Disclaimer: I do not own Death Note
Author's Note: So, I've been wanting to do this for a while. The plot takes place after the ending where L beats Light but as a result, only has 23 days left.
Constructive criticism is welcomed with open arms.
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I love you.
It's on the tip of his tongue and the forefront of his mind as L speaks Matsuda's given name for the first time.
"Touta," she says with her goofy smile. "You can call me Touta."
"Touta," he echoes before downing the rest of his tea. Now was not the time to let his nerves show.
I love you.
The first time L doe say it, he's holding out a ring. His heart speeds up loud and fast in his chest and his breaths turn shallow while Touta stares at him with the most shocked expression he's ever seen her make. For one long moment, his heart beats double-time as he wonders at the very real possibility of rejection and he realizes he doesn't quite know what to do next if she says no.
It turns out there's nothing to worry about when she steps forward and throws her arms around him and they share their first kiss.
I love you.
Is what L murmurs, his voice soft but steady as his forehead touches Touta's. The meeting with her family has been a complete mess; her father is furious at the sight of his new son-in-law, his previous enthusiasm of his eldest daughter finally getting married washed away by L's freakishness. L has no idea how to appease the elder Matsuda, but he talks to the older man in private anyway. He doesn't remember everything he says, but he is honest and straightforward. And by the end of it, while her father still wears a frown – and L's pretty sure his eye twitches, too – whenever his eyes drift into L's direction, there are no more harsh words.
…At least, not until L and Touta announce when they plan on holding the wedding.
I love you.
L mouths ever-so-discreetly to Touta as he stands across her while the reverend speaks. His bride is radiant, and as he lifts the veil, he can feel his heart swell so much it almost hurts.
I love you.
L knows it as he watches his sleeping wife – and how he revels in the word! – in his arms. And for the first time he can remember, he is more than content to simply close his eyes, at least for a while, and forget about the future.
I love you.
The days are counting down and the inevitable is coming. One night, L wakes up to Touta's sobs. He kisses her softly and holds her until she falls back asleep but it's hours before he's able to do the same.
I love you.
The words are frozen on his lips even as his last breath escapes him and he feels Touta's hot tears falling onto his face.
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