The Winter Cup opened a lot of realizations, which I already know that the Generation of Miracles are demons and that you can achieve anything as long as you believe it in your mind and your heart- everything that seems to be impossible becomes possible in the blink of an eye. However, I realized that I need to get better- well stronger I need to reach as high I can towards the endless sky and push my limits while developing my individual skill. Since it is the time around the holidays, thankfully Riko gave us the few days off but I know when we come back to practice that it is going to be hell, like my feet are going to hurting as if I'm been running on a bed of nails.
Is that Mibuchi Reo? I can feel a scowl starting to form on my face as he is fumbling with his phone and he is doesn't look happy at all but why is he all the way here in Tokyo? He looks up from his phone and our eyes immediately make contact and a slight smile forms on his face.
"Hello, Junpei-chan," he says as he tucks his cell phone in his pocket and I approached him.
I rolled my eyes, "must you call me that?" I asked but, not really wanting an answer.
"I don't see why not, Junpei-chan," he smirks and he stares at me while waiting for my response.
"What are you doing all the way here in Tokyo?" I asked him not really enjoying the lack of comfort in this situation.
"Ah, just did a little shopping," he held up the shopping bags in his left hand, "I was going to buy a ticket but it seems I have misplaced my wallet, which doesn't really matter because the train line home is down right now and I was about to call someone to pick me up but my phone died."
"Do you not have your phone charger?" he shook his slowly, his black hair slowly moving, "what kind of phone do you have?"
"This is my phone Junpei-chan," he stated sweetly as he pulled out his cell phone to show it to me.
"I use to have that one," I stated as he put it back in his pocket, "if you want you can come over and charge your phone and stay the night I heard the weather is bad that way and no one will be able to come get you."
"I couldn't impose on you and your family, Junpei-chan," he said while he readjusted the bags in his hands.
I grabbed his wrist, taking some of the bags in my hand, "Baka! I invited you over it really is no trouble," I walked away and looked back and saw him standing there looking slightly flabbergasted, "if you don't hurry up you will get left behind."
I could hear him chuckle and he was right behind, "Junpei-chan is such a gentleman, carrying my bags for me," he wink at me slowly, "you are just so sweet, Junpei-chan~mon."
I could feel a heated blush begin across my face and I looked away from his direction, "whatever," I mumbled barely above a whisper.
We continued to walk in silenced until we reached my home, as soon as we stepped inside, "excuse the intrusion," he said sweetly.
"I'll bring you a pair of slippers," I stated as I sat down his bags, put on my slippers while removing my jacket, scarf and gloves, "I will go ahead and take the rest of these," I picked up all his bags and brought them into the living room.
"Thank you, Junpei-chan," he stated as I handed him the fuzzy pink slippers, "where is the rest of your family? It is pretty quiet in here."
"They are gone," I stated as I walked away, "I'll be cooking dinner- if you don't like it well get over it and we don't have any clean futons available, my little brother had a sleepover with his friends last night; therefore, you will have to share my bed with me unless you want to crash on the couch."
He hummed softly, "oh Junpei-chan," he picked up a few bags, "you don't even whisper sweet nothings but you know I'm already going to be in the bed with you."
"I wouldn't be surprise if I woke up to you having your way with me regardless," I smirked and headed towards the kitchen.
He followed right behind me, "you don't mind if I store this in the fridge do you?" Before I could respond he was already storing whatever it was in the fridge, "what is for dinner, Junpei-chan? I know I will be okay with whatever you cook because it is made by you."
I grabbed the pink, frilly apron, which is my mother's and since I haven't washed mine yet this would have to do for now, I turned around and saw the look on his face, "say a word about this to anyone and I will kill you," I stated while glaring up at him, "a simple hot-pot, I can only do that much."
He held his hands in the air, "I won't say a word about it to anyone," he winked towards me while a smirk on his face, "but it does look rather good on you, Junpei-chan," he continued to look at me as if he had something to ask I wish he would just come out and ask it instead of making me feel uncomfortable.
"If you have something to say just go ahead and say it," I stated to him cruelly while I began cooking.
"Is it alright for me to use the shower?" he asked, "I'm a little chilly and I would like to warm up."
"Baka," I stated, "you should dress warmer for the weather and of course why would I let you in my bed without cleaning yourself?"
He pouted his lips, looking down at me slightly sadly, "because of those harsh words you said to me in the game, Junpei-chan."
I exhaled a long breath, oh great, "I didn't really mean it… it was just in the heat of the moment but go ahead, one of them is down the corridor and is the third door on your left."
"Thank you, Junpei-chan," he said as he walked away out my sight.
Mibuchi Reo is well Mibuchi Reo, I don't think I have seen a player as talented as him; he is very amazing and from watching him play, especially his shooting forms I learn how to shoot threes and overtime I adapted them to my own. I truly admire him and I found it a challenge during our game but I don't think there will ever be a day where I would stop to admire him. I'm glad these are my very own private thoughts because he is a very attractive male, but I will never, ever admit that to him or anyone else.
As I finished cooking dinner, I set up the kotatsu, "Junpei-chan," he stated sweetly, in my ear, as his warm, wet arms embraced me from the behind and I could feel all the heat in my body going straight to my face.
"What are you doing?" I frantically replied trying to calm myself down.
"I've been calling for you, Junpei-chan," I turned around and saw notice that he is standing bare ass naked, "I would like a towel."
"BAKA!," I shouted as I hurriedly walked past him, "are you trying to make yourself get sick- coming out the bath wet and-"
"Naked," he interrupted, "we are both men here… does my naked body distract you, Junpei-chan?"
I abruptly turned around, looking down at the floor, "Baka, I'm concerned for your well-being and no it does not-"
"Then look at me properly, Junpei-chan," he interrupted me again.
I looked up at him fiercely, "Stop interrupting, you didn't have to embrace me like that just to get my attention; stop playing games with me, you are just using me for your entertainment."
He chuckled, "Oh Junpei-chan," I glared at him before turning around and walking away.
"If you looked you would notice that the towels are right here," I quickly turned around and I slipped out on a puddle of water and it feels like I'm falling slowly the back of my head about to smash the floor.
He caught me in his arms and held me close to him, "Junpei-chan, you should be careful," his face awkwardly close to mine, "here you go," he helps me stand up, I handed him the towel, "thank you."
"Do you have any clothes to change into?" I asked facing away from him, with my hand on the door knob.
