Today is Midou Ban's birthday. This little ficcy (which is the shortest yet from me) took almost 40 minutes to type and edit. Therefore, I am very proud of myself. Standard Disclaimer apply.

BTW, otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu, Ban-chan.


He was tired, and sore, and many parts of his body ached with weariness – thank goodness there was no serious wound this time. And the damn snake was still writhing fitfully in his right arm, not being entirely free yet from the bloodlust.

But at least the mission was successful this time, though it took all of his concentration and strength not to succumb to the cold weather, as cold-blooded creatures were wont to do. And his partner was quietly resting beside him for once, as tired as he was – though he could still find the energy to grin happily as Hevn handed them the payment (minus her usual fees, of course).

It gave him enough reason to ignore his discomfort, and on a whim, he parked his car on a small hill just outside of town, after stopping at the Honky Tonk for some much-needed food. To actually pay for the purchase was a novelty in itself – it kept Paul happy enough to keep them on his premises for a while longer, at least.

Ginji had already wolfed down his portion halfway through the ride, and now merely watched as he stepped outside, stretched languorously, and winced slightly at the pain. As he settled down on the hood of the Ladybug and took out the pack of Malboro from his pocket, the blond man got out as well, closing the door and gazing up at the night sky, which was mostly empty.

"It's quiet tonight, ne, Ban-chan?" he said in an uncharacteristic low voice. He merely grunted his reply as he lighted up a cigarette, shoved the rest back into the pocket and inhaled deeply.

He felt and heard the other climbing on the hood behind him, and so he did not flinch as his partner carefully touched his sore back. He closed his eyes as Ginji began to gently massaged his back and shoulders, and he could feel the low hum of electricity emanating from his hands, much like one of those massage chairs he saw at the shops. Slowly, his body began to relax and the pulsing power of the snake gradually settled down as Ginji continued his ministration.

By the time it was over, he was half-leaning, half-slumpedagainst his partner, too comfortable and a little sleepy to move. Ginji wrapped his arms around him and cradled him like he would a kitten, and he let him. "Thanks," he mumbled, taking a last drag of the cigarette and flicking it away. He snuggled deeper into his partner's warm embrace and sighed deeply in satisfaction.

"Happy birthday, Ban-chan," the other whispered with a small smile as he let himself fall into sleep.