Gym Days and Moments of a Lifetime
I do not own Yuu Yuu Hakusho
Thank you all for your support by reviews, favourites and just reading. I hope you enjoy this chapter. Sorry I took so long to update.
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Chapter Seven
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Christmas Day
A firm knock was heard as Kurama set the table in the living room for tea. Looking up with a tender smile, he tucked some hair behind his ear before walking to the door. A deep breath for a calming effect was drawn as he glanced to the kitchen where his mother was finishing up with the tea, knowing she would emerge soon, and there would be Hiei. It was finally happening and he couldn't stop it. The time came and he wasn't sure what to do as his heart rate increased, pounding maddeningly against his ribcage. Reaching for the door handle, he finally worked up the courage to open the door and smile at Hiei when an appreciative glance took in his attire of fitted black pants with a long green sweater. He knew he rarely wore fitted clothes and that's why he grabbed Hiei's attention so easily.
"I think I'm more nervous than you." Gesturing for Hiei to enter, Kurama closed the door behind him, forcing the chilly wind away.
"I have you already." Smirking towards Kurama, he toed off his shoes and took off his coat before Kurama hung it on the coat rack. Spotting that it was only a light wool coat over the long sleeve black tee shirt, interest rose within Kurama.
"Weren't you cold?"
Without responding, Hiei touched him with his warm hands, knowing he did not wear gloves.
"I'm use to colder days." Casually he said as he glanced behind Kurama when he heard footsteps.
Turning, Kurama smiled as his mother returned with the tea pot.
"Welcome." Warmly, she greeted with a smile to match, her brown hair tied in a low ponytail as her long sleeve velvet dress, fitting for the winter day, flowed as a light blue river, cascading to the floor.
A nod returned her greeting as she smiled and glanced at Kurama.
"Hiei, this is my mother, Minamino Shiori." He started as they stepped closer. "Mother, you're aware of Hiei." As he spoke, he hoped his nervousness of the meeting did not spill through as he was raking through his mind for an excuse to leave, wanting them to start it off by themselves. He never thought it would be so nerve wreaking having his special someone meeting his mother. It always seemed as if it would be a happy moment, something to be extremely excited with no hints of hesitance or nervousness. He knew Hiei wouldn't mind his mother and his mother would approve of Hiei because it was in his interest so he was confused as to why he couldn't calm down. Glancing at the table, he noticed his mother left the baked goods for the tea back in the kitchen. Gladly he pointed it out, suggesting to fetch it as she sat, urging her to rest as she did a lot already. Turning to Hiei he gestured to the chair.
"I'll be back." Not wanting to seem as if he ran away, he took his time to walk to the kitchen where he leaned against the counter and sighed out before taking deep breaths.
...
"It's nice to finally meet you. I've heard many things about you, all are good." Shiori started kindly as she studied Hiei, glad she didn't work on impulse in the past when she glanced in the corner where she hid the flogging stick, now using it to scare away tanuki from stealing when a door remained unknowingly unlocked.
Hiei knew what she was doing. He didn't mind it in all honesty as he actually felt comfortable. Never had he ever had to meet anyone's parents. All the girls he dated were not serious for that step to happen so he wasn't sure what to expect, if he would be on the receiving end of questions or if he needed to give a verbal resume or something. He just hoped Kurama would return to help guide the conversation before his comfort escape him with the progression of the talk.
"Likewise." Watching her shift forward, he raised a brow and curiosity rose in him as she grinned.
"Let me ask you a few questions before Shuichi returns." She whispered as he moved closer with a nod.
"How serious are you?"
Cliché, was the first thing that came in his head but it was a serious question which was why it was so common. Every parent desire to know the intentions of their child's love interest.
"Serious." Nonchalantly he answered, though knowing he need to and knew he would have to, he was not use to explaining himself to someone he just met.
"How serious? You've been dating for a month now. How did you feel when he told you I wanted to meet you?" She tried again.
"Somewhat expected. Things moved faster than we knew it would." He noted and she nodded as if having prior knowledge of things, only then recalling Kurama telling him he confided in her many times concerning him.
"I see. How do you feel about him? That's my baby, my only child and my world." Her tone saddened slightly as she spoke before glancing at the kitchen, hearing a little ruckus.
"Kurama is the most important person to me." Quickly he said as the noises stopped, predicting that Kurama would return.
"So do you love him?" Cutting to the chase, she asked as she sat back in her chair and without hesitation which made her smile, Hiei nodded.
Looking up when Kurama returned, she smiled as he rested the large plate on the table before sitting between his mother and Hiei.
"What was that ruckus?" Shiori asked kindly as she poured the tea for everyone.