He chuckled, "well I did do some shopping today," I look down at the corner and saw his shopping bag in the corner, "Thank you for the concern."
"Whenever you are dressed come eat," I opened the door, "I'm starting without you," I took one step outside, "make sure to dry your hair properly."
What the hell was that, this feeling in my heart? Am I having a heart attack or is it heartburn? Shit- just think Hyuuga Junpei, I'm fine he just had me extremely fluster- I never knew what he looked like without clothes and if any girl was here to witness that they would have one hell of a nosebleed. I know that I'm fit but damn the way his body glisten with the droplets of water and how his drenched hair slightly sticked to the frame of his face makes me feel slightly insecure about my looks.
"Ah," he stated as he put on a long-sleeve orange sweater, "it smells delicious, Junpei-chan."
I silently glared up at me while chewing on food, "not going to say anything, Junpei-chan?" he asked as he sat down, "thanks for the meal," he stated rather cheerfully. I continue to eat my food in peace, "Oh my gosh," I looked up at him slowly and seeing the ecstatic look on this face, his cheeks flushed, "Junpei-chan, this is amazing- you have made the best hot pot I have ever tasted, well so far," the extra comment was not necessary but oddly I feel this strange warmth pooling in the bottom of my stomach, "I have something that will go great with this," he stood up from the kotatsu, "I'll be right back darling."
Seriously, what is with him it isn't like this is a gourmet hot pot or made with anything special, it is common and ordinary also simple to make, well once you learn how to cook properly. I watched him return with two glasses and a bottle of wine- wait how the hell did he get wine.
"Did you miss me, Junpei-chan?" he said as he sat down underneath the kotatsu.
"Stop being stupid," I lift my chopsticks and point them in his direction, "beside what the hell is that-"
"It is wine, Junpei-chan," he said as he removed the cork, like a pro, and began to fill two of the glasses.
"I'm well aware that it is wine, how the hell did you get it?"
"Ah, I just gave one of my older friends the money and he bought it for me," he smiled at me, "it is really amazing wine and you will love it, Junpei-chan," he turned around the bottle revealing the label, "it is Dom Perignon."
I can feel the heat in my skin boiling, "BAKA!" I shouted louder than necessary, "why would you waste a bottle of DOM PERIGNON on such a simple, easy to make meal as a HOTPOT, what is wrong with you!"
He chuckled, "I think this Dom Perignon is perfect to go with your hotpot, Junpei-chan," he pushed a glass towards me, "it is well worth it and I don't see this hot pot in any shape, fashion or form as simple," he picked up his glass and held it across the kotatsu, "let's toast to our new friendship, Junpei-chan."
Looking at the glass, I'm honestly lost for words. I do not want to drink it but Dom Perignon is very expensive and it would be a waste of a lot of money, which I do not have, I might as well, I picked up the glass and brought near towards Mibuchi's glass, "A toast that you aren't lost and alone out in the cold," we lightly tapped our glasses together and both at the same time drink the wine, which is very sweet and delicious and to be honest it does go rather well with my very simple, easy to make Hot Pot.
He refills his cup for the… I honestly don't know which refill this is but I do know that his cup is empty as well as mine we have even eaten almost all of the food, which I mean we are both growing men; however, Mibuchi Reo is already taller than me maybe with my next growth spurt I will be taller than him. I think it is possible. Anything is possible. Nothing is impossible. I think men keep growing until they're thirty-one. No. Twenty-one. Four more years to grow… taller than Mibuchi… but I forgot the centimeters. Oh well. I watch him lift of the bottle of Dom Perignon, which my cup is also empty. Only a what seems like a sip comes out and lands in the bottom of his glass. We have drowned the enter bottle. Why is he putting his eye towards the bottle… there isn't anymore. Is he praying to some wine fairies to magically come and refill this bottle? He is soo cute, even though he is taller than me. I want to play with his hair… I remember when my hair was that long and I bleached it too look blonde. Did I do that to look like him? Did I do that to appear handsome and dangerous just to get his attention. Just for him to notice me. Shit- why can't he be a girl… this would be easier. No. It wouldn't be easier. Regardless of his gender this situation would still be difficult.
"It is empty, Junpei-chan," he said with a pout on his face and slurring his words.
"That is okay," I slurred as I let go of my cup, "you can go ahead and drink the last of it."
His eyes light up, "I have an idea," he steps away from the kotatsu, pulls me out slightly and sits on top of me, "let's share it- I'll sip it and split it with you."
"Baaaaaaaaka," I slurred, my eyes blinking rapidly, "if you just want to kiss me," I stared at his pink lips, they look very soft. I want to kiss them, "go ahead and kiss me."
A slight blush appears on his cheeks, "Junpei-chan," he slurs as he downs the remaining wine, "you are so," he wraps his arms around me, "I want to eat you up," he brings his lips down towards mine and kisses me gently.
As he slowly, painfully removes his lips from my, I bring my hand into his hair, oh my gosh it is so soft, I kiss him back with a lot more passion. He moans into my mouth, which slightly opens and his tongue is there as if it has been waiting to greet mine. While we indulge in the kiss, our tongues mingling with each other we press our bodies closer to each other, I can feel myself began to harden and I can feel his own erection rubbing against my abs. I slowly pulled away from his sweet and addictive mouth, "Reo," his face suddenly becomes red at the mention of his name, "let's go to my room," he stands up and I grab and hold his hand as I led him to my room.
When we make it inside, I closed and locked the door behind and turned on my secondary lights so we can see, which my little brother took the liberty to hang a bunch of christmas lights in my room because he wasn't sure if he would like it in his, little brat.
"Ah this is soooooo beautiful, Junpei-chan," he said as he drunkardly twirled in my room.
"Not as beautiful as you," I stated staring him down as if he is a piece of meat like I'm a starving animal and haven't eaten in weeks.
"Junpei," he ceases to twirl around and I can see the very red blush coming back to his cheeks as he stares down at the floor.
I walked towards him and looked up at him, "you know avoiding to look at me is useless since I am shorter than you," I became breathless as a real smile swept across his face.
"Junpei," he laughed, "you are so funny," he wrapped his arms around my neck, staring into my eyes.
We both walked, well stumbled towards my bed, which is rather pathetic, our lips are locked together as if we are some supernatural character that doesn't need to breathe. We fell onto the bed and Mibuchi started to lift up his shirt and remove his pants, "you get undress too," I can feel all the heat in my body go straight to my face as I watched him undress.
