Kurama was never someone who lost his temper. He always made sure to keep his emotions in check, remaining calm and collected. Even when he fought Roto (and was forced into submission), Kurama kept his mind clear and his posture relaxed.

So he was unpleasantly surprised when a sharp jolt of hot anger shot through him when he saw the eldest Kuwabara sibling conversing with Sakyo. The two exchanged a few quiet words (words Kurama couldn't pick up on) before Sakyo took his leave. Shizuru stood still for a moment, hand on her hip, eyes narrowed.

"He's dangerous," Kurama said, coming up behind the brunette.

"Spying on me, are we?"

"I assure you, my intentions were not-"

"Save it." Shizuru pulled out a pack of cigarettes and lit one. "I never said I was opposed to the idea."

Kurama swallowed, feeling something in his chest tighten. Well, is she wasn't opposed than Kurama had no reason to feel guilty.

"What were the two of you talking about?"

"Your nosy too," Shizuru quipped, "But if you really want to know, he was just protecting me from a few demons. Told me to be more careful."

The anger festering deep in the fox's chest grew.

He's doing this simply to annoy you.

Kurama knew this, but it did little to still his emotions.

"I don't want you around him."

Shizuru arched an eyebrow. "Wanna run that by me again."

Her words came out hard and warningly. Kurama swallowed thickly, choosing his next words carefully.

"Simply put, Sakyo is a dangerous character. All I want to do is ensure your safety."

"Ensuring my safety and telling me what to do are two different things."

"Yes, well—-"

Shizuru turned on her heel and reached out, grabbing a lock of Kurama's hair. "Tell me to let go."

"I— would you—"

I can't do it.

Shizuru smirked, pulling him closer. "I don't think it's so much what I do (because I respect you enough to believe that you trust me) as it is what Sakyo does, or tries to do, to me. Am I right?"

"Perspective as ever, my dear," Kurama muttered, grabbing her shoulders to steady himself.

"I don't think I've ever seen you jealous before." Shizuru tilted her head. "It's a nice look."

Kurama felt his skin warm up. He coughed into his fist, looking away. "Yes, well, it's not something I wish to experience on a daily basis."

"Pity."

Shizuru threw her cigarette out, glancing around the lobby when she felt a few eyes on them.

"Let's go," she said, releasing Kurama's hair in lieu in holding his hand. Kurama nodded, keeping the brunette close.

Hand in hand, the two made their way back to the arena, where Hiei was getting ready to fight his next opponent.