"I accidently hit the pot and everything capsized." Nodding his thanks, he sipped on the tea and gently rested it down, only to see Hiei taking one sip before putting it back, moving it further away from himself. Then Kurama recalled that for Hiei's taste, the tea was probably not up to par considering how different Genkai's was. Being use to Genkai's tea, it would be hard drinking the different quality tea found closer to the city, especially if he had a private stash in his place, as Kurama believed. That thought reminded him that he never visited Hiei, only at the station. With that revelation, he hoped his mother wouldn't ask about sleepovers as she began to talk knowing the tone that conversation would engender. He grew content when her interest went into the general things she knew they did.
As it approached one in the afternoon when Shiori eventually began sharing stories about Kurama's childhood, Kurama decided to bring the meeting to an end, knowing Hiei needed to leave and Hatanaka would be arriving soon.
With his mother cleaning up in the kitchen, Kurama walked Hiei to the door.
"Thanks for humouring her." Kurama started as he handed Hiei his coat after he put on his shoes.
"It wasn't bad. Yukina's would be." Muttering, he added lowly. "The fool will be there."
Laughing lightly, Kurama fixed the collar of Hiei's coat as he added his thoughts pertaining to the situation. "He's funny. I like them together."
"They're fine."
"I can sympathise with you because I have my own." Kurama reminded as he gestured to his mother as he heard the dishes clattering against each other as she packed them away. Seeing that Hiei was ready, Kurama stepped closer to him.
"Happy Christmas." He whispered before leaning in for a light kiss. Parting slightly, Hiei replied.
"Same to you." Resting his hand firmly on Kurama's waist, Hiei kissed him again, but firmer before finally saying goodbye.
Closing the door, Kurama walked back to the kitchen to help his mother with lunch, knowing she wanted to impress Hatanaka-san who was most likely on his way by now.
"Hiei is really nice." Starting the conversation, she said as she walked to the fridge. "He is very built. I like that. If only I was younger, it would be more fitting for me to have someone looking like that." Sighing out in admiration, she turned to Kurama and laughed at his surprised expression.
"It's not hard to see." She laughed. "Everyone likes that and I really appreciate that. Too bad Kazuya isn't that way but I still like him nonetheless."
"True. I try not to stare." Laughing Kurama said and she chuckled along with him. "Though if I do, it's fine."
"You're very lucky. Hiei is really nice, a bit quiet and reserve but if he was anything else, I doubt you'd get along."
"I agree."
"I did notice he didn't drink much of my tea." Shiori noted casually and with just a smile, Kurama allowed it to be his only reply.
When Hatanaka-san and his son, Shuichi arrived, after the initial official introductions, Kurama pulled away to observe. He wanted to read the man's every move, involuntary actions and peruse every expression and impression on his face. The boy as well, though Kurama truly didn't care much for him. He still wasn't use to the idea that he may be getting a step brother. Luckily for him, he was already out of the house.
The day was long and gruelling. It was mentally draining and finally over. Stepping into his home, with a deep sigh, Kurama closed the door and took of his shoes and coat. Previously informing his mother he would leave early, giving her alone time with her special friend, she made it her duty to pack away food for him that would last days, unless Hiei decided to visit. A fond smile graced his face at the thought of Hiei and how his mother adored him already. Walking into his living room, the smile faded as he spotted Hiei's gift on the table.
"I knew I forgot something." Sighing out, hoping to see Hiei tomorrow if he was free, Kurama placed it under his little tree before rewarding himself with a nice steamy shower, knowing it would be the best thing for him with his aromatherapy liquid soap. Ah, bliss...
...
Alone on his couch, sprawled out with a glass of sake in one hand and the television remote in the other, Kurama wondered if it was wise opting to stay home alone as he glanced at his little Christmas tree, the only light source besides the television.
Taking a sip from his glass, a knock took him by surprise as he swallowed hard on it, forcing him to cough as to offset the discomfort.
Upon exposing the culprit, Kurama happily invited Hiei in, the sight of him warded off the previous mishap.
"Seemed to be in a rush to leave your mother." Hiei started and Kurama frowned slightly in question. "It's half past five and you're comfortable already as if you were home all day." He added as he walked in and gestured to the drink after taking in Kurama's sleepwear and his shameless grin.
"You as well, though somehow I believe we both rather be here." Returning to his spot on the couch, Kurama patted the spot next to him, suggestively but before he did, Kurama watched as Hiei walked back to the kitchen for another glass, loving that Hiei was comfortable enough to tend to himself.
Seated comfortably, with him leaning against Hiei as Hiei leaned on the couch, Kurama perused through the guide for a festive show that would truly entertain them.
As he grew weary, they settled for one of the most popular drama's Christmas special that actually turned out to be entertaining.
"I can see why it's popular." Kurama noted, his voice soft as it suggested the statement was a thought, not to be averred or combated.
Promoting a more intimate position, Hiei shifted closer, wrapping an arm around Kurama. Humouring Hiei, Kurama allowed it as he pulled a leg over Hiei's, waiting expectantly to see his next move; to prove if his assumption concerning Hiei's favourite body part was true.