"Okay," I stated as I slowly lifted up my regular t-shirt. His nipples are so cute and pink- well honestly I don't think there is a part of him that I do not find attractive. He stood there in nothing but briefs that seems too tight, I began to remove my pants and I could feel his eyes staring at me. I kicked my pants away from my feet. I reached over in my draw and pulled out the condoms and lube that my brother bought for me, after he witness my first time, which was unfortunate. I threw the box of condoms and huge bottle of lube on the bed; I climbed over top of Reo, "are you sure that you want this," I stated as I hover over top of him.
"Yes," he wrapped his arms around my neck, "I want it and I'm very sure," I reached down and took his sweet lips as my hands roamed over his body, which while taking lousy notes on how he reacts when I touch I him. My hands run over his chest and I gently rub over his nipples- pulling, squeezing, teasing them as he breaks the kiss, "Junpei-chan," he moans, which is like throwing a large container of gasoline into a fire. The very way he says my name ignites something inside of me and I am loosing myself and I can no longer think except only about Reo, this moment right now with the both of us. I take his erect nipples into my mouth and I sucked on the hungrily, knowing exactly what to do just by the very way he trembles underneath me, I know because of the way his nails slightly dig a bit deeper in my skin or how his moans are telling me what to do with just one single word, which is my name.
My hands slither down his body, as I continue to tease his sensitive nubs with my mouth and tongue. I pulled down his briefs, "yours too," he whimpers out, I remove my mouth from his chest, rather reluctantly and I slightly stood up away from him just to slowly pull his briefs down as I kiss down his long legs. I quickly stepped out of my briefs, holding my hot member in my hand as I looked down at him. His plump lips, his very blushed cheeks, the slight drool that is kind of creeping out of the corner of his mouth, his body but that I want to leave marks, his sensitive nipples, which I believe I can suck, lick, and tease all night and all the way down to his cock, which is the same length as mine; however, mine is thicker.
I hover over top of him, my hand slightly tracing over his cock as I stared down at his face, I gently pushed away the two strands of hair that were in his face. His eyelashes are so long, my hand traces gently down his face, "you are so beautiful," I still hovered over him, one hand keeping me balance as the other gently touches his facial features, I watch as a soft blush spread over his face, "so beautiful," I leaned down and kiss his sweet lips, I felt his warm arms wrap around my neck to pull me down.
"Junpei, is very handsome," he whispered into my ear, his soft lips kissed down my neck and to my shoulder blade. I leaned down, closer to him where are erections are slightly rubbing together with a clumsy thrust of my hips to rub my dick on top of his own. His nails slightly digged into my shoulders blades as I continued to slowly, clumsy thrusting onto him as I watched his eyes flutter and his moans put me under a spell.
"Reo,"
"Yes,"
"Move up downward a bit," this may be the second time I have had sex but there is the sex position I heard that feels amazing, "yeah just like that," my chest over his shoulder, "now move off to the side a little," I think I know what comes next. My hands slowly traveled down the outside of his thighs and roamed down to his legs to underneath his knees and I hoisted up his legs, "keep it just like this," I reached over and grabbed the bottle of lube, I poured it into my hand and rub my hands together to heat it up a bit, "if it hurts let me know, okay?"
"Okay," he said barely over a whisper, I wiped some of the excess lube on his hole and I lined up my middle finger and slowly started to press into the tight, hot flesh; he grimaced as my finger pressed through into him, I used my free hand and wrapped my fingers around the base of his cock and I began to pump to pleasure him instead of causing him pain. As he loosen up around the tip of my finger I slowly started to press it in deeper.
"Let me know when you are comfortable to move,"
"Go ahead," his voice hitched and he moaned I leaned down to take his lips into mine as I continue to pump his cock, ever so often giving it a slight twist and a slight squeeze, and I slowly moved my finger in and out of him. I think I can fit another one in, as I start to press one more finger in, he broke the kiss and his pants filled the room, "Junpei," he panted and I could feel his thighs shaking a little bit beside me, "it feels good, so good," I smirked as I worked both of my fingers pressed deeply inside of him- where is that sweet spot of his, I pressed in deeper. He moaned out loudly as I pressed deeper into him, "Junpei, there again… it felt so good," looks like I found his sweet spot. I moved my two fingers inside of him, stretching him open while teasing him and slightly grazing over the spot that he likes… which I think I can insert a third finger. I lined up another finger to his entrance and slowly pushed it inside of him, opening them to stretch him even more as he nails digged deeper into my shoulder, "Junpei, I think," I pressed all three into his sweet spot causing him to moan and claw me even deeper, he pants heavily as I slowly removed all three of my fingers from inside of him.
I grab the bottle of lube again and I smothered it in my hands and rubbed my dick quickly, shit it is so cold… I rubbed my dick faster, for it to warm up and added more lube. I lined up the head of cock to his hole, "let me know if it is too much," I slowly pushed inside of him… oh gods- he is so tight and it is so warm. His breath hitches as I pressed just the head inside, "you okay," he nodded his as his eyes slowly closed and I pressed slowly into him, "Reo," he lets out soft pants, "open your eyes, I want to see those beautiful eyes," he slowly opened his eyes as I began to push inside of him, "I'm all the way in now, Reo, you okay?"
"Yes, you can move," he states in between his pants. Slowly I rock out and forward inside of his warm, "Junpei," he moans, I picked up my pace but not too much… i don't want to hurt him. I lean over and kissed him sweetly, softly, and slowly- no tongue just our lips caressing each other as I rocked forward and backward into his warmth, my body pressed tightly into his and I can feel his cock twitching up against my stomach.
We made lo- no we had sex… that all it was and that is all it could be… was it because of the alcohol… we both were very drunk and were are both teenage boys but why am I lying to myself age has nothing to do with it… being a male has nothing to do it… he was just there and I wanted him. I remember all the "I love you's" and the sweet nothings were whispered to each other between the pants, moans and grunts.
I look down at him, still asleep, as images rushes back into my head, I attempt to move but he is clinging onto me. Shit, I'm never drinking that much alcohol in one single night.
"What are you thinking so seriously about, Junpei-chan?" he asked barely above a whisper.
"Last night,"
"It was fun, not fun but it was amazing," he said as a slight blush spread across his face, "I didn't know you could be such a romantic."
