t we have a get together to celebrate Kurapika being in town?”
Gon didn’t seem to get that the man was a sore subject right now.
“We can have a sleepover at (Name)’s! It’ll be just like the Hunter exam when we all slept together on the airship!”
(Name) grimaced. “Ugh, sleeping on the floor then made my back hurt so bad I thought I was going to die.”
“That’s because you’re a baby. We were fine.”
“Well I’m sorry I wasn’t raised to be an assassin that can sleep anywhere or a mountain boy that could sleep on a bed of nails and wake up refreshed.”
Killua snickered, Gon tilting his head. “I haven’t slept on a bed of nails, but I have slept on a bunch of rocks.”
“My point stands.”
The three laughed, Gon joining in their laughter after a moment.
“Alright, we’ll have a sleepover. How about tomorrow night?”
Leorio nodded. “That’s okay with me. I’m free the rest of the week.”
(Name) leaned against her seat, humming in thought. “I’ll have to go grocery shopping tomorrow morning, then. Everyone send me a list of what you want, including snacks and finger foods.”
———————
Leorio joined the group at (Name)’s, following behind her in his car.
The boys requested to ride with him, Leorio saying he needed to stop to get gas before coming home.
(Name) exited her car, carrying a takeout box she’d ordered for Kurapika. When she reached her door, she paused.
It was open.
And there was a trail of blood leading through the doorway.
(Name) stared at it for a split second, her eyes going wide.
She set the box down by the door and walked in, careful not to step in the blood.
She could sense someone was here, but their presence was faint. (Name) followed the trail, her heart thumping against her chest as she climbed up the stairs.
She already knew who would be at the end of the trail, all could she do was hope he would be alive.
(Name) stopped in front of the bathroom door, the sound of the shower turning off causing her to pause.
She could hear someone approach the door, then walk away again. (Name) waited a few minutes before the door finally opened.
“(Name), you’re home.”
Kurapika stood before her, his hair still wet from his shower. She stared up at him, tears falling from her eyes.
“You… all that blood…”
“None of it was mine, if that’s what you’re wondering.”
An instant relief washed over her, the grip she’d had on her shirt relaxing.
“I see. You’re okay, then?”
“Mostly. Just… tired.”
(Name) leaned her head against his chest, the man becoming stiff as a board. His hands stayed at his sides as his eyes bore into her.
He wanted to embrace her and apologize for making her worry. From just one look he could tell she hadn’t listened and had stayed up waiting for him.
“You wouldn’t answer me, I was so scared…”
She gripped the front of his shirt, tears soaking into the fabric.
“I… it was hard to answer with my hands covered in blood.”
(Name) sniffled before pulling back and rubbing the tears from her eyes. He’d done it, he’d made her cry again. Just how many tears would he make her cry over him?
“(Name) we’re- HOLY SHIT IS THAT BLOOD!?”
The sound of several sets of footsteps running inside made (Name) sigh. “It’s okay, I’m upstairs.”
Killua was the first one there, grabbing (Name)’s arms and looking over her. “You’re not hurt? Wait is that Kurapika?”
“Kurapika!!!”
Gon launched into the air and hugged the blonde, who laughed and patted his head. (Name) watched with a halfhearted smile. She wish he’d give her some affection too.
Kurapika explained the situation to the other three, the boys nodding along.
“So, was it really a member of the Phantom Troupe.”
“No, just a copycat.”
(Name) walked downstairs carrying the bathroom laundry hamper. His clothes had been completely soaked with blood, and would need to be hand washed before going in the washing machine.
Kurapika sighed, rubbing his temple. “I dealt with them as quickly as possible, but… I needed a moment to calm down.”
“(Name) didn’t sleep last night, you know. Could have at least called her.”
Kurapika frowned. “I left my phone at home.”
“That’s…”
(Name) looked at him with confusion. “That’s not what you said earlier…”
The four stared at him.
“Why didn’t you call us? Be honest.”
Leorio put a hand on the blonde’s shoulder, his eyebrows furrowed.
“I… I couldn’t. I didn’t want to admit I was tricked into thinking a Troupe member was actually here.”
(Name) sat down next to him and squeezed his hand. “It’s alright. Just don’t do it in the future, okay?”
Gon and Killua shared a look. Kurapika hasn’t been completely honest, and they could tell.
‘If she knew I didn’t call her because I couldn’t stand to hear her worry over me, she’d think I was an asshole. Who the fuck gets angry over their loved ones caring about them?’
Kurapika ate his takeout silently as the others chatted, only stopping when they mentioned something about a sleepover. He coughed on his food, (Name) patting his back.
“A what?”
“A sleepover! Since you’re in town, we wanted to celebrate! We’re going to have a sleepover like we did on the airship.”