As predicted, Kurama curb his triumphant expression when Hiei's hand idly gravitated towards his leg, caressing and gently squeezing.
Shifting closer, with a smirk, Kurama nudged him.
"You're predictable." Chuckling lightly, he gestured to his leg. "You like my legs."
Realising what he was doing, without hiding or covering it up, he smirked.
"It's my favourite body part. I'm a legs guy." Shamelessly he confessed as he pulled Kurama's leg further on him as punctuation.
"That's why I don't mind how tall you are; more for me to touch." Deeply his voice echoed, the smoothness took Kurama away with the words spoken as he leaned to kiss Hiei.
Being sucked into the kiss, Hiei used it to his benefit to distract Kurama as he reached into his pants pocket. Moving away slowly, only putting a few inches between them, Hiei spoke; his tone low as not to disturb the intimate atmosphere.
"Here." Moving a box between them and into view, he grabbed Kurama's attention.
Taken by surprise, with a fond smile Kurama took the box as he added space between them. Carefully unwrapping it, he met another box. Placing the gift wrap on the table, he repositioned himself before opening it, only to see a silver necklace staring at him. The necklace was delicate with a flat, somewhat rugged looking leaf pendant. Touching it, he marvelled at the craftsmanship. Only when he pulled it out of the box, did he notice behind the pendant was textured with writings. Looking closely, he read what became known as a poem. Thoroughly surprised by the perfection of the gift, all he could do was to allow it to show in his expression.
Coming to himself, he quickly jumped off the couch.
"I have one for you too." Grabbing it from under the tree, he flopped back excitedly next to Hiei.
A raised brow from Hiei was the only obvious expression of surprise from him as he opened it and almost laughed. Beaming Kurama explained the reason behind his choice.
"Since it seems that you lost your gym gloves, I decided to get one for you. Then I got caught up in the store with all the other things and thought about the straps for dead lifts. Then I saw the callus shaver. Though I personally like your rough hands, removing the calluses can help with your grip. The pads too seemed good if you just don't like using gloves for certain workouts. I tried not to get carried away." Finishing, he grinned shamelessly.
"Tried?" Amused was the only thing heard in his voice.
Nodding Kurama then gestured to his gift, wanting Hiei to place it on him. Lifting up his hair, Kurama gathered it as he turned for Hiei to clasp it together. Staring at the poem again, Kurama failed to hide his pleasure in reading it, seeing how well it fit their situation, though it seemed as if something was missing, as if there was not an end.
"The poem is deeply personal; it is very unique and fitting."
"It better be. It took a while to make it up." Casually with an air of unimportance, Hiei's voice softly echoed, the words resonating longer in Kurama's mind as it exposed more of Hiei's personality and capabilities, drawing him further to Hiei.
"Really?"
Perfectly impressed, Kurama kissed him, pulling him close. As the passion grew, and they indulged themselves with each other, a moment of clarity descended on Kurama. Moaning out a little, he pulled away from Hiei, holding the once roaming hand in place.
"I have a surprise for us."
Mysteriously, with a hint of amorousness, Kurama pulled Hiei towards the bedroom, only stopping along the way to unplug the Christmas tree lights.
Being curious but quiet, Hiei only waited hoping Kurama would hasten the reveal. Apparently, a ritual needed to be done as Hiei humoured Kurama as he positioned him on the bed, the lights already dim and Kurama still secretive as he took something from a drawer, hiding it under his clothes as he grinned before crawling on Hiei, straddling his thighs as he sat on his lap. Pulling out the thing, he quickly hid it behind Hiei as he wrapped his arms around his neck.
"Are you going to tell me or show me?" Playing along while demoting his curiosity, he wrapped his arms around Kurama's waist, pulling him closer.
"I can do both." Seductively Kurama replied as he leaned to kiss him, only teasing him by pulling away as their lips touched. Pulling away further, he finally yielded to his irresistible second half bringing a plastic bottle into view, revealing an intimate personal care product.
"Curiosity got the best of me so I thought it would be good to have it, especially since at times it's out of our mind and so we improvised." His attention never left Hiei's as Hiei read the label while he spoke.
Smirking after, Hiei turned his attention to him. "One less thing to worry about."
Grinning with a nod, Kurama encircled his arms around Hiei again, shifting suggestively against him.
"I'm glad I chose right because you're my first, in every sense of the word."
He allowed Hiei a moment to digest it and somewhat pusillanimously nodded when Hiei's eyes widened.
"Are you serious?" Flabbergasted, he asked finding it hard to believe yet glad he was the first to touch such beauty.
Affectionately bumping their foreheads together, he nodded.
"And I don't regret it." Shifting suggestively against him one more time, he leaned to Hiei's ear. "No one else deserved my virginity." The whisper was saturated with concupiscence, but by that time Hiei didn't need anything to jumpstart his virility as swiftly and completely unexpected to Kurama, he flipped them over causing Kurama to yelp in surprise, chucking afterwards as he stared up at Hiei.