"Listen," I said, "let's just pretend last night never happened," he suddenly jerk up, sitting straight up in the bed looking at me as if I was a new species, "don't give me that look… we are both serious people… think about this seriously- there is no future for this," I gesture between the both of us, "I don't like girly men and besides I heard you have a thing for Koganei."
"What do you mean?" He grimaced, "last night was perfect and it did happen- you were my first time… ever," oh shit, "I'm serious about you- I have been serious about you… I want you… I love you," he looked at me fiercely and I could see tears at the corner of his eye, "I'm in love with you, Hyuuga Junpei…" he paused as his eyebrows met in frustration, "what makes me girly? This body? is it because I prefer calm and gentle settings over loud and rough? Is it because I'm not afraid to convey my feelings? Is it because I speak in a more feminine way? Is it because I let you take me last night? That does not make me any less of a man than you are, Junpei-chan," here I sit uncomfortable as his facial expression changes, "and Koganei… I did have my eyes on him. The real reason I came to Tokyo was to confess to him, which I wrote a letter and everything and came to hear his response and he shot me down, quite brutally I might say, no tact at all that one," he pouted, "when I approached him he looked scared like when that first year of yours- oh what is his name, Furihata Kouki was up against Sei-chan and he told me that he was flatter but had no interest at all and when he saw me looking disappointed and sad like a kick dog he was stuttering "I'm sorry" so much like that apologetic mushroom," I'm glad I'm not the only one who sees him like that.
"Are you even listening to yourself," I rubbed my hands down my face, "America… really… how well is your english, Mibuchi? I don't know about you but mine is absolute shit and in love with me? How can you possibly be in love with me? Is it because I was your first time because there is no way in hell I am, and never will be, in love with my first time. It hasn't been over twenty-fours since your has been broken and you try to cope by shopping, buying expensive alcohol and settling for me… be serious Mibuchi," I sat up in the bed while flinging the sheets away from me, "I like what I like and I dislike what I do not like," I stood up on the bed, the cold chilly air is making me shiver "I need some painkillers," rubbing the temple of my forehead in circles, I stood in the middle of the doorway.
"You liked me last night, Junpei."
"We both were drunk."
"They say what people do and say when they are drunk are their honest feelings and actions but they are to scared to do or say them when they are sober; therefore, that makes you a coward, running away from the situation instead of confronting it… and I thought you were a man."
"Do you always go about with what others tell you, Mibuchi," I dropped my hands to the side, "you are right about one thing- I am a coward but that doesn't make me being anything less than a man."
"It is true, everyone knows it is true all around the world!" His voice slightly raising with each word, "if that is true for you then being who I am, and loving for who I am, does not make me any thing less than a man!"
I let go of a deep long breath, "if you are too sore and can't move from the bed, I will help-"
"You're all concerned about my physical health right now," he rolled his eyes, and quickly stood up from the bed while picking up his clothes that were scatter on the floor, "how thoughtful of you."
"No need to be so spiteful," I looked at him but he looked away, "you can take a shower or what not before you leave."
"Thank you," he said coldly as cold it is in the room, "you should put some clothes on- walking around naked how uncouth of you."
"How uncouth of you to stare at my naked body," I turned away and headed towards the stairs, his soft cries slowly filling up the hallway. It is better this way, Mibuchi.
I didn't see him when he left the house, but I heard the rather soft click of the door as he walked out and he took the bagged breakfast, hat and scarf that I laid out for him. I haven't seen him in months- why would I need to see him. It was a one night thing, nothing more and nothing less. I feel like I could have handled it better than I did but it isn't like I could change the past and even if I could what could I possibly tell him either way he would have end up crying, softly in the hallway. I could go back and not drink, I could go back and not have sex with him… not take his virginity but I can't go back, I wish I could Mibuchi but I don't have any magical powers, I don't have the brains to design a time machine and if someone has build one I don't have the money to buy it nor even rent it nor the charisma to persuade them for me to use it.
What he said keeps playing in my mind about what makes him less than a man. What is the definition of a man- what are men supposed to be? We have a penis and gonads, we are supposed to be protectors, we are not supposed to cry, we are strong, brave, courageous. We are reckless? We enjoy sports and don't care to get sweaty- we don't play with dolls but action figures. We do not watch our weight or our daily calorie intake nor how many carbs we eat. Men are supposed to make money to support the household but my mom also has a job. What is a woman? Soft, gentle, fragile, emotional, child bearers, they take care of the home but household chores are split now- I know how to cook, some simple things, and I do my own laundry and keep my own room clean. There are women who are not gentle nor fragile nor emotional. What makes them girly? Is it because they are all glitter and sparkles; sunshine and rainbows. Is it because they complain about physical activity and getting sweaty will ruin their hair or makeup? Is it because they care about such things as their physical appearance? Could be it be cause they freak out over attractive boy bands, very loudly and plan their wedding by the age of ten. May I define them as girly because they are clingy and always have to be around their partner. Well in that case, their are some clingy men in the world too but they are possessive, both sides can be possessive because they want to protect the one they like and make sure nothing bad happens to them. Now I'm starting to not make sense to myself. I am not brave, barely courageous nor am I very strong- I could barely confess my feelings to Riko and yet Mibuchi came all the way down to Tokyo to confess and even though he was shot down he didn't wail and complain. Mibuchi is strong, I would hate to know the verdict of playing one-one with him and not only is he strong he is gentle. I don't think gentle is the right word- no it isn't. He doesn't like how Nebuya was always screaming, belching and when before he did a move he would scream something about muscles. I'm sure if I had to put up with that all the time it would get on my nerves as well. I can't really call him emotional, during that game I had no control over my emotions but based on that morning, I believe anyone could end up crying after losing a part of yourself and being treated that way in the morning. Thinking about it this way, Mibuchi is much more than a man than I.
"Nothing makes any sense anymore," I whispered below my breathe.
"Are you okay, Hyuuga-senpai?" Kuroko-kun asked me while we soak in the spring with our teammates.
"Yes, I'm fine, this is just well needed to relieve all of my stress," I deeply exhaled.
"You have been more tense than usual, Hyuuga," Kiyoshi stated while patting me on the back, knocking the air out of me.
"Baka, I'm trying to relax my sore muscles, Riko has been working us to the bone," I slowly sink back down in the water.
"Oh my gosh," one of the new first years shouted as he came into the hot spring, wearing swimming shorts, "you guys will never believe what just happen- they legalized gay marriage in Japan… following right behind America, a year later."