“That wasn’t really a sleepover, also I got drooled on by (Name).”
She gasped and smacked Kurapika’s shoulder. “You said you wouldn’t tell anyone!”
He tried to keep a neutral expression, but his eyes twinkled with amusement. “Did I? I don’t seem to remember that.”
She folded her arms to her chest and leaned against the couch with a huff.
The others laughed, even Kurapika joining in.
“Ugh. I’m going to take a nap, wake me up before 3 pm.”
She stood, leaving the four alone.
——————
The group of four sat in silence for a while, Kurapika staring down at his lap with tired eyes.
“You’ve been MIA for a while.”
Leorio was the one to break the silence.
“(Name) wasn’t sure why you hadn’t updated her. She had to call me to get any kind of update on your well being.” Leorio stated, running his hands through his hair.
“I… I’ve been busy. It’s dangerous for me to be contacting too many people.”
“Is that the excuse you’re using?”
“We’ve all been really worried…”
Killua and Gon sat together in front of the TV, having turned around to face Kurapika.
“I know. I’m… sorry.”
Killua looked him up and down. “You should be saying that to (Name). I haven’t forgot what you said to her.”
Kurapika froze.
He hadn’t forgotten either. Not for a single day since.
“… I can’t apologize for that. It would be dishonest.”
“You didn’t have any trouble lying to her earlier.”
The blondes eyes widened.
“What was the real reason you didn’t call her, huh?”
Kurapika shook his head. “It’s none of your business.”
“If it’s affecting (Name), I think it is.”
Killua and Kurapika had a stand off, the two glaring at each other. Gon stepped in between the two.
“Hey, let’s not fight! Maybe Kurapika has his own reasons for not sharing why he couldn’t call her. Let’s just get along, okay?”
Killua huffed and sat back down. “Whatever.”
Kurapika stood up. “Im going to nap as well. Talk to you all later.”
He left, closing his bedroom door behind him.
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Reunited
Illumi x Reader
PART 7
part 6
part 8
“Catch a pig and kill it. This is way easier than the First Phase.” Leorio said with a grin. Kurapika was quick to respond.
“I hope it will be that simple.”
(Name) hummed in response, looking for tracks.
The group of five walked through the forest, searching for the main dish of their meals.
Gon slid down a hill, and Killua was quick to follow. The yells of delight turned into screams of terror when killua collided with Gon. Next was Leorio and then Kurapika.
“What was that about Gon!?”
Killua whined. (Name) clicked her tongue, staring down at the four.
“Did you boys think before you did that?”
(Name scoffed then moved to the side, sliding down safely away from the group.
“There they are.”
“Pigs!”
(Name) tilted her head and glanced to her left to see a beast of a pig chewing on bones.
“Uh… they’re chewing on bones.”
“Yep, they are.”
“They’re carnivores!?”
The pig suddenly looked up, seemingly just realizing that five idiots had just presented themselves to it on a silver platter.
It squealed and immediately gave chase, using it’s tough snout toss people into the air.
“These pigs are crazy!!”
(Name) attempted to kick it, only to crab her leg and cry out in pain.
“Now why the hell did you do that!?” Killua scolded, pinching her side.
“Ow! Well at least I did SOMETHING!”
The two scowled at one another before the group split off, every man(and woman) for themself!!
(Name) sprinted as fast as she could as one of the pigs followed her, charging every minute or so to try and catch her.
“THEIR FOREHEADS ARE SENSITIVE!”
(Name) nearly paused as she heard Gon scream out.
“Sensitive forehead huh?”
She grinned and began picking up rocks as she ran, stowing them in her backpack. Once it was heavy enough, she ran to the nearest tree and climbed up, then dropped the bag onto its forehead.
She slid down from the tree, staring at the pig.
“Wait. How am I gonna carry this back?”
—————
The examiners, Menchi and Buhara stared open mouthed as the applicants piled into the yard, each carrying a pig.
“Huh, seems like we have some good applicants this year.” Buhara stated.
Menchi nodded, but then she was distracted by the sound of grunting and pulling.
A girl appeared at the gate entrance, pulling along the pig at a snails pace. Sweat dripped from her brow, but she showed no signs of stopping.
“Seems like we really do.”
(Name) groaned as she finally approached her cooking station, pulling the pig onto the heavy duty table.
“You didn’t have to do it alone you know.”
Leorio looked up from his station to glance at (Name). Both he and Kurapika had offered to help carry it, but (Name) had refused.
“If I keep receiving help, then I won’t feel like I accomplished anything myself. Just wouldn’t feel right.”
She began chopping up her pig and sorting out the cuts of meat. Leorio turned away and grinned.
“Sorry.”
(Name) stopped. She looked up from her cutting board, lifting a brow at the younger man.
“Sorry for what?”
“For underestimating you.”
(Name) paused, letting the sentence sink in. After a moment of contemplation she nodded.
“It’s alright, I’ve been relying on you all too much. I would underestimate me too.”
Leorio frowned at this, but didn’t reply. He wondered if she still thought of herself as a burden, but he didn’t want to ask. If he pushed her now, she might lose focus and fail this phase. It wasn’t the time to talk, he just hoped he wouldn’t regret staying quiet later.
“Now, eat the pig and send me to the next phase.”
Everyone watched as an applicant placed a roasted pig in front of the two Examiners.
“Alright. Time for the taste test!”
Buhara munched on the pig, giving him a passing grade. Menchi on the other hand… a buzzer sounds off.
“Huh!?”
“It’s overcooked. The tough texture ruins the flavor of the meat.”
Menchi relaxes against her chair, holding up a small sigh with an X drawn on it.
“What? You haven’t even tried it!”
“Don’t have to!”
Several applicants try to serve the two, but they all fail.
“No one’s passed yet…”
Leorio looks down at his plain roasted pig from afar.
“And Menchi hasn’t even taken a bite.”
(Name) nods.
“I wouldn’t want to taste their dishes either,” she mutters under her breath. (Name) flips the pork she was cooking in her skillet, clicking her tongue.
“Come on, can’t anyone give me something good to eat?” Menchi calls, waving her sign in boredom.
Kurapika snaps his fingers, a smile on his face.
“That’s it! This phase of the exam is a cooking test, but they’re judging in originality and powers of observation.”
“Um I don’t-“
“I see…” Leorio interrupts before (Name) can correct them. She pouts and goes back to working on the meal.
Before long, the three walk back, with a look of defeat on their faces.
(Name) gulps.
“Didn’t work?”
They nod, confirming her suspicions. (Name) figured that this was more of a taste test than anything. After all, food was complicated. It didn’t matter how good it looked, if the food was gross it was bad food.
(Name) looked over her creation.
She had an entire plate of fried pork chops, with rice finishing on the stove and a pot of red-eyed gravy read to use.
“Who’s next?”
(Name), with the help of Leorio) to make sure the food didn’t spill, approached the two judges. She sat the meal in front of them, opening the lids to the gravy and rice.
Menchi glances at her in surprise, setting her sign down to pick up a fork.
“What have you prepared us, #406?”
(Name) breathes in.
“Today I’ve made you fried pork chops, red eye gravy, and white rice.”
Menchi nods. “Red eye gravy? Now what is that?”
“I’m glad you asked. Red eyed gravy is made using the pan you cooked the pork chops in. You take the pork chops out, pour in coffee, and let it warm up. The residue oil from the pork chops mixes with the coffee to make red eyed gravy!”
Buhara throws the food into his mouth, giving her a passing grade. Menchi looks at her plate, judging it.
“Hmm. It’s well plated, much more professional than anyone here.”
She took a bite, and then another. (Name) watched as Menchi cleared the plate, finally putting the fork down when not a single morsel was left remained.
“Amazing, this was delicious! #406, you have passed!”
The crowd breaks out into both angry yells and astonished whispers.
“Now I’m all full!”
Buhara pats his now enlarged stomach. Menchi crosses her legs.
“Yeah, me too. And with that, only one person passed. It’s over!”
————
“Only one person has passed?”
“Is she serious?”
“The exam is over?
(Name), who was still stood in front of Menchi and Buhara, could feel the stare of the crowd on her. Menchi stood and put her hands on (Name)’s shoulder.
“#406 is the only applicant to pass. She satisfied both our palates, which was the only thing needed to pass.”
#255 smashes his sink in rage.
“I absolutely refuse to accept this! That woman needed help carrying her entree to you, why should she win? She’s weak!”
Menchi stands and puts her hands on her hips.
“In the end, you’ve still failed.”
“Stop screwing around! You asked for pork, we risked our lives to-“
“I said to prepare the pork in a manner we both found delicious. No one else made anything remotely delicious. You all did almost the same thing, there was no effort made.”
She pointed at (Name), raising her voice.
“#406 expertly sorted which meat was suitable for pork chops, made a gravy and rice to compliment the meat, and plated it better than a professional. No one else attempted to emphasize the flavor, I’m positive the rest of you don’t take cooking seriously!”
Hanzo, a ninja, sighs.
“Pork dishes are all the same.”
Menchi grabs him by the neck of his shirt.
“Saying that is disrespectful to the person that actually put effort into this phase. Say it one more time and I’ll break your legs.”
A/N: sorry I left it off at a weird point but it’s been in my drafts for a while and I felt like posting it would give me more motivation to work on it!!🫶
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