"Are you really serious?" It was hard to believe because he knew Kurama was such a catch.
"I'm completely serious." Smiling, Kurama ran his hands over Hiei's chest before fisting his hands into the black tee shirt, pulling him down. "This will be my third time." As innocent as possible, Kurama's voice fed Hiei's passion as he gave him a look to match. "So be gentle." He added for good measure, feeling Hiei's passion.
...
Kurama's pre-conceived notions extrapolated expectedly from their previous encounters were blown away as sheaves in the wind when they joined together as a sign of their unspoken commitment to each other, knowing there was no returning to how things were before. Hiei bit his lips as his senses were being overloaded with everything he never thought he could feel as he looked at Kurama; lips parted as laboured breaths escaped his mouth, face flushed with hands reaching up to grip the headboard. As always Kurama was a titillating sight to behold and especially when he became vocal, Hiei turned into a lost cause for him.
Feeling Hiei's rough hands on his legs and hip, Kurama never failed to become more excited by their contrast as he felt himself being shifted, his legs being moved. Those were the times he was grateful for his flexibility and he knew Hiei did as well. Feeling Hiei's movements becoming robust, a string of noises erupted as a crescendo from his throat as Hiei canted lower to him, moving to his neck and pressing further into him. Hearing a deep low moan from Hiei, Kurama lost it as he moved his hands to hold Hiei, griping his back as they moved together, both working in efforts to elevate the other. They valiantly attempted a kiss but their passion was too great, their breathing needed as they panted the same breath until they reached their end together.
He didn't intend to but he collapse on Kurama before he could have detached himself to move to the side. A chuckled between pants escaped Kurama as he ran his hands through Hiei's hair, urging him to remain a little while longer.
The air stilled, their breathing calmed and the firing from their neuronal activities were reduced when Kurama released a small chuckle.
"You're heavy." He nudged Hiei with his leg and Hiei smirked at him before rolling over.
"Was curious to know how long you could last." Sprawled on the other side, he glanced at Kurama who turned to him, a mischievous smirk on his face.
Moving up on his elbows, with a low tone, Kurama spoke. "I think my endurance is good." Certainly there was a double meaning and it was only relayed to Hiei when Kurama suggestively caressed him before straddling his waist. Combing his hand through his hair, he flipped the long red strands behind his back before he beamed at Hiei.
"Let's see." Hiei's voice, deep and smoother than usual ignited and motivated Kurama's bold suggestion.
"Gladly." Careening down, the pendant of the necklace bumped on Hiei's chest before their lips met. Shifting suggestively, Kurama teased Hiei when he felt callused hands rubbing his hips and derrière before moving down the length of his thighs.
After a few teasing, their kiss only parted as Kurama inched up only to realign himself before sitting fully on Hiei. A long moan escaped his lips as he settled himself before he began to move. Both hands became planted on either side of Hiei as Kurama took control, biting his lips as he gyrated his hips more, almost collapsing on Hiei when he hit the scream worthy spot, eliciting a small scream to escape him.
Hiei moved his hands to Kurama's hip as he worked for them both and only sat up after Kurama couldn't hold himself up on his shaking hands anymore. Wrapping his arms around Kurama's waist, he thrust up against Kurama as he gyrated down, Hiei's name becoming moans from his lips. Nuzzling Kurama's neck, Hiei yielded to his passion as it grew, kissing Kurama's neck, to his jaw bone before reaching his lips.
Arching against Hiei, Kurama's hand moved to Hiei's hair, knotting his hand in it as Hiei let out a moan of approval near his ear. Resting his forehead against Hiei's, they both teased each other, Hiei especially and smirked when Kurama replied with a small scream and instinctive involuntary body action, which in return promoted deep passion filled growls from Hiei. Eventually the inevitable could not be prolonged any further as Kurama arched against Hiei, his hair lengthening in the movement, tickling against Hiei's thigh as Hiei dug his hands in Kurama's hips, coming to his end.
Resting his head against Hiei's shoulder, harshly Kurama's breath came out of him as he felt a tremor lingering throughout his body as it had nothing to do with the cold he couldn't even feel.
As time passed, with their passion sated, both were cuddled under the quilt as they shared what happened during the day when they were without the other.
"I'm surprise they have a date already." Chuckling softly, Kurama spoke out as he idly played with Hiei's fingers.
"That's all they were talking about. Yukina stressed that the day should be picked first so she'd have an idea of her style of dress, the amount of time she'd need and a whole bunch of other crap. Eventually I tuned her out."
"It seems hard to believe that you did that, but considering the circumstance, I can understand. It seems that there will be three upcoming wedding in the New Year, including mother's." As Kurama said it, the truth in it produced a scowl on Hiei's face and that same scowl resurfaced multiple times during the New Year...