"Oh really?" Kiyoshi's face lit up, like a child with that same foolish smile across his face, "that's wonderful."
"Wonderful?" one of kouhai repeated, "are you gay, Kiyoshi-senpai?"
"Huh?" he said looking dumbfounded, "uh yeah, I am."
"You are really?" the kouhais swarmed him with questions.
"Are you dating, Hyuuga-senpai?"
"Hell no!" we both shouted at the same time.
"Listen guys, I'm dating someone have been for three years now," he stated, "he doesn't go to our school okay? and I'm not going to tell you who because he enjoys his privacy."
"Besides why would I want to date such a big oaf," I stammered as I made my way out the hot spring, I threw my towel across my shoulder, "besides you first year what the hell are you wearing- are those swim shorts in a hot spring. You," I pointed at a random first year, "come wash your senpai's back."
As soon as I turned around there stood, Hayama Kotarou, Nebuya Eikichi, Akashi Seijuro and Mibuchi Reo in their yukatas, "uncouth as always, Junpei-chan," he lightly flicked his hair, "yelling about and stuttering around in the nude."
"This is a hot spring," I adjusted my glasses, "we are all men here- just teaching my kouhai that there is no need to be ashamed about one's body."
"Such a wonderful senpai."
"Akashi-kun, Nebuya-kun, Hayama-kun," I acknowledge their presence and then walked away sitting down waiting for my kouhai to wash my back.
"you ready senpai?" they asked
I responded with a simple grunt, "What the-" I screamed as he harshly stroked my back. I turned around about to give the kouhai a harsh word for his actions with tears in my eyes. I turned around saw Mibuchi covering his mouth to hide his current laughter.
"I'm sorry Senpai, I thought I was suppose to use this," he held up a tool that isn't even used for cleaning.
"This reminds me of Kagami last year, Hyuuga-senpai," Kuroko-kun said suddenly appearing near us, "what are you doing here Akashi-kun?"
"This is a coincidence," he stated as he removed his towel, "we were playing nearby and Nebuya mention the great idea of a relaxing hot spring, Tetsuya."
"Do I use this senpai?" the kouhai held up another device of torture.
"No, bakagami #2," I shouted at him.
"No need to yell at the poor boy," Mibuchi stated, "a great senpai would teach him," he walked over to the washing station and picked up the soap and sponges, "I'll wash your back for you, Junpei-chan."
I don't think this is a good idea, honestly. "Sure," I drawled out slowly as I sat down.
His soft hands wander over my back, over the wound I just received, "I'm glad this isn't as bad as it looks," he softly whispers in my ear. He washed my back, gentle and occasionally I could feel his fingers lingering on my back, "did you hear the recent news?"
"Yes."
"Don't have to worry about your crappy English now, Junpei-chan," I immediately stood up, "is everything okay, Junpei-"
"Everything is fine," I responded not facing him, "I'm going to my room," I said loudly enough for everyone to hear.
I stood in front of the door and I can feel someone is standing behind me, I turned around and there stood Akashi and Hayama, "can I help you?"
Akashi and Hayama stood there glaring at me, "we can talk inside."
I held the door open for them, they both walked into the room while glaring at me, I closed the door behind me, "how can I help you?"
"Don't be an idiot! You know why we are here," Hayama snarled out.
"At first," Akashi stated, "we could tell that there was something wrong but he kept telling us that it was nothing. I cornered him and made him tell me what was troubling him so much and he told me everything."
"What has been done is done, I can't go back in time and change what happen-"
"You didn't have to be such a dick to him!" Hayama glare intensifies.
"And then you called him less than man," Akashi said as he came standing in front of me and the next thing I knew I was on my knees, "he is strong, brave, courageous and I would never label him as a girly man and he is ten times more than a man you will ever be, Hyuuga Junpei."
"You think I am not aware of that," I shouted while looking down at the floor.
"I'm glad you are aware," Akashi stated, "tonight, we will be in the sauna, I expect you to handle this situation better than you did that morning and if you do not show up than I leave this situation in the hands on Nebuya."
"I'll be there," I responded as they walked out of my room.
I am standing in front of the sauna door and I can hear Nebuya's loud laughter and Mibuchi's brief scold, I open the door slowly and all their eyes were on me as I stood between the door, "Mibuchi, can I talk to you outside?"
His face slightly lit up, "yeah," he stood up holding his towel near his waist. I held up the door for him and closed it as he dressed himself in his yukata.
After he dressed we slowly walked nearby each other in a small garden, "do you want to sit down at that bench?"
"Yeah, that would be nice," he smiled as he walked over to the bench. "The stars are very beautiful tonight."
"Mibuchi."
"Junpei-chan."
At the sudden contact of our fifth fingers- I abruptly started to pull away but I clasped my hand onto his instead.
Before I could speak, he called out my name, "This is me being serious," he didn't look at me, "I think about you everyday; I think about that night, well that entire day is an emotional rollercoaster and maybe I shouldn't have… but it felt right I never felt that way before being in your arms, your kisses… I wanted it- I still want it and maybe it was because of the timing I was upset by the rejection but I did get over it. My feelings for you are real not just a figment of my imagination or my mind playing tricks on my heart," his voice is starting to shake, "I… love you, Hyuuga Junpei."
"Mibuchi," I said softly, "look at me," he continue to avoid my gaze, "Mibuchi Reo, look at me," I recalled more sternly and his face snapped towards mine and locking with my eyes and I held onto his hands tightly, "I am not going to lie to you and tell you that I do not think about that night, which was indeed amazing. I am not going to lie and say that I wish I didn't make you cry the next morning. I am not going to lie and say that I didn't think about you at all- I do like you, I think you are beautiful, magnificent and wonderful and all those sweet nothings I whispered to you in my drunken state- you were right and I am too much coward to say them sober. If I am in love with you, how am I simply supposed to know if I am or if I am not. Tell me how do you know because I was your first time? Tell me, Reo."
"Do you," he barely stated above a whisper, "does your heart clench in your chest when you think of me, when you see me, when think about our lips in a never-ending in kiss? Because when I think of you, I could be in the middle of class, reading a paragraph of a story; I would stop as soon as you fill me mind and stand there like a smiling fool. I dream of you and the sound of my heart beat- I wake up in a daze and it is pounding madly and I have tears or maybe it is sweat because my whole body is it covered in it and I sit there, in soiled sheets, missing the hell out of you. When I saw you standing out there in front of me at the hot spring, which this may sound corny but Etta James' song, 'At Last, was playing in my head. And yes, you were my first time… I've never been touched like that by anyone before and if I didn't want it I would have pushed you off of me and beat you up for your… uncouth behavior," he lowered his face again.
I left go of his hand and gently pulled him towards my lap, he laid there looking up at me"I've felt something like that before," he turned his head to look away but I gently tugged his face back to look at me, with my thumb I gently wiped away his tears, "will you, Mibuchi Reo, be my boyfriend? I promise to care for you and hold you dear," he chuckled and a smile stretch across his face, "The day I know that I am in love with you, I will let you know, this I promise."
"A gentlemen as always," he chuckled, "sounds like you are proposing to me, Junpei-chan."
"Make no mistake," I took his hand into mine and kissed it softly, "you're answer?"
"How could I say anything but yes?" and I slowly leaned down and pressed my lips onto his. My hands roamed over his body, through his hair and I know I'm getting excited. He sat up briefly, making it easier and I began to kiss down his neck, "are you going to mark me as yours?" he chuckled and I started to nibble down his neck, teasing him as he panted, right underneath his collar bone I sucked on his soft skin, "how nice of you to leave it in a place that wouldn't be stared at and question," I removed my lips from his skin and I kissed him sweetly on the lips.
"Reo, I don't think we should get carried away since we are outside," I whispered as my hand wander underneath the collar of his yukata, tracing slight designs in his neck, while he rest his head on my shoulder.
"Can we just stay here for now?"
"I don't see why not."
"The way the stars are tonight, remember me of your room."
"You still are more beautiful," I responded and I quickly place a soft kiss on his lips.
Days became weeks and those weeks became months and I am… happy, blissfully happy. I felt like nothing could have brought my mood down today but it did when Hanamiya Makoto came storming into our gym and that guy puts a lot of people on edge and what really surprised me is that he is dating Kiyoshi, that Kiyoshi loves him… well he claims that Hanamiya is the one even though of all the shit he has done.
"How do you know… how are you sure?" I asked out of blue, sitting on the bench in the empty locker room.
"Know what?" he asked as he turned away from his locker.
"That he is the one… that you are in-love with him and can spend the rest of your life with him," I deeply exhaled, "did it come to you in your dream, did some fucking fairy tell you to reassure that he was your partner for life, can you see in the damn future and know that everything will be right… how the fuck do you know."
"Hyuuga," he paused, "the thought of him touching anyone else, Makoto being in another man's arms and kiss his lips and that man seeing the side of Makoto that I have seen…. just thinking about it pisses me the fuck off. Just thinking of someone else touching me, kissing me or saying I love you just makes my skin crawl and feel wrong," he sat down on the bench next to me, rubbing his knee, "I will not think of being with someone else and I can not think of what it would be like to separated from him, I would be sad… and empty shell that constantly feel like it is missing something. As for the future, no one knows what is exactly going to happen… everything will not be sunshine and rainbows all the time, do you remember what happen today? Poor Aoba-san, but it is cute when Makoto gets all riled up with jealousy. Anyways, no matter what happens in the future or what comes our way, I will never give up on us nor will I never let him go," silence filled the locker until he his large hands hit me on the back repeatedly, "You don't have to worry about me, Hyuuga-kun."
"Baka," I scowled, "I'm not worried about you just don't exert yourself in your physical activities you idiot… when did the two of your start dating anyways."
"It was a few months after Riko and I broke up," he responded casually as I stared at him wide eyed, "you didn't know? Oh well no one didn't really know… it wasn't a long relationship and it was a mutual decision. Do you like her?"
"I did, but when I tried to confess I didn't take the opportunity," I smirked, "but it doesn't even matter," I slightly leaned on the bench, "I'm seeing someone now… well I have been for awhile and we are doing fine but he constantly tells me his very strong affectionate feelings for me and I like him and maybe," silence again filled the room longer than nice and my mouth is starting to come dry, "maybe I'm just a coward and am too afraid to see my true feelings."
"Ah, so that is why you asked and 'he'? who is it?" he gave me a big grin, "come on and tell me."
"Mibuchi Reo," I replied and he looked at me surprised while whistling, I glared at him, "Do that again and I will beat the shit out of you, Kiyoshi."
"See isn't that all the proof you need?" he chuckled, "I understand- nothing is for sure but he is in love with you right? It is obvious you feel the same way towards him…I wouldn't prolong telling him because he might start to doubt. It was months before Makoto finally responded to me, don't tell him I told you this, but I am very aware of his stubbornness," he paused then his face lit up, "You know what sounds like a good idea?"
"No."
"A double date," he patted me on the back again, knocking the wind out of me, "I'm texting Makoto now," he pulled out his phone and quickly started to text the message and before I knew it he also was texting on mine.
"Oi!" I reached for my phone but he turned away as he pressed on the keys quickly, "Kiyoshi, baka- stop it!"
"Too late now," he tossed me my phone and I looked at it regretting this chat, "Now all we have to do is wait."
While glaring daggers in his body he smiles brightly down at me, his phone buzzes multiple times and I witness facial expressions on his face that I have never seen before, he chuckled, "it is a go on our side."
I groaned, "is it too late to cancel? I'll be sick with a virus," I felt my phone vibrate in the palm of my hand I lifted it up.
Reo (ღ˘⌣˘ღ): (O.O) Those two are dating?! But sure it sounds like fun! I can't wait!
(っ˘з(˘⌣˘ ) I miss you bunches, Junpei!
"Well… I guess I will see you two on sunday," I smiled down at his response and quickly replied, I stood up while putting my bag over my shoulder, "let's get out of here."
As we walked out of the gym, "so for this date," I started, "I was thinking we could go get something to eat- nothing fancy and then next we could go to an aquarium, amusement park, the beach or this new interactive museum."
"Interactive museum?"
"Yeah, they have a lot in America I heard they are pretty amazing- I know you like history, Makoto is very smart and he has been dropping hints about going and I think Mibuchi would like it too."
"Yeah he would, he likes classic literature and what not and it has been a few weeks since we have been on a date."
"Oh?" he paused, "what after the museum? Should we go see a movie? Get coffee or tea and dessert? Would you two be going to a love hotel?"
"Baka!" I shouted at him but calmed down, "do not pry into our private affairs. And I have the money to see a movie afterwards and get dessert, do you?"
"Yeah, I've been saving up since we rarely go on dates but when we do I like to go all out," he smiled brightly, "so have you and mibuchi, you know?"
"God what are we thirteen? Yes, we have and I do not want to gossip about our sex life," I mumbled below my breathe.
"Are you top or bottom?"
"Why does that even matter?" I responded getting angry, "mostly top."
"Mostly?" Kiyoshi asked as he pulled onto an empty basketball court.
"We switch it up sometimes."
"And?"
"What do you want details?"
"You do not have to tell me what happen word for word but did you like it?"
"It was nice," I could feel my cheeks start to blush, "it hurt like hell at first and my hips hurt so much I could barely walk in the morning. You should be more gentle to your partner Kiyoshi."
"Makoto likes it rough," he smirked, "soo will you be playing the uke any time soon?"
" I don't know," I sat down on the nearby bench, "I wouldn't be opposed to the idea- we don't really plan these things it just happens and in the moment of the first time I thought he could be the first to you know."
"And you liked it?"
"Yeah, it felt very good."
"Did he like it?"
"Yeah but he says he loves being held by me so" I shrugged my shoulders, "why does this even matter?"
"Ah me and Makoto had a bet of who is the uke," he smiled at me while stroking the back of his head, "and we both lost."
"do you guys not switch?"
"no," he chuckled but he doesn't have to be the seme to be on top, he winked at me, "have you tried it with him riding on top of you?"
"Baka, shut up!"
"What about spanking? Do you use toys? Do you do multiple positions do you go for multiple rounds in one night?"
"Kiyoshi! Shut up," I stood up, "you are asking for too much information."
"We made multiple bets, I'm trying to win."
"Well forget about it because neither of you are winning," I walked away quickly and he also followed behind me not bringing up anything about our sex life.
When was the last time I've even seen Mibuchi? And I'm not talking about the many cute pictures I have saved on my cell phone. We were supposed to meet last week but something came up and Akashi decided to discipline his team by having an extra practice, which is fine with me, we call each other every night and just hearing his voice pacifies me until I see him again. Even though this date will be shared with Kiyoshi and Hanamiya, which I do not think those two will get along at all or maybe they will. I'm looking forward to sunday, maybe.
Sunday came quickly, what should I wear today. I look through my closet, hmmm Reo said he likes these jeans on me. I grabbed the light washed and slightly shredded jeans. I put them on as I look for a top, I can wear the basic white tee and put on a button down, but I will leave it unbutton. I rolled up the sleeves to my ankles. I quickly sprayed on some cologne just one squirt, some guys put on too much and it is nauseating. I heard the doorbell ring, oh he is right on time, well he is always on time, I quickly grabbed my wallet and made sure everything is there as I headed towards the door. I opened and there he stood, wearing a light blue shirt, which hang off his shoulders and underneath a soft orange tank top and white pants, which were a slim fit.
"You're staring, Junpei," he chuckled.
I leaned up and kissed him deeply, "how could I not when you look so beautiful?" I walked out the door and closed it.
As I locked the door, "you look very handsome today. I'm very excited for this double date."
I turned around and took his hand in mine, "I've missed you as well, Kiyoshi doesn't live too far down from here, I've missed you."
He smiled looking down at me, "how did those two started dating?"
"I have no idea," I groaned, "they have been together for three years apparently."
"That is a long time," he stated, "more than I would have guessed."
"I know right," we turned down the street, "that is his place right there," we walked up and I knocked on the door and we stood there waiting for a response.
"who the hell is it?" Hanamiya makoto said as he swung open the door, "oh it is you Hyuuga, Mibuchi, you guys are early," Kiyoshi suddenly approached behind him.
"Are you two ready?" I asked
"Yeah we are ready to go Hyuuga," Kiyoshi grinned as they walked out of the house, "nice to see you Mibuchi-kun."
"Nice to see you as well Kiyoshi-kun and you too Hanamiya," Mibuchi responded as we walked down to the street, hand in hand.
"Yeah, nice to see the both of you," he mumbled but we could still hear it.
At first the double date was awkward for me and I think Mibuchi is okay but he tenses up every now and at how vulgar Hanamiya Makoto can be but as lunch went on the atmosphere around us briefly lit up and we told stories and joked around and it was pleasant. When we approached the interactive museum you could see Hanamiya's face lit up and he was so ecstatic that he kissed Kiyoshi in front of everyone. Mibuchi also seemed quite pleased and excited to be here as well, and while people gawked at Kiyoshi and Hanamiya's public display of affection, he gave me a quick kiss on my cheek. Inside the museum is amazing, there is so much going on and we lost Kiyoshi and Hanamiya but I'm sure we will find them again.
"I wasn't really sure if you would like something like this," I stated as we walked and our hands barely touching.
"I never been to an interactive museum before but I like it a lot this is lots of fun," he gave me a smile that knocked the air out of my lungs, "are you having fun, Junpei?"
"I'm with you, how could I not have fun," I replied while looking him straight in the eyes, quite please at the brief blush that came across his cheeks.
"Oh look," he stopped in his tracks, "a private star gazing exhibit, let's go inside, Junpei-chan," he grabbed my hand and pulled me along and we walked inside and found us a spot to lay down.
"It is so nice in here," he whispered in my ear as he curled up next to me and using my arm as a pillow. The roof above us turned on and it was just like gazing up at stars but a lot closer, "oh wow, this brings back a lot of memories."
"Everytime I look at the night sky and it is filled with stars I think of you and every night in my room I turn on those lights and I can always picture you standing there," I mumbled, "I don't think about that the night at the hot spring or the first time you stayed the night but I think about what we could in the next couple of days, what I could to do to make you give me that mind blowing smiling of yours, what I would give to spend every day with you, which I know you don't like to talk about basketball on dates but you should take their offer, Reo because no matter what I'll be there to support you. I look at stars and I think," I paused feeling my throat become dry, "no, I know that I am in love with you, Reo," I looked down at saw the shock on his face but it quickly vanish, I placed a brief kiss on top of his head.
"Junpei," he said sweetly as he quickly moved over top of me and he kissed me on the lips, deeply while he slowly grind his body on top of mine. My hands roamed over his body, getting satisfied pants and groans, "is this date almost over?"
I chuckled, "I'm afraid not, are you okay with going to a love hotel afterwards because I don't think I can wait til we get back to my place."
He slowly leaned up, his cheeks with a slight blush and the stars above twinkle across his face, "yeah that is okay," he says faintly and started to move off me. I gave him another passionate kiss as he moved himself next to me again.
"I love you so much," I whispered.
"I love you too, Junpei."
Mibuchi eventually took the basketball scholarship offer and a week later they also gave me offer as long as I could pass the entrance exam. When I took the exam it was a piece of cake because of all the study sessions I had with Mibuchi and sometimes with the assistance of Akashi. As our college life went on we both studied two different fields but we both aimed to be teachers and maybe even at the college level. Basketball season was very interesting, the offense of our team was shit before we came along and all of our teammates called us mom and dad. I don't think they knew exactly of our relationship but Reo would always reprimand them for their behavior while I scold them for various reasons. They even joked about us and could tell when Reo was pissed at me, for a whole week straight Reo didn't say anything to me in practice, only what was necessary and our teammates joked saying that mom is mad at dad and put dad in the dog house. Eventually we did come out to our teammates, which apparently they claimed they already knew. In that same week I brought to light of our relationship to my family, which Reo's family already knew but I've been nervous to tell mine. Reo was pissed at me that week because when he was helping my mother with dinner she kept bring up Riko and how she hope that I would marry Riko and it pissed Reo off. When we came out to my family they said they already knew but wanted us to tell them so they wouldn't have to assume. My mother also apologized for seeming like she was favoring Riko but she was trying to Reo riled up and for him to slip about our relationship.
If I'm going to ask him I should go out and say it because if I attempt to plan it I will just chicken out and who knows when I will ask him. If you constantly look and wait for the perfect moment you could miss all the small opportunities to ask them.
"What are you thinking about so seriously?" Reo stated as I went over the notes for my last exam tomorrow.
"Let's get married," I stated bluntly.
He moved the notebook and sat in my lap, "Are you serious?"
"Well yeah, I can't picture myself marrying anyone else, do you not want to? or was my approach not romantic at all?"
He chuckled, "I just didn't expect you to say it out of the blue. I can't wait to be Hyuuga Reo, let's do it tomorrow after the graduation ceremony."
"That is a short time to plan a wedding."
"We can just fill out the paperwork and send out cards about our marriage to everyone, I think it would be a lot more intimate and private for the both of us."
I kissed him starting off gently but as the kiss intensified, I rolled over on top of him, "I love you."
"Shouldn't you be studying?" he chuckled.
"Studying can wait for now," I stated as I ran my fingers through his hair.
He wrapped his arms around my neck and we feel into an endless embrace and I not once that night I picked up the notebook.
It has been four years, which three years since Kuroko-kun have gone missing. A few weeks after our graduation scientist brought out a new parasite that allowed same sex couple to get have children. At first I told Reo no but he was determined and persuaded me by taking me to meet some male carriers that he befriend and swarming my work desk about parasite fliers. Eventually I came around; however, I told him he is going to have to spend his time on the necessary hormone medication, which the doctor recommends. He agreed to that only if I promised to fill him up to the brim, which how could I not? Him on the hormone medication was an enjoyable experience he became slightly more vulgar and horny all the time, which the doctor informs happens to everyone. After the parasite was inserted we had to wait a month before having sex but that night we did I made love to him well into the next day.
"He is kicking," he whispered barely as my hand felt the strong kicks from our son, "won't be long before we get to hold you, little one."
I kissed the spot where I felt the kicks, " I know right, I can't wait too," I leaned up and kissed Reo gently on the mouth, "just a week until his due date."
"I know right I'm nervous."
"Don't stress yourself now, Reo."
"But what if I am a terrible parent or we do something wrong."
"Stop that thought right there, Reo," I stated sternly as my hands wander around his swollen stomach, "No one is great parents right off the bat by one step at a time we will get through this and raise our son to the best of our ability."
"Any new information on Kuroko?"
"No the same dead ends," I stated, "but no news is better than bad news. I'm sure wherever he is he is okay."
Where would I be if it wasn't for you? Who would I be married to? Would I be getting ready to have a child like now? Would I even be a Japanese History teacher? These are question I sometimes ask myself but I never want to find out the answers. Being right here with you and slowly building up a family is where I always want to be.
"I love you so much, Reo," I stated as I held his hand as the doctor starts the procedure.
"I love you too, ugh," he groaned.
"Try not to push, Hyuuga-san."
"Okay," he panted okay.
"Just squeeze my hand if you feel the need to push, Reo." The grip on my hand intensified as soon as those words left my mouth.
"Good, good," the doctor mumbled, "Got him," the doctor brought out our child whose screams filled the air, he held the child as the nurse quickly removed him from his umbilical cord and they placed him right on top of Reo, "just got to finish up here and then we will be done."
As the doctor finished up on Reo, we looked in amazement at our son.
"He is so beautiful," Reo cried out with tears.
"Just like you," I stated as I quickly kissed him on the cheek.
The nurse came to pick him, "we are going to clean him up for you and check him."
"Okay," I nodded as I stroked Reo's forehead.
I watched as the doctor went to finish sewing up Reo, "and we are done here," he added a gel on the stitch, "congratulations on the new baby and after you feed him the first time we will give you some pain medication if you need it."
"Okay," Reo breathed out.
As the nurses and the doctor ran their final checks over our son they brought him to us and he was wide, with green eyes and his head filled with black hair, "congratulation on the healthy baby boy," they stated as Reo took him in his arms.
"Junpei look," Reo said as he lightly touched his hair, "this is our son."
"Yes it is," I kissed him lightly on the forehead and he laid him out.
"He has all ten fingers and toes," he touched lightly underneath his foot and he squirmed, "he doesn't really like that," he softly chuckled.
I reached out to gently stroked his hand and he tightly grasped my finger in his small hand, "he is so tiny," I barely whispered, "have you decided on a name, papa?"
"Masayoshi," he said slowly lift him in his arms.
"Masayoshi, I like that," I wrapped my arm around Mibuchi looking over at our child, "listen here Masayoshi, I'm going to love you and your papa for the rest of my life."
"Junpei," he gave that smile that I loves and I leaned over and kissed him passionately.
"Just had your first son and you are trying to make another one?" My father said as stood in the doorway with my mother and brother.
"What-" I said surprised by their sudden appearance.
"I know right, my body just can't catch a break," he teased, "I am only joking baby," he leaned up and gave me a quick kiss.
"Are you guys ready to meet Masayoshi?" I asked my family and their faces lit up.