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"We're finally here." Two new, familiar voices distracted them as all four of them hovered around the battle ropes, competing against each other in the gym. Looking to the direction of the voices, they all saw Yukina and Keiko dressed in the latest gym fashion, happily approaching them.
"Huh, what are you doing here?!" Yuusuke was the first to respond, though not in a positive away. "What! Why are you here! This is my time away from you!" Yelling loudly enough to attract attention, Yuusuke expressed his disapproval even on his face, knowing with her there, his fun flirting innocently with Kurama would be stanched, though she claimed she didn't mind.
Sighing, Yukina smiled and waved at Kuwabara who giggled before walking to her as Keiko walked to Yuusuke, huffing in anger.
"Idiot! How dare you!" She yelled before slapping him across his face.
It happened so many times, especially lately that all Kurama did was to laugh. Glancing at Hiei, he gestured for them to leave the couples alone. Seeing Yukina being guided gently to a few machines, Kurama deduced the team has been temporarily disbanded.
"I believe they want to get toned for their wedding." Smiling fondly as Kuwabara treated Yukina as a porcelain doll, he noted to Hiei, by which the famous scowl was present.
Tenderly observing the scowl, Kurama smiled dotingly as he nudged Hiei hoping to distract him from what he should not change. Somehow Kurama knew if he didn't adore Yukina so much, no wedding would have been in the planning.
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Though the beautiful late winter wedding at the temple came and passed, and Keiko's early summer wedding was enjoyed and now a memory, Kurama recalled one event in particular where Hiei almost made a newly wedded Keiko into a widow. Truly it was just bad timing and no one could be blamed but the way Yuusuke behaved almost pushed Hiei over the edge, just because he was ignorant in the affairs not concerning him...
Unlocking the door to her brother's place, Yukina guided Yuusuke and Kuwabara in, because Hiei would not have allowed it without her chaperoning them. However as she stepped in and spotted an extra pair of shoes, Yukina nervously scanned the place before they hauled in the sensitive sculpture she bought inside. Hiei agreed to house it for some time as she and Kuwabara prepare their own place, not trusting it in the unfinished home with all the construction in progress. She didn't want to sabotage his privacy as payment so she quickly hid the shoes knowing it was Kurama's, though it did not scream his name as it was a flat cloth shoe, which he had a penchant of wearing on warm days. Considering the day was cooler and raining, Kurama probably spent the night and from the time she was there, she brought the other two too early.
'Hiei would be so mad at me.' Slightly afraid of her brother's wrath, she thought of a way to make the drop off as quiet as possible.
"Guys, please be quiet and gentle." She stressed while holding the door as they walked in and toed off their shoes.
"Yes sir, um ma'am." Grinning Yuusuke saluted before Kuwabara glared at him because he released one side to do so.
"Idiot, you can't just let go like that!" Fumbling, he attempted to compensate for the fact that Yuusuke almost dropped the heavy box.
"Who are you calling idiot, you moron!" He yelled as Yukina guided them into the living room but froze when she heard something.
Nervously she looked around and only then hoped her husband and Yuusuke would continue their ranting but unfortunately, they didn't. She knew they heard it too when they paused their steady steps and turned to the direction of the bedroom.
"You hear that Urameshi." As a loud whisper Kuwabara asked and Yuusuke quickly nodded.
"Dude has been keeping things from us!"
Their chatter calmed when a moan and whimper were heard under the door and a low, deep, incomprehensible moan, obviously from Hiei seemed to answer a feminine sounding grasp.
"Please hurry and put it here so we can go. We're here earlier than he said." Urgently she said as Kuwabara wilfully complied but Yuusuke, perverted by nature, wanted to know more.
"She sounds hot! I want to see." Grinning coquettishly, he took a step towards the door but with one disapproving look from Yukina to her beloved Kuwabara, he sprung into action, always wanting to please her.
"Let's go Urameshi." Grabbing him, he wrestled him before dragging him out.
The next day Yuusuke almost signed his death sentence when he saw Hiei that evening as it was their turn to cook in the fire station. It became a habit for them to persuade Kurama into helping, by which he didn't mind, allowing him to be present when Yuusuke began.
"Dude." Yuusuke greeted him loudly as he entered the kitchen where Kurama and Yukina were unpacking some items from a last minute grocery shopping trip while Hiei sat, waiting.
"Why didn't you tell me you had a woman?!" He yelled and Kurama sighed softly when Yukina apologetically smiled at him. Careening down to her, he consoled her.
"We knew as it was hard to ignore the big box in the living room. It was just a little mistiming, that's all." He assured, not wanting her to feel bad since no true secret was revealed. She was still the only one who knew about them.
"It's still my fault. I should have called first." Quietly with guilt and a bowed head, she justified softly.
Ignoring him, Hiei pulled out his mobile. "Dude, don't pretend you don't know what I'm talking about." Turning to Kurama, he grinned."Kurama could you believe this! Since when is he hiding a girl and man, from the sound of her, she must have been hot!" Grinning perversely he began his ranting. "If only, I'm not saying I want to but maybe just peak so I could sate my imagination. Her voice was so..." As he ranted on to x-rated description of things he would like to do only fuel by a beautiful mystery, he failed to see Kurama and Yukina moving to Hiei's side to calm him down from attacking Yuusuke, hating the fact that he was blatantly saying he wanted Kurama in such a way, but not knowing it was Kurama. Though Hiei didn't care to reason with himself knowing Yuusuke still held a soft spot for Kurama and still insisted on flirting with him which made him feel if Yuusuke knew it was Kurama, his thoughts would not change.
Hearing a particular and somewhat salacious comment, Kurama glared at him before stepping away from Hiei. "Please." He said to Hiei before Yukina moved out of his way, agreeing that Yuusuke was going too far. Women were not a play thing and even if it was him and not a mysterious woman, they would never do that. Hiei would never do anything demeaning to him, not even in the name of lust, knowing at one point when Yuusuke gave Hiei a protein sample with testosterone booster, the side effects almost began in the locker room as Kurama supported all of Hiei's boosted libido fantasy.
Yuusuke, if he wasn't caught up in his fantasy would have seen it coming, but he didn't and was rewarded with a direct punch to his jaw, the force sending him to the floor a few feet away from them.
"Shut your mouth." He snapped and turned away from the stunned eyes Yuusuke gave him, not expecting to be hit for his ways, knowing that in his previous relationships, though he never heard Hiei in the act, knew he bed women and wouldn't mind when Yuusuke describe his fantasy if ever he was truly allowed to date with the liberty Hiei had.
It was at the onset of the punch when Kuwabara stepped in.
"I don't want to know because you probably deserved it." Glancing down at Yuusuke, he stepped over him and walked to his wife.
"I found the freshest shrimps." Smiling proudly, he poured to out into a bowl for her close examination.
Being hurt more than physically, Yuusuke quieted down on his heightened desires, which waxed worse ever since he became a married man. At the gym, he was reserved and eerily quiet that it bothered Kuwabara. Hiei only gave his famous scowl before walking away, leaving Kurama to do what he felt to do. Kurama, understanding Hiei's personality and somewhat wanting time alone as well, left Hiei alone.
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On a Friday night, sprawled on the couch in a short pants and tee shirt, Kurama littered the table and floor with papers. His hair rose high in a ponytail as he was waiting for the technician to return his call concerning his broken air conditioning unit. It was the wrong record breaking heat wave not to have relief and from the looks of it, he would suffer through the end. Eventually, heat and exhaustion took over as he was easily pulled into sleep.
Unlocking the door, Hiei hoped Kurama didn't chain it already. Good for him it wasn't in place, only putting it in after he re-locked the door.
'Why is it so hot in here?' He thought as he toed off his shoes and walked into the living room. The first thing that distracted him was a pair of flawless legs naked on the couch. Slowly his eyes made way up to a sleeping face and hair that was suspended high above Kurama's head and over the arm of the chair. Sitting beside him, he yielded to temptation as he ran his hand up Kurama's leg, urging Kurama to wake up.
Stirring, sleepy eyes focused as Kurama smiled at Hiei.
"Hey." Tenderly he greeted as he batted sleep away before stretching languidly, only then feeling a hand on his thigh.
"Why is it so hot in here?" Hiei asked and shifted when Kurama sat up, gathering some papers, fixing the once existing pile.
"My air conditioning unit shut down last night. A technician supposed to have called already but I didn't hear anything from anyone."
"Should have just come over." Reminding, he walked over to the unit in the wall, inspecting it.
"I thought so but I needed to get these done and a fax had to come so I needed to be here." Done realigning and organising, carefully rising from the couch, with careful steps over the papers he walked to the fridge for two beers, having stocked up on Hiei's favourite.
Studying the thermostat intently, before accepting the beer, Hiei poked at a few things. "Do you have a tool kit?"
Replying honestly, with a shrug Kurama popped open his beer, only adopting the habit ever since he became acquainted with the fire fighters. "I never had a reason to."
Not even a proper gulp of his beer was taken before it was pushed aside, having more pressing matters to tend to. Glancing at his watch, he addressed Kurama.
"I'll be back."
He was considering going to the store but retracted his thoughts as that could be error prone, he opted to the one he had knowing the quality of the ones in the regular stores would be below his standards.
Returning, he went to work with Kurama finishing up on his as he idly played with his leaf pendant, poking his lip with it. Finally done and filing the papers in order, tenderly, Kurama observed Hiei diligently at work, marvelling at his aptitude. Pausing, Hiei gulped his beer and only acknowledged Kurama when he was given another.
"Do you think we should inform the others?" Vague as it was, being sharp and recalling the recent events, elaboration was not needed as Hiei glanced at Kurama, a slight pause before he returned his attention to the unit. Their talks of Hiei not expressing behaviours of his past urged Yuusuke especially to question about girls and even Kurama was dragged into it. Though they knew Yuusuke was glad Kurama always answered no to his girlfriend questions. At that point it was becoming very annoying.
"No." Quietly he responded and only when he was screwing in the final screw, he reasoned.
"For now, I just want Yukina knowing."
"Just out of curiosity..." Allowing it to hang, Kurama uttered with no negativity and sighed in delight when cool air caressed him as Hiei turned on the unit.
Stooping down to pack back the tool box, he chose to reply. "They know too much of my bad habits." Carefully he started.
"But that was you then, not now." Accepting the tool box from Hiei, Kurama stored it in the miscellaneous cupboard while Hiei washed his hands, the water running dark with suds floating down the drain.
"They don't know that. I don't want them to dump you in the category with the rest."
"So you're concerned about what they think of you." Carefully Kurama chose his words as they settled on the couch.
"I couldn't care less what they think of me. You just deserve more respect than being lumped with the likes of the others."
"If they are so bad, why did you date them?" Hiei's derision was slightly unnerving to Kurama as they were confabulating about women he was attracted to, at least by one aspect.
"Dating is the process of getting to know someone." A pause was only taken for a gulp from the beer before he continued. "I didn't like what I was enlightened to. I wasted no time wondering or leading them on. I didn't need a lot of time since I'm very observant. Yukina says I'm a good judge of character. That's moot." A glance was thrown at Kurama. "Then I left them, maybe harsher than I should have but that was their opinion."
"What was your longest relationship?"
Tentatively Kurama asked, feeling slightly uncomfortable with the important conversation but knowing it was necessary to have considering they've been together for nine months and things were still too good to be true. His understanding of Hiei's personality came too easily, their way of handing each other in good and bad situations were uncanny that Kurama somewhat felt it could end soon, regretfully being influenced by the talks around him and thoughts of relationships that were created too quickly. He was not blinded as to not see him and Hiei were practically living together, their behaviour more inclined to that of a married couple. They had the keys to each other's flat, sleeping back and forth, being free to do so without prior consulting the other. They were not constantly keeping track of the other, showing a great deal of trust and never having any reason not to fully trust each other.
"Either three or four months." Unsure, he said with a shrug. "Yuusuke was more involved in them so he would know, always being nosy as if I couldn't do anything by myself."
Turning to Kurama, he caressed Kurama in such a gentle way, the stiff lip he was sporting relaxed as a giggle escaped him as it tickled. It was because of Hiei, he learnt his ticklish spots.
"When he goes on about the women I slept with, it's because I never corrected him. He is like a woman, always wanting to gossip. Half of them I never touched."
"Hm, good." Having his mood placated, Kurama shifted closer to Hiei. "You don't want children, right?"
A laugh bubbled out of Hiei's throat as he wrapped an arm around Kurama who made it seem as if he was the softest pillow in existence.
"No, don't like them."
"Perfect."
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Being around Hiei in the gym, Kurama knew he attracted many kinds of attention, from fellow men wanting tips to women who just liked what they saw and believed he was up for grabs. Kurama noticed he began attracting attention too but not the kinds he wanted. He couldn't blame anyone for mistaking his gender because his mundane and loose attire promoted it. And then, there was the fact that he couldn't hide his heart shaped face. Also there was his less than perfect masculinity that drew them to him. Unfortunately for them, he was not interested, having exactly what he wanted, and speaking of his, there was someone in the works flirting with Hiei. Wanting a bit of amusement during his routine workout, Kurama patiently took in the sight before him.
Sitting up from his last bench press set to grab his water, Hiei noticed but ignore the woman hovering close by. It was no true task noticing her in just very fitted pants and a sports bra; her breasts full and seemingly too big for her clothes. Most likely it was her best and favourite asset as she found every reason to bend forward and as close as possible, hoping to attract attention by using them.
Returning to complete his set, he performed it before adding a little more. Being up and walking around to add more plates to the bar, she felt courageous enough to approach him.
"Hello." She greeted but Hiei ignored her. Pouting angrily, she tried again, a bit more forceful. "Hello."
Knowing the kind, as he sat on the bench, he glanced at her as he looked around for his pads Kurama gave him for Christmas, the ones he used when lifting extra heavy.
'Crap, I left it.' He thought, ignoring the girl as she spoke, taking his glance at her as an invitation to do so.
"I would love to work out my chest too, but I don't have anyone to help me." Her voice fine and light; girly in every way as she heaved her chest causing it to bounce heavily.
Seeing this, Kurama shook his head. "Time to do squats." Glancing at the available rack to perform squats, with an amused smirk, Kurama took his time to walk over as he wore slimmer fitting pants where the shape of his legs could be seen, though his sweat top covered his bottom, still leave much to the imagination, something he knew Hiei took great pleasure in doing.
Hiei, after suffering through his heavy set, his hands burning as his calluses proved to be as big as a nuisance as the girl, he sat up just in time to see Kurama walked passed him, a smirk thrown at him.
The girl didn't seem to notice as she moved to a free bench, deciding upon one arm back rows, her voluptuous chest facing Hiei if ever he wanted to look while she made unnecessary noises when using her light weights.
Watching as Kurama walked back, he glanced at the girl who was coming to him again.
"Did I do that right?" Perkily while bouncing off her feet, eagerly she grinned.
"Ask a trainer." Grunting out he rubbed his hands before going back to squeeze out as much repetitions as he could.
"Oh my gosh, your voice is so deep and dreamy." Almost squealing she said and Hiei tried not to get annoyed enough for it to hamper his performance.
Sitting up again, he grabbed his water and waited for her to say something again because if she squeaked out anything again in that ghastly voice, he would throw the heavy bar at her. Kurama's presence saved her as he approached them.
"Excuse me." He said and at first, she ignored his words with a frown and haughty look. "I just want to borrow my boyfriend for a moment. Then I'll give him back to you." Kurama continued with a friendly smile and her face dropped in horror. It was only Kurama's diligent discipline that thwarted his true expression of utter amusement.
"You forgot these." Handing him the pads, he beamed at Hiei who gently touched the back of his thigh, glad his enthusiast saw as he stood beside Hiei's seated form.
"Thanks."
Turning back to the girl, Kurama smiled. "You can carry on." He said before returning to the rack as he performed his squats, knowing Hiei was watching him.
After he stared at Kurama's set, studying his form and other things, he returned his attention to the girl, whose face lacked the lustre it once held. Fixing the pads, he, with greater ease completed his chest workout as the girl began to move away.
"I didn't know you had a girlfriend." She almost whispered before embarrassingly covering her chest with her hands before literally running away.
A chuckle attracted Hiei's attention, urging him to walk over to Kurama.
"You're evil." Thoroughly amused, it was the first thing Hiei said to him.
"But you like that." Shamelessly, Kurama grinned. "I couldn't just save you as she came over. It was very entertaining to watch; though disappointing as to how they desperately crave attention."
"You're just a rare being."
Eventually their workouts bifurcated to different sections of the gym, leaving Hiei to search for Kurama as he was done. Only spotting Yuusuke and Kuwabara, they finished their final tasks in hurry to leave with him.
Upon entering, an unexpected sight greeted them all, only begun with the brief reminder that they did walk into the left side of the gym's locker room, proving it was the men's.
"Crap." Came from Kuwabara, a curse from Yuusuke and a wordless expression from Hiei resulted as they walked in on Kurama applying body lotion on his legs, lifting it on the bench as he slowly rubbed it into his skin. After hearing familiar voices, looking up he saw the slight blush with a modest look away from Kuwabara, a shameless face from Yuusuke as he stared, following his hands every move and Hiei who, well if only he was going home later with him...
"Um, are you alright? You're blocking the doorway." Smirking lightly, Kurama's voice took them out of their trance. Covering back his body lotion, he pulled on a shirt over his white undershirt before searching for his jeans.
"I didn't think I would see so much of you." Still somewhat affected, Yuusuke whispered as he hurriedly took his things and ran to the shower.
Hiei waited for Kuwabara to follow suit before approaching Kurama. "No one was here when you showered, right?" Hiei trust very few people and having seen some of the guys stealing curious glances at Kurama while in the locker room, Hiei adapted the 'protector' role very seriously. Kurama learned that Hiei wanted to protect him, though he knew he could tend to himself. Then Kurama thought that it wasn't so much of protecting his physical being from others, it was along the line of shielding his mind from experiencing things he didn't need to have.
"Not while I showered. I put on my under clothes there but as you know, they still look. Apparently you're not the only one who likes my long legs." His teasing promoted a perfect scowl to form. "We can't avoid the attention we attract but we can ignore it."
"Hate it still." Hiei's grumpiness always touched Kurama, giving him an odd sense of fondness, perpetuating and deepening his feelings for him. "Will you spend the night by her?" Gesturing to the bag of clothes he peeked in, he glanced back at Kurama who began to groom his hair.
"Yea, she misses me and wants me spend the night in my old room, possibly for the last time. Her autumn wedding is approaching faster than she expected. I think mother is feeling a bit down, though she can't wait to be married, she still has a slight trepidation concerning the change it would bring."
"Good luck to her."
"I'll be sure to let her know you send your regards, though she also began pressuring me about seeing you again." Putting the bag on his back, he straightened himself before smiling at Hiei, the only way he did when they were alone. "I'll see you tomorrow, hopefully." Gently touching him, wishing that Hiei was coming along with him as their recent schedule change, it became a treat having some alone time.
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End of Chapter Seven